A Review on Sustainability in Cocoa and Chocolate Processing: A Focus on West Africa.

Abstract:

Cocoa is traded internationally and is highly significant to most economies. The majority of cocoa beans are sourced from West Africa; exporting over 70 % of cocoa globally. Despite this, West Africa makes minimal profits as compared to the consumer countries controlling the chocolate industry. A lot of sustainability interventions have been rolled out to ensure the continuous production of the crop. Europe and other international organizations have invested largely in cocoa sustainability. Some interventions have been in the form of certification standards, sensitization and awareness programs, training and empowering farmers, particularly in the West African region. Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire have benefitted from a lot of sustainability programs as the world’s largest cocoa producers. This review delves into several sustainability initiatives implemented in Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire through Voluntary Sustainability Standards, local government regulations, and international organizations. It also highlights the importance of sustainability in ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality cocoa beans for processors and highlights its associated health benefits.