The Organic Chocolate Blog

Revised Post - Why Organic?

2012-01-05T10:13:00.000-08:00

With degenerative illnesses reaching more people everyday here in America, many are seeing the value of purchasing at least some organic foods for their daily intake.

Of course, most people will buy organic produce, but have you thought about organic chocolates? As someone who has been consuming organic foods for about 20 years, I feel I can speak to the benefits of buying organic.

Here's how it was put to me: Where would you rather spend your money? On doctors, hospitals, and medications - or -

- at the grocery store

- online stores with organic products

Most candy producers try to position themselves by saying they use only the finest quality of ingredients...but I believe that many get the cheapest ingredients they can. In business, we have to try.

With Smith Organic Chocolates, you know that we have purchased organically-certified ingredients. Typically, these are of the highest quality because they have not been sprayed with harsh or dangerous chemicals.

If you have any questions, please refer to our contact information on our website or email us at smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com. We always strive to bring you important product and educational information. A past post from probably 2008 on Why Organic? will be most helpful to you, but if you'd like a copy of it, please contact us.

Organic Certification-now a necessity

2011-09-24T18:46:00.001-07:00

Someday, within the next six or so months, you'll be seeing this seal on our labels. The one big take-away, which kind of took us by surprise, is that because of our sales level, we have now put us in the category of 'now we have to' get certified. Before, it was merely an option, something to be put off until we felt we had the money to pursue it.

The nice thing we also learned this weekend, is that the USDA will re-imburse us for much of our certification fees. That's a godsend. Our business is small and certification fees, depending on who we choose to be our certifying agency, can be nearly 1/5th of our sales. But, the government has a program for all of us small businesses to help us get most of our money back - for the trouble of having to get certified in the first place.

So - watch for it - soon you'll be seeing it.

More information coming soon.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you updated product, business, industry, and nutritional information.

New Products - September 2011

2011-09-06T16:38:00.001-07:00

We have several new products and updates to share with you! We think you'll be as excited about them as we are!

ORGANIC CASHEW BALLS

Made with organic cashew butter, these are a great alternative to those with peanut allergies. These dipped balls have crushed cashews on top. The way to tell the difference between a cashew ball and a peanut butter ball is that peanuts are a light brown, and cashews are like an ivory color.

NEW BALL ASSORTMENT

Now our popular Organic Ball Assortment includes four (4) balls. Pictured from left to right, top to bottom: Coconut Ball, Peanut Butter Ball, Cashew Ball, Almond Butter Ball.

ORGANIC CARAMEL CHOCOLATES

We've finally developed our caramel ganache truffle. One of our approved ingredients we didn't know about before, is heavy whipping cream! So, we make our own caramel ganache, rich in caramel flavor, and put it in a milk shell, drizzled with a yellow-gold dyed white chocolate. These will melt in your mouth!

ORGANIC MILK CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES

Made from high quality, Guittard Organic Milk Chocolate, these are milk chocolate through and through! A milk chocolate shell filled with milk chocolate ganache, drizzled in milk chocolate! Can't get much richer than that! Much better than Hershey's!

ORGANIC MILK CHOCOLATE ASSORTMENT

We now have four milk chocolate truffles to offer in an assortment! From left to right, top to bottom: Milk Chocolate Truffle, Vanilla Bean Creme, Caramel Chocolate, Strawberry Banana Truffle. We think the milk chocolate lovers out there will love this!

ORGANIC RICH DARK (DAIRY) TRUFFLES

We learned this summer that we are allowed to use heavy whipping cream in our ganaches. We've been making a dynamite Non-Dairy Dark Chocolate version for several years. We changed the look of that to a dark chocolate "D" on top. So...the traditional (dairy) version takes on the drizzled look. All dark chocolate ganache in a dark shell, drizzled in dark chocolate! Made with organic butter and organic heavy whipping cream! A great way to get in your "chocolate-a-day"! When we first made these, we thought we were in heaven! The richness of the heavy whipping cream makes a lot of difference in how a dark chocolate ganache tastes!

Here's the new look of our Non-Dairy Dark Chocolate Truffles. Note the "D" on top for "Dark."

For more information on these or any other products, please refer to our website or email us. Contact information on the website.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the pertinent product & nutritional information!

New Customer Cost Offset Programs

2011-09-06T16:05:00.001-07:00

This summer, we took a hard look at our chocolate business, and we had to make some hard choices. Our materials, packaging, and other incidental, but necessary, costs increased our costs dramatically, but we think the changes improved our products and presentation significantly.

DECISION TO UPGRADE INGREDIENTS

We made a decision last year to only use certified organic ingredients wherever possible. Since chocolate is our main ingredient, we made a change from our coverture source, to using Guittard Organic, dark & milk, which is certified organic. Previously, we had been using Vintage Plantations, but they are not certified organic. We are thankful to Vintage Plantations, as we were a small customer just getting started, and their chocolate is usually good quality and they worked with us even though we were just getting started.

DECISION TO UPGRADE PACKAGING/SHIPPING

But we felt we should make a change and we did so last year. We were also receiving complaints from one particular long distance about our packaging, and how their chocolates were almost always broken...so earlier this year, we upgraded our packaging to include set-up boxes, pads, and trays. We have not had any complaints about broken or smashed chocolates since.

This summer, we've had to go the extra mile and use insulated shippers. These are very expensive, and we will absorb some of the cost of these, but they will keep your chocolates from arriving melted. We experimented with different combinations of insulated materials, with limited success - depending on how hot it was. We learned a lot from our mistakes.

All these things have increased our production, packaging, and shipping costs. It was a difficult decision, but we decided to raise the prices of our chocolates, especially the more labor-intensive truffles.

For our local, meaning Lancaster County, PA, customers, we have some less expensive packaging alternatives we think you'll like. This will be addressed in the next post regarding new products.

For everyone, we have TWO NEW customer programs - 1) Chocolate of the Month; 2) Preferred Customer.

CHOCOLATE OF THE MONTH

Our Chocolate of the Month program comes in two subscriptions, 4-month & 12-month, Vegan & Regular. All you have to do is sign up as a customer & order Chocolate of the Month, on our website: www.smithorganicchocolates.com and we'll put you in the Chocolate of the Month Customer Group. Designate which subscription you'd like to participate in. You'll be billed on your credit card once a month for the duration of your subscription.

Participation in this Club gives you a 10% discount off the 12-piece chocolate packages you'll receive during your participation.

PREFERRED CUSTOMER

If you've ordered from us at least twice, you can become a Preferred Customer. E-mail us at smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com if you'd like to be part of this group.

This Customer Group has a lot more flexibility. You only have to order twice, and then you'll get a 10% discount on your orders. We'll put you in this group, and you can order as much as you want whenever you want.

We think these changes will be of benefit to you, as well as help our bottom line. We appreciate our customers, and we will continue to bring you high quality organic chocolates.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you updated product and nutritional information.

Chocolate of the Month Club - additional info

2011-06-08T20:04:00.000-07:00

Last time we talked about our new subscription to Chocolate of the Month Club. We also told you the basics on how to sign up and purchase the product.

Here's some additional information:

Once you sign in as a customer on our website: www.smithorganicchocolates.com and purchase the Chocolate of the Month in whatever way you'd like from our 12 choices, you'll be entered into a 'customer group' called 'Chocolate of the Month' and you'll receive a 10% discount on your order. Pretty cool huh?

Also - your credit card won't be billed until the first of every month. That's how we've set it up. That way you'll know exactly what you're getting. Shipping charges will apply, but we'll do our best to see you get the best shipping rate!

Example: We usually ship USPS Priority Mail to make sure your chocolates arrive in good condition. We then have the option of doing Flat Rate or Regular Rate. We always give you the lowest option. If regular Priority Mail is the better price, you get that. If a Flat Rate Box is the best option, you'll get that. We especially use Flat Rate boxes for shipping cross country. Sometimes the difference is around $5 plus, depending on where you live.

Officially, the Chocolate of the Month Club won't start until December - just in time for Christmas and will run on a December through November cycle for a 12-month subscription.

But we also offer 3 & 6-month versions of our regular subscription and 3 & 6-month versions of our 9-month Vegan subscription. We make 9 Vegan products and we offer them all in this special 9-month Vegan Chocolate of the Month.

To review the product, go to this link: http://stores.smithorganicchocolates.com/Detail.bok?no=137. It will take you directly to the product. Or, you can go to our website: www.smithorganicchocolates.com - then scroll down and click on the product link on the home page. Happy browsing!

Here's the process again:

1) Sign up on our website as a customer

2) Purchase the product

Then, you'll be entered into the Chocolate of the Month Club customer group and receive your discount! Your credit card will be billed prorated on the first of the month for the length of your subscription.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to keeping you informed of our products and new information about chocolate, its health benefits and general chocolate industry information.

Chocolate of the Month Club

2011-05-27T20:59:00.001-07:00

We're adding a couple new chocolate programs to our repertoire of chocolates! The first is Chocolate of the Month. We'll be initiating this to be sold as a gift package for the Holiday season, but we're telling you about it now so you can consider it, and sign up for it as soon as it's available. (kinda like Amazon does pre-sales). Many chocolate companies have these kinds of "clubs" and it's a fun gift for the chocolate lover on your list.

Here's how:

1) register as a new customer on our website: www.smithorganicchocolates.com

2) purchase the Chocolate of the Month product

You'll get a special customer discount. Your credit card will only be billed after a shipment.

The Chocolate of the Month Club will ship you 12 different chocolates - from barks & balls (sounds like dogplay doesn't it?) to our most elegant and newest truffles!

We pictured our newest product - our Organic Truffle Assortment. This is the half pound or 15-piece version. We ship it in an Everyday Elegance gold box, and it has a little bit of everything!

Vanilla Bean Creme - white drizzle on milk chocolate
Fresh Raspberry Truffles - red drizzle on dark chocolate
Coconut Balls - white coconut sprinkles on dark chocolate
Peanut Butter Balls - peanut sprinkles on dark chocolate
Almond Butter Balls - a white chocolate "S" on dark chocolate
Mocha Truffles - a mound of pulverized coffee grounds on top (looks like a dark chocolate mountain)
Strawberry Banana Truffles - pink & yellow drizzle on milk chocolate shell.

We've tried to make it sorta obvious what's inside by decorating the top. The box you may get may not look exactly as pictured, but we're sure you're going to love it!

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to keeping you updated from time to time about our products, services, and chocolate industry & nutritional news.

All Natural Colors Used Here

2011-03-08T11:37:00.001-08:00

FD&C colors - what are they? When surveyed, most people look at me funny, and they don't know what I'm talking about.

FD&C stands for (F)ood, (D)rug & (C)osmetic colors. They do use some natural vegetable colorings as basis for their processed colors, but many are also synthetically made. Some colors are made from certain insect shells. EE-yew!

From the beginning, Smith Organic Chocolates decided not to use any FD&C colors for our chocolates.

In giving a presentation recently to some B&B guests during a Wine & Chocolate Tour, I explained that certain FD&C colors have been linked to ADD, ADHD, and in extreme cases, some cancers.

That information alone made me not want to take a chance, even though the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) has approved certain FD&C colors for human consumption.

Notice our picture of our white chocolate two-piece rose box. There are what looks to be three colors there: red, yellow & green. Red & yellow are primary colors, but green is made from yellow & blue.

Our red is made from red beet. Our yellow from turmeric, and our blue from red cabbage. We also make purple from red beet & red cabbage, and our lavendars by adding additional white chocolate to the purple. We use those colors at Easter. Notice the cross below is drizzled with lavendar.

If you have additional questions, please email us at smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com, and we'll be happy to answer them for you.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the best information regarding our chocolates and your overall health.

Always a Silver Lining

2011-03-08T11:19:00.002-08:00

Ever lock yourself out of your house? Rarely have I ever done so - and it's been many, many years since I did.

But today - my precious husband was trying to be protective of our garage, and locked the door leading to the garage without my knowledge.

When I went for peanuts, that I use to make our homemade organic peanut butter - I found myself stuck in the garage without a hope of getting back in the house.

I always work in short sleeves, as I learned early on that long sleeves get dirty & wet real quickly.

I tried picking the lock with a couple different sized screwdrivers, and a even a pair of scissors. None of those methods worked. At least I know we are safe from amateur burglars.

I saw an old yellow blanket that my parents used to put on their bed. I put that around me, opened the garage door, and walked up Main Street in Akron to the Akron Nutrition Center. What a sight I was! Oh well. A school crossing guard & a local pastor got to hear I'd been locked out.

I got the car keys from my hubby at work, and he confessed to locking the door as a protective measure. I was relieved to get home so I could get back to work.

What are some of your locked out stories? Leave a comment and let me know. The winning entry gets a free Half Pound Organic Truffle Assortment.

Watch for more blog entries soon about Easter and nutrition news as it relates to chocolate.

Addendum to Holiday 2010 Post

2010-11-26T22:56:00.000-08:00

Since upgrading the website this summer, I'm still learning that there is more to learn about the wonders of our website - at http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/.

Each product will have it's own Holiday 2010 code that will be product specific.

For example:

Say you want to order a pound of Organic Peanut Butter Balls through our Simply Chocolate package. Go to the Simply Chocolate product, choose One Pound, then Organic Peanut Butter Balls. Your code at checkout will be: H10-SC-1. The cart will automatically calculate your price.

Happy shopping!

Holiday 2010 Specials

2010-11-22T20:05:00.000-08:00

It's almost Thanksgiving - so we're in a holiday mood at Smith Organic Chocolates.

If you are on our email list, you'll be getting a flyer which will have our holiday specials on it. But for the rest, I'll put them here as well.

For all these special prices, when ordering from the website, use the special code - HOL-10 at checkout.

Everyday Elegance - 1-Lb. - $28.99; 1/2-Lb. - $15.99
Shown here with a Romantic Truffle Assortment, you can order whatever you like. The 1-Lb. box is square, as shown here. The 1/2-Lb. box is rectangular.

Reindeer Tower Set - 3-Box Set - $34.99; Large Box Only - $29.99; Medium Box Only - $16.99; Small Box Only - $9.49.

Order as a set, or separately. Shown here with a Nuts About You in the Small Box, you can fill these boxes with whatever you'd like. The 3-Box Set will contain about 3-1/2-Lbs. of organic chocolates. The Large Box - 2-Lbs.; The Medium Box - 1-lb.; The Small Box - 1/2-Lb.

Moose Snowman Tin Set - 2-Tin Set - $34.99; Larger Tin - $26,99; Medium Tin - $17.99

Order as a set or separtely. Shown here with a Nuts About You in both tins as a set, you can order anything you'd like. The 2-Tin set holds 1-1/2-Lbs. of organic chocolates. The Larger Tin holds a pound, the Medium Tin holds 1/2-Lb.

Simply Chocolate - Our simplest form of packaging, in White or Holiday Holly - $15.99 per 1/2-Lb. $28.99 for 1-Lb of barks or clusters.

The White box can hold either a 1/2-Lb or 1-Lb. The Holiday Holly box can hold up to 1-Lb.
There are many other options available. Check out our website at: http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/.

The Reindeer Tower Set & the Moose Snowman Tin Set include a handmade bow. The Simply Chocolate Box will come with either a gold or red elastic string bow.

If you have any questions or comments, please let us know. Our email is: smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com.

Your Age in Chocolate! - Try This - it Works!

2010-04-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

A friend forwarded me this in an email - and it works - no matter what number you pick.

Try it! It's fun!

Try it several times, and forward it on to anyone you know who loves chocolate!

First, pick a number between one and 10 to decide how many times in a week you'd like to have chocolate.

Next, multiply the number by 2.

Then, add 5.

Multiply by 50.

If you've had your birthday already this year, add 1760. If you haven't had your birthday yet, add 1759.

Now - subtract the four-digit year you were born.

You'll have a 3-digit number. The first number will be the number you picked in the beginning. The second two digits will be your correct age!

Now - wasn't that fun! :-)

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in product and nutritional information about chocolate. But - we also wanna bring on the fun!

Where you can find us

2010-04-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

Here's how we look at Akron Nutrition Center, Akron, PA. We package our chocolates in clear cello bags with ingredient labels and gold & brown ribbons.

We can also be found at Green Box Boutique, in Woodstock, IL. Connie Citarelli opened this store on Friday, February 12th.

We can also be found at our website: www.smithorganicchocolates.com, www.chocolate.com, and soon to be on Nation's Grocer.

Smith Organic Chocolates is a growing company. Who knows, in a couple of years, we may even have our own storefront?

A Little Dark Chocolate a Day...

2010-04-07T13:36:00.001-07:00

A little dark chocolate a day, can help reduce heart risk - according to new studies being published in the European Heart Journal.

Here's a quote from AP Medical Writer Maria Cheng:

"German researchers followed nearly 20,000 people over eight years, sending them several questionnaires about their diet and exercise habits.

"They found people who had an average of six grams of chocolate per day - or about one square of a chocolate bar - had a 39 percent lower risk of either a heart attack or stroke."

It's the flavonoids, found in vegetables and red wine which help to open up blood vessels and helps lower blood pressure.

More and more studies are confirming what chocolate lovers already know - that chocolate in moderate and small amounts - dark chocolate of at least 65% - is like an apple a day - it will help keep the doctor away.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest nutritional information about health benefits of chocolate, as well as our product information and where we can be found.

American Chocolate Week March 15-21

2010-03-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

I'll bet you didn't konw that this week is American Chocolate Week! I wouldn't have either except a certain calendar I got in the mail at the end of last year told me that this week was American Chocolate Week.

I remember passing by a retail store a couple of years ago, after I'd started my chocolate business. They had posted a sign about American Chocolate Week. I thought "how did they know and why didn't I know?" I was a little embarrassed. After all, here I am, making chocolates, and I don't even know when American Chocolate Week is?

At any rate, I found out this year - and I'm announcing it! This week is American Chocolate Week. This week - March 15 -21.

How will you celebrate?

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in chocolate product and nutritional information.

Spring Holidays Information

2010-03-07T11:12:00.001-08:00

This is an Organic Coconut Egg. Kirby makes these from an adapted family recipe - and everytime he makes them, he is reminded of when he was a kid - and he helped his mom make them.

We also make Organic Peanut Butter and Organic Almond Butter Eggs, Organic Milk Chocolate Solid Laughing Bunnies, Organic Dark Chocolate Solid Crosses, and much more!

Check out our Spring website: http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/ for all our Easter offerings.

We also have a Spring Holidays Catalog available in PDF format for your perusual. If you'd like one, email us at: smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com.

And if you don't see what you'd like, contact us, and we'll see if we can make it happen for you.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in organic chocolate nutritional and product information. If you have any quesitons, please contact us.

Two New Studies - Chocolate can lower stroke risk

2010-02-25T11:23:00.000-08:00

I love it! The more they study dark chocolate, the more health benefits they find!

These studies are hot off the press and are about to be released to the American Academy of Neurology's (AAN) 62nd Annual Meeting, being held in Toronto, Ontario between April 10 and 17.

In a press release dated February 11, 2010, the AAN said that an analysis of three studies contributed to this conclusion. Two studies focused on chocolate, the other focused on strokes. To quote the release:

"The first study found that 44,589 people who ate one serving of chocolate per week were 22 % less likely to have a stroke than people who ate no chocolate. The second study found that 1,169 people who ate 50 grams of chocolate once a week were 46% less likely to die following a stroke than peple who did not eat chocolate."

It's the flavinoids found in chocolate that are so healing. The study said, "Chocolate is rich in antioxidants called flavinoids, which may have a protective effect against stroke, but more research is needed."

Smith Organic Chocolates had a customer with Lou Gehrig's disease who felt better if she ate chocolate every day. I think it was also the gentle stimulation that chocolate provides. For more information on the non-caffiene stiumulant that chocolate is - see a previous post.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in chocolate news, information, and nutritional help. What do you think? Post a comment and let us know.

SPRING is on the way - Cleaning

2010-02-20T10:12:00.001-08:00

Valentine's Day is over - and we had a great one! We shipped out 42 orders the week of Valentine's - and we survived an 18" snow in the middle of the week to boot!

As you can see, we're cleaning up and organizing. This was actually a 'staged' picture to show our 'inside' facility for Chocolate.com.

More pictures to follow - as we are totally revamping and re-organizing our chocolate "office" (Mom's old bedroom/old guestroom). We're not re-decorating yet - I think that might come in the late Spring. I still like having reminders around here that Mom was with us those six years (two in this house).

But there's very little left to make it appear that it was once a bedroom...just a chest of drawers (which we use for storage of ribbon, doilies, party supplies, etc. and a bookcase that also 'stores' things.

The only thing we don't do from this office is produce chocolate. That's done in the kitchen. But the administrative, packing and shipping is all done in our "office." Pictures to follow - when I've got it the way I want it.

And - we're planning for Easter - only seven weeks away! More info on those specials coming in about 2-3 weeks.

Valentine's Day 2010

2010-01-27T12:38:00.001-08:00

We've finally found a way to get a good "red" to dye our white chocolate. We've been scouring the world and finally found Non FD&C organic colored cocoa butter! It works and the result is spectacular - as you can see!

This cameo heart box sells for $9.99. It comes packaged in cello with a bow. A beautiful and tasty gift for someone who loves chocolate and romance.

You can order this box any way you want. There are a number of ways this box can be ordered. Please see our website for ordering information. Our website is: www.smithorganicchocolates.com.

Order early and order often. Check out our website for complete product and cost information. Follow us on Twitter and become a fan of our Facebook page for additional news and information.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest nutritional and product information.

Candy in Moderation is OK

2010-01-01T19:59:00.001-08:00

(Pictured: Our new Cranberry Almond Bark, made with organic semi-sweet dark chocolate, organic roasted/chopped almonds, and organic chopped dried cranberries)

A new study compiled of long-term findings from a U.S. government funded study says that candy in moderation is OK, and does not contribute to obesity.

In article published in the November 2009 Gourmet News, the study says, "...candy consumption is not associated with chronic negative health outcomes, such as overweight and obestiy, in children and adults. Children who consumed candy had lower body weights than children who reported eating no candy."

The study, conducted by Nutrition Impact, LLC, "found that children who eat candy had statistcally significant lower body weight and a lower body mass index than children who eat no candy."

"Candy consumption was not associated with increasd body weight in adults either" the study said.

These finds also correlate with the American Dietic Association's psoition that, "the total diet or overall pattern of food eaten is the most important focus of a healthful eating style. All foods can fit within this pattern."

Soooo.....that means that a piece of candy a day, won't hurt you. Go ahead and indulge - just be controlled. Two ounces a day of dark chocolate is like drinking that proverbial glass of wine - the same type of health benefits apply. See the post from February 2009 for information on the Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate.

Holiday Specials

2009-12-10T16:47:00.001-08:00

Holiday specials! Check 'em out on our website - www.smithorganicchocolates.com !

Holiday Gift Ideas

2009-12-02T23:31:00.000-08:00

Christmas Gift Ideas from Smith Organic Chocolates!

Here's a simple way to give organic chocolate this year! Our Holiday Holly box holds up to one pound of truffles, barks, or clusters...or even white chocolate peppermint pretzels!

We were again able to get ahold of organic candy canes and organic peppermint pinwheels that we crush up and use to drag our white chocolate covered pretzels in or - make White Chocolate Peppermint Bark.

We have holiday gift giving ideas for everyone and every budget! This particular item is great for parties, gift exchanges, hostess gifts, or for any chocolate lover on your list!

Check us out at www.smithorganicchocolates.com and click on Holiday Items. You can order this box under the box, then tell us what to put in it - OR - order it through the chocolate and select this as your packaging!

We have a Local Pick-Up & Delivery Option on our website for those who live in Lancaster County, PA. That was created to save shipping charges.

Holiday 2009 Catalog Available

2009-10-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

It's time for our Holiday Catalog! Smith Organic Chocolates is pleased to announce that our Holiday 2009 catalog is complete and ready to go.

If you would like a copy, please email us at smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com. It is available in hard copy or in Microsoft Publisher. The catalog was created in Publisher 2007, but it can be saved in Publisher 2003. A Word catalog is in the works, but may not be ready until mid-November.

We have several new packaging options this year, as well as our Snowman Tin tower from last year.

Some of our new packaging options include:

A Holiday Holly box for candy

Reindeer Tower Set

Peppermint Lovers Open Box set - shrink-wrapped

Some of our new candy offerings include:

Peppermint Lovers Package

Almond Lovers Assortment

Peanut Lovers Assortment

We have gift options ranging in price from $2.99 to $54.99.

Check out our website at http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/ for product information.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to providing you with the latest nutritional chocolate and product information.

The holidays are only a couple months away!

2009-10-12T12:24:00.001-07:00

Can you believe it? The holidays are approaching! It seems like summer was just a couple of weeks ago! (it was).

I heard a report on the news last week that said the early bird shoppers were already on the lookout for gifts - or they would be before the end of October!

Sheesh! I just started updating the website last week, and we're currently working on our holiday specials - which are pretty much the same as last year - we'll have some new products and a new packaging option for you!

And as always, gift certificates can be purchased directly from our secure website - because there's a lot to choose from!

We'll be keeping you updated about our holiday party. We're tentatively scheduling it for Sunday, November 29th from 2-5 p.m. We'll have plenty of free samples, holiday music, and show you our stuff! So....put that on your calendar - save the date!

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in nutritional information about chocolate and keeping you apprised of our latest products!

Chocolate for PMS? You bet!

2009-09-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

Yes - evidently new research is saying that dark chocolate can be good for PMS!

Researchers and medical professionals already know that chocolate contains antioxidant flavonoids that help mood and heart functions.

Reseach is also showing that pregnant woman benefit from eating a bit of dark chocolate a day. We blogged on that a couple of months ago.

Now - I just saw in an article in Natural Products Marketplace, the current issue (October 2009) that new research is saying that women suffering from PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome) can now take heart that it's OK to eat a bit of dark chocolate.

"And while women typically experience chocolate cravings at the onset of their period, new research is looking into the effect of dark chocolate on PMS symptoms. They already know chocolate can help improve mood and stress problems, and data is now revealing flavonoids in cocoa may protect the brain from oxidative stress, improving cognitive function."

So go ahead ladies - eat a bit of dark chocolate at the onset of your next period! It's actually good for you!

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in chocolate nutritional information as well as new product announcements and/or specials! What do you think? Post a comment and let us know!

PRODUCT SALE!!

2009-09-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

You're invited to a PRODUCT SALE OPEN HOUSE - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13th from 4-6 p.m. at our location - 30 3rd Street, Akron.

We're having a Sale! You remember that we did a wedding a couple of weeks ago!

Well - we have a few leftovers! We have some Organic Raspberry Truffles and some Organic Vanilla Bean Cremes!

Prices up to 50 to 75% off!

Give us a call or email us at smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com to order!

We also have some Organic Almond Bark "seconds" - a bit 'bloomed' but still very, very tasty!!

So come on over on Sunday, September 13th from 4-6 p.m.

First come, first served until all sale product is sold!

Sugar-Free Chocolate

2009-08-26T12:48:00.001-07:00

Montezuma drank chocolate straight up! No sugar, no milk, just pure 100% chocolate!

Have you ever eaten 100% chocolate? Ugh! It's BITTER. Many people who are sugar-challenged for health reasons need to find a healthy chocolate that doesn't include sugar.

Depending on your point of view and opinion of what are termed "multi-level" organizations - there is a supposedly healthy organic sugar-free chocolate out there. We have not tried it. We merely report that it's out there.

Let's do a couple of definitions here. Let's look at what a multi-level organization is, plus a short review of some of the sugar alternatives out there.

A multi-level organization is one where the bottom level person sells the product. In order to get promoted in rank, that person then recruits everyone they know to become their distributors - and so on and so on up the chain.

Different sugar substitutes are out there. There's Zero, by Wholesome Sweetners. There's Agave Nectar, like a honey substitute. Honey itself is a sugar substitute. Since I'm not the nutrition expert, but my husband Kirby IS - (due to his 26 years in the natural products field) I asked him. His favorite is Xylitol because of its taste and digestability.

We've tried on a couple of occasions to formulate a sugar-free chocolate here at Smith Organic Chocolates. I've come to the conclusion that my experiments have gone wrong because I don't have professional processing equipment. Either that, or I don't know what I'm doing. :-)

All that being said, there is a new organic sugar-free chocolate out on the market. We have not tried it - we don't know if it's any good. You can Google it. It's called TRU Chocolate.

Smith Organic Chocolates brings you this Organic Chocolate Blog to educate and inform you of chocolate trends, nutrition information, and products. Please post a comment or become a follower! Thanks!

Our New Vanilla Bean Cremes

2009-08-19T13:16:00.000-07:00

Since Day One, I've been threatening to take our Coconut Ball center and revise it. Our Coconut Ball is one of our most beloved candies, but some people, like me, don't like coconut. Coconut is one of those things you either like or you don't like. I don't like - but husband Kirby DOES like.

In formulating our new confection, I took out the coconut, and added real organic vanilla bean, vanilla 'Silk' and added organic vanilla extract - and voila!

An organic vanilla bean creme! A friend recently tried one for the first time. You should have seen the look on her face! You'd have thought she just ate the best thing ever! In fact - she SAID so!

"Ohymygosh! This is the BEST candy I EVER ate!" she exclaimed.

I had made some samples to send to a bride we were working with in Ohio for wedding favors. My friend, Renee Kopp, came over to help make 180 of these confections. After eating this, she said, "You HAVE to call them something different than just 'vanilla creme' - they're MUCH too good for THAT!"

A minute later, she cried out! "I've got it! Vanilla BEAN Cremes! Because you put in real vanilla bean!"

I said, "I LIKE it!!" So-o-o-o-o ---- now you have it! Vanilla Bean Cremes. Shown here in milk chocolate because that's what the bride ordered. They are now available on our website in quarter pounds enrobed in dark, milk, or white. A quarter pound will give you about 8 pieces of candy.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in nutritional and product information as it relates to chocolate!

Candy and Chocolate Trends

2009-08-11T11:51:00.000-07:00

In the August 2009 issue of Gourmet News, an article was published that confirms what I've been reading and reporting here in this blog.

"'Healthy' tops candy trends" states that "From its potential health benefits to its organic roots and inclusion as an ingredient in many types of sweet and savory foods, we have only begun to experinece the versatility of chocolate."

Wow! ONLY BEGUN to experience the versatility of chocolate! Oooooo!! That sounds good to me. The woman quoted in this article is Susan Smith, who is the senior vice president of the NCA (National Confectioners Association).

Smith Organic Chocolates offers healthy, but sweet candy and confections. We use 99.9% organic ingredients. One of our goals is to be certified organic in the next year or so.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in nutritional value and organic chocolate news so you will be informed.

Become a non-family follower of this blog and receive a $10 gift certificate to use any time. Be sure to post comments and email us with comments and suggestions. Thanks!

Chocolate and Summertime

2009-07-30T10:21:00.000-07:00

If you don't want your chocolate to look like this - (this is chocolate liquor (lick-koor) - what can you do?

The answer is: don't keep chocolate in the sunshine. You can refrigerate it or keep it in air-conditioning.

Chocolate melts at skin temperature, 98.6°. That's why it melts all over your fingers when you eat it.

If you're going to travel with chocolate, here's a tip. Freeze a refrigerant gel pack, then place it in an insulated lunch type container. That will keep your chocolates cool and delightful!

If you mail-order chocolate in the summer, the company will be sending along a refrigerant pack or two. Smith Organic Chocolates usually packs two in our summer orders.

You should also pay for either USPS Priority Mail or UPS 2-Day Air. The extra cost is worth it - so that your chocolates end up looking like the photo at left, instead of chocolate liquor.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the best information available in nutrition, product news, and general health information about chocolate.

Organic Chocolate Market Share is Growing

2009-07-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

This is why we're here - to bring you organic chocolate. Earlier in our blog posts, we talked a little about why organic is better for you.

Face it, we're in business to make a profit. And since we're into the health benefits of chocolate (as well as the fun & sweet parts), today's post is educational in a different sort of way.

In an article posted on Creators Syndicate's website, it says that organic chocolate sales are growing, in spite of the recession.

"Despite the recession, overall chocolate sales rose 4 percent in 2008, to a whopping $17 billion. Organic chocolates are a bon-bon in the industry's 100-lb. box. But this is the nation's fastest growing snack - U.S. sales lept 450 percent between 1999 and 2007, jumping to $94 million. While figures are not yet available for 2008, vendors already forecast a rosy '09."

Even though we are a new company, only in our third year, Smith Organic Chocolates is growing in sales every year so far. We expect our holiday season to be quite busy and quite profitable. Our Internet website has already paid for itself in orders (and then some) for the year.

So...don't be afraid to treat yourself to some nice organic chocolates! Next time: a little bit about our new Organic Vanilla Creme Truffle!

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you nutritional information available and to encourage you to buy organic!

Chocolate and ALS - Lou Gehrig's Disease

2009-07-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

Smith Organic Chocolates recently received business from what we would classify as an unusual customer.

I searched the Internet, I Googled. But I could not find a connection between Chocolate and...

ALS - or Lou Gehrig's Disease. Our new customer suffers from ALS, a disease that "affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Motor neurons reach from the brain to the spinal cord and from the spinal cord to the muscles throughout the body.

"The progressive degeneration of the motor neurons in ALS eventually leads to their death. When the motor neurons die, the ability of the brain to initiate and control muscle movement is lost. With voluntary muscle action progressively affected, patients in the later stages of the disease may become totally paralyzed." (copied from the ALS website.)

Yet, our new customer says she feels better when she eats chocolate. She eats it every day. She was referred to us by her chiropractor, who was helping her find healthier chocolate to eat.

So - here's my disclaimer! I am not a scientist, I am not a health practitioner...but

Here's my opinion: (and my gut feeling)

We've been discussing the different effects of caffiene vs. theobromine in the body. We showed that caffiene gives you that "up" feeling, but you'll eventually come "down" from it, and it doesn't last very long, before you need more.

Whereas theobromine, the active stimulant in chocolate that is a close cousin to caffiene, gives you energy, and stimulates you over a period of time. You may get a feeling of "well being" from eating chocolate - a lot of people report that.

So...it's my guess that the theobromine in chocolate is helping to gently stimulate our ALS friend and helps her get through the day.

Remember, I said it was only a guess! If there are scientific studies on it - I didn't find them. What do you think? Post a comment and let us know.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you up-to-date information regarding chocolate and it's nutritional value, as well as the value of eating organic.

Chocolate and Caffiene - Part III - not for DOGS!

2009-07-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

It's a good thing yogurt was in this bowl, instead of chocolate, or we might have killed our dog Maggie a long time ago - before she died of "old age."

We've been discussing the misconception that chocolate contains caffiene. It does NOT contain caffiene. It contains theobromine, a sort of a stimulant that is similar to caffiene in chemical structure, but not in effects.

We talked about caffiene being like a sprint, and theobromine being like a marathon, releasing it's "stimulating" qualities over a period of time, rather than the quick burst of energy that caffiene provides.

In an article published on About.com, entitled "Chemistry of Theobromine" it says, "Cocoa and chocolate products may be toxis or leethal to dogs and other domestic animals such as horses because there animals metabolize theobromine more slowly than humans. The heart, central nervous system, and kidneys are affected. Early signs of thoebromine poisoning in dogs include nausea and vomiting, reltlessness, diarrhea, muscle tremors, and increase urination or incontenence. The treatment at this stage is to induce vomiting. Cardiac arrythmias and seizures are symptoms of more advanced poisoning."

Chocolate is a very complex food - kind of like wine is. It's important to know about the nutritional benefits of chocolates - as well as understand why our pets can't share in our delictable delight!

Next time: Chocolate and Lou Gehrig's disease

Chocolate and Caffiene - Part II

2009-06-30T08:09:00.001-07:00

Last time we started our discussion about chocolate and caffiene, after a couple of friends told me they'd heard that chocolate had caffiene.

In my scholarly way, I told them that chocolate's theobromine is more like a precursor to caffiene, but that's not actually accurate either.

I also said that the differences between caffiene and theobromine is like two different kinds of races - one a sprint, one a marathon.

This time, we'll get into a little bit more detail. So...let's get technical.

In an article entitled "Chemistry of Theobromine: Chocolate's Caffiene Relative" published on About.com, they state "Theobromine belongs to a class of alkaloid molecules knowns as methylxantines. Methylxanthines naturally occur in as many as 60 different plant species and include caffeine (the primary methylxanthine in coffee) and theophylline (the primary methylxanthine in tea)."

Let's look at some caffeine levels in some popular drinks. Information gathered is from a table put together by Clark Goble Categories.

Coming at #1 is 8 oz. of drip coffee with 145 mg or 18.13 mg/oz.

#2 - 8 oz. of brewed coffee at 107.5 mg or 13.44 mg/oz.

Others include: 8 oz. of brewed tea at 47 mg or 5.88 mg/oz.; Coca Cola Classic - 12 oz. serving at 34.5 mg or 2.83 mg/oz.

I could list more but, you can access this information online.

Next time: why your dog should NEVER eat chocolate!

Chocolate and Caffiene - Part I

2009-06-24T13:49:00.000-07:00

Recently, I had a couple of friends say they wouldn't eat chocolate in the evening because of the caffiene in it.

I snickered and said, "But there's no caffiene in chocolate!"

"There isn't?" My friend replied. A couple more friends joined in the conversation.

"I'd always heard there was!" "Yeah, I heard that too!" They said.

I said, "Theobromine is like a precursor to caffiene, but it is not caffiene!"

If you look at the chemical make-up of a caffiene molecule and a theobromine molecule, they are very similar, and they are both classified as alkaloids which have a somewhat 'stimulating' effect on the body, but the way they do that is different.

Think of the two like a race. One, caffiene, is a sprint...it's quick, and it's over. Theobromine's effect is more like a marathon - what you need over a longer period of time.

In an article posted on About.com Chemistry, "Different types of chocolate contain different amounts of theobromine. In general, theobromine levels are higher in dark chocolate (approximately 10 g/kg) than in milk chocolates (1-5 g/kg). Higher quality chocolate tends to contain more theobromine than lower quality chocolate."

Next time...more particulars...but just remember - there is no caffiene in chocolate! So don't worry about it!

Chocolate for the Baby!!

2009-06-16T15:27:00.000-07:00

Expectant mothers - you can know that eating chocolate while pregnant is GOOD for BABY!!

In a study completed in Finland last fall, over 300 women were given varying amounts of chocolate while expecting children. The study then followed these women after the babies were born for six months.

In an article entitled "Chocolate for a Happy Baby" published online at http://www.westender.com/, the study found that expectant mothers who ate chocolate to soothe stress were more likely to have happier babies.

Isn't that a riot!?

The article states "The babies born to women who had been eating chocolate daily during pregnancy were more active and 'positively reactive' - a measure that encompasses traits such as smiling and laughter. The babies of stressed women who had regularly consumed chocolate showed less fear of new situations than babies of stressed women who abstained."

Scientists wishing to downplay the results said "while they could not rule out other factors, they speculated that the results could be linked to chocolate consumption...chemicals in chocolate could be passed from mothers to babies in the womb."

So...expectant mothers who love chocolate - don't be afraid to nibble on some while you're expecting! Your baby could be happier, which will bring you even more happiness!

What do you think? Is this hogwash? Post a comment and let me know.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest in chocolate news, products, and nutritional information.

Chocolate Sales are still climbing!

2009-05-17T13:30:00.001-07:00

Chocolate is the main comfort "sweet" that people are purchasing as a "small indulgence."

In an Associated Press article published in our weekly Sunday paper's business section, it states that chocolate sales are climbing. We claim our share of that.

The article is entitled "Hot in recession: Running shoes, chocolate, Spam." It's tracking sales trends on what people are spending their money on. "Sales of chocolate...are up...Yet they still are willing to shell out for small indulgences and goods that make life more comfortable..." And "People are much more focused on their...immediate happiness and they're buying things they can use themselves...Lipstick and chocolate are small rewards that make you feel better."

The article goes on to state that Hershey's first quarter surged by 20% and beat predictions and expectations.

So - we claim our share of this. Smith Organic Chocolates is "the little guy" and we offer a far better quality product than Hershey's. Check us out!

We are dedicated to bringing you the best nutritional information, general product news, and trends in our chocolate world.

We're On Twitter Facebook & LinkedIN

2009-05-14T20:48:00.001-07:00

Ok. We did it. We're on Twitter. We're on Facebook. We are not going to go to MySpace. But for those of you who are acquainted with the professional network of LinkedIN, we are also on that.

We have entered the 21st Century!

But we still make chocolates the old fashioned way - by hand!!

Organic Chocolate Has a Facebook Page all it's own

2009-05-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

We now have our own Facebook page. You just need to access this link:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Smith-Organic-Chocolates/77933627646?ref=nf#/pages/Smith-Organic-Chocolates/77933627646?v=info&viewas=1461849026

Just another way to keep in touch with you!!

Chocolate Powered Car!! I love it!

2009-05-06T12:03:00.000-07:00

Photo credit: World First Racing
News story credit: www.foxnews.com/leisure "Chocolate-Powered 150 MPH Race Car Revealed"

Well, now they've done it! A team of British scientists have invested a part-vegetable/grain racing car that is powered by CHOCOLATE!! Can you believe it!?

As part of a biodiesel fuel, chocolate powers this prototype race car that can reach speeds of up to 15o mph.

I laughed my way through this article! I think it's terrific that scientists are experimenting with chocolate as fuel for cars! It's already known for "fueling" human beings!

What do you think? Post a comment and let us know.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bring you the latest in chocolate and company information. There's lots more we could post, but we try to bring you the best of the best. We saw this on a news site and just had to post it for you!

Happy Mother's Day - May 10th

2009-05-01T20:52:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner! Smith Organic Chocolates has some ideas to help you celebrate!

First, we have this solid chocolate Happy Mother's Day heart with a rose on it for $5.99. You can special order whatever kind of chocolate you want - milk, dark, or as pictured here, white. All our chocolates are organic!

Other suggestions can be found on our website: a 2-piece Cameo Heart totally edible chocolate box with or without extra truffles, a 2-piece Large Chocolate Rose Box however you'd like it!

We also have a heart-shaped white linen box decorated with spring flowers that holds a half pound of chocolates of your choice!

Check out our website for order information: www.smithorganicchocolates.com. Smith Organic Chocolates has ideas for every occasion, birthdays, anniversaries, graduation, Father's Day, patriotic, general continentals, kisses, bonbons, etc.

We are dedicated to bringing you the best information about organic chocolate we can. Check out any previous blog posts for additional information. Of course, if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our email is: smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com.

NatureFlex Cello Bags are Biodegradable

2009-04-21T18:27:00.001-07:00

We previously posted that Smith Organic Chocolates now uses GreenWay(TM) packaging for our recycled customer bags.

We also wanted to let you know that our NatureFlex(TM) cello bags are BIODEGRADABLE! You can put them in with your other items for composting.

We are excited that we are using environmentally-friendly products which help our planet.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you nutritional information and company news through this blog. Have a great day!

Have Chronic Fatigue? Try Dark Chocolate as remedy

2009-04-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

Do you or anyone you know suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? Try dark chocolate for an energy boost!

In a study done at Hull York Medical School of 10 patients followed a course over a two-month period.

The group ingested about two ounces of dark chocolate every day for a month, then ate white chocolate dyed dark to look like dark chocolate.

In an online article by Sheryl Walters, posted on Natural News.com, it states "When the patients were taking a daily dose of dark chocolate, they reported significantly less fatigue, but felt the fatigue return when they stopped eating it." In other words, only the "real" dark chocolate worked. The dyed white chocolate didn't.

As in everything, moderation is the key. This is the second report we've quoted now showing that about two ounces of dark chocolate a day brings beneficial rewards.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you the latest information regarding the health benefits of chocolate - the best comfort food there is! We also use this for company news and additional information.

Got a Cough? Try Chocolate as Remedy

2009-04-16T08:47:00.001-07:00

I was astounded when I read this information! Chocolate for COUGHS!?

In an article published online by Annmarie Kostyk of Organic Green Mommy.com, Ms. Kostyk quotes studies from London, England and Budapest, Hungary that showed that theobromine, which is found in chocolate, turned out to be 33% more effective for treating coughs, than codeine - if you can imagine that!?

I can. I think it's terrific that a naturally occurring substance is more effective for treating illness than a manmade substance!

The studies showed that up to 2 ounces of dark chocolate were effective in treating coughs. For children, only one ounce was needed, because of body weight. For more information, go to http://www.organicgreenmommy.com/.

Dark chocolate contains about 450 mg of theobromine per ounce. So - the next time you have a cough, take a small piece of dark chocolate, and call me in the morning. Chances are you'll sleep better (theobromine is not caffiene, it only chemically resembles it - it won't keep you awake) and you won't have a codeine hangover the next day.

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to bringing you news and information regarding chocolate and about our business. We want you to be well informed. What do you think? Post a comment and let us know.

Personalized Special Orders

2009-04-07T14:19:00.000-07:00

If there's something you'd like that you don't find on the website, let us know - we'll see what we can do.

Just within the past couple of days, several customers have asked for something that we don't normally offer - but they know that they can ask anyway!

Pictured here is Turrone - not something we do everyday because of the time involved. We gave it a trial run last year - and when we grow enough to get some better equipment - we can offer it more as a regular feature. But don't let that stop you!

We're all about customer service here at Smith Organic Chocolates!

Gone 'Green'!

2009-03-31T17:18:00.001-07:00

Smith Organic Chocolates is going 'green!'

We have been interested in saving our planet from the beginning and our packaging company recently (within the past year) introduced Green Way (TM) and Nature Flex (TM) products. Our brown paper customer bags are made from 100% recycled kraft paper.

We have also begun using Nature Flex (TM) biodegradable clear cello bags for everyday use. Nature Flex Cello bags are made from wood cellulose fibers sourced with sustainable forestry principles. Certified biodegradable, compostable and made carbon zero. Meets FDA requirements for direct food contact.

We are happy to not only be an 'organic' company, who hopes later this year to become USDA certified organic, but we are also interested in using recyclable and biodegradable packaging products.

How have you gone green? Post a comment and let us know.

www.smithorganicchocolates.com

'New' Services from Smith Organic Chocolates

2009-03-30T17:32:00.001-07:00

Smith Organic Chocolates is pleased to announce that we are now available to help brides in a number of different ways.

First, we have several different molds, such as the cake mold pictured above, plus bells, bride/groom, and special heart-shaped molds that feature wedding dress and tuxedo necklines.

Very soon, shortly after Easter, a new Wedding section will be up on the website. You can browse what some of the molds look like.

Also...we'd like to let you know that any of our peanut butter, almond butter, or coconut balls, which are currently made with butter, can be made with an organic vegetable spread by request.

Let us know if there's anything you'd like to see us do. If it's possible, we'll make it happen for you. Post a comment and let us know.

www.smithorganicchocolates.com

We're having a SPRING Par-Tay!!

2009-03-23T20:02:00.001-07:00

We're celebrating the arrival of Spring in a big way!

We're having a party to show off our Easter candies and give you a Mother's Day preview!

It's this Sunday, March 29, from 2-6 p.m.

Check out the website for address and contact information. If you need directions, please call or email us, and we'll be happy to help you!

www.smithorganicchocolates.com

Organic Garden at the White House

2009-03-21T17:55:00.000-07:00

(Photo courtesy of the White House. Copied from CNN.com)

We were pleased to see that the Obamas are supporting organic gardening and organic produce.

On Friday, March 20th, First Lady Michelle Obama helped break ground for an organic garden, according to CNN.com.

"We're just hoping that a lot of families look at us and say this is something that they can do and talk to their own kids about and think a little bit critically about the food choices that they make," said Marian Robinson, the president's mother-in-law. (copied from CNN.com)

Choices, choices - for those of us in the natural foods industry, we've already made our choice. We'd rather spend our money at the grocery store on higher quality food, such as organics, than at the doctor's office.

So it follows then, that we want our "sweets" to be organic too. That's why Smith Organic Chocolates IS ORGANIC! You know that anything you eat from us will be 'clean' - in other words, no bug sprays, no preservatives added, and no artificial colorings or flavorings!

http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/

NEW - Bite-Sized Eggs

2009-03-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

Another consideration for our egg boxes, (pictured previously) is our new "bite-sized" egg shape for Easter - OR a Ganache Cross. Our "Bite-Sized" egg will look like the "big" ones, only they'll be a lot smaller! You can eat them in one or two bites!

Our 7.5-oz. solid chocolate cross can be made into a "ganache" cross - in other words, with a center - like a Peanut Butter Cross, or a Coconut Cross, etc.

Let your imagination run wild! What would you like for Easter in the way of chocolate? Post a comment and let us know.

website: http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/

Just In! New Egg-Shaped Box for Easter

2009-03-20T12:25:00.001-07:00

Just In!

A brand new egg-shaped box to house your organic peanut butter, almond butter or coconut egg.

This box is a bit bigger than our multi-colored boxes and it can "stand alone!" (literally).

OR you can also use it for a 1/4-lb. assortment of Easter Candy with a whimsical touch for any chocolate lover - friend or family!

It's available on the webstore now! Easter is only three weeks away!

www.smithorganicchocolates.com.

Spring Holidays Catalog is Available

2009-03-19T17:48:00.001-07:00

Easter is only three weeks away! We have lots of ideas for Easter and Mother's Day (which is four weeks after Easter).

We have a catalog available for your review. It's free. Just let us know what format you'd like it in. It's available in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher, and hard copy.

Pictured left is a page captured from the catalog.

We are hard at work making chocolates! Orders can be placed at any time!

Call us at (717) 859-4296

Or email us at smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com.

Spring Website is UP!

2009-03-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

Our Spring Website is up and running! Check out the Easter products we have! We also have a special Happy Mother's Day Solid Chocolate Heart!

Easter is Sunday, April 12. Mother's Day is May 10th!

Let us know what you think...And...more nutritional information regarding chocolate is forthcoming!

Post a comment and tell us what you think.

Website: www.smithorganicchocolates.com

How do YOU chocolate?

2009-03-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

Easter is coming up in just four short weeks! Can you believe it? We're working hard on our Spring Catalog and our website is almost ready for upload. Pictured here is a Smith Organic Chocolates Coconut Egg.

But we want to know - what's your favorite chocolate for Easter?

Post a comment and let us know. We'll make it for you by special order if we can!

Email: smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com

Website: www.smithorganicchocolates.com

Easter/Spring Website Uploaded March 15

2009-03-04T13:34:00.001-08:00

In just another week, we'll be uploading our Easter/Spring website to make it easier for you to order our scrum-dilly-i-cious almond butter, peanut butter, and coconut eggs for Easter. Shown left is an Organic Almond Butter Egg.

Each "egg" will be packaged in a beautiful pastel egg-shaped box suitable to put in an Easter basket!

Or course, you can also get them separately under the product heading of "Easter Egg-Single."

What do you think of this blog? What would you like to see on it? Post a comment and let us know!

Website: http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/
E-mail: smithorganicchocolates@dejazzd.com

Chocolate is an Affordable Everyday 'Luxury'

2009-02-26T12:25:00.000-08:00

Everywhere we look, all we hear about is the economy, the economy, the economy. Well, I'm tired of hearing about how bad it is. I'd rather light a candle in the darkness than complain about the fact that darkness is there!

High quality chocolates are a 'luxury' anyone can afford. How do you want to spend your money? Do you want to spend it on a Hershey's bar or something of better quality?

One way we can continue to help is to purchase high quality organic chocolate. In a recent report (Dec. 2, '08) by Packaged Facts, gourmet chocolate sales were up NINE percent in 2008, vs. 2007. In a quote from Gourmet News: "The trend indicates that even in lean economic times, consumers are still treating themselves to affordable luxuries such as chocolate."

That's good news for the gourmet/natural food/organic industry. I recently heard on Fox News that organic sales of most produce and other packaged food items had taken a downturn, because people didn't want to spend the money. This needs to change. Education and public relations efforts with the average consumer need to continue.

The question I always ask: "Where would you rather spend your money - at the grocery store or the doctor's office?" Usually, when I ask that, I get the answer: "Well, I have insurance." To me that just shows that people are not aware of how much their eating habits affects their overall health.

So...don't be afraid to continue eating healthy, organic dark chocolate. And don't forget to "Buy from the Little Guy" - as well as all the fine companies in this industry.

Chocolate is the best of comfort foods. More on that later.

Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

2009-02-23T12:57:00.000-08:00

Health researchers are now discovering that there are actual tangible health benefits to eating the snack we all love and some of us ‘crave.’ Dark chocolate, where the cocoa mass is in percentages more than 40%, contain flavonols and anti-oxidants. A Hershey’s spokesperson said, “Consumers are becoming more aware of the antioxidants that occur naturally in dark chocolate," said Jody Cook.”

In an article written for Prevention magazine, Alice Lesch Kelly states, “Food scientists are no longer shy about praising chocolate, and not just as a dip for strawberries. Several studies have demonstrated that antioxidants in chocolate — known as flavonols — help lower levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol while boosting "good" HDL cholesterol. Flavonols seem to ease inflammation, opening blood vessels and improving blood flow. These antioxidants can prevent platelets from adhering to the lining of blood vessels, inhibit blood clotting, and help prevent plaque formation in the arteries, explains Carl L. Keen, PhD, chairman of the nutrition department at the University of California, Davis. “The science is compelling. I think it's a good idea to include flavonol-rich foods such as chocolate in your diet," Keen says.

The article also states, “Cocoa beans contain substantial amounts of antioxidants, dietary substances that mop up free radicals. (The cell damage they cause can lead to cancer-triggering mutations or blood-vessel scarring that accelerates heart problems.) Disease-fighting antioxidants are also present in blueberries, kale, spinach, tea, red wine, and grape juice. But chocolate is a particularly potent source; ounce for ounce, dark chocolate has five times as many antioxidants as blueberries. (emphasis mine)

The website, www.foodnavigator.com states, “...According to Sandra Capra from the University of Newcastle, (England) the health properties of dark chocolate are real and should not be dismissed so lightly.

The evidence is there, that dark chocolate is a good alternative to milk chocolate and is a source of some key anti-oxidants," she said. "Anyone already on a healthy and balanced diet should be able to indulge occasionally in one or two squares of dark chocolate and benefit from a few health benefits as well."

Smith Organic Chocolates is dedicated to informing you as well as providing you with yum-dilly-i-cious organic chocolate. Our website is http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/. Check us out - we are a fully operational webstore.

Why Organic?

2009-02-17T16:44:00.000-08:00

No Sprays—No Artificial Preservatives

Scientists and researchers are only now beginning to see the long-range of negative effects of spraying crops with pesticides.

Why do farmers use pesticides? The obvious answer would be “to kill the bugs” but the actual answer is a little more complicated than that.

After WWI, chemicals used for warfare were turned into sprays to “kill bugs” and the government subsidized farmers for using them. It seemed like a win-win situation. The American people had apples and other fruits without the characteristic “hole” from where a worm had eaten part of the apple, the chemical companies didn’t have to go out of business (which would have put a strain on the economy and soon the Great Depression of the 1930s), and the American public had “pretty” food to eat—more appetizing to the eyes.

What they didn’t know then, that we are now learning, is that over a period of years, our livers have had to try to “break down” these chemicals in our bodies. This has put a strain on our overall health. Our livers may stay strong, but other things “broke” down instead; our hearts, our digestive systems, our circulation, our joints, and our immune systems.

Pesticides also get into the soil and leach into our water systems—so it’s not just the food that is “poisoned” by pesticides, our water and our soil is affected too.

The demand for organic chocolate is growing. The International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) says, “...The demand for organic cocoa products is growing at a very strong pace, as consumers are increasingly concerned about the safety of their food supply along with other environmental issues. According to Euromonitor International, global organic chocolate sales were estimated to have increased from a value of US $171 million in 2002 to US $304 million in 2005.”

Smith Organic Chocolates is committed to serving you with the best information available so that you can educate yourself and your customers.

Our website is http://www.smithorganicchocolates.com/. It is a fully operational web store.