Cocoa is a key component in the manufacture of confectionery products, along with sugar. In Germany, filled chocolate bars made up the bulk of domestic chocolate production. Some of the best-known chocolate products in the country include those produced specifically for certain national holidays. One of these is the chocolate Santa, and the other is the chocolate Easter Bunny, which is also popular abroad. German confectionery exports consistently outstripped importing sweets from other countries.
Consumers turn to chocolate products with varying degrees of frequency, with choices ranging between chocolate bars, candy bars and other chocolate snacks. Flavors with spices or alcohol were generally less popular than sweeter ones. As for brands, the most recognized among customers were Milka, Lindt and the quintessentially German Ritter Sport.
