In the 19th century, chocolate was considered a luxury item and was relatively expensive. However, as manufacturing processes improved and the price of chocolate decreased, it became more accessible to the general public.
The first chocolate factory in the United States was established by Conrad Van Houten in the 1828, making it easier for people to purchase chocolate.
In the late 1800s, candy companies began to capitalize on the growing popularity of chocolate by marketing it as a gift for Valentine’s Day. These early Valentine’s Day chocolates were often packaged in heart-shaped boxes, which helped to further establish the association between chocolate and the holiday.
It was also around that time that the industrial revolution made it possible to produce chocolate in mass quantities and chocolate makers began to experiment with new forms and flavors of chocolate.
By the early 20th century, Valentine’s Day chocolates had become a major industry, with many companies competing to produce the most creative and appealing chocolate gifts. The tradition of giving chocolates to loved ones on Valentine’s Day has continued to this day and it’s considered as a romantic and thoughtful gift.
4W Mag 