Kerry, a world leading provider of sustainable nutrition solutions to the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, announces an innovative Cocoa replacement solution, designed to tackle the escalating cocoa pricing and supply crisis. Cocoa supplies are predicted to fall short by 11 percent in 2024, leading to a staggering 300 percent increase in prices over the past year.

The unprecedented crisis in cocoa production has primarily been driven by factors such as the swollen shoot virus and soil degradation and has significantly affected key cocoa-producing countries. These countries, including Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, which together contribute approximately 54 percent of the global cocoa supply, are experiencing sharp declines in stock levels. 

In response, Kerry has developed a range of Cocoa Taste solutions that provide an authentic cocoa taste experience, without relying solely on traditional cocoa bean derivatives. Our cocoa solution not only preserves the indulgent cocoa taste that consumers love, but also helps manufacturers to navigate through the volatile cocoa market, by reducing their dependency on cocoa mass. 

Benefits of Kerry’s Cocoa Replacement Solution:

Delivering Authentic Cocoa Taste

Kerry’s expertise in cocoa extraction and flavor development ensures that our Cocoa Taste solutions deliver the rich, indulgent cocoa experience that consumers expect. The range of solutions supports up to a 35% reduction in cocoa powder use in formulation, helping to reduce cocoa powder across baked goods, dairy beverages and confectionery while maintaining and enhancing cocoa notes and sensory experience.

Cost Reduction and Supply Stability

By integrating Kerry’s Cocoa Taste Solutions into their products, manufacturers can significantly reduce their exposure to the fluctuating cocoa commodity market. This translates into substantial cost savings and a more stable supply chain, allowing businesses to remain competitive despite external market pressures.

Expert Guidance and Support

Kerry provides access to a team of expert food scientists and flavourists who offer insights and guidance, assisting manufacturers in adjusting their product recipes to maintain or even enhance sensory qualities, ensuring that the final product meets consumer expectations despite cocoa constraints.

“Our commitment to sustainability is integral to our Cocoa replacement solution. This crisis presents not just challenges but also a pivotal moment for innovation and change for cocoa sourcing strategies. When it comes to potential solutions, there is a critical need for sustainability — if properly addressed, it can transform the landscape of cocoa production for the better. This will not only mitigate current supply challenges, leading to long-term industry resilience and environmental health, but support continued product innovation for brands and manufacturers,” Young Kim, Vice President, Taste, Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa.