What is the Legal Definition of Chocolate? (Australia and New Zealand)

What is the Legal Definition of Chocolate? (Australia and New Zealand)

The Legal Definition of Chocolate under the Australia and New Zealand Regulations:

As we at CocoaSupply promote innovation, sometimes our craft makers need to be reminded that there is a legal definition of what can be labeled as “chocolate.” The legal definition of chocolate varies by country/region and is dictated by regulations that ensure consumers know exactly what they're getting when they purchase chocolate products. We will simplify all this information so that you know what makes chocolate legally chocolate.

Terminology: Cocoa Solids

Just to understand these definitions better, we need to clarify the term ‘Cocoa Solids”. 

Cocoa solids are, in theory, the non-fat solids found in chocolate liquor/mass/paste, so basically, the totally defatted cocoa powder particles contained in the cocoa bean. But when they are used to determine the legality of the use of the term “Chocolate,” they may also refer to the total cocoa content, which is applicable to the definitions below. We personally prefer the term “Cocoa Content”, but since the definitions make a difference with liquor (paste/mass) and butter, we will keep them as stated. Dry Cocoa Solids, on the other hand, are the component of the cocoa beans that are not cocoa butter.


To refer to European Legislation, please go to our European Blog:

https://cocoasupply.eu/blogs/news/what-is-the-legal-definition-of-chocolate-european-union

To refer to Us and Canadian Legislation, please go to our North American Blog:

https://cocoasupply.com/blog/what-is-the-legal-definition-of-chocolate-/

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Australia and New Zealand

Source (Page 22) :

https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/sites/default/files/food-standards-code/proposals/Documents/P1025_CFS%20Attach_%20A1_Chapters%201_5.pdf

In Australia, the legal definition of chocolate is regulated by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). According to FSANZ, chocolate must adhere to the following standards:

 

What is Chocolate:

In Australia and New Zealand, all chocolate is characterised by the presence of cocoa bean derivatives with the following contents; 

It is prepared from a minimum of 20% cocoa solids.

It contains no more than 5% of edible oils, other than cocoa butter or dairy fats. 

Others:

FSANZ also allows the use of certain additives and flavors, similar to other regions, and requires clear labeling of these ingredients.

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Codex Alimentarius

Source:

https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/sh-proxy/en/?lnk=1&url=https%253A%252F%252Fworkspace.fao.org%252Fsites%252Fcodex%252FStandards%252FCXS%2B87-1981%252FCXS_087e.pdf

The Codex Alimentarius, established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), provides international standards for chocolate that many countries adopt or use as guidelines. According to the Codex, chocolate must contain:

 

Milk Chocolate:

 At least 25% total dry cocoa solids.

Dark Chocolate:

At least 35% total dry cocoa solids.

White Chocolate: 

At least 20% cocoa butter and 14% milk solids.

 

Additives and Labeling

Legal definitions also cover the use of additives like lecithin (an emulsifier) and flavorings like vanilla. These additives are permitted to enhance the texture and flavor of chocolate but must be disclosed on the product label.

Another important factor is that allergens must always be clearly stated in the labels. This is of utmost importance as some people rely on this information and could have serious and sometimes fatal allergic reactions.

 

To Wrap it up ;)

The legal definition of chocolate is a complex and detailed set of standards that vary by region but generally ensure that products labeled as chocolate contain a minimum amount of cocoa. These regulations help maintain quality and transparency, ensuring consumers can trust the chocolate products they purchase. Whether you're making dark chocolate, a creamy piece of milk chocolate, or a sweet bite of white chocolate, you need to make sure that it meets specific legal standards set to maintain its authenticity and quality. And regarding innovation? You can certainly create new products as long as you use the correct labeling and make sure the consumer has all the information at hand to decide if your treat is something they want to buy and consume. In the end, it is all about transparency.

 

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