As new regulations push for tighter oversight in food supply chains, companies are finding themselves under the magnifying glass.
In this landscape, EcoFinia, a German producer renowned for its organic chocolate, is pioneering a path forward.
With the help of innovative digital tools, EcoFinia has created a system that allows consumers to trace the journey of its iChoc chocolate bars directly back to the cocoa farmers.
Traceability Through Technology
How does this work? By simply scanning a QR code found on the chocolate packaging, consumers can explore an interactive map that showcases the story behind their chocolate.
On this map, visitors will encounter Juan De la Rosa, a cocoa farmer from the Dominican Republic who supplies EcoFinia.
This immersive experience is far from a mere marketing tactic; it relies on a robust framework of data collection, presenting a thorough visual narrative.
The cocoa used for iChoc isn’t just organic; it also carries Fairtrade certification and is entirely vegan.
However, EcoFinia is not stopping there.
The Managing Director expressed a strong desire to lead in transparency efforts by establishing a direct trace from “farmer to bar,” a level of accountability that is remarkable in the chocolate industry.
He recognizes the complexities involved in achieving this, given the convoluted nature of cocoa sourcing, which often involves numerous small farms and detailed processing routines.
Innovative Sourcing Strategy
In contrast to conventional practices where cocoa from various cooperatives gets blended—from thousands of different farms—iChoc ensures traceability down to specific collection points.
These centers work with about 30 independent farmers to collect cocoa.
To minimize the risk of supply shortages linked to any single farmer, EcoFinia employs a smart strategy, purchasing from a broader group of 240 farmers, referred to as the “iChoc route.”
The development of this innovative tracking system was no small feat.
It took over a year to cultivate an idea that originated during a visit to the Dominican Republic by the Managing Director.
Collaboration between EcoFinia’s IT professionals and external consultants was crucial to refining the project.
Drawing on his previous experience in data and AI strategy at E.ON Digital Technologies, the Managing Director faced the challenge of integrating raw sourcing data with production processes in Herford.
Community Impact and Industry Advocacy
EcoFinia’s identity preservation system meets the stringent Fairtrade standards, requiring careful logistical practices to keep products distinct throughout their journey from farm to consumer.
The benefits extend beyond consumers; for every bar of chocolate tracked via the iChoc website, EcoFinia contributes to community-sourced initiatives.
Their first project aims to build an aqueduct in a cocoa-growing region along the supply chain, with an ambitious fundraising target of 20,000 euros per year.
The website actively updates consumers on the project’s progress and additional upcoming initiatives.
The Managing Director advocates for other chocolate manufacturers to embark on similar transparency initiatives.
With regulations like the Supply Chain Act and Deforestation Ordinance tightening, alongside an increasing consumer expectation for ethical products, accurate tracking systems will be vital.
Such measures could help eradicate issues like child labor and exploitation in cocoa farming, transforming the industry for the better.
Source: Bioecoactual