Döhler has acquired Nukoko, a UK tech company specialising in cocoa-free chocolate alternatives.
The acquisition expands Döhler’s capabilities by combining a fava bean-based approach with an advanced biotechnology platform to help address cocoa supply volatility, cost pressure and the growing demand for sustainability-forward ingredient solutions.
Complementing Döhler’s broad portfolio of plant-based ingredients and integrated solutions, Nukoko has developed a cocoa-free chocolate alternative based on fava beans. Its technology platform, developed by biotechnologists in collaboration with cocoa experts, combine advanced biotechnology with traditional cocoa processing and craft techniques to create chocolate alternative ingredients designed to deliver a strong sensory experience without relying on cocoa as the core raw material.
The fava bean is central to Nukoko’s approach. As a resilient crop that can be cultivated in Europe and benefits from a secure global supply, it offers a strong foundation for scalable, next-generation chocolate alternative solutions.
Customers worldwide will benefit from the combination of Nukoko’s technology and Döhler’s extensive flavour and ingredients expertise. From August 2026, sample availability is planned for a wide range of applications, including chocolate alternatives and confectionery; bakery and cereals; and ice cream coatings and fillings.
Kerstin Bergander-Kleinert, Head of BU CNP at Döhler said, “By bringing Nukoko into the Döhler Group, we are addressing one of the category’s biggest challenges: delivering great-tasting, scalable cocoa-free alternatives that help reduce exposure to volatile cocoa markets. Supported by Döhler’s global ingredient, R&D and application expertise, we can help customers create resilient, future-oriented product concepts without compromising sensory experience.”
Döhler and Nukoko will work closely with customers to develop application-specific solutions that combine great taste, supply chain resilience, formulation flexibility and commercial scalability.
Nukoko technology will now have a platform to be delivered at scale around the world.
