Fruits de mer (chocolate) facts for kids
Fruits de mer are special Belgian chocolate candies, also known as pralines. They are shaped like different sea creatures, such as seahorses, clams, mussels, starfish, and sea snails. These tasty chocolates are usually made with a mix of dark and milk chocolate, and they have a yummy nougat filling inside. You can find them in fancy chocolate shops, regular supermarkets, and even handmade in special pastry shops called Konditorei.
The Story of Guylian Chocolates
The famous Belgian chocolate company Guylian, located in Antwerp, is known for creating these unique sea-shaped chocolates. They started making them way back in the 1960s. At first, each chocolate was carefully made by hand. But as they became more popular, Guylian began using special machines to make them faster.
Guylian's main sea shell chocolates are made with rich Belgian dark chocolate. This chocolate has about 34 percent cocoa. They also make an "extra dark" version for those who love a stronger chocolate taste. This one has a much higher cocoa content, around 74 percent.
Different Kinds of Sea Shell Chocolates
Because these chocolates are so popular, other companies sometimes make similar products. You might find these "copycat" chocolates in German discount stores.
Over the years, chocolate makers have also created different options to suit everyone. Since 1996, you can find sugar-free versions of these sea shell chocolates. This means people who need to avoid sugar can still enjoy them. Also, since 2001, you can buy fair trade sea shell chocolates from organizations like Oxfam. Fair trade means that the farmers who grow the cocoa beans are paid fairly for their hard work.
