Our Cocoa Farming Program

Knowing where each cocoa bean comes from

We are proud of the chocolate we use in our products. We have opted for direct local cooperation and launched our own Cocoa Farming Program. The program gives us direct access to the highest quality cocoa and supports agricultural cooperatives in Ecuador and the Ivory Coast. Both countries of origin differ in terrain, climate, and social customs and provide two very different varieties of cocoa beans.

Fair cocoa cultivation in Ecuador

In Ecuador, we have established programs with the Altromercato and Minka organizations to provide sustainable trade opportunities for our farmers. Both Altromercato and Minka counts about 200 farmers each. Our fine-flavored cocoa from Ecuador, like other cocoa varieties from South America or Southeast Asia, is characterized by its floral aroma with mild, fruity bouquet - a special bean for real connoisseurs. From our Cocoa Farming Program, we source 100% of the cocoa liquor used in our products. In addition, 50% of the cocoa powder purchased is Rainforest Alliance certified (data 2023). The goal is to steadily increase the share of all cocoa semi-finished products from sustainable farming to 100% by 2030.

Local communities

Based on the conviction that farmers are the cornerstone of responsible and sustainable agriculture, we support them together with our partners. In Ecuador for example, by improving the living conditions of local communities and their agricultural practices, optimizing product quality, or addressing the issue of traceability. The defined programs are evaluated every three months to verify their effectiveness. In Ivory Coast training on agricultural practices is provided to cocoa farmers. Topics include the legally compliant use of pesticides or the composting of natural fertilizer. However, training programs also cover areas such as the prohibition of child labour, raising awareness and explaining why education is important for children. Special attention is also paid to helping women who often must raise children on their own and need support. (Photo credits: Beatrice de Blasi, 2022)

Our chocolates

Dark milk chocolate

The milk chocolate refined with fine flavor cocoa from Ecuador is gently spiced and nutty, with a warm hazelnut color and caramel fragrance.

Milk chocolate

The bright milk chocolate, with its distinctive soft hazelnut color, bequeaths the most enchanting flavors of cream, caramel, and mixed-blossom honey.