Cocoa production increases unveiled by Nestle amidst climate change impact

In the face of rising cocoa prices and the challenges posed by climate change, Nestle has developed an innovative technique to help cocoa farmers maximise their harvests.

The Swiss multinational has devised a patented process that utilises all parts of the cocoa pod, aiming to reduce waste and increase yield. This approach could potentially help farmers adapt to the challenges posed by climate change and maintain their harvests.

The technique collects everything inside the cocoa pod as a wet mass and naturally ferments it to unlock key chocolate flavours. The fermented mass is then ground, roasted, and dried into chocolate flakes, which can be used to make chocolate without compromising taste.

The surge in cocoa prices, driven by poor harvests in Ivory Coast and Ghana due to unusually heavy rains, a cocoa pod disease outbreak, and drought, had pushed farmers to devote more resources to cocoa cultivation. Prices have eased in recent months, with reserves being built up for the first time in four years.

However, the ongoing challenges faced by cocoa farmers due to climate change are expected to persist, affecting global cocoa supplies and prices. A study by the Climate Central research group in February 2023 found that excessive heat can negatively impact cocoa harvests. Over the last decade, climate change added an extra three weeks of temperatures above 32C during the main growing season in Ivory Coast and Ghana, which is above the optimum for cacao trees.

Nestle's innovation comes at a crucial time, as the high prices for cocoa have dampened demand. The company's efforts to improve cocoa farming practices could help stabilise the market and ensure a sustainable supply of cocoa in the future.

The project is currently at a pilot stage, and Nestle is exploring how to apply this innovation at a larger scale. The person who developed the innovation process for using all parts of coconut pulp in chocolate production is associated with the Nestlé Research Center.

As of the beginning of 2025, the price of a tonne of cocoa was around £5,600, a significant decrease from the peak of over £9,000 in December 2023 on the London commodities market. The innovation by Nestle is set to continue influencing cocoa production and farming decisions, offering a glimmer of hope for cocoa farmers worldwide.