Valentine's Day Sticker Shock: Higher Cocoa and Sugar Prices Make Love Costlier

Cocoa prices hit all time highs due to weather challenges

Well well well looks like Cupid's bow is hitting us where it hurts the most our wallets. Cocoa prices have sky rocketed to all time highs thanks to some pesky weather conditions and disease. And guess what? This is the third year in a row that cocoa supply has been insufficient. Looks like the chocolate lovers of the world are going to have to pay up this Valentine's Day.

El Nino wreaks havoc on crops

Damn that El Nino! It's causing chaos all over the place. Not only has it brought dry temperatures to Southeast Asia India and parts of Africa but it's also screwing with our beloved cocoa and sugar crops. No wonder prices are through the roof. It's a good thing I've got a stash of chocolate from the 90s. I'll never go hungry!

Chocolate prices rise but sweet tooths aren't deterred

Higher prices? No problem baby! The chocolate lovers of the world aren't backing down. Despite the increase in chocolate prices people are still planning to indulge in their sweet treats this Valentine's Day. In fact 92% of Americans surveyed said they planned to share chocolates and candies. Ain't nothing gonna stop us from getting our sugar fix!

Love and fertility meet capitalism

Ah chocolate and Valentine's Day. They go together like me and my trusty shotgun. But did you know that chocolate and cacao have been associated with love and fertility for centuries? The Maya and Aztec civilizations knew what was up. And now it's become a tradition to give chocolates on Valentine's Day. Critics may call it a marketing gimmick but hey who am I to argue with a box of chocolates?

Small pleasures in uncertain times

In a world filled with uncertainty sometimes all you need is a little piece of chocolate to make things better. It's like a natural mood enhancer lifting your spirits and putting a smile on your face. No wonder chocolate demand remains relatively strong even during economic downturns. We all need a little sweetness in our lives don't we?

Lobster prices rise along with the romance

If you thought chocolates were the only expensive thing on the Valentine's Day menu think again. Lobster prices are soaring too. It seems that love and fancy seafood go hand in hand. But fear not my fellow romantics because even in the face of higher prices love finds a way. Kim and her partner have decided to keep their Valentine's Day dinner simple opting for a cozier and more affordable meal. Who needs lobster when you've got each other?