ÖKO-TEST’s December 2024 analysis of dark chocolate evaluated 21 samples, focusing on ingredient quality and corporate social responsibility. None received a ‘very good’ rating, with five chocolates rated ‘good’ and four organic options among them. Lindt and another organic chocolate failed the test due to issues like mineral oil traces. Notable winners included Tony’s Chocolonely and Lidl’s Fairglobe Organic Chocolate. The assessment emphasized ethical sourcing and transparency in the chocolate supply chain.
Insights Derived from ÖKO-TEST’s Chocolate Examination
In the December 2024 issue, ÖKO-TEST conducted an in-depth analysis of dark chocolate, sourcing 21 samples with cocoa content ranging from 66% to 75% from various outlets, including supermarkets, discount stores, organic markets, and drugstores. Among these, ten chocolates were certified as organic products.
The evaluation process included a comprehensive laboratory analysis of the ingredients, alongside an assessment of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices of the chocolate manufacturers. CSR encompasses the ethical obligations that companies have towards society as part of their sustainable business operations. The ÖKO testers sought transparency in supply chains, corporate due diligence, and commitments to ethical practices. They also scrutinized critical issues such as child labor, workplace safety, fair labor conditions, and environmental stewardship in the chocolate’s country of origin. For more details on ÖKO-TEST’s assessment methods and results, continue reading below.
Lindt Chocolate Receives a Low Rating
Out of the 21 chocolates evaluated, none achieved a ‘very good’ rating. Five dark chocolates earned a ‘good’ rating, four of which were organic. Seven chocolates were deemed ‘satisfactory’, while five barely met the requirements with a ‘sufficient’ rating.
Four chocolates did not pass the test. Two received a grade of 5, including an organic option from dm, while two others, including the renowned brand Lindt, were rated with a grade of 6. The disappointing results stemmed from issues such as the presence of mineral oil traces and inadequate CSR practices. It is particularly discouraging to see that prominent brands fail to prioritize fair labor practices and environmental conservation.
Top Chocolate with High Cocoa Content
The only conventional chocolate to achieve a ‘good’ rating was Tony’s Chocolonely 70% dark chocolate. Although traces of mineral oil and pesticides were detected, they were found to be at minimal levels.
Among the organic chocolates, four achieved a ‘good’ rating, including an unexpected contender: the Fairglobe Organic Chocolate Bitter from Lidl, boasting 70% cocoa and costing approximately 1.40 euros per 100 grams.
For context, Tony’s Chocolonely, the conventional winner, is priced at a higher rate.
For a detailed breakdown of the test results, you can access the full report from ÖKO-TEST for a fee.
Understanding ÖKO-TEST’s Chocolate Evaluation Process
ÖKO-TEST acquired 21 dark chocolate samples, all claiming a cocoa content between 66% and 75%, with ten holding organic certification. Prices for 100 grams ranged from 1.19 to 6.41 euros across various retailers.
The quality assessment involved multiple laboratories, where the total sugar, fat, cocoa butter, and declared cocoa content were scrutinized against the stated values, revealing no discrepancies. Additionally, the chocolates underwent testing for harmful substances including mineral oil hydrocarbons, pesticides, and heavy metals. A microbiological evaluation also took place, with only two products exceeding acceptable germ count limits.
Chocolates labeled with (Bourbon) vanilla or natural vanilla flavor were verified for authenticity, which was confirmed in all instances. No significant findings related to acrylamide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, ochratoxin A, or aflatoxin were reported. Trained sensory analysts assessed the chocolates for taste, aroma, and texture, noting no critical deviations. The packaging declarations were also scrutinized to ensure accurate representation of flavoring components and the correctness of Nutri-scores.
Finally, the experts sought detailed information regarding the cultivation conditions of the cocoa beans used. They distributed a detailed questionnaire to all suppliers, inquiring about their knowledge of the cocoa supply chain, compliance with corporate due diligence, and their accountability for supply chain risks. They asked suppliers to confirm whether child labor is effectively monitored or excluded, and if they have strategies in place for living wages, a ban on highly hazardous pesticides, and proof of deforestation prevention over the past seven years. Points were awarded only if suppliers could validate their efforts related to the batch tested by ÖKO-TEST.