Cocoa Powder Processed With Alkali
Also known as: alkalized cocoa powder
Standardized cocoa product. Alkalization reduces some flavanols (potentially diminishing antioxidant content) but is FDA-authorized under 21 CFR 163.110.
What it is
Cocoa powder (a.k.a. 'Dutch-processed' or 'Dutched' cocoa) treated with food-grade alkali (e.g., potassium carbonate) to neutralize acidity and darken color.
Cocoa flavoring and colorant; smoother, less bitter flavor than natural cocoa.
Why it's flagged
- reduced flavanols vs natural cocoa
- potential heavy-metal contamination from raw cacao
What regulators actually say
"Cocoa is the food prepared by pulverizing the material remaining after part of the cacao fat has been removed from ground cacao nibs treated with alkali."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Standard of identity at 21 CFR 163.110 (cacao nibs treated with alkali) and 163.114.
European Union — EFSA
Authorized standardized cocoa product.
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