Abstract: A method of processing the surface of the chocolate, such that an image may be printed thereon. The method includes the steps of creating an image, placing the chocolate (5, FIG. 3) in a printing apparatus (2), heating the surface of the chocolate, printing the created image on to the heated surface using water-based edible ink and cooling down (9) the chocolate to harden it. The apparatus for heating (4) the surface of the chocolate may form part of the printing apparatus. During heating the surface may be melted to a depth of between 0.1 to 1 mm. The printing apparatus may be an ink jet printer and the chocolate may be supported on a heat resistant tray during the heating and printing.