In a periodical in the Church News, "Being Sensible and Factual," published in Deseret News (May 5, 1962), we read the following concerning “hot drinks”:
Periodically
a wave of extreme ideas is noted pertaining to the Word of Wisdom. It seems
that there are some who never quite understand that the Lord avoids extremes in
his teachings, and that it is well for us to do likewise.
Certainly
there is always safety in staying with the revealed word of God, without trying
to add to it.
One
of the latest efforts to justify drinking coffee is the current propaganda that
drinking cocoa or chocolate is against the Word of Wisdom and that cocoa is
supposed to contain even more caffeine than does coffee.
It
is difficult to understand why some individuals seem to enjoy shocking people
with extreme statements, or why they enjoy being the center of attraction so
much that they are willing to set forth untruths as though they were facts.
What
are the facts with respect to cocoa, coffee and caffeine?
For
years Good Housekeeping Magazine has maintained a high standard of integrity.
Its information is carefully worked out and stated so that all who read may
understand.
In
its "Question Box" some time ago, the following appeared.
"QUESTION:
Does cocoa contain more caffein[e] than does coffee?
"ANSWER:
No. Though cocoa and chocolate contain theobromine, a stimulant similar to
caffeine, as well as some caffeine, the total is considerably less than in
coffee.
"Average
strength coffee contains approximately 0.397 grain of caffeine in a fluid ounce
(two table-spoonfuls); cocoa, 0.01 grain of caffeine and 0.027 grain of
theobromine in a fluid ounce."
THE
FACTS then completely dispel any notion
that cocoa or chocolate is as harmful as coffee. Persons who say that those
drinking hot chocolate are breaking the Word of Wisdom as effectively as if
they drank coffee do not state the truth.
The
fact is also that in the days of the Prophet Joseph Smith "hot
drinks" as mentioned in the Word of Wisdom were officially interpreted by
the leading brethren of that day to mean tea and coffee.
Those
who make these claims about cocoa and chocolate do so on their own responsibility,
and obviously without knowing the facts in the matter.
When
interviewing for temple recommends, for instance, or for advancement in the
priesthood, or for baptism, or for any other purpose, bishops never inquire as
to whether a person drinks cocoa or eats chocolate candy. If the use of cocoa
and chocolate were against the doctrine of the Church such inquiry would be
made, but it is not.
Further Reading:
B. H. Roberts Foundation
(MormonR), "Joseph Smith and
Alcohol" (and primary
sources)
Mike Ash, Up
In Smoke: A Response to the Tanners’ Criticism of the Word of Wisdom