A Baton Rouge-based small business is blending chocolate and science in a unique way. The venture is owned by LSU student Maram Khalaf and her mother, Aliaa. Maram, who studies biological science, uses her research skills to measure the growth rates of organic food components in more than just class assignments. Her mother’s love for chocolate inspired her to start making it themselves.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Aliaa ran out of chocolate and began watching videos on how to make it from scratch. Maram joined in and started sharing their creations with friends. Positive feedback from their loved ones encouraged them to open a business called Chocolate Bijoux. Today, Maram and Aliaa work together to produce batches of 100-200 chocolates that are both delicious and scientifically sound.
Maram recognizes the importance of her mother’s help in keeping the business running smoothly. She sees parallels between her lab work and chocolate making, noting the precision and different steps involved in both. While they are currently putting all their profits back into the business, Maram hopes to dedicate more time to growing Chocolate Bijoux after she graduates from LSU.
For those interested in ordering chocolates from Chocolate Bijoux, they can visit the website or message the business on Instagram. Despite starting as a COVID hobby, the business has become a full-time job for Maram with hopes for future growth as they continue to blend science and chocolate into one unique venture.
