What is cocoa-free chocolate?

Diving into a revolutionary approach to sustainable confectionary. 


When you think of chocolate, cocoa beans probably come to mind immediately, but what if we told you the future of chocolate might be cocoa-free? Let's unwrap the innovation that is set to reshape the confectionary industry.

Broken milk chocolate squares resting on a bed of chocolate shavings

Understanding Cocoa-Free Chocolate

Simply put, cocoa-free chocolate is exactly what it sounds like – delicious chocolate made without cocoa beans. At Nukoko, we've developed a groundbreaking process that transforms locally sourced fava beans into a chocolate alternative.

After years of development, we’ve broken through the mold. Transforming locally-grown fava beans into chocolate that doesn’t just match cocoa’s indulgent taste, but delivers supply chain stability and environmental benefits that traditional chocolate simply can’t compete with.
— Ross, Co-Founder

The Science Behind the Magic

The secret lies in nature itself. Fava beans, like cocoa beans, contain a special protein called vicilin. Through our unique fermentation process – similar to traditional chocolate-making – we transform these beans into a product that captures the rich, complex flavours chocolate lovers crave. The result? A cocoa-free chocolate that's not just sustainable but actually requires 40% less sugar to achieve its desired taste profile.

Why Cocoa-Free Chocolate Matters Now

Traditional chocolate production faces unprecedented challenges:

  • Cocoa trees are increasingly vulnerable to climate change

  • By 2050, we could lose up to a third of all cocoa trees

  • Traditional chocolate production contributes significantly to deforestation

  • The average cocoa bean travels 4,346 miles before reaching manufacturers

Cocoa-free chocolate offers a solution that's:

  • Locally sourced within Europe

  • 90% lower carbon emissions

  • More resilient to climate change

  • Free from complex supply chain vulnerabilities

Beyond Sustainability: The Taste Test

Here's what surprises most people: cocoa-free chocolate isn't about compromise. Our innovative fermentation process ensures that the end product delivers the same rich, indulgent experience you expect from premium chocolate. It's not about replacing chocolate – it's about reimagining how we create it.

It delivers the same indulgent experience you expect but with a significantly lower environmental footprint.
— Kit, Co-Founder

The Future is Closer Than You Think

As we prepare for our 2025 launch, we're already working with major industry partners to scale this technology. Soon, cocoa-free chocolate won't just be an alternative – it'll be leading the way toward a more sustainable confectionery industry.


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