Today celebrates bittersweet chocolate, which is a type of dark chocolate. In order to be considered a dark chocolate, there must be at least 35% cocoa solids in it. When having between 35% and 65% cocoa solids, the dark chocolate is usually considered semisweet, and when it has between 65% and 80% cocoa solids, it is usually considered bittersweet. It is recommended that for chocolate to bring health benefits it should be eaten with at least 70% cocoa solids, and bittersweet chocolate falls into this range. Some health benefits of bittersweet chocolate may include lowered blood pressure, improved vascular health, and improved cognitive function.

National Bittersweet Chocolate Day is being observed today! It has always been observed annually on January 10th.