Hitting the Shelves: Conscious Chocolate -- May 2009

TCHO Ventures introduced a line of chocolate bars that provides consumers with an engaging and delectable treat. TCHO Ventures began by manufacturing a series of beta batches of its chocolate. Purchasers of these beta batches were encouraged to visit the firm’s website to rate the chocolate on several factors relating to taste, consistency, smell and flavor varieties. TCHO took this consumer feedback into consideration in the creation of its new and improved beta batches. The manufacturer expanded on customer feedback by developing a proprietary graphic kaleidoscope that portrays adjectives commonly used to describe chocolate, which are: fruity, nutty, chocolaty, floral, earthy and citrus. For over a year, this kaleidoscope system helped TCHO collect beta batch feedback; the company has recently launched a 1.0 chocolate bar in four varietals.

Information in this column is from the Global New Products Database, the premier source of global product intelligence, published by Mintel International Group; 351 W. Hubbard, 8th Floor; Chicago, IL 60610; call: 312-932-0600; fax: 312-932-0474; or e-mail mhollihan@mintel.com.