Ingredient

Cocoa Powders

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Cocoa powder is primarily used to provide a chocolate flavor and color to foods. …

What it is

Cocoa powder is made from dried and ground cocoa beans. The beans are fermented, roasted, and then ground into a paste called chocolate liquor. This liquor is pressed to remove most of the cocoa butter, leaving behind a solid mass that is then ground into a fine powder.

Why it's used

Cocoa powder is primarily used to provide a chocolate flavor and color to foods. It is a key ingredient in baked goods like cookies, cakes, and brownies, as well as in beverages like chocolate milk and hot cocoa. It can also be found in candies, ice cream, and some savory dishes.

Health notes

Cocoa powder is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It contains flavanols, which are antioxidants that have been studied for potential benefits to heart health, though research is ongoing and evidence is mixed. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated cocoa and cocoa products, but did not set a numeric acceptable daily intake (ADI).

Allergen info

Cocoa powder is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Cocoa Powders

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.