#United States #Denver #Food Innovation #Cocoa Replace #Ardent Mills

Ardent Mills Unveils Cocoa Replace Amid Cocoa Market Volatility

In a significant move for the food manufacturing industry, Ardent Mills has launched Cocoa Replace, a groundbreaking solution designed to address the rising costs and supply instability associated with traditional cocoa powder. As the premier flour-milling and ingredient company, Ardent Mills recognized the pressing need for flexibility in ingredient sourcing, particularly as cocoa prices have surged nearly 400% over the past decade. This innovative wheat-based alternative aims to provide a clean-label choice for manufacturers in a rapidly evolving market.

Tackling Cocoa Market Challenges

For food manufacturers, the volatility of cocoa prices poses a considerable challenge to cost management and supply chain integrity. As ongoing disruptions continually reshape availability in the market, the demand for cost-effective and reliable ingredient substitutes has skyrocketed. In this context, Cocoa Replace serves as an effective response to these challenges, offering a way for brands to maintain flavor and product performance without compromising on ingredient quality.

Versatile and Label-friendly

Cocoa Replace can seamlessly replace up to 25% of cocoa powder in various formulations including cakes, cookies, brownies, and muffins. Unlike alternative solutions, Cocoa Replace is a single-ingredient product, making its incorporation into existing recipes straightforward and requiring minimal changes to labeling. This aspect is particularly appealing for manufacturers looking to streamline reformulations and maintain consumer trust. Additionally, Cocoa Replace is vegan, kosher-certified, and non-GMO, aligning with contemporary consumer preferences for cleaner, simpler ingredient lists.

Comprehensive Validation Through Sensory Trials

Recognizing the unique complexity of cocoa flavor, Ardent Mills undertook extensive sensory trials to validate the effectiveness of Cocoa Replace. Both trained panels of sensory experts and consumer groups participated, resulting in overwhelmingly positive feedback on the taste and sensory experience of the new ingredient. These collaborative trials confirmed that Cocoa Replace closely mimics the sensory attributes of cocoa powder, making it a viable substitute for baking applications with up to 25% of cocoa eliminated.

Supporting Customers Beyond Cost Issues

Angie Goldberg, Chief Growth Officer at Ardent Mills, emphasized that Cocoa Replace is not only a tactical response to cocoa market challenges but part of a broader strategy to assist clients in building robust supply chains. The introduction of this new ingredient reflects Ardent Mills’ commitment to continuous innovation that not only addresses current challenges but also prepares customers for future market dynamics.