Planet A Foods launches cocoa powder alternative

Munich-based startup Planet A Foods has introduced Cocoa Booster, a single-ingredient powder designed to replace cocoa powder in various food applications. The product aims to help manufacturers manage rising cocoa costs and maintain product quality across bakery items, desserts, fillings, and beverages.

Cocoa Booster is available in natural, alkalised, and dark profiles to match the taste and color of traditional cocoa. According to CTO Dr. Sara Marquart, the ingredient contains approximately 69g of fiber per 100g, nearly double the 37g found in conventional cocoa powder. This high fiber content is intended to appeal to consumers using GLP-1 weight-loss medications, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, who often seek nutrient-dense, smaller portions.

In addition to nutritional benefits, the company states the product can reduce formulation costs by up to 50%. The powder is designed to be processed similarly to conventional cocoa, allowing manufacturers to replace between 30% and 100% of cocoa powder depending on the application—such as cookies, muffins, or sponge cakes—without requiring changes to existing manufacturing processes.