Voyage Foods, a leader in sustainable food alternatives, recently announced the opening of a large manufacturing facility in Mason, Ohio, dedicated explicitly to producing cocoa-free chocolate, nut-free spreads, and coffee substitutes.
With a growing focus on addressing global ingredient shortages, this innovative facility will be the first of its kind, creating eco-friendly, allergy-conscious products for various consumers and businesses.
Here’s a closer look at how Voyage Foods is paving the way for cocoa-free chocolate and other alternative food products.
What to Expect from Voyage Foods’ New Manufacturing Facility
The new 284,000-square-foot facility in Ohio is set to launch production by 2025. This plant will produce up to 10,000 metric tons of cocoa-free chocolate annually, alongside a variety of nut-free spreads and bean-free coffee.
As cocoa shortages drive up the cost of traditional chocolate and nuts, Voyage Foods aims to supply accessible, allergen-free products without compromising taste or quality.
Backed by Public and Private Investments
Voyage Foods’ expansion is supported by federal and private funding, signaling strong confidence in its innovative approach to food production. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has pledged approximately $25 million to support the construction of the Ohio facility.
This investment will help Voyage Foods scale from a promising startup to a critical alternative food market player.
Voyage Foods’ CEO, Adam Maxwell, expressed optimism about the facility’s impact, noting that the company’s growth will help make sustainable and allergen-free foods more widely available.
Alongside government support, Voyage Foods has also attracted substantial private investment, securing over $94 million from venture capitalists and other investors eager to be part of the rapidly growing food technology sector.
Partnerships to Expand Product Reach
Voyage Foods has already positioned itself as a leader in sustainable, allergen-friendly products, securing an exclusive distribution agreement with Cargill, a major player in the food industry.
Through this collaboration, Voyage Foods will be able to introduce its cocoa-free chocolate, peanut-free spread, and hazelnut-free spread into various consumer products.
Cargill plans to use Voyage Foods’ alternatives in products such as ice cream, granola bars, and other food items, reaching a broad consumer base.
Ingredients in Cocoa-Free Chocolate and More
Voyage Foods has developed a proprietary recipe that mimics the taste and texture of cocoa-based chocolate without using actual cocoa. The formula combines vegetable oil, sugar, grape seeds, and sunflower protein to replicate the creaminess and flavor of traditional chocolate.
By avoiding the use of cocoa, this method helps Voyage Foods overcome supply-chain challenges while reducing the product’s environmental impact.
For its coffee alternative, Voyage Foods uses a blend of roasted chickpeas, rice hulls, and green tea extract to create a caffeine boost without coffee beans. This is a game-changer for coffee enthusiasts who want to reduce their reliance on traditional coffee, which has seen similar price spikes and supply issues in recent years.
Why Cocoa-Free Chocolate is a Game-Changer
The past year has seen significant cocoa shortages, primarily driven by production declines in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, which together produce most of the world’s cocoa supply.
As a result, cocoa prices reached a 46-year high in February 2024, increasing by about 65% compared to the previous year. This rise in cost has created a demand for cocoa-free alternatives that can offer chocolate lovers an affordable option without sacrificing flavor.
Voyage Foods’ cocoa-free chocolate products also appeal to consumers with cocoa allergies or those following specific dietary restrictions.
By using plant-based, allergen-free ingredients, the company can meet the needs of a diverse customer base, including those who cannot enjoy traditional chocolate due to allergies or dietary choices.
Sustainable and Ethical Food Production
Voyage Foods is committed to sustainability. Traditional cocoa production has long been associated with environmental concerns, including deforestation, water overuse, and child labor issues.
By producing cocoa-free chocolate, Voyage Foods helps reduce the demand for cocoa and alleviates some of these industry-wide challenges.
The new Ohio facility will support Voyage Foods’ sustainability goals by incorporating environmentally friendly practices. According to Voyage Foods, the plant will operate using green technologies and aim to reduce its carbon footprint compared to traditional chocolate manufacturing facilities.
Expanding Operations Beyond Ohio
Voyage Foods’ headquarters and first manufacturing site are in Oakland, California, where the company first developed its unique recipes and production processes.
addition of the Ohio facility will allow the company to expand its distribution network significantly, making its products more accessible across the United States.
The new plant will also allow Voyage Foods to meet the growing demand for cocoa-free and nut-free products. With many consumers seeking allergen-friendly options and more sustainable food choices, Voyage Foods is well-positioned to become a leading supplier in the alternative food market.
Conclusion
Voyage Foods is taking bold steps to address current food production challenges by creating sustainable, allergen-free alternatives to popular products like chocolate, nut spreads, and coffee.
With a new manufacturing facility in Ohio and significant public and private sector support, Voyage Foods is positioned to meet the rising demand for cocoa-free chocolate and similar products.
FAQs
Voyage Foods’ cocoa-free chocolate uses vegetable oil, sugar, grape seeds, and sunflower protein. These ingredients mimic the texture and flavor of cocoa-based chocolate, offering a sustainable and allergen-friendly alternative.
Cocoa-free chocolate is gaining popularity due to global cocoa shortages, which have increased prices and created supply-chain challenges. Cocoa-free alternatives provide consumers a more affordable and sustainable option without sacrificing taste.
Voyage Foods also produces nut-free spreads and bean-free coffee. These products cater to people with allergies and dietary restrictions while offering sustainable options that reduce reliance on traditional ingredients like cocoa, peanuts, and coffee beans.
The latest manufacturing facility is in Mason, Ohio, and is expected to open by 2025. It will produce cocoa-free chocolate, nut-free spreads, and bean-free coffee, with a production capacity of up to 10,000 metric tons per year.
Voyage Foods uses plant-based ingredients, avoiding common allergens like cocoa, nuts, and coffee beans. This approach ensures its products are suitable for people with allergies while promoting sustainability.