Scientists on the Forefront

Studying America's Favorite Treat 

The Hershey Company's newly-created Hershey Center for Health and Nutrition is an important clearinghouse for cutting-edge research on the health benefits of cocoa, chocolate and nuts.

Formed in 2006, the center focuses on studying the chemistry and dietary components of these foods that are key sources of nutrients.

Thomas K. Hernquist, SVP and Global Chief Growth Officer for The Hershey Company, said the company is committed to conducting health and nutrition research because it is important to customers.

"Now, more than ever, we are focusing on the potential health benefits of cacao and chocolate so we can make products that nourish your body — as well as please your tastebuds," Hernquist said. "Living a healthy lifestyle does not mean having to sacrifice great chocolate."

Center Director Dave Stuart, Ph.D., said the Center focuses on all aspects of chocolate, cocoa and nuts through a process called the "Four Cs"- Chemistry, Clinical trials, Collaboration and Communication. Said Stuart: "It is critical that we know the antioxidant levels of chocolate and nut products. Clinical trials establish relevance to human nutrition, physiology and health. This is typically done in collaboration with world-class researchers at universities and other laboratories. And, finally, we communicate nutrition and health news about chocolate, cocoa and nuts at scientific meetings and through various forms of media."

"This is a really exciting time to be part of the food industry," said Debra Miller, Ph.D., Senior Nutrition Scientist at Hershey's. "As the population ages and becomes more health-conscious, the demand for healthy foods and more nutrition information about foods has greatly increased. We are proud to say that the Center has already had a big impact on Hershey products."

To date, the Center has published several reports on antioxidants in chocolate and has ongoing clinical trials examining the health benefits of chocolate and macadamia nuts. Already, the center has uncovered good news. Its collaboration with the Prevention Research Center at Yale University produced a study showing that consumption of dark chocolate and cocoa beverages resulted in short-term improvement of blood flow and blood pressure.

Stay tuned for more news.