Chocolate Certifications & Labels Glossary

Chocolate Certifications and Labels: Understanding “Hormone-Free” Chocolate I. What does “Hormone-Free” mean in the context of chocolate certifications and labels? When it comes to chocolate certifications and labels, the term “Hormone-Free” refers to chocolate products that are produced without the use of artificial hormones. In the chocolate industry, hormones are sometimes used to increase the … Read more

I. What is FDA Approved? FDA Approved refers to a product that has been evaluated and deemed safe and effective by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. This approval is necessary for certain products, including food and drugs, to be sold legally in the market. For chocolate products, FDA Approval ensures … Read more

I. What is Carbon Neutral? Carbon neutrality refers to the state in which an individual, organization, or product has balanced out the amount of carbon dioxide emissions they produce with an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide removal or offsetting. In other words, the net carbon emissions are zero, resulting in a neutral impact on the … Read more

Chocolate Certifications and Labels: Understanding Estate Grown I. What is Estate Grown? Estate Grown is a labeling term used in the chocolate industry to indicate that the cacao beans used in a particular product were grown on a single estate or farm. This term is often associated with high-quality, artisanal chocolates that prioritize traceability and … Read more

I. What is Biodegradable? Biodegradable refers to materials that can be broken down by natural processes into simpler substances, such as water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. These materials are typically derived from renewable resources and can decompose without leaving harmful residues in the environment. In the context of packaging, biodegradable materials are seen as a … Read more

I. What is a Woman Owned certification? A Woman Owned certification is a designation given to businesses that are at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by one or more women. This certification is typically granted by organizations such as the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) or the National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC). … Read more

I. What is a Heart Healthy Certification? Heart Healthy certifications are labels given to food products, including chocolate, that meet specific criteria for promoting heart health. These certifications are typically awarded by reputable organizations or health agencies that have established guidelines for what constitutes a heart healthy product. By choosing chocolate products with a Heart … Read more

I. What is Non-GMO Project Verified? Non-GMO Project Verified is a certification program that ensures products are produced without genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit organization that provides third-party verification and labeling for non-GMO food and products. The program was founded in 2007 in response to the growing concern over the … Read more

Chocolate Certifications and Labels: Whole Grain What is Whole Grain? Whole grains are grains that contain all parts of the grain kernel – the bran, germ, and endosperm. This means that all the nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals, are retained in the grain. Examples of whole grains include whole wheat, brown rice, oats, and … Read more

Chocolate Certifications and Labels: Trans Fat-Free What is Trans Fat-Free? Trans fat is a type of unsaturated fat that can have negative effects on our health, particularly in relation to heart disease. Trans fat can be found in various processed foods, including chocolate products. Trans fat-free chocolate products are those that do not contain any … Read more