Calling all sustainable chocolate lovers! Did you know that some types of cocoa are more sustainable than others? Yes, in this blog we’re diving into the four main types of cocoa, their flavor profile, origin and common manufacturing processes to reveal which one is the most sustainable option for you!
Because we love chocolate so much we personally think it should be in a food group on its own, we have recommended sustainable chocolate options for you when you use our Browser Extension.
FOUR TYPES OF COCOA
Trinitario cocoa is one of the most sustainable types of cocoa. It is grown in a way that helps to preserve the environment, and the farmers who grow it receive a premium price for their beans. This type of cocoa bean is a hybrid of the Criollo and Forastero varieties. It's grown in Trinidad and Tobago, as well as Venezuela and Ecuador. The beans are dark and have a rich flavor.
Criollo cocoa is another sustainable type of cocoa. It is often called the "king of cocoas" because it is very rare and prized for its unique flavor. Criollo cocoa is grown in a way that protects the environment, and the farmers who grow it also receive a premium price for their beans. These beans are native to Central America and Mexico. They're usually light-colored and have a delicate flavor.
Forastero cocoa is another sustainable type of cocoa. It is the most commonly grown type of cocoa and is used in many different products. Forastero cocoa is grown in a way that helps to preserve the environment, and the farmers who grow it also receive a premium price for their beans. These beans are native to South America and Africa. They're usually dark-colored and have a strong flavor.
Ghost cocoas are sustainable too. They are a hybrid of Trinitario and Criollo cocoas and have a unique flavor. The farmers who grow ghost cocoas receive a premium price for their beans. These beans are a hybrid of the Trinitario and Criollo varieties. They're grown in Nicaragua and have a white color. The beans have a mildly sweet flavor.
Which type of cocoa is most sustainable and why?
The answer really depends on where the cocoa is grown and how it's processed. For example, Criollo cocoa beans are typically grown in rainforests, which are more sustainable than plantations. However, Trinitario and Forastero cocoa beans are usually grown on plantations, which can be sustainable if they're managed properly.
When it comes to processing, sustainable chocolate is typically made with bean-to-bar methods. This means that the cocoa beans are roasted, ground, and processed into chocolate all at the same facility. This allows for better control over the quality of the chocolate and reduces the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process.
When looking for sustainable chocolate, it's important to consider all aspects of the manufacturing process, from the cocoa beans themselves to the chemicals used in production and shipping.
Sustainable chocolate should be sourced from farmers who use sustainable growing practices and who are paid a fair price for their cocoa beans. Look for brands that use sustainable packaging and that ship their products using sustainable methods.
Finally, make sure the chocolate you select is ethically produced, meaning the workers in the supply chain are treated fairly and with respect.
With so many factors to consider, sustainable chocolate can seem like a daunting task. But by doing your research and selecting sustainable brands, you can enjoy delicious chocolate while also supporting sustainable practices.
Thankfully askBelynda has done the research for you! Click to download our FREE Google Chrome Extension and shop sustainably today!
Do you have any sustainable chocolate recommendations? Let us know in the comments below!