[Sportschosun Jang Jong-ho] People are often unsure whether chocolate should be kept in the fridge or left at room temperature.
A professor of experimental psychology in the United Kingdom has now settled the long-running debate.
The answer, he said, is to refrigerate it.
According to the Daily Mail, Charles Spence, a professor in the Department of Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford, said in a recent interview that "chocolate kept cold offers a more satisfying texture and flavor."
He also said it provides psychological satisfaction. He pointed out that refrigerated chocolate makes a sharper "snap" when broken, which is another advantage.
Professor Spence said, "People tend to prefer foods that make a sound."
The way it melts in the mouth also changes. Cold chocolate melts more slowly, allowing people to enjoy the flavor for longer and creating a more leisurely tasting experience. He also explained that lower temperatures can soften excessive sweetness or bitterness, resulting in a more balanced taste.
Psychological factors also play a role. Professor Spence explained, "Food taken out of the fridge gives the impression of being fresher," and added, "Since most people prefer fresh food, satisfaction can increase."
Meanwhile, Spence also analyzed why the recently popular "Dubai chocolate" became such a hit. He said the strong visual contrast between the vivid green filling and the brown chocolate created a powerful impression, while its eye-catching appearance in photos and on social media also played a major role.
Jang Jong-ho, reporter bellho@sportschosun.com
