Fair Trade Certified Organic Cocoa Liquor

Cocoa liquor, also known as cocoa mass or chocolate liquor, is the pure, unsweetened paste made from ground cocoa beans. It's the fundamental ingredient in all chocolate products, formed by roasting, grinding, and conching cocoa beans. The 'liquor' refers to the liquid state of the cocoa butter when heated during processing, not to alcoholic content.

Manufacturers use cocoa liquor as the primary source of chocolate flavor and color in a wide range of products. It provides the characteristic taste and aroma of chocolate in items like dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate. It's also used in baked goods, candies, and beverages where a rich chocolate flavor is desired.

Cocoa liquor is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It contains flavanols, which are antioxidants that have been studied for potential cardiovascular benefits. However, the health effects can depend on the processing of the cocoa and the other ingredients in the final product, such as sugar and fat. JECFA has evaluated cocoa and cocoa products, establishing standards for identity and quality.