FAQ

 

Where does the name Formosa come from?

I'm often asked, "How did you come up with the name Formosa?" During the Age of Discovery, European explorers sailed to far-flung lands in search of new trading routes, spices, and gold. The first Europeans to lay eyes on the picturesque island we now know as Taiwan, were Portuguese sailors, who couldn't help but exclaim "Ilha Formosa!" upon seeing the beautiful shoreline. My family tree is rooted deep in this "beautiful island," and I chose the name to honor my parents and my heritage. I strive to create a product that is both beautiful to look at, as well as exquisite to eat!

Where do you ship?

Formosa ships to all 50 states. We do not offer international delivery at this time. Because our products are temperature sensitive, we highly recommend having your products delivered to an address where someone can receive the goods personally. Please see this page for more information on shipping.

How long will shipping take?

We ship mostly Mon-Weds to minimize the likelihood that your chocolates will sit in the post office over the weekend. Bay Area shipments usually arrive in one day, and it typically takes 2-3 days to get to the rest of the country. You will receive a separate shipping notification with tracking info in your email. Please note that due to Covid-19, the USPS and UPS both have been experiencing some delays in shipping. 

Can I specify a shipment date? 

Yes! Look at you, on top of things! Please specify in comments if you would like for us to hold your order until closer to a certain date. We cannot guarantee that your order will arrive exactly on a certain date, but we will do our best to make sure it arrives within 2 days before/on your requested date.

I would like to ship to multiple recipients. What is the easiest way?

Fill out the spreadsheet here and email it back to us here. We will send back an invoice within 1-2 business days.

Do you offer in-person delivery?

This is suspended for now, but if you are interested in becoming a driver for Formosa Chocolates, please send your resume!

Do you have a brick and mortar location?

We do not have a shop of our own yet, but pre-orders can be picked up at Tea on Piedmont (1-2 day lead time). If you are a local business and would like to carry Formosa Chocolates, please contact us here.

I would like to place a custom order.

We love custom orders for special events, big or small! Just email us here with your ideas and budget, and we will get back to you within 1-2 business days.

How long will the chocolates keep?

Formosa Chocolates are made with the freshest ingredients and no preservatives. They are meant for savoring, not for storing! We recommend consuming them within 2 weeks for optimal taste.  If you would like to keep them longer term, you can wrap the entire box tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and keep in the freezer for up to 6 months.  When ready to enjoy, remove from freezer and allow to reach room temperature before unwrapping to ensure that the chocolates retain their glossy appearance. Failure to do so may result in sugar or fat bloom (that greyish, rough texture that can appear on chocolates when stored improperly).  The bonbons should be as good as the day you bought them, and should be enjoyed within 2 weeks of thawing.  

How should I store the chocolates?

Chocolate is best kept in a cool, dry, environment away from strong-smelling food and sunlight (ideally, 55-65 F, and 50% humidity). If you have a wine fridge, that is perfect! 

Are your chocolates allergen-free?

Our chocolates are crafted in a shared commercial kitchen where peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, egg, dairy, and soy are processed. While we take every precaution to avoid cross-contamination, we recommend avoiding our products if you or the recipient have severe food allergies.

My item arrived melted/broken! Help!

We package our orders carefully and time our shipments in order to avoid damage and melting in transit. Please be sure that your recipient knows to expect a package, especially in hotter months. All shipments are sent with USPS insurance up to $100. While we do not offer refunds, your satisfaction is of utmost importance to us. Please email us so that we can make it right! 

Do you ever have sales/discounts?

Yes! Follow us on Instagram or sign up for our mailing list to get notification of special sales! 

Do you offer corporate/wholesale discounts?

As many businesses are experiencing during the pandemic, prices for just about everything, from gloves to chocolate to packaging have gone up significantly.  We can offer a 5% discount for bulk orders over $1000.  We appreciate your understanding.