The San Francisco Chocolate Factory is Stirring Up New Products: Introducing the First "Got Milk?" Chocolate Straw in the U.S.

30/05/08 The San Francisco Chocolate Factory has introduced what is believed to be the first chocolate straw designed for US youngsters.

"I saw these straws in Europe and to my knowledge we are the first to introduce them here in the US. We think kids will love them," said Mike Litton, founder and CEO of the San Francisco Chocolate Factory.

Mothers and fathers will also fall for the new straws, he added, because they make any glass of milk taste like chocolate milk. That means youngsters will be eager to drink their milk.

The new straw is designed with "fun packaging" that is attractive to both parents and children.

Chocolate has also emerged recently as having many health benefits, according to various studies.

"Surprising new research finds chocolate contains health-promoting chemicals similar to those in red wine, tea, fruits and vegetables," writes Jean Carper in her Eat Smart column at USA Today.

"Chocolate is rich in cell-protecting antioxidants," she writes. The antioxidants in chocolate help block chemical changes in bad LDL cholesterol that lead to clogged arteries, she added.

The San Francisco Chocolate Factory was created in 1999 to provide chocolate lovers with gourmet-quality, superbly packaged chocolates at non-gourmet prices.

"Since we debuted in 1991, we've become a favorite with San Francisco locals and visitors as well," Litton said.

But the business is expanding beyond the Bay Area in California to other parts of the US and the world, including Canada and Europe.

The factory uses only the finest quality cocoa beans, gathered and imported from three different continents. Only the best beans are selected for consistently superior flavor.

"Our chocolate has a smooth silken texture that melts on the tongue and creates a rich, buttery feel in the mouth," said Litton.