It's always been a controversial topic on whether chocolate truly belongs in the cupboard or the fridge.
While adults and children alike tuck into the array of Easter eggs this weekend, there seems no better time than to share the truth about the age-old debate.
Thankfully, a fridge expert has come forward to reveal the true home of where the sweet snack belongs.
With Easter weekend shaping up to be lovely and warm, expert Nick Small from AO.com exclusively revealed the answer just in time for the bank holiday.
He confirmed once and for all that chocolate doesn't belong in fridges.
In addition, he shared some top tips on keeping your chocolate in egg-celent condition ahead of Easter Sunday.
Fridge freezer expert Nick Small said: "For many years, people have debated whether chocolate should be kept in the fridge or whether ambient temperatures make for a better chocolate-eating experience.
"We can confirm that chocolate should not be kept in the fridge as it can alter both its taste and texture. Ideally, chocolate should be stored at around 20°C for optimal enjoyment.
"Cocoa butter absorbs flavours and odours, meaning if you keep your chocolate in the fridge, other items stored close by influence its taste, with colder temperatures also stopping the cocoa butter from releasing more subtle flavours.
"Refrigerated chocolate can also experience what's called 'sugar bloom', which typically occurs when the chocolate is exposed to varying temperatures."
The expert explained that if chocolate is kept in the fridge, it can decrease the sweetness.
The condensation on the surface can dissolve the sugar, causing it to crystallise which negatively impacts the overall texture of the chocolate, making it grainy.
While temperatures are set to rise this weekend, Nick encourages people not to be tempted by putting the treat in the fridge.
He explained further: "If you're hiding eggs outside, or in direct sunlight, do not refrigerate them beforehand, as this increases the likelihood of sugar bloom.
"Instead, look to hide eggs in shaded areas that aren't in direct sunlight and only have them in warmer temperatures for a short time – any longer than an hour and you may risk your eggs turning into a gloopy mess!"
He went on: "If you must store your chocolate in the fridge, it's advisable to store it in an airtight container, to avoid any other flavours altering its taste.
"You may also need to 'warm up' your chocolate before eating it, taking it out of the fridge for around 30 minutes to an hour for it to come up to room temperature.
"Just don't leave it in direct sunlight!" He added.
Do you have a story? We want to hear it! Get in touch at grace.hoffman@reachplc.com
