20 May 2010 --- The price of cocoa has been steadily rising, while its supply is frequently in question. Issues surrounding insecure cocoa sourcing range from political instability and industry underinvestment, to drought, insect damage, and plant disease. It all adds up to major worries about price pressures and supply shortages for consumer product manufacturers whose products rely on cocoa as a key ingredient.

To meet this demand, Comax Flavors has developed a range of cocoa extenders and replacers. These customized flavors, which take into consideration both the type of cocoa and the total percentage of cocoa, are available in both powdered and liquid form. Depending on which cocoa ingredient is used, there are several natural and artificial options to consider.

These highly specialized flavors, which have been developed in Comax Flavors MAX FlavorLab can replace anywhere from 10 parts to 75 parts dutched cocoa in the finished product with one part Comax flavor. The results can range from a rich chocolate taste with deep, complex notes to a light caramelic-type cocoa flavor.