Your 2023 Guide to Cocoa Powder Wholesale Suppliers in the Philippines

Introduction

Understanding an ingredient, from its origins to its applications, is crucial in making wise purchasing decisions since every component has unique properties. A prime example would be cocoa powder, which is often misunderstood and mislabeled in the market.

Known for its rich brown color, cocoa powder is a staple in many food and beverage businesses. If you’re looking to learn more about cocoa powder and trustworthy wholesale suppliers in the Philippines, Wills International Sales Corporation has compiled this guide to cocoa powder to answer all your questions.

Cocoa vs Cacao Powder

Cocoa powder and cacao powder are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences that can significantly impact the quality of your output if you mistake one for another.

To begin, both powders originate from the cacao beans that are dried and then fermented, with the distinction being the following production process. Cacao powders come from fermented beans that are cold-pressed and later milled. In contrast, cocoa powders come from beans that undergo roasting and, sometimes, alkalization before they are ground and sifted.

It’s worth noting cocoa powder has a sweeter, more complex flavor profile than cacao powder. This results from the high temperatures used by the processors when making cocoa powder. On the other hand, cacao powder is more bitter and comes with more nutritional content, such as antioxidants, magnesium, and flavonoids.

Another piece of nutritional information is that cacao powder has the same impact as caffeine on the nervous system, which is why it’s recommended not to intake more than 40 grams a day. Diet-wise, cacao powder is preferred by vegans and vegetarians since cocoa powder is sometimes processed using dairy-based products.

Types of Cocoa Powder Explained

Unlike cacao powder, cocoa powder comes in several variations: unsweetened, Dutch-processed, and black cocoa powder.

The unsweetened variant is also known as pure cocoa powder, which closely resembles cacao powder. Pure cocoa powder doesn’t undergo additional steps, so it has the highest nutritional content among the three variations. It is rich in polyphenols, a class of compounds known for protecting the body from the development of certain diseases, provided that it’s ingested with other nutrients.

When the cacao beans are treated with an alkalizing agent during manufacturing, the end product is Dutch-processed cocoa powder that is less acidic than its pure counterpart. This cocoa powder is milder in flavor, with earthy notes, but darker in color, featuring a deep, reddish-brown shade. It also dissolves easily in liquid.

Lastly, black cocoa powder is a Dutch-processed variation that has been heavily alkalized, giving it an intense shade that makes it an excellent choice for natural food coloring. Like Dutch-processed powders, black cocoa is less bitter than the pure option. Cookies like Oreo use black cocoa powder due to its color.

Applications and Health Benefits of Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder has a wealth of applications, many of which are related to cooking and baking. The most simple is the creation of smoothies, given that you only need to add a certain amount to reap the benefits of this powder. It’s also possible to enjoy a more flavorful hot chocolate by combining pure cocoa powder with milk and sugar. Health enthusiasts often use pure cocoa powder due to its rich flavor and high nutritional value.

Recipes that call for chocolate, such as cakes, brownies, donuts, and mousses, can be elevated by using cocoa powder instead of store-bought chocolate. Mixing pure cocoa powder, honey, and coconut oil can even help you make your own chocolate.

Keep in mind, though, that all three forms of cocoa powder aren’t easily interchanged. It’s possible to substitute one with another, in some instances, but the properties of pure, Dutch-processed, and black cocoa powders call for unique applications.

For one, the alkalization that Dutch-processed and black cocoa powders went through can affect the leavening of certain baked goods. It can also interfere with cocoa powder’s reaction to acidic ingredients, like vinegar and buttermilk. Additionally, individuals planning to use either option can’t include baking soda since the product will not be able to expand normally. An alternative would be to use baking powder.

In terms of health benefits, unsweetened cocoa powder is packed with minerals, including iron, zinc, and magnesium. The flavonols in cocoa powder can improve symptoms associated with Type 2 Diabetes, provided that it’s consumed in moderation. Cocoa powder also has polyphenols, which can influence the blood flow to the brain and aid its function.

Individuals who want to change their diets or manage their weight can incorporate pure cocoa powder into certain dishes to reap its health benefits without risking weight gain. There is no proven study that cocoa powder can help people lose weight, but its small amounts of caffeine can help suppress appetite and curb cravings.

Likewise, cocoa powder is derived from cacao, a superfood filled with antioxidants that can reduce inflammation, fight cell damage, and even lower the risk of certain diseases. Cocoa powder’s antioxidant profile is comparable to berries and green tea. With cocoa powder, it’s possible to enjoy cacao’s health benefits without spending a lot.

Another worthy consideration is cocoa powder’s influence on one’s mental state. Individuals suffering from mild depression and anxiety can benefit from cocoa powder’s stress-reducing properties. Like chocolate, cocoa powder can help the brain release hormones responsible for creating a sense of pleasure. When consumed in moderation, cocoa powder can be part of a balanced diet and lifestyle.

The Proper Handling and Storage of Cocoa Powder

Technically speaking, cocoa powder in its pure or unsweetened form does not go bad, but its potency can be compromised due to environmental factors. Individuals who buy this ingredient in bulk must know how to handle and store cocoa powder properly, or they risk ruining its quality, flavor, and nutritional content.

Before anything else, one must ensure that their chosen cocoa powder does not contain added emulsifiers and sweeteners since those ingredients have a shorter shelf-life. After purchasing cocoa powder from wholesale suppliers in the Philippines, it’s best to transfer it into airtight containers and label them with the date of purchase. Once organized, the containers should then be placed in a cool, dark, and dry area.

Storing pure cocoa powder in locations with moisture or too much heat, such as a refrigerator or shelf by the window, can cause the powder to clump together or form lumps. Humid conditions can also expose cocoa powder to bacteria and mold, making it unsafe for consumption. To prevent cocoa powder from going bad, individuals should aim for a temperature of at most 30 degrees Celsius.

When adding cocoa powder to recipes, one should use a clean and dry spoon or measuring cup to scoop cocoa powder from the container. Doing so will prevent the cocoa powder from becoming contaminated with bacteria or other particles that can alter its flavor.

Where To Buy Pure Cocoa Powder in the Philippines

Cocoa powder has become a staple in many residential and commercial kitchens, so it’s not surprising that it’s a familiar sight in retail and wholesale stores. However, finding pure cocoa powder of good quality can take time and effort, given the sheer number of products available on the market.

To find a reliable cocoa powder wholesale supplier in the Philippines, individuals should be diligent in checking reviews and testimonies since both are good indicators of a business’s credibility. It’s also wise to compare cocoa powder prices and take note of the cocoa powder’s origin, as cocoa from different countries may have varying qualities.

In addition, review product pages or directly inquire about cocoa powder through email or phone. Doing either can reveal critical information about cocoa powder’s content, fat percentage, and intended use.

If you wish to work with a cocoa powder wholesale supplier with a proven track record in the Philippines, consider reaching out to Wills International Sales Corporation. Our team strives to provide our customers with pure cocoa powder of the highest quality. We also offer other food products, such as cocoa butter and cocoa liquor. Contact us now to learn more about our offerings!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cocoa Powder

Is It Possible To Substitute One Type of Cocoa Powder With Another?

Yes, if you’re planning to substitute pure cocoa powder with cacao powder. However, cocoa powder has a milder flavor than cacao powder, so you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly. Dutch-processed cocoa powder can also be used instead of the black variation. Just remember that the color won’t turn out the same.

Can Cocoa Powder Be Eaten Raw?

Yes, cocoa powder can be consumed on its own or added to a variety of dishes for enhanced flavor. However, cocoa powder does not contain fiber, so it’s best to eat it along with other nutrient-dense foods.

Does Cocoa Powder Expire?

No, pure cocoa powder does not expire. However, when exposed to light, heat, and moisture, cocoa powder loses its flavor and nutrition content. To preserve its taste and quality for extended periods, store it in airtight containers placed in cool areas that are away from sunlight.

Can Cocoa Powder Make You Fat?

No, cocoa powder is low in calories and doesn’t contain fat, so it won’t make you gain weight. Cocoa powder also contains flavonoids, antioxidants that can help improve cardiovascular health and prevent obesity. However, cocoa-based products such as chocolate may be high in calories and sugar, so moderation is advised.

Are Cocoa and Hot Chocolate Powder the Same?

No, cocoa powder and hot chocolate mix are two different products. Cocoa powder is pure cocoa with no added sugar or fats. In contrast, hot cocoa mix contains cocoa as an ingredient but also includes other components such as milk powder, sweeteners, and flavors.

Conclusion

Cocoa powder is a complex ingredient known for its distinctive flavor and health benefits. With the right cocoa powder wholesale supplier in the Philippines, individuals can enjoy cocoa powder in its purest state while reaping all of its advantages.

At Wills International Sales Corporation, we offer pure cocoa powder made from premium beans sourced from reliable plantations. Our products are processed and stored carefully to ensure that their quality remains intact even after prolonged storage periods. Contact us now for pure cocoa powder orders or inquiries!