Explore the innovative world of chocolate alternatives as a German sibling duo creates Choviva, a cocoa-free chocolate made from oats and sunflower seeds. Discover how climate change threatens traditional cocoa production and influences chocolate prices. The podcast also highlights sustainable ingredients, like palm oil alternatives, promoting a greener approach to chocolate-making. It’s a delicious dive into how we can enjoy sweets while caring for the planet!
Climate change threatens cocoa supply due to extreme weather, leading to soaring prices and highlighting the industry's vulnerability.
A German company developed Choviva, a sustainable chocolate substitute from oats and sunflower seeds, reducing CO2 emissions significantly.
Deep dives
Impact of Climate Change on Cocoa Production
Climate change significantly affects cocoa production, primarily sourced from regions like the Ivory Coast and Ghana, which experienced extreme weather events. In recent years, these areas faced record rainfall, resulting in fungal infections and a substantial decline in cocoa availability. This decrease in supply led to a dramatic price increase of over 350 percent for raw cocoa in just one year, pushing manufacturers to stockpile cocoa beans. The reliance on such a limited geographic area for cocoa makes the chocolate industry vulnerable to environmental changes, highlighting the urgent need for alternatives.
Innovative Chocolate Alternatives
A German company, Planet A Foods, has developed a chocolate substitute called Choviva, aimed at providing a sustainable option in light of cocoa shortages. After extensive experimentation, including the fermentation and roasting of over 100 ingredients, the team settled on a combination of oats and sunflower seeds to replicate the chocolate aroma and texture. This approach not only reduces CO2 emissions by 90% compared to traditional chocolate but also requires significantly less water for ingredient production. As the company gains traction, they plan to address other environmentally impactful ingredients, such as palm oil, further promoting sustainable food innovation.
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Innovative Solutions in Chocolate Production Amid Climate Challenges
Cocoa beans, which are used to make chocolate, are mostly grown in a few places making them susceptible to the effects of extreme weather events, driven by climate change. We hear about a team in Germany that is developing a chocolate made without cocoa.