Cocoa was used by the Mayan, Aztec and Inca tribes more than 2,500 years ago, primarily as a medicinal remedy or as currency. Its introduction into Europe did not occur until the 15th century after the colonization of America, when it was imported along with other foods such as potatoes or tomatoes.
Although it was introduced then, the recipe for the chocolate drink that existed at that time was not pleasant to the majority of the population, who considered it very bitter. Its consumption did not begin to spread until the 19th century, due to the appearance of the chocolate industry in this century, which applied the first additions of sugar and other components that gave chocolate a more appetizing flavor.