For the past several years, chocolate lovers have faced a bit of a predicament. As the demand for dark chocolate has increased, production has slowed.

Experts say the shortage is less pandemic-related and more an issue with the production of high-grade cocoa.

“Cocoa has had a shortage for a long time, so it isn’t anything new," said Dawn Oesch, the owner of Saratoga Candy Company in Saratoga Springs. "I don’t know how they’ll change that up, because it is something that is a plant and it is about the climate.”

Oesch and the team at the Saratoga shop have spent months preparing for Valentine’s Day, anticipating delays.

“You have to think about this in November,” said Oesch. “That could be impacted by Christmas and impacted by the New Year and travel.”

Dark chocolate is made using a compound Saratoga Candy Company makes itself. While the business usually has enough prepared sweets to go around, in past years, it has had to limit the amount of mixture it sells to customers.

Previously, it wasn’t a problem to sell the cocoa.

“It’s a compound. So it’s something that the chocolate is made. We make it into things. And then we can sell the compound to customers as well. And there have been years where we’ve been like, 'Sorry, we can’t spare it,'” said Oesch.

The compound is used to make things like Rice Krispies hearts and other Valentine’s treats. If you’re looking for dark chocolate, experts say to make sure you order early and shop with reliable stores. Businesses that have been around a while tend to know how to handle the shortages.

“You’re set for here because I think we’re ready, but definitely shop early,” said Oesch.