Why do we love chocolate?  Maybe it’s that sense of guilty pleasure — I’m doing something naughty, combined with that love-triggering chemical, phenylethylamine. Or, as a dark chocolate lover, it’s the hit of oxidation skin derives from bioflavonoids — (right, it must be that).  For mouthwatering, guilt-free chocolate, enjoy Fair Trade and certified organic chocolate — workers are treated fairly, and you don’t have to think about nasty toxins polluting your body or Earth.  Here are a few personal faves that fit the bill:

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Lifebychocolate.com – located in Greenville, a quaint town in upstate NY.  Uniquely local, handmade and vegan: truffles, bars, organic cherry cordials and other perfectly sinful confections. Or dip into a decadent experience of another kind, the low calorie and relaxing, chocolate bath fizzies (4-pack, $7)

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MoonStruckChocolate.com – LOVE Letters ($12.50);
hugs and kisses with solid X & Os in milk or dark chocolate ($10);
a perfectly elegant, valentine collection of truffles ($10)

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UliMana.com – a mad, raw truffle adventure: goji cherry, hemp, peppermint and more ($15/jar)

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Coco-Zen – blissful chocolate lip and body treats: chocolate salt scrub, soap, lip balm and lotion, ($4.50 – $40)

Here’s to a red hot, deliciously green valentine’s day!

Friday the 13th Update: Do you feel lucky? lifebychocolate giveaway