Now 'healthy' super chocolate that lasts for years

TASTY TREAT: 'Healthy' chocolate will soon be included in army rations.

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It is packed with vitamins, low on fat, does not melt at high temperatures and can last for years - yes, it is super chocolate.

Developed by scientists of the Australian army, this "healthy" chocolate will soon be included in army rations - especially for soldiers serving in harsh and hostile environments such as war-torn Iraq, the Science Network reported.

The secret of the super chocolate lies in the use of fats with high melting points. Thus, when your garden variety chocolate melts at about 30 degrees Celsius, super chocolates stays firm even at 49 degrees.

It is, additionally, fortified with vitamins A, B1 and C and has added flavours to preserve taste for up to two years.

Army scientist Lan Bui has been quoted as saying: "(We) were looking at product reformulation, including new fat compounds, to improve texture and flavour, without affecting the melting point."

The scientists are also working on coating vitamins to keep out humidity, moisture and oxygen while allowing them to be slowly released into the body.

They are currently developing a milk chocolate version, while dark chocolate production will begin soon.