Nestlé launches cocoa-free confectionery using ChoViva ingredient

Nestlé is preparing to launch a confectionery product in Germany made with a cocoa-free chocolate alternative developed by ingredient startup Planet A Foods.

• Nestlé will introduce a confectionery product in Germany using Planet A Foods’ cocoa-free ChoViva ingredient.

• ChoViva is produced from fermented and roasted sunflower seeds and is designed to replicate chocolate without using cocoa.

• The launch forms part of a partnership between the companies aimed at developing new products using cocoa alternatives.

The product, Nestlé Choco Crossies Snack Vibes, will debut in April and will incorporate Planet A Foods’ ChoViva ingredient as a replacement for cocoa-based chocolate.

According to the companies, the launch represents a step toward integrating alternative ingredients into established confectionery brands while responding to volatility in global cocoa supply.

ChoViva is produced from ground sunflower seeds that are fermented and roasted, then blended with plant-based fats, grape seed flour and sugar to create a chocolate-like ingredient.

In the new Nestlé product, the formulation consists of 74% ChoViva and 26% cornflakes.

Nestlé said the product concept was designed with younger consumers in mind, particularly those seeking new snacking experiences.

“This is a generation navigating constant digital noise, looking for small ways to hit the reset button,” said Marc Nussbaumer, business executive officer for confectionery at Nestlé Germany.

“We developed these new varieties specifically for those moments – creating a snack that engages the senses and offers a brief, personal chill-out vibe.”

The companies said the April launch will initially focus on the German market. Whether the product expands into other regions will depend on its performance with retailers and consumers.

Planet A Foods indicated that early testing of ChoViva-based products has shown positive responses, particularly among younger consumers including Gen Z shoppers.

ChoViva has already been incorporated into approximately 120 products across ten countries, according to the company.

Dr. Maximilian Marquart, CEO of Planet A Foods, said partnerships with major food manufacturers could help accelerate the adoption of cocoa alternatives.

“The cooperation with Nestlé fosters ChoViva’s role as a strategic partner for brand manufacturers,” Marquart said. “We support brands to directly engage with younger generations and build lasting relevance with the consumers of tomorrow.”

Planet A Foods has also been expanding its partnerships within the global chocolate supply chain.

In November, the company announced a collaboration with Barry Callebaut, one of the world’s largest chocolate and cocoa ingredient producers, aimed at promoting cocoa-free chocolate alternatives.

At the time, Christian Hansen, Head of Global Strategy at Barry Callebaut, said the company was exploring new technologies to strengthen resilience in the cocoa market.

“Embracing technology opens further avenues for growth while enhancing our resiliency to today’s cocoa-market volatility,” Hansen said.

Barry Callebaut executives added that cocoa alternatives are intended to complement traditional chocolate products rather than replace them.

The Nestlé collaboration highlights growing interest in ingredient innovation as chocolate manufacturers and food companies explore ways to address supply instability in the global cocoa sector.