• Barry Callebaut, the global leader in chocolate and cocoa-based solutions, introduces ChoViva to the market, a revolutionary product developed in partnership with the German startup Planet A Foods.
Barry Callebaut has entered into a long-term commercial partnership with German startup Planet A Foods (creator of ChoViva), becoming the exclusive distributor of the product in certain markets (including the USA).
This innovation offers a rich, chocolate-like taste experience without containing any cocoa ingredients at all, relying on sunflower seeds as the central flavor element.
ChoViva is a sustainable alternative to traditional chocolate, obtained by processing locally grown sunflower seeds, mainly in Europe. The seeds undergo an innovative fermentation-like process, followed by roasting and fine grinding, resulting in a concentrate that perfectly mimics the texture, appearance and taste of classic chocolate – from the specific crunch to the velvety sensation in contact with the taste buds. The formulation includes natural ingredients such as vegetable fats, sugar and, depending on the variant, milk powder or sunflower seed flour. It is available in both the classic milk version and a vegan version.
A sustainable product
One of the main advantages of ChoViva is its low environmental impact. Unlike cocoa, which comes from tropical areas and often involves deforestation, sunflower seeds are a local, resilient crop with short supply chains. As such, ChoViva generates up to 80-90% less CO₂ emissions than conventional chocolate, helping to reduce the pressure on traditional cocoa production, which is affected by price volatility and climate challenges. This approach supports Barry Callebaut’s sustainability focus, enabling large-scale production and adaptation to local cultures in different regions of the world.
Since its initial launch in Europe, ChoViva has been rapidly integrated into over 70-125 commercial products in multiple countries, including in the assortments of renowned brands. The previously announced long-term partnership with Barry Callebaut now facilitates its expansion into global markets, including the United States, where the Swiss company acts as the exclusive distributor for industry customers.
A new premium category in the Barry Callebaut portfolio
In parallel with the launch of ChoViva, Barry Callebaut restructures its icing offering compound, introducing the category "Cocoa Coatings & Inclusions"Under this umbrella The premium Cacao Max range debuts, initially available in a milk version. The category includes rich cocoa glazes with multidimensional flavor profiles, silky textures and a pleasant mouthfeel, made from high-quality ingredients and refined processing.
The innovations reflect the company's strategic commitment to research and development, adapting to evolving consumer preferences and sustainability requirements. Through such solutions, Barry Callebaut offers its partners new tools for growth and competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic market.
ChoViva is not just a technical alternative to conventional chocolate, but an invitation to responsible consumption that preserves the pleasure of indulgence without compromising on taste. With the potential for global scaling, this technology marks an important step towards a more stable and planet-friendly future for the chocolate industry.
Article written by Gabriela Dan, Editor-in-Chief Arta Albă
Read on White Art and: Sweeteners in continuous reinvention
