The market for organic chocolate is growing.
The term organic has more to do with what is not included in a product than what is. In the case of organic chocolate, there are no chemical additives. Cacao is one of the most highly sprayed food crops in the world; organic chocolate products are derived from cacao beans that have been grown and processed without these chemicals.
The Term "Organic"
The USDA oversees the National Organic Program (NOP) which regulates the production of items labeled as "organic" in the United States. Producers, marketers and handlers of organic products must gain accreditation and certification from the USDA to market their products as organic. An enforcement and compliance agency within the USDA makes sure that companies and organizations follow the guidelines set out in the NOP in order to be deemed organic.
Commercial Chocolate Production
Much of the production of chocolate takes place in third world countries where pesticides and chemical fertilizers are heavily used. Many chocolate manufacturers also add chemicals such as preservatives and artificial flavors to chocolate products to extend shelf life and to add sweetness or a particular flavor such as mint or citrus. Additionally, commercial chocolate producers may use farming techniques that strip the land of valuable topsoil and, thereby, damage the environment.
Organic Chocolate Production
Organic chocolate producers do not use chemicals when growing, fermenting or processing cacao beans. Furthermore organic chocolate products are made without added artificial ingredients such as flavoring agents and preservatives. Many organic chocolate producers also use sustainable farming and cultivation techniques which do not exploit the land, and actually improve the environment.
About Organic Chocolate
Products containing organic chocolate tend to be high quality and have a higher price tag. Other added ingredients, such as milk for milk chocolate or flour to make brownies, must also be grown and processed in accordance with the NOP in order to be labeled organic.
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