Sugar-Free Mycelium Chocolate Described as Most Significant Innovation in Chocolate in a Century
© Macalat
US confectionery brand Macalat has introduced a vegan, organic, zero-sugar, sweet dark chocolate bar — Organic Sweet Dark Chocolate — claiming it to be the most significant innovation in chocolate in the past 100 years.
To achieve this breakthrough, Macalat has partnered with the mushroom innovator MycoTechnology to create a dark chocolate experience using a mycelium-derived flavor modulator called ClearIQ.
“By harnessing the magical power of a mushroom mycelium-derived flavor modulator, Macalat has transformed the dark chocolate experience”
Produced using fermentation, ClearIQ is said to be an “incredible” and natural solution to eliminate the need for sugar, milk, or artificial sweeteners and mask the bitterness and astringency of dark chocolate. In addition, as a flavor amplifier, it enhances the full spectrum of cacao flavors while delivering a smooth texture.
According to MycoTechnology, ClearIQ’s capabilities extend beyond chocolate to other F&B products, positioning it as a valuable tool for industry manufacturers.
“By harnessing the magical power of a mushroom mycelium-derived flavor modulator, Macalat has transformed the dark chocolate experience, offering an authentic, sugar-free sweet dark chocolate that reveals the natural deep flavors of cacao while eliminating any bitter notes and unpleasant mouthfeel,” states the company.
Dark chocolate for all
According to Macalat, its chocolate innovation introduces a new category of chocolate bars and positions it as a pioneer in the $140 billion global chocolate market, of which dark chocolate accounts for $50 billion.
The company says that its new bar zero-sugar chocolate bar makes 70% dark chocolate more attractive to a wider audience, from people with diabetes and allergies to those following strict diets. It also caters to chocolate enthusiasts and health-conscious “superfoodies,” aligning with the evolving consumer trend of reducing sugar and dairy intake.
Containing 70% Peruvian cacao, the chocolate bar features plant-based superfoods like maca, lucuma, vanilla, monk fruit, and cinnamon, offering a flavor described as “caramel-like sweetness.” Meanwhile, the unique mushroom extract, is said to guarantee a smooth and bitterless finish.
2024 NEXTY Award winner
Recently, Macalat won the 2024 NEXTY Special Diet Food Award highlighting the emergence of a new category: Organic Sweet Dark Chocolate. From over 1,500 nominated companies, it was selected among 154 finalists at the Expo West 2024 awards edition. Moreover, US media outlets have recognized the brand’s new chocolate bar as one of the top 10 sugar-free snacks.
Headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, Macalat was founded by organic taste expert John Troy, also known as the Organic Taste Wizard for developing over 100 organic dressings, sauces and condiments under the Whole Foods 365 Organic label. Lisa Lynn Ellis, a natural foods industry expert is the company’s CEO.
With a focus on using organic ingredients and unique production processes, Macalat caters to consumers looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without compromising health. The brand’s slogan is “Tasting is Believing!”
“The collaboration between Macalat and MycoTechnology has enabled a revolutionary dark chocolate experience. By incorporating the magic of mycelium, Macalat demonstrates the power of interdisciplinary cooperation and innovation in the pursuit of an exceptional new chocolate category.”