Planet A Foods, the Munich-based startup behind the chocolate alternative Choviva, has a strategic partnership with the Swiss chocolate manufacturer Barry Callebaut closed. Together, both companies aim to set new standards for sustainable chocolate solutions – entirely without cocoa.
Barry Callebaut is considered one of the world's leading providers of chocolate and cocoa solutions. The company addresses the volatility of the cocoa market with an innovation strategy based on research and development. Through its partnership with the Startup Barry Callebaut is strengthening this approach and expanding its portfolio to include sustainable alternatives.
“Through our partnership with Planet A Foods, we are leveraging innovative technology that will allow us to unlock new growth opportunities while simultaneously strengthening our resilience to the current volatility of the cocoa market. We look forward to working with Planet A Foods to shape the chocolate solutions of the future together with our customers.”
says Christian Hansen, Head of Global Strategy at Barry Callebaut.
Expanding Planet A Foods' global presence
Choviva is based on sunflower seeds and, according to Planet A Foods, offers a full-bodied chocolatey taste experience without compromising on quality or enjoyment. By using regionally sourced raw materials, the product shortens supply chains and reduces its ecological footprint along the entire value chain.
For Planet A Foods, the cooperation represents an important step towards international expansion. Maximilian Marquart, CEO and co-founder of Planet A Foods, says:
“It has always been our goal to develop Choviva into a global food ingredient platform. This partnership on equal terms helps us to achieve exactly that. By combining Barry Callebaut’s global reach and expertise with our innovative strength, we can scale responsibly and bring new products to market worldwide faster than ever before.”
Also co-founder and CTO Sara Marquart emphasizes the importance of sustainable alternatives to traditional food products:
"Choviva offers a truly chocolatey taste experience, made from 100 percent natural ingredients and completely without cocoa. With this innovative alternative, consumers can make more conscious and sustainable choices – without sacrificing enjoyment."
