Cocoa trends in Asia: plant-based, new flavors and single origin

Charlene Zhu, director of raw material development and innovation at Oran International Asia, said that in the Asian cocoa market, the application of cocoa in plant-based new product development, adventure flavor combinations, a single origin and healthy food is increasingly popular.

In the past, global cocoa consumption has been driven by Europe and North America, but according to data from Innova Market Insights, in 2019, the chocolate candy launched in the Asian market (19%) surpassed North America (12%).

healthier

Charlene Zhu pointed out that Asian consumers are increasingly concerned that confectionery and chocolate can bring more benefits, including improving mood and replenishing energy.

At the same time, consumers' demand for sugar-free and reduced sugar / fat has increased slightly, but it cannot affect product taste.

She pointed out: "In this area, cocoa ingredients can play a role by adding flavor and masking the odor of some artificial sweeteners."

Single origin

The Asian cocoa market has strong demand for cocoa powder and other single-source cocoa ingredients, especially in Japan.

Charlene Zhu said: "Consumers believe that cocoa from a single origin is of better quality and are willing to pay a high price for it. Many manufacturers plan to use a single source of cocoa powder in their products."

Plant-based

Like many other product categories, consumer demand for vegan and plant-based products is also growing, but Charlene Zhu said the growth rate in the Asian market is lower than in the United States and Europe.

New flavor combinations

However, Asian consumers are far ahead in accepting new flavors.

Charlene Zhu observed that the salty and sweet combination has become the mainstream flavor in the region. In South Korea and Japan, Oran is trying to add cocoa powder or cocoa liquor to local curry powder. She pointed out that its cocoa powder has been alkalized to help create and enhance a strong flavor.