Why You Need an
Emergency Chocolate Supply:
Lessons from the Red Cross
and US Army (video below)
PLUS - You Asked - We Listened NEW: CHOCOLATE
WAFERS have ARRIVED!
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When we think about emergency preparedness, we often stock up on water, canned goods, and first aid supplies.
But did you know that both the Red Cross and the U.S. Army have historically recommended keeping chocolate—particularly dark chocolate—on hand in times of need?
Let's explore the surprising history, nutritional benefits, and practical reasons why dark chocolate deserves a permanent spot in your pantry, emergency kit, purse, desk, briefcase, car and your everyday routine, and how it's Giddy Yo to the rescue!
A Historical Lifesaver. Military chocolate has been a part of standard United States military rations since the original D-ration bar of 1937.
During World War II, the U.S. Army included chocolate in soldiers' rations, both for its energy-boosting properties and its ability to provide comfort in stressful situations.
Similarly, the Red Cross distributed chocolate to troops and civilians, recognizing its value as a morale booster and a nutrient-dense food source during crises.
Louis Zamperini, an Olympic distance runner turned Army Air Corps lieutenant, gave thanks after his aircraft crashed over the Pacific in 1943, forcing him to drift on a lifeboat for 47 days with only a few chocolate bars and whatever fish he could procure at sea for sustenance.
Today, military chocolate is issued to troops as part of basic field rations and sundry packs.
Why dark chocolate? Unlike candy bars, high-quality dark chocolate is more than just a sweet treat—it's packed with nutrients that make it an ideal choice for a morale boost and a high-energy, pocket-sized emergency snack (or ration) to always have on hand.
The good news continues as Giddy Yo's new chocolate wafers are here now in every flavour - life is simply better with chocolate :). Our wafers are quarter-size thin coin shaped discs of chocolate - the perfect serving size, with perfect meltability, perfectly packed in resealable bags. Perfect for purse chocolate, desk chocolate, car chocolate (only during the cooler months), briefcase chocolate, kitchen chocolate - or wherever or whenever you need a quickie piece of perfection, the WAFERS are your perfect choice!
“Chemically speaking, chocolate really is the world's perfect food”
-Michael Levine, Developmental and cell biologist and Director of the Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, and a Professor of Molecular Biology at Princeton.
SCIENCE BACKED REASONS WHY DARK CHOCOLATE
IS THE ULTIMATE SURVIVAL FOOD
1. Nutrient-Rich and Energy-Dense Dark chocolate is a powerhouse of nutrition. It's rich in magnesium, which supports muscle and nerve function, and iron, which is essential for energy production. A small amount packs a significant calorie punch, making it an efficient way to sustain energy when other food options are limited OR when 'other' foods are too tempting and you need that 'chocolate fix'.
2. Flavanols Boosts Brain Health Dark chocolate contains flavanols, which improve blood flow to the brain and supports cognitive function. This makes it a valuable snack for kids' lunches or anyone needing a quick mental boost during challenging times, making it a perfect, practical gift for yourself or loved ones.
3. Curbs Cravings and Reduces Stress The natural compounds in cacao, such as theobromine, provide a gentle energy lift without the crash of sugar-laden snacks. Plus, dark chocolate stimulates endorphin release, helping to calm nerves and reduce stress—exactly what you might need in any emergency.
4. Long Shelf Life When stored properly, dark chocolate has an impressive shelf life, making it a reliable addition to your emergency kit in your house or car, and purse :).
One of our lovely fan/fam members, the lovely homesteader, Tara from Slowdown Farmstead recommends Giddy Yo cacao and chocolate to her followers who store and make things.
When choosing your emergency chocolate stash, quality matters. Look for options like Giddy Yo's dark chocolate, which is:
- Organic and 3rd party lab tested for purity and safety.
- Free from gluten, soy, dairy and excessive sugar ensuring most everyone can eat it. It's also NUT/ PEANUT FREE so it's a school safe chocolate snack.
- We use ultra-premium Peruvian specialty cacao, offering maximum nutritional benefits (featured in a past blog here).
Chocolate isn't just a treat—it's a tool for survival, energy, and joy!
From its historical role in the Red Cross and U.S. Army to its modern-day nutritional benefits, dark chocolate proves its worth as both an emergency essential and an everyday delight.
So next time you're updating your emergency supplies—or packing your kids' lunches (or want something for your next pot luck or girls night in) —don't forget the dark chocolate.
Whether you're navigating a power outage, or your husband/ wifey was 'challenging' this morning, or your boss is pressing you, or you're simply craving a moment of joy, a little dark chocolate goes a long way.
You might wanna stock Up on Giddy Yo Dark Chocolate :) Here's to preparedness and deliciousness!
Everyday Uses for Your 'Emergency Chocolate' Stash
Keeping dark chocolate on hand isn't just for emergencies.
Here are some everyday ways to make it a versatile part of your routine:
Kids' Lunches: Include a small piece of dark chocolate to give your kids a natural energy boost and brain power for their afternoon classes. Nut free, dairy free, school safe chocolate snack.
Cravings Control: A square of dark chocolate can help curb sugar cravings while keeping you on track with your health goals, especially with the Giddy Yo SUGAR FREE HUNDO and MINT HUNDO, and our 89% & 90% XDark bars. ALWAYS Keep chocolate wafers ready for action!
Fun fact - Cacao is a natural appetite suppressant. Nature's Ozempic?
Quick Pick-Me-Up: Whether you're facing a busy workday or a challenging hike, dark chocolate provides instant, nutrient-packed energy. Keep a bag of chocolate wafers in your purse or bag - at the hockey rink, grocery store or while studying.
Charcuterie Boards: Elevate your gatherings with a touch of indulgence by pairing dark chocolate with nuts, dried fruits, and cheeses. This makes a GREAT and unique addition to any charcuterie board or holiday gathering. Pro Tip: Pair dark chocolate with aged cheddar. The savoury, nutty flavour of cheddar contrasts beautifully with the deep, bittersweet fruity notes in our dark chocolate.
DIY Advent Calendars – We have one clever Giddy Yo family who purchased our wafers to make their own Advent calendars for the kids. What a cute and healthy idea to add to your advent calendar.
“Biochemically, love is just like eating large amounts of chocolate” John Milton
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Sources:
https://www.redcross.ca/blog/
https://www.smithsonianmag.
Thank you for taking the time to read and share. We hope you find what we offer of value!
