Chocolate, Shipping, and Store FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ok to call in an order if I don't want to order online?
Yes! Please do. We are happy to take phone or email orders. Office hours are M-F 7am-3pm HST. Feel free to leave a voicemail and we'll get back to you shortly. (808) 821-1857 info@lydgatefarms.com
I want something special, can I call or email you about it?
Absolutely. And if there is something you want you don't see we may be able to put it together for you, so please reach out. Some customers like to call in to create custom gift packages for loved ones that aren't on the site. (808) 821-1857 info@lydgatefarms.com
Who do you ship with and how are boxes packed?
We ship FedEx 2-day Air From Kauai. Some small packages will be shipped using USPS small flat-rate boxes. All packages are attractively packed with 100% biodegradable shipping materials (excluding ice packs when needed).
What days do you ship and how long will it take for my order to arrive?
Orders with Chocolate are shipped on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. This ensures they get straight to you and don't rest over the weekend. An order placed on Monday will arrive by Wednesday at the earliest and Friday at the latest. During very busy sales or shipping times an order placed on a Wednesday might not arrive until the following Wednesday. You'll get a tracking number from our shop in an email. Please send us an email or give us a call if we can answer any questions about your package. orders@lydgatefarms.com (808) 821-1857
What about keeping chocolate cool during shipping?
During the warm summer months we ship using an insulated bag and a reusable ice pack. When the weather is warm, above 80º we ask that you let the recipients of any package know that chocolate is coming, to avoid it sitting on a hot doorstep. If your chocolate melts in shipping it will be very clear because of a white 'bloom' on the surface of the chocolate. But, the cellulose or plant based fiber we wrap our bars in some sometimes stick to the surface of the bars in a way that looks stuck on in normal circumstances. So this is fine. If there is any melting or any other problem with your shipment please let us know so we can make it right!
My chocolate melted after arrival and has white coloring, is it still good?
This white discoloration is called 'cocoa butter bloom'. It does not affect the flavor of the chocolate, but it does change the texture of it. The fats in chocolate — called cocoa butter — are tempered during the final step of chocolate making. Chocolate that has been melted and re-hardened loses this temper.
How should I store my chocolate?
If you live in a temperate climate, I recommend storing chocolate in your pantry or a chocolate drawer in your kitchen. Chocolate is best stored in a cool dry place. If you live in a warm climate, then any cool or AC space is best, again avoiding too much heat or moisture. The fridge can work to store chocolate in a pinch, but we don't recommend it. This is because the temperature fluctuations in the fridge will lessen the temper of the chocolate over time. And humidity in the fridge can permeate into the chocolate as well as the presence of other strong flavors which can also influence the chocolate flavor. If the fridge is your best storage place, put them in a sealed plastic bag.
How long does it stay good for? Does it Expire?
Technically speaking, as long as it is stored properly with low moisture, chocolate will stay good for years. But, chocolate is best enjoyed with within one year and the flavors do change with time. Brighter more fruity notes will be present in the first 3-6 months that fade to warm nutty cocoa notes later in time.
Do you ship to Canada or Europe?
We do not offer shipping to Canada as a part of our regular shipping service. But we can arrange for it. For Canada shipping please email us what you'd like to order along with your address, we'll send over an invoice that includes our shipping cost (and we can discount that in the case of some sales). We will send you an invoice which you can pay to have your order shipped to you. International orders can be delayed beyond our control. For Europe shipping follow the same procedure.
Refund policy
We want you to be happy with your purchase. If you are not satisfied please call us at 808 821 1857 or send us an email info@lydgatefarms.com to let us know. Defective or damaged products will be replaced, store credit offered, or a full or partial refund given, depending on the situation. If you would like an order refunded after it is placed but before it is shipped please call us or email us asap and we will cancel the order and send a full refund within 7 days.