Olam Food Ingredients launches cocoa biochar pilot in Ghana
GHANA – ofi (Olam Food Ingredients) is launching its first cocoa biochar project in Dankwa County, Central Province, Ghana, in collaboration with LOTTE, Fuji Oil, and MC Agri Alliance.
This initiative focuses on converting discarded cocoa pod husks into biochar, a process that involves combusting the husks in biochar cone machines.
The resulting biochar will help lock in carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere during decomposition.
Additionally, it aims to improve soil health, enhance fertility, and prevent soil erosion on cocoa farms.
Andrew Brooks, ofi’s Global Head of Cocoa Sustainability, stated that the project aligns with the company’s Cocoa Compass initiative and its 2050 Net Zero target.
He emphasized that the pilot, which will begin in the 2024/25 crop season, aims to reduce the carbon footprint of cocoa farming while supporting the company’s sustainability goals.
The project is designed to restore natural resources and create a positive environmental impact, Brooks added.
LOTTE’s Executive Officer, Keiji Miyano, highlighted that sustainable cocoa sourcing has become increasingly important in the wake of recent crop failures in West Africa.
He expressed confidence that this initiative would make a meaningful contribution to the environment, through cooperation between companies in the cocoa sector.
Fuji Oil’s Division General Manager, Hidehito Nibu, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the company is committed to fostering a sustainable value chain globally, with cocoa sustainability being a key focus.
Nibu expressed optimism about the project’s potential to drive positive change in the food industry.
In a separate development, ofi recently partnered with Lisco Barbecue Supply Chain (Lisco) in China to meet rising demand for innovative barbecue products.
According to ofi, 63% of Chinese consumers enjoy barbecue skewers at least once a week.
The new partnership aims to leverage consumer interest in bold flavors, combining ofi’s ingredient expertise with Lisco’s long-standing presence in the Chinese barbecue market.
The collaboration seeks to introduce new seasoning blends that will cater to adventurous tastes, with a focus on enhancing social experiences around food.
Ramki Prasad, ofi’s Head of Asia Pacific F&B Solutions, noted that the majority of consumers (64%) are eager to explore new flavors.
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