A new report from Persistence Market Research highlights the fact that vegan chocolate offers cruelty-free indulgence, with innovative flavours, sustainable practices, and health-conscious ingredients.
No longer confined to niche stores, expect to find it gracing mainstream shelves thanks to major brands like Lindt and Nestle producing plant-based alternatives.
Sustainability is also be a key ingredient, with ethically sourced cocoa beans and eco-friendly packaging wooing environmentally conscious consumers. All this adds up to a booming market fuelled by rising plant-based diets and a desire for a more sustainable future according to the Persistence Market Research.
Here are the top 11 vegan chocolate trends that are taking the confectionery world by storm:
- Bean-to-Bar Excellence: Just like with coffee, there's a growing appreciation for the bean-to-bar movement in chocolate making. Craft chocolatiers are sourcing high-quality cocoa beans and meticulously crafting chocolate from scratch, resulting in rich, complex flavors and textures.
- Single-Origin Sensations: Similar to wine, chocolate enthusiasts are seeking out single-origin bars to experience the unique terroir and flavor profiles of cocoa beans from specific regions around the world. From Ecuador to Madagascar, each origin tells a distinct chocolate story.
- Innovative Flavours: Gone are the days when vegan chocolate was limited to plain dark bars. Today, you can find an array of innovative flavours, from salted caramel to chili-infused chocolate, offering a delightful twist on traditional favorites.
- Health-Conscious Choices: Many consumers are opting for vegan chocolate not only for ethical reasons but also for health benefits. Brands are responding by offering sugar-free, low-carb, and even superfood-infused chocolate options to cater to health-conscious consumers.
- Dairy-Free Milk Chocolate: Thanks to advancements in dairy alternatives, vegan milk chocolate has never been creamier or more delicious. Almond, oat, coconut, and rice milk are just a few of the plant-based alternatives used to create smooth, indulgent milk chocolate bars.
- Artisanal Truffles: Who can resist the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of a chocolate truffle? Artisanal chocolatiers are pushing the boundaries of vegan truffle-making, experimenting with unique fillings like coconut cream, matcha ganache, and fruit compotes.
- Cacao Nib Snacking: Cacao nibs, the crunchy bits of roasted cocoa beans, are gaining popularity as a nutritious and versatile snack. Sprinkle them on smoothie bowls, oatmeal, or salads for a boost of antioxidants and chocolatey flavour.
- CBD-Infused Chocolate: Cannabidiol (CBD) has made its way into various consumables, including chocolate. CBD-infused chocolate offers a relaxing treat that's perfect for unwinding after a long day, without the psychoactive effects of THC.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Conscious consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental and social impact of their food choices. Many chocolate brands are prioritizing sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, ensuring fair wages for farmers and environmentally friendly farming practices.
- DIY Chocolate Making: With the rise of at-home cooking and baking during the pandemic, more people are trying their hand at making chocolate from scratch. From simple chocolate bark to elaborate bonbons, DIY chocolate making allows for creativity and customization.
- Vegan Chocolate Pairings: Chocolate is no longer just a standalone treat—it's also a versatile ingredient for pairings. Explore the world of vegan chocolate pairings with wine, whisky, craft beer, cheese, fruits, nuts, and more for a sensory experience like no other.
