In Grade 10, our science teacher told us why many of us were so tired during afternoon classes.  It was because we had lunch, and during the digestion process, the food turned into sugar and that was what made us sleepy. In school, we weren’t allowed to have caffeine with us in class, so I had to deal with being tired.  However, things are different as adults.  I could have coffee or tea whenever I want and as often as I want.  But what if I didn’t want any?  Enter AWAKE Chocolate, the latest caffeinated snack to hit the market.  Equivalent to a 20 oz. cup of coffee or a 250 mL energy drink, this sweet chocolate is a great way to get a jolt of something, especially in the afternoon, without giving one “coffee breath.”

A bar of Awake Chocolate, wrapped

I found out about AWAKE via email from its PR company notifying that I will be receiving some samples.  In traditional candy bar form, this milk chocolate bar comes in a dark brown wrapper with a picture of its mascot, Neville the Owl.  I’m not really a chocolate fan unless it comes in the form of cake, cookies, liquid (as in hot chocolate) or ice cream, so I’m not sure if I can give a true, positive review of Awake except to say that taste-wise, it is similar to standard milk chocolate, but of course, with the added kick.  In fact, one could really feel it!  I made the mistake of having just a tiny bit in the evening and yes, it did keep me up.  If you are sensitive to caffeine, I would not recommend eating AWAKE Chocolate after 8 pm unless you plan on staying awake.

Awake Chocolate, unwrapped

AWAKE is currently available across Canada at stores and gas stations including Shoppers Drug Mart, London Drugs as well as Shell and Canadian Tire gas stations.  Suggested retail is $2.49 per bar.  Each bar has 230 calories.

Images courtesy of AWAKE Chocolates/High View Communications