Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is a pale yellow, edible fat that comes from the cocoa bean. It is made by pressing roasted cocoa beans to separate the fat from the cocoa solids. This process gives it a mild chocolate aroma and flavor.

Manufacturers use cocoa butter primarily in chocolate to give it a smooth, creamy texture and a characteristic melt-in-your-mouth quality. It also helps chocolate keep its shape at room temperature. Beyond chocolate, it can be found in some baked goods and confectionery.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes cocoa butter as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). It is a natural fat, primarily saturated fat, and is considered safe for consumption as part of a balanced diet. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has evaluated cocoa butter, and EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) has also assessed its safety. There are no notable controversies regarding its safety as a food ingredient.