Planet A Foods has expanded its cocoa-free ingredient portfolio with the launch of ChoViva No Added Sugar, targeting growing demand for healthier indulgence options across the confectionery and bakery sectors.

The German food technology company said the new formulation combines its cocoa-free chocolate alternative with a no-added-sugar recipe, allowing manufacturers to develop reduced-sugar products without compromising on taste, texture or functionality.

The launch comes as food and beverage brands face increasing pressure to address consumer concerns around sugar consumption while maintaining indulgent product experiences.

Sara Marquart, co-founder and chief technology officer of Planet A Foods, said: "Demand for sugar-reduced products is accelerating rapidly as consumers become increasingly mindful of their nutrition. Historically, cutting out sugar often meant sacrificing taste. Our formulation successfully retains the familiar, smooth melt and indulgent experience while eliminating added sugar."

ChoViva is produced using sunflower seeds rather than cocoa beans, offering manufacturers an alternative ingredient that aims to reduce exposure to cocoa supply chain challenges, including price volatility, availability concerns and sustainability risks.

The introduction of a no-added-sugar version reflects broader shifts in consumer purchasing behaviour.

According to Planet A Foods, consumers are increasingly seeking products that combine indulgence with perceived health benefits, driven by growing awareness of the health impacts associated with excessive sugar consumption and the wider trend toward conscious eating.

The company believes the new ingredient could help confectionery and bakery manufacturers unlock opportunities in one of the fastest-growing segments of the sweets market, as demand rises for products positioned around reduced sugar and improved nutritional profiles.

Alongside its health-focused positioning, Planet A Foods is highlighting the ingredient's environmental credentials. Because ChoViva is manufactured from sunflower seeds rather than cocoa, the company says it avoids many of the environmental challenges linked to traditional cocoa production, including deforestation and emissions associated with long-distance transportation.

According to the company, ChoViva Milk has a carbon footprint of 2.8kg CO₂e per kilogram compared with 10.6kg CO₂e per kilogram for conventional milk chocolate, based on a lifecycle assessment verified by the sustainability platform, Inoqo.

The launch further strengthens Planet A Foods' position in the rapidly evolving alternative chocolate category, where ingredient suppliers are increasingly developing solutions that address both sustainability concerns and changing consumer health priorities.

As cocoa prices remain elevated and manufacturers seek greater resilience in ingredient sourcing, innovations such as cocoa-free and sugar-reduced alternatives are expected to play an increasingly important role in future product development strategies.