 Founded in 1985 by a European confectioner, Sjaak’s Fine Chocolates made the transition into Sjaak’s Organic Chocolates in 2004. Since then, it has been full steam ahead in product development. At last count, I noted 14 different bars, 6 of which are vegan. We will get into more detail on those below, but I must first mention that they have a new line of Tub Bites too. These minis should be gracing store counters in no time.
The Sjaak’s vegan line now includes the following organic chocolate bars: - Dark Chocolate with Almonds
- Dark Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate Raspberry
- Dark Chocolate Caramel
- 70% Extra Dark Chocolate Raspberry
- Dark Chocolate Espresso Caramel
The following organic vegan Tub Bites are also hitting stores: - Extra Dark (red)
- Extra Dark with Peanut Butter (gold)
- Extra Dark with Almond Butter (silver)
The Tub Bites will only be available in stores, but you can purchase the bars directly from Sjaak’s (they ship throughout the U.S.), and between now and September 15, 2007, you can even get them at a discount! For back to school stock-ups, Sjaak’s is offering 10% off on all bars. At present, you can call, email, or use the online order form (on www.sjaaks.com) to place your organic chocolate order and receive the discount. Though in a few weeks, easy online ordering will also be available. While organic chocolate still garners a relatively small fraction of the overall market, it is quickly gaining steam. In 2006, organic chocolate was the largest growing snack segment with a 49 percent increase in sales. Organic chocolate is made from cocoa grown without pesticides and herbicides. Plus producers use certified organic sugar, essential oils, fruits, and nuts in accordance with USDA organic regulations. Large manufacturers, such as Cadbury Schweppes Plc and Hershey Co., have recently bought up many of the organic brands, but a few wonderfully independent organic chocolate companies still remain. These include Sjaak’s in Petaluma California, Chocolove in Boulder Colorado, and Lake Champlain in Burlington Vermont. In addition to organic, Sjaak’s also touts their chocolate line as Fair Trade. |
