California Cultured plans lab-grown cocoa powder launch by year end
In California, cell-based cocoa producer California Cultured has announced plans to launch US sales by end of the year. Green Queen reports that the company has gained Generally Recognized as Safe status and is fundraising to support the launch. The company is targeting segments where cocoa powder is already used at scale. “That includes baked goods, beverages, coatings, and snacks,” according to Steve Stearns, head of strategy and business development.
Founded in 2020, California Cultured isolates cocoa plant cells with the best organoleptic properties for culture in fermentation tanks. The cells can be “harvested” in mere days, then fermented like traditional cocoa. However, traditional cocoa cultivation struggles with climate and supply chain risks and human labor concerns that have driven cocoa prices sharply higher.
Category: Chemicals & Materials
