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Innovating Sustainability and Nutrition in Chocolate: Highlights from last year edition

At CHFA NOW 2024 in Toronto, Luker Chocolate proudly joined industry leaders, brands, and innovators to explore and showcase trends in sustainable, indulgent, and functional foods.
To find sustainable, fine chocolates crafted at origin.

As the demand for wellness-focused and ethically sourced products grows, we share our vision for creating premium, sustainably crafted chocolate that meets the evolving needs of today’s conscious consumers.

Here are some trends we saw in CHFA shaping the future of chocolate,  opportunities for the best indulgent and nutritious chocolate for your brand, and our take on product offerings that align with these values.

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Sustainable Sourcing and Packaging

Over 68% of consumers now prefer products from sustainable farming methods, a trend we’re deeply committed to through our ethically sourced, organic chocolates. Luker Chocolate’s commitment to environmental impact aligns with this, from bean to bar.
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Indulgent, Natural Foods

 With 50% of consumers seeking indulgent foods made with natural ingredients, our plant-based and dairy-free chocolate provides a rich, creamy experience while fully aligning with natural wellness principles.
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Nutrition-Boosting Ingredients

The demand for food that enhances health continues to rise, with 27% of consumers choosing products that support their nutrition goals. Our dark chocolate with added protein answers this need, bringing a satisfying indulgence packed with organic pea protein.
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Team Insights from the Event: Cristina’s Observations

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CRISTINA GARIZABALO NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTORCristina Garizabalo, our New Business Development Director, identified specific trends she was eager to explore in CHFA NOW 2024
CRISTINA GARIZABALO NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
  • Healthy chocolate
  • Sustainable Chocolate
  • Wellness Ingredients
  • Certifications
  • Emerging Brands
  • Keto and Low-carb

Healthy Chocolate Trends

Cristina was particularly interested in trending healthy chocolate ingredients, such as functional sugars, superfoods, and protein claims, along with the growing demand for organic chocolate. At CHFA NOW, she observed a solid response to functional chocolates, with brands incorporating organic ingredients and natural proteins to appeal to wellness-focused consumers. Luker’s dark chocolate with protein met this demand beautifully, showcasing how indulgence and nutrition can go hand-in-hand.

Sustainable Practices and Agriculture

Cristina wanted to dive deeper into sustainable practices and agriculture at the event. The emphasis on sustainable sourcing, packaging, and ethical practices was everywhere, with brands and consumers prioritising eco-friendly options. Luker’s commitment to organic and responsibly sourced chocolates resonated well with this focus, underscoring our alignment with consumer values in sustainable chocolate production.

Wellness Ingredients: CBD and Probiotics in Chocolate:

Cristina was curious about the rise of wellness-enhancing ingredients like CBD and probiotics in chocolate products. Although these were less prominent, the broader themes of gut health and immunity were strong. This area of innovation may continue to grow, especially as functional chocolate gains traction.

Market Demand for Certifications

Cristina noted the importance of key certifications, like organic, fair trade, and non-GMO, that consumers actively seek for trust and transparency. This was reflected at CHFA NOW, with certification demands highlighting the value of Luker’s ethically certified chocolate offerings.

New and Emerging Brands

Cristina was eager to discover emerging brands and notable speakers. She encountered several new players focused on sustainability and functional chocolate, reinforcing the relevance of Luker’s approach to environmentally conscious, wellness-driven offerings.

Keto and Low-Carb Trends

Finally, Cristina assessed the status of keto and low-carb diets in Canada. Although some interest remains, the focus has shifted towards overall wellness and balanced nutrition, aligning perfectly with Luker’s plant-based and protein-enriched offerings.

🇨🇦 Canadian Confectionery Market Opportunities

Sustainability and Local Agriculture

Rising Canadian consumer expectations for eco-friendly practices and sustainable sourcing are crucial for building trust in this market. Our initiatives, such as agroforestry and organic farming practices, contribute to reducing deforestation and ensuring ethical cocoa production. This approach aligns with Canada’s increasing focus on reducing environmental impact within the food industry.

Nutrition and Wellness-Driven Choices

In Canada, consumers gravitate toward foods that support wellness without sacrificing taste. Luker Chocolate’s commitment to functional ingredients, like added protein and dairy-free options, caters to this demand. With the Canadian market focusing on clean-label ingredients and foods that offer functional health benefits, Luker is positioned to deliver tailored chocolate solutions that enhance wellness.

Meeting Local Certification Standards

Certifications play a significant role in Canadian food purchasing decisions, with consumers seeking assurances like organic, fair trade, and non-GMO labels. Luker’s certified organic chocolates cater directly to these requirements, supporting Canadian brands in achieving the credibility and trust consumers expect.

Innovative Offerings to Meet Consumer Demands

At Luker Chocolate, our products are carefully formulated and developed to meet consumers expectations and align with the most influential food trends, ensuring your brand keeps innovating in the dynamic confectionery world. Here’s how our range responds to consumer needs:

  • Dark chocolate with protein

    Our protein-enhanced dark chocolate offers a unique blend of indulgence and health. Organic pea protein supports the growing trend toward nutrition-boosting products, delivering superior flavour and satisfying those seeking functional, plant-based, high-protein options.

  • Plant-based & Dairy-free Chocolate

    For the health-conscious and vegan-friendly audience, our OatM!lk 43% and dark chocolates offer a creamy, indulgent experience that doesn’t compromise taste. Designed to give a plant-based and Dairy-free indulgent experience. Crafted from sustainable ingredients, they are ideal for those who value fine ingredients and conscious consumption.

  • Organic Chocolate Range

    Consumers increasingly value transparency and sustainability, with searches for natural ingredients doubling last year. Our ethically sourced and meticulously crafted organic chocolate satisfies this demand for traceable and sustainable chocolate, bringing a taste of natural, fine ingredients.

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Explore Our Range of Better-for-you Chocolate Solutions

At Luker Chocolate, we’re dedicated to helping your brand lead with products designed for healthy and environmentally conscious consumers. Whether indulgent, dairy-free options, protein dark chocolate, or organic formulations, each product is crafted with purpose.

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