The differences between pure cocoa butter and cocoa butter substitutes are mainly reflected in the following aspects:
Ingredients: Pure cocoa butter is a natural fat extracted from cocoa beans without any artificial processing. Cocoa butter substitute, on the other hand, is a synthetic fat-like substance designed to mimic the taste and texture of pure cocoa butter.
Physical properties: Pure cocoa butter has a firm character, while substitute cocoa butter can cause surface frosting due to temperature changes.
Taste: Pure cocoa butter has a strong flavor and pure taste, while cocoa butter is easy to get greasy when eaten.
Nutritional value: Pure cocoa butter contains natural antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as a variety of health-beneficial compounds that can be used to replenish energy and satiety when consumed in the right amounts. Cocoa butter substitutes may contain harmful ingredients such as trans fats, which have a negative impact on human health.
Health Effects: Numerous studies have shown that pure cocoa butter has a variety of health benefits, such as increased energy and increased feelings of fullness. Conversely, the trans fats in cocoa butter substitutes may increase LDL cholesterol, the bad cholesterol, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Therefore, pure cocoa butter products should be preferred to avoid excessive intake of cocoa butter substitutes.