A recent study conducted by the independent ETAP Research Center in France has established links between the consumption of polyphenols and longevity. Its findings point to the possibility that cocoa polyphenols not only improve the quality of life, especially when getting older, but may well play a part in prolonging it. The study concluded that the lifespan of rats consuming Barry Callebaut’s (Zurich, Switzerland) Acticoa cocoa polyphenol powder was 30% longer than that of rats subjected to the same stress levels without being given cocoa polyphenols.

The study involved the administering of a cocoa polyphenol extract to rats prior to and during the induction of considerable levels of stress. Results suggest that regular consumption of Acticoa chocolate, rich in polyphenols, could prolong life of humans as well.

Dr. Jean-François Bisson, PhD, director of the Department of Cancerology and Human Pathologies, ETAP Research Center, said: “We have demonstrated that a cocoa polyphenol powder, orally administered before the induction of chronic oxidative stress and subsequently throughout the course of the rat’s lifetime, significantly inhibits the effects of chronic oxidative stress and increases their lifespan, particularly at the low dose of 24 mg/kg body weight. Given the results of this study and the findings of others, there is evidence to suggest that the daily consumption of small amounts of cocoa or chocolate rich in cocoa polyphenols may offer some protection against chronic oxidative stress and increase the lifespan of humans.”

While traditional chocolate production processes reduce a significant amount of flavonoids, Acticoa chocolate is produced with a high amount of polyphenols naturally present in the cocoa bean without compromising the flavor and texture of ordinary chocolate.