ZURICH, SWITZERLAND — Premium chocolate manufacturer Barry Callebaut AG is launching new 100% dairy-free ‘M_lk Chocolate’ as part of its Plant Craft Indulgence range that includes chocolate, cocoa, nuts, fillings and decorations. The innovation was designed to "satisfy the growing demand for plant-based indulgence, particularly among millennials," Barry Callebaut said.

The new dairy-free ‘M_lk Chocolate’ is creamy, milky, and has the typical milk chocolate flavor and texture, the company said. Made with an ingredient of natural origin that is exclusively available to Barry Callebaut, the chocolate took the company's R.&D. team two years to develop.

“The next generation of consumers is looking for experiences that are tasty, good for them and good for the planet," said Pablo Perversi, head of gourmet and chief innovation, sustainability and quality officer for Barry Callebaut. "With that in mind, we aim to accompany the industry in this plant-based revolution. With more than 175 years of experience in mastering chocolate, creating indulgent experiences is at the heart of what we do. Through this innovation, we’re proud to offer chocolate creations with all of the creaminess consumers love, 100% dairy-free.”

To bring these plant-based products to market, Barry Callebaut has developed dairy-free production facilities, including a state-of-the-art chocolate factory opening in Norderstedt, Germany in 2021 that will have an annual production capacity in the tens of thousands of tons.