Equal Exchange expands chocolate business

WEST BRIDGEWATER, N.J. It seems that Equal Exchange's chocolate sector is gaining momentum.

The company, a full-service, nationwide provider of high-quality organic coffee, tea, chocolate, cocoa, healthy snacks and bananas, recently introduced new 3.5-oz Fair Trade chocolate bars: Organic Ecuador dark chocolate (65% cocoa content) and organic chocolate caramel crunch with sea salt (55% cocoa content). The organic Ecuador dark chocolate bar is reminiscent of baked brownies fresh out of the pan, Equal Exchange said. The bar's sweet, fudgy richness is balanced by hints of citrus and floral notes. Meanwhile, the organic chocolate caramel crunch with sea salt bar appeals to chocolate lovers who enjoy a contrasting sweet and salty sensation.

The Ecuadoran bar is vegan. Both bars are kosher, gluten-free and soy-free.

According to the company's annual report, its chocolate sales had exceeded $5 million in 2008, and they approached $6 million in 2009.

“What was once a coffee company has successfully been moving into new categories,” Equal Exchange spokesman Rodney North was quoted as saying. “What’s consistent is these are organic fair trade products bearing the Equal Exchange brand and message.”

The wholesale price is $2.50 per bar and $30 per case. The suggested retail price is $4.25.