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Chocolate by the Numbers in California
California has led the nation in the number of chocolate and cocoa manufacturing establishments, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Chocolate factory
Jeffray Gardner of Marsatta Fancy Chocolates shows how he creates chocolate from scratch—the chocolate connoisseur sources cacao beans from around the world for his world-class confections.
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Sending chocolates to your sweetheart remains common practice on Valentine's Day, and many chocolate and cocoa manufacturing establishments where those candies come from are here in California.
The U.S. Census Bureau in 2009 counted 135 chocolate factories in California, which was the most in the country. Pennsylvania followed with 111.
Even locally, Marsatta Fancy Chocolates operates in neighboring Redondo Beach and the gourmet confections are sold in Hermosa Beach and across the South Bay (see accompanying video.)
Nationwide 1,177 manufacturing establishments produced chocolate and cocoa products in 2009, employing 34,252 people, according to the census bureau.
The bureau also reported the total value of shipments in 2009 for firms producing chocolate and cocoa products added up to $12.6 billion.
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Jeffray D. Gardner
11:37 am on Sunday, February 12, 2012
Thank you very much for your timely article Jacqueline. Like first wine, then cheese, California is becoming well known for producing superior products. We used to always import great wines from Europe because that was the thing to do. Today, amazing wines AND cheese are made right here in our backyard people! Look for them the next time you go shopping. Oh yea, and chocolate...I know a thing or two about it, lol We are bean 2 bar chocolate makers right here in the South Bay. How many times have you had chocolate made literally days before and thta is REALLY good for you? Now is your chance! I invite you to give us a try.
Cheers,
Jeffray D. Gardner
Chocolate Maker
Marsatta Fancy Chocolates
Dan Krolczyk
7:41 pm on Sunday, February 12, 2012
Great video!