Döhler Invests in Nukoko to Scale “World’s First” Cocoa-Free Chocolate From Fava Beans
Döhler, one of the world’s leading ingredients companies, recently announced an investment and strategic partnership with the UK-based startup Nukoko to scale the production of the “world’s first” cocoa-free chocolate from fava beans. The partnership aims to address challenges in the cocoa industry, from rising prices (89% in 2023) driven by climate change and declining yields to environmental impact and socio-economic issues, by offering a “delicious” and sustainable alternative to chocolate. With Döhler’s support, Nukoko will transition from pilot-scale to industrial-scale production by 2025, utilising 10,000-litre fermentation batches to increase output efficiently. In addition, Döhler’s expertise in regulatory processes and food safety will aid Nukoko as it prepares to launch its product. Rodrigo Hortega de Velasco, representing Döhler Ventures, shared: “Nukoko’s technology presents a groundbreaking …