The Difference Between Chocolate in the UK and USA

Chocolate, the sweet indulgence loved by people all over the world, comes in various forms and flavours. Two countries, known for their unique takes on this beloved treat, are the United Kingdom and the United States. While both nations have a strong affinity for chocolate, there are some fascinating differences between British and American chocolate. In this blog, we'll explore these distinctions and uncover some surprising similarities, including chocolate bars with different names in both countries.

Cocoa Content

One of the most noticeable differences between British and American chocolate is the cocoa content. British chocolate typically contains a higher percentage of cocoa compared to its American counterparts. This means that British chocolate tends to be richer and more intense in flavour.

Sugar Content

On the flip side, American chocolate is renowned for its sweeter taste. American chocolate manufacturers tend to add more sugar to their products, resulting in a creamier and smoother texture. While this makes American chocolate incredibly popular for desserts and candy bars, it may not satisfy those who prefer a more robust and less sweet chocolate experience.

Fat Content

American chocolate typically contains a higher percentage of cocoa butter, which is the natural fat derived from cocoa beans. Cocoa butter is what gives chocolate its smooth, creamy texture. British chocolate, on the other hand, traditionally contains a lower percentage of cocoa butter and often incorporates other fats, such as vegetable oils, in place of some of the cocoa butter. This can result in a slightly different texture and taste.

Names and Brands

One of the most intriguing aspects of the British vs. American chocolate comparison is the different names that some chocolate bars go by, even when they are essentially the same product. For instance:

Maltesers vs Whoppers: Whoppers and Maltesers are similar malted milk ball candies, but they have differences. Whoppers are made by Hershey, with a crunchy malt center and chocolate-flavored coating. Maltesers, made by Mars, have a lighter, melt-in-the-mouth center and a milk chocolate coating.

Dove caramel (us) vs. Galaxy Caramel (uk): These two are very similar in taste, Although the ingredients are similar, you might sense some different richness in this chocolate in comparison to Dove. Also, you might notice that the Galaxy Chocolate has a more lasting effect on the mouth.

Milky Way vs. Mars Bar: In the United States, the Milky Way is a fluffy, nougat-filled chocolate bar. In the UK, what Americans call a Milky Way is known as a Mars Bar. Both are manufactured by the Mars company and are virtually identical, but the names are swapped in the two countries. For a British Milky way hit, the US’s 3 Musketeers is much closer in flavour.

Cadbury Dairy Milk: While Cadbury is a globally recognized brand, the American version of Dairy Milk chocolate differs slightly from the one available in the UK. The American version contains a different recipe and may not taste the same as the British original. Many British expats in the US long for the classic British Cadbury Dairy Milk taste.

Kit Kat: Another chocolate that differs slightly across the Atlantic is the Kit Kat. The American version is manufactured by Hershey's and has a slightly different taste and texture compared to the British-made Kit Kat, which is sold under the Nestlé brand.

M&Ms: The ingredients differ in these crunchy favourites. British M&Ms only have one E-number, known as Blue 1, while the US version has more than ten, and also contains cornstarch, corn syrup and gum acacia.

Where to buy British chocolate in Orlando

If you’re missing your home comforts in Florida, head to the foreign food aisle in Walmart or Publix to buy the British versions of your favourite sweet treats. Alternatively, you can stop by one of the British bars in the area, including Best of British and Friar Tuck.

Whether you prefer the rich, cocoa-intense flavours of British chocolate or the sweeter, smoother taste of American chocolate, there's no denying that both countries have their own unique charm. And when it comes to chocolate bars with different names in the UK and the US, you can always count on them sharing the universal love for chocolate.

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