2021: Change in the production supply chain
We have been buying our cocoa beans straight from São Tomé since 2021 and we subsequently process them in Belgium into chocolate bars. This is a huge change if you consider that 90% of the chocolate bar market consists of couverture chocolate (chocolate that is bought from large producers and is poured into a form by the manufacturers).
But what difference does the relationship with producers make in relation to our approach?
We are in direct contact with the producers. This means that we can guarantee a fair price and better working conditions.
“The previous agents could only give us evasive answers to our questions. We then arrived at the idea to buy cocoa beans directly from producers to ensure our traceability was more transparent.
In total, we work with forty producing families that receive a fixed price from us all year round so that their families are protected from speculation by the large cocoa traders.
On the other hand, we decided to pay our producers approx. 40% more than the standards applied in the region for fair trade.
An appropriate payment of producers gives them stability, but also the option to send more than the eldest son to school, etc. It also has a motivating effect on local youth.
How is Nao chocolate made?
1. Harvesting
First, the cocoa pods are harvested, which usually takes place twice a year. This is a manual process where the pods are immediately cut and the pulp is removed so that it can start to ferment.
2. Fermentation
The pulp (from the beans) is left to ferment for a duration of five to seven days. This means that there can be an infinite variety of different tastes depending on the area, process and duration of the fermentation.
3. Drying
Next, the beans need to dry completely spread out in one single layer in the sun.
4. Roasting
There is not one secret recipe and every chocolatier has his or her own temperature and roasting time, which is another step that makes a difference in relation to taste and aroma.
5. Winnowing
Next, winnowing takes place. The beans are cracked and the thin outer layer is blown off. Only the core is later used in the process.
6. Grinding
The heaviest parts that remain (the cocoa nibs) are ground into a paste (called a cocoa mass or chocolate liquor).
7. Conching
Next, conching follows. A very long process where the temperature of the chocolate is increased and decreased several times while being mixed. This is also a very important step to ensure that the final texture is exactly how we want it. The conching machine also maintains a constant temperature so that the pouring phase that follows runs a lot more smoothly.
8. Pouring
The chocolate is poured into a form and cooled down; now we can finally enjoy our bar!
