We’re Producing the World’s First 100% Cocoa-Free Chocolate: Maximilian Marquart, CEO of Planet A Foods

Planet A Foods is a B2B sustainable ingredients company that specializes in the production of cocoa-free chocolate. The company focuses on creating innovative, plant-based alternatives to traditional chocolate, offering an environmentally friendly solution to the challenges posed by conventional cocoa farming. By utilizing alternative ingredients that have a lower environmental impact, Planet A Foods aims to provide food manufacturers with a sustainable option for chocolate production. This approach not only supports sustainability but also helps address issues related to fair trade and the challenges of cocoa supply chains, offering a unique solution for the growing demand for ethical and eco-conscious ingredients in the food industry.

SME Business Review spoke with Maximilian Marquart, co-founder and CEO of Planet A Foods, to learn more about his company’s vision and goals. Here’s what he had to say.

Interview Excerpts

What inspired you to start the company?

The inspiration behind Planet A Foods stemmed from a combination of factors. Over the years, I observed the environmental toll of traditional food production, especially animal agriculture. I knew there had to be a better way to produce food that wouldn’t harm the planet. The growing demand for healthier alternatives was also something that caught my attention. I wanted to create a company that could not only meet the need for plant-based food options but also do so sustainably. That’s how Planet A Foods was born.

That’s a compelling motivation. Can you tell us more about the technology behind your plant-based products? How do you replicate the taste and texture of animal-based foods?

Absolutely. Our products are the result of years of research and the use of cutting-edge food technology. We focus on utilizing plant-based ingredients that can replicate the taste, texture, and sensory experience of traditional meat and dairy products. This is made possible through innovative techniques like precision fermentation and the use of advanced food engineering. Our products are designed to satisfy the craving for familiar foods while offering a far more sustainable option. We believe that plant-based food should not be a compromise in flavor or texture, which is why we invest so heavily in the development of our recipes.

It's impressive how you balance innovation with sustainability. How does Planet A Foods ensure that its products are environmentally responsible throughout the production process?

Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We start by carefully selecting ingredients that not only have strong nutritional benefits but are also sourced responsibly. We collaborate with farmers and suppliers who share our commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring that our raw materials have a minimal environmental impact. When it comes to packaging, we use recyclable and compostable materials whenever possible, reducing waste at every step. We’re always looking for ways to refine our processes to make them even more efficient and environmentally friendly.

In addition to producing sustainable products, you also place a strong emphasis on educating consumers. Can you explain why this is so important for Planet A Foods?

Education plays a critical role in shifting consumer behavior. While the demand for plant-based foods is growing, many people still don’t fully understand the environmental and health benefits of making the switch. At Planet A Foods, we aim to provide as much transparency as possible—whether it’s explaining where our ingredients come from, how we produce our products, or highlighting the positive impact plant-based eating can have on both personal health and the planet. The more information we can provide, the more empowered consumers will be to make better choices for themselves and the environment.

You’ve mentioned transparency and consumer empowerment. How do you see the plant-based food sector evolving over the next few years, and how is Planet A Foods preparing for that growth?

The plant-based food sector is certainly growing at a rapid pace, and I believe we’re just at the beginning. More people are recognizing the impact of their food choices and are seeking out alternatives that align with their values, whether it’s health, sustainability, or animal welfare. I see more plant-based products becoming mainstream, not just as a niche offering. At Planet A Foods, we’re preparing for this growth by continuing to innovate, expand our product line, and scale our production capabilities. We’re focused on making plant-based food accessible to everyone, no matter where they are in their journey toward more sustainable eating.

Planet A Foods is leading the charge in sustainable food production. How do you see the future of food and its role in shaping a more sustainable world?

The future of food lies in a more sustainable, plant-based approach. As the global population continues to grow, the need for sustainable food production methods becomes even more urgent. The food system is one of the largest contributors to climate change, and if we can shift even a fraction of global consumption toward plant-based alternatives, it could have a massive impact. Our role at Planet A Foods is to show that sustainability and great taste can go hand in hand. We’re also focused on improving efficiency in our operations so that we can produce more with less, ensuring that plant-based food is not only good for the planet but also economically viable for the long term.

That’s a bold vision. As the CEO of Planet A Foods, what do you find most rewarding about your work?

The most rewarding part of my work is knowing that we’re making a tangible difference. We’re not just creating great-tasting food; we’re contributing to a larger movement that’s changing the way people think about food and sustainability. It’s incredibly fulfilling to hear from consumers who tell us how much they enjoy our products and that they feel good about choosing them because of the positive impact on the environment. That’s what drives us every day—creating food that nourishes people and the planet.

Maximilian Marquart, Co-Founder & CEO, Planet A Foods

 We make future-proof chocolate using precision fermentation. Doing this, our chocolate is 10x more sustainable and 20% cheaper than conventional chocolate. In order to mimic the organoleptic properties of chocolate (tender, smoothly melting taste release) we are working on the flavor itself but also on replacing the cocoa butter.