Conscious consumerism – the trends for chocolate producers

Although taste has always been the key aspect that consumers judge in terms of buying chocolate we are now seeing the rise of conscious consumerism – shoppers are more often examining the labels of their favourite chocolates – sugar free, palm-oil free, gluten free, dairy free, plastic free – these free from markers are the new buzzwords for consumers.  Also people are now considering the types of chocolates to eat for personal health, and purchasing in consideration of social responsibility and the environment.

So what can producers do to embrace these trends?

When great taste is a given, a health and wellness twist can make a product jump off the shelf.  More and more consumers want to low sugar or less sugar in their chocolates and are increasingly interested in non-dairy, plant based alternatives also.  Modern chocolates can even offer health benefits in the guise of functional ingredients like superfoods, high quality coca or botanicals. Increasingly, brands are scrapping processed ingredients for nutrient-rich ingredients and natural sugars.

Products should also have top notch sustainability and ethical credentials – this is of huge importance in the chocolate industry where Fairtrade labels offer a stamp of approval that consumers recognise and trust – just like great flavour Fairtrade is now an expectation.

Producers can also show they care for the environment by aiming to be regenerative – trying to make business decisions that actively engage the restoration of the environment, reducing negative impact on it.

Another emerging trend is the fact that some chocolate makers are looking at their carbon emissions, stating the carbon footprint on their product labels/packaging.

Finally, as well as promoting sustainability or environmental credentials on packaging, make the mission clear on your web site.  Our clients Jenny Wren Chocolates have clearly laid out their mission to create mainstream quality products that reflect the ethical and environmental considerations of everyone in the world, both now and in the future. Their Fabulous Fondants range combine sensational flavours with 100% plant based recipes that are also Fairtrade Cocoa, non GMO, palm oil free, and gluten free.  Wrappers are totally compostable as well.  As they say ‘ there is no planet B’.

Brand e Marketing
March 22