Bell Flavors & Fragrances unveils Cocoa Extender Technology to tackle Global Cocoa Shortage
This means that manufacturers can confidently reduce cocoa content without diminishing product quality or consumer enjoyment.
USA – Bell Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. (Bell) has released its new Cocoa Extender Technical Guide, a comprehensive resource showcasing proprietary technology that allows manufacturers to cut cocoa usage by up to 30% without compromising on authentic cocoa flavor.
This innovation arrives at a crucial time for the global chocolate industry, which is grappling with soaring cocoa prices and tightening supply.
According to data from Mintel and the International Monetary Fund, global cocoa production declined by 14% in 2024, while prices per ton doubled, reaching record highs.
Industry analysts predict that retail chocolate prices could rise by another 30% in 2025, posing significant challenges for both manufacturers and consumers.
In response, Bell’s latest technology aims to help brands reformulate more efficiently while maintaining the indulgent taste and texture that consumers expect.
“Bell is committed to developing flavor innovation where we are passionate about crafting solutions that solve both short- and long-term challenges,” said Karen Graves, Vice President, Shared Technical Services at Bell Flavors & Fragrances.
The company’s Cocoa Extender Technology has been scientifically validated by Bell’s Sensory & Consumer Science Center, confirming that core flavor notes such as roasted, nutty, and bitter tones remain consistent with full-cocoa formulations.
This means that manufacturers can confidently reduce cocoa content without diminishing product quality or consumer enjoyment.
Benjamin Stanley, CRC, Director of Sweet Applications, Flavor R&D, highlighted the practical benefits: “Our priority is making sure that reduced-cocoa formulations still deliver the same depth and indulgence, and this technology achieves that balance. The strength of Bell’s R&D expertise ensures that performance is validated and reliable.”
The Cocoa Extender Technical Guide also includes sensory validation results, application examples, and pairing strategies designed to enhance cocoa profiles.
It provides detailed usage recommendations and formulation insights to help food and beverage developers innovate efficiently.
By integrating this technology, brands can offset rising costs, reduce their environmental footprint, and align with sustainability goals, all while maintaining product appeal.
With over 110 years of experience, Bell Flavors & Fragrances continues to lead in flavor and fragrance innovation, serving clients in the food, beverage, and personal care industries.
Operating 11 manufacturing facilities worldwide and active in more than 90 countries, Bell remains committed to helping manufacturers navigate shifting global markets through science-driven, customer-focused solutions.
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