Cocoa

Demand for cocoa in the U.S. is huge. But before being processed into the ever popular chocolate we all know and love, cocoa beans usually make a long journey. Most cocoa beans in the global supply chain today are grown in African countries, and many cocoa farmers have never tasted chocolate.

Where is cocoa grown?

About 70 percent of the world’s cocoa beans come from four West African countries: the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon. The Ivory Coast and Ghana are by far the two largest cocoa producers, accounting for more than 50 percent of the world´s cocoa.

Who grows it?

Many cocoa farmers live in extreme poverty. A cocoa tree takes five years to produce beans, and are extremely vulnerable to weather, climate change, and disease. Around 25% of cocoa farmers are women.

How much are they paid for it?

Most cocoa farms yield 600-800 kg annually, for which they can usually earn $1440-$1920 (at the Fair Trade rate of $2400 per ton). Female cocoa farmers earn 25-30% less than male farmers in Ghana and up to 70% less in Côte d'Ivoire.

How much is it sold for in the US?

Retail is between $1.37 and $4.10 per kilogram, or $1370-$4100 per ton.

Which companies in the US use or sell Fair Trade cocoa?

Cadbury ensures that its cocoa is sourced responsibly, benefiting farmers, communities, and the land.

Oreo uses sustainable cocoa in all of its signature cookies.

Divine offers a variety of chocolate products made only from Fair Trade cocoa.

Lily’s chocolate products contain Fair Trade certified products.

Tony’s Chocolonely is 100% Fair Trade.