Barry Callebaut launches Evocao, a cacao-only chocolate

Two years after the chocolate company’s launch of its WholeFruit chocolate line, Barry Callebaut unveiled its Evocao expression, which is designed to evoke the aromatic flavors of the cacao fruit by using 100% pure, upcycled ingredients.

Evocao will be available in limited quantities to professional chocolate artisans this summer. While distribution will begin in France, United Kingdom, Italy, Canada, United States, Brazil and Japan, the chocolatier said that it expects to offer this sustainable chocolate option to other countries beginning in December.

Traditionally, chocolate is made from only 30% of the cacao fruit meaning that the vast majority of the fruit is discarded as waste. With this new chocolate expression, Barry Callebaut is aiming to alter that approach. Through teaming up with Cabosse Naturals, a company that works with small share farmers in Ecuador, the multinational chocolate producer is aiming to sustainably repurpose all parts of the chocolate-making fruit. In addition to using more than just the seeds, this Barry Callebaut is working with Cabosse to limit the time between harvesting the fresh cacao fruits and processing the ingredients to no more than five hours in order to produce the freshest chocolate products. The Swiss chocolatier pointed out that with freshness comes flavor.

According to a description in the press release, Evocao has a natural acidity and a flavor profile that is reminiscent of exotic fruits thanks to the use of the full range of cacao components. In addition to the beans that are traditionally used in chocolate production, the Evocao line upcycles the excess pulp juice and pulp fibers. The pulp juice imparts a citrusy, fruity flavor into the chocolate while the pulp itself offers a delicate sweetness that allows the Evocao to be produced without the use of refined sugars.

Thanks to this innovative approach, Barry Callebaut intends to be the first chocolate brand across the world that qualifies for the Upcycled Certified mark, which will be implemented this year in the United States by the Upcycled Food Association. If Barry Callebaut is successful in earning this certification, it will have the advantage of appealing directly to consumers that are interested in purchasing products committed to sustainability and waste reduction. Not only will this certification broaden the company’s consumer base, but it will also provide an opportunity to bolster the bottom line. Studies have repeatedly shown that consumers are willing to pay more for products that align with their values.