Nestlé Partners with Planet A Foods to Debut Cocoa-Free Chocolate Snack in Germany

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Sunflower Seeds Step In for Cocoa (Image Credits: Pixabay)

Germany – Nestlé has joined forces with ingredient specialist Planet A Foods to roll out a pioneering cocoa-free chocolate product aimed at reshaping snacking habits.[1]

Sunflower Seeds Step In for Cocoa

A surprising twist in chocolate innovation arrived when Nestlé announced its new snack, Choco Crossies Snack Vibes, crafted without traditional cocoa. The product relies on Planet A Foods’ proprietary ChoViva ingredient, derived from fermented and roasted ground sunflower seeds blended with plant-based fats, grape seed flour, and sugar. Cornflakes make up the remaining portion, creating a crunchy treat composed of 74% ChoViva and 26% flakes.

This formulation emerged as a response to ongoing challenges in the cocoa supply chain. Planet A Foods, a Munich-based food tech firm, developed ChoViva to mimic chocolate’s taste and texture using locally sourced crops. The ingredient already appears in about 120 products across ten countries.[1]

Tailored for a Generation Seeking Calm

Nestlé designed the snack specifically for younger consumers navigating high-stress digital lives. Launching in April 2026, Choco Crossies Snack Vibes promises a sensory escape, helping users reset amid constant online stimulation. Marc Nussbaumer, business executive officer for confectionery at Nestlé Germany, explained the intent: “This is a generation navigating constant digital noise, looking for small ways to hit the reset button. We developed these new varieties specifically for those moments – creating a snack that engages the senses and offers a brief, personal chill-out vibe.”[1]

Early tests showed strong appeal among Gen Z, positioning the product as a potential hit. Success here could pave the way for additional cocoa-free offerings under the partnership.

Broader Push Against Cocoa Volatility

The collaboration highlights growing industry momentum toward alternatives amid volatile cocoa prices. Planet A Foods recently inked a deal with Barry Callebaut, the world’s largest chocolate maker, to integrate ChoViva into more products. Christian Hansen, head of global strategy at Barry Callebaut, described it as “embracing technology to open further avenues for growth while enhancing our resiliency to today’s cocoa-market volatility.”[1]

• ChoViva reduces reliance on cocoa imports from climate-vulnerable regions.
• It offers a lower carbon footprint through European-grown ingredients.
• The ingredient supports stable pricing for manufacturers.
• Consumer panels, especially younger ones, rate its flavor highly.
• Expansion includes new variants like soy-based options for Asian markets.

Strategic Milestone for Both Companies

Dr. Maximilian Marquart, CEO of Planet A Foods, hailed the Nestlé tie-up as a key step forward. “The cooperation with Nestlé fosters ChoViva’s role as a strategic partner for brand manufacturers. We support brands to directly engage with younger generations and build lasting relevance with the consumers of tomorrow,” he stated.[1] Nestlé views this as essential for brand evolution in confectionery.

No plans surfaced for immediate expansion beyond Germany, though positive reception could accelerate global rollout. For now, the focus remains on proving the concept in a key European market. Details emerged via a report from Just Food.[1]

As cocoa pressures persist, partnerships like this signal a diversified future for chocolate lovers. This launch tests whether alternatives can capture mainstream appeal without sacrificing indulgence. What do you think of cocoa-free chocolate – game-changer or gimmick? Share in the comments.