Cocoa Nibs Market to Reach USD 2.5 Billion by 2034, Growing at 6.7% CAGR

Overview

New York, NY – June 23, 2025 – Global Cocoa Nibs Market is expected to be worth around USD 2.5 billion by 2034, up from USD 1.3 billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2025 to 2034.

Cocoa nibs are small pieces of crushed cocoa beans that have undergone fermentation, drying, roasting, and cracking. Considered essentially raw chocolate, they contain no added sugar or dairy and provide a rich, intense chocolate flavor. They are commonly used in baking, smoothies, or eaten as snacks. Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and iron, cocoa nibs are popular among health-conscious consumers. According to an industry report, Guildford-based Nukoko has secured over €1.3 million to scale up production of its cocoa-free chocolate bar.

The cocoa nibs market is gaining momentum as consumers increasingly seek cleaner and less processed food options. With growing awareness of the health benefits of dark chocolate and plant-based diets, cocoa nibs are becoming a regular part of daily nutrition. Their versatility in food preparation has further fueled their popularity in both home kitchens and health-focused cafes. As per an industry report, Nukoko has raised $1.5 million to expand what it claims is the world’s first cocoa-free chocolate made from fava beans.

A major growth driver for the cocoa nibs market is the rising demand for natural and organic food ingredients. Consumers are turning away from overly processed products in favor of whole, nutrient-dense foods. Cocoa nibs align well with this trend, particularly among those looking for energy-boosting snacks or healthier alternatives to sugary treats. According to an industry report, Wonka: Planet A has raised $15.4 million to support the development of a climate-friendly cocoa alternative.

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The wellness and fitness community also contributes to the rising demand for cocoa nibs. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts value them for their high antioxidant content and natural energy-boosting and mood-enhancing properties. This interest has spurred innovations in packaging and product combinations, increasing accessibility and consumer appeal. According to an industry report, Swiss-Ghanaian startup Koa has closed a $15 million Series B funding round to scale up its upcycled cacao business.

Key Takeaways

• Global Cocoa Nibs Market is expected to be worth around USD 2.5 billion by 2034, up from USD 1.3 billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2025 to 2034.
• Raw cocoa nibs hold a 49.4% share, driven by consumer preference for natural, unprocessed chocolate alternatives.
• Conventional cocoa nibs dominate with 78.3%, reflecting strong demand in mass-market food and snack applications.
• Commercial usage leads at 68.1%, fueled by cafes, bakeries, and foodservice sectors incorporating cocoa nibs creatively.
• The market value in North America reached USD 0.5 Bn during the year.

Report Scope

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Key Market Segments

By Type Analysis

In 2024, Raw Cocoa Nibs held a leading 49.4% share in the By Type segment of the Cocoa Nibs Market, driven by growing consumer preference for minimally processed, natural foods. Valued for their high antioxidant levels, rich mineral content, and intense flavor, raw cocoa nibs appeal strongly to health-conscious and clean-label seekers. Their popularity is further fueled by the rise of plant-based diets and wellness-focused lifestyles, with applications in vegan recipes, energy snacks, and premium baking.

Consumers increasingly favor raw superfoods to maximize nutritional benefits. Additionally, demand is supported by rising interest in ethical sourcing and food transparency, as buyers seek products with minimal processing and clear origins, reinforcing raw cocoa nibs’ dominant market position.

By Product Analysis

In 2024, Conventional cocoa nibs dominated the By Product segment of the Cocoa Nibs Market with a 78.3% share, driven by widespread availability and consumer preference. Their lower production costs and easier sourcing make them more affordable and accessible, especially in emerging and price-sensitive markets. Conventional nibs are widely used in commercial food manufacturing, including bakeries, snack producers, and confectionery brands, due to their stable pricing and consistent supply.

Strong distribution through supermarkets, bulk suppliers, and food service providers further supports their dominance. Additionally, consumer trust in familiar, conventional food products contributes to sustained demand, making this segment a key driver of volume sales in the global cocoa nibs market.

By Application Analysis

In 2024, the Commercial segment led the Cocoa Nibs Market by Application with a 68.1% share, reflecting strong adoption by bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and food manufacturers. Commercial buyers favor cocoa nibs for their bulk availability, consistent supply, and ability to meet steady product demand. Rising consumer interest in premium, health-focused foods has encouraged businesses to integrate cocoa nibs into desserts, snacks, and beverages, leveraging their rich flavor and nutritional benefits.

Their use enhances product appeal and differentiation in competitive markets. The segment’s growth is further supported by reliable procurement channels and supply chains. Cocoa nibs’ versatility in recipes—adding texture, flavor, and health value—has solidified their role in professional kitchens and large-scale food production.

Regional Analysis

In 2024, North America led the Cocoa Nibs Market with a 45.2% global share and a market value of USD 0.5 billion, driven by increasing health awareness and the popularity of plant-based diets in the U.S. and Canada. Consumers are incorporating nutrient-rich ingredients like cocoa nibs into daily consumption, boosting both retail and commercial demand.

Europe maintained stable growth, supported by a mature health food market and the rising use of cocoa nibs in gourmet and organic products. The Asia Pacific region is witnessing gradual market expansion, fueled by growing interest in Western dietary trends and higher disposable incomes in countries like Japan and Australia.

In the Middle East & Africa, cocoa nibs are gaining popularity among niche health-conscious consumers, indicating early-stage market development. Latin America, a major cocoa-producing region, shows potential for domestic market growth, though much of its cocoa remains export-oriented. Together, these regional trends reflect the global momentum behind cocoa nibs.

Top Use Cases

• Heart‑Health Supplement in Functional Foods: Cocoa nibs are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, which support heart health by lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol, and reducing cardiovascular disease risk. They even boost “good” HDL cholesterol via theobromine. Packed with antioxidants, they’re now added to functional snacks and bars as natural wellness enhancers.
• Premium Baking & Texture Enhancer: In baking, cocoa nibs add a distinct crunch and deep cocoa flavor without sweetness. Used in brownies or cookie dough, they elevate texture and taste, offering a gourmet twist. Bakery brands and home chefs alike utilize nibs to create artisanal, health-conscious treats.
• Innovative Flavor in Beverage & Cocktail Creations: Cocoa nibs are used to infuse spirits (rum or Campari), create chocolate bitters, and garnish cocktails. Their nuanced, bitter-sweet flavor enriches drinks without overpowering them, making them popular in upscale bars and beverage-focused brands.
• Trail Mix & Granola Additive: Combine cocoa nibs with nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for a crunchy, antioxidant-rich snack that satisfies health-oriented consumers avoiding sugary alternatives.
• Baking Ingredient: Mix nibs into cakes, muffins, or breads to replace chocolate chips. They offer intense flavor without added sugar, appealing to clean-label and premium-baking audiences.
• Yogurt, Oatmeal & Breakfast Topping: Sprinkle nibs over yogurt, oatmeal, or muesli. They enhance morning meals with additional fiber, minerals, and a satisfying crunch, targeting wellness-focused consumers.

Recent Developments

• In June 2025, ChocoVivo partnered with Pathmonk to improve its website experience. In just 30 days, they achieved a 61% increase in online sales through better product discovery and personalized guidance on their bean-to-bar chocolate range, including cocoa nibs
• In May 2024, Cargill backed U.S. startup Voyage Foods to scale its cocoa‑free, nut‑free chocolate and spreads. This move supports sustainable snacking and clean‑label trends, while expanding Cargill’s footprint in alternative chocolate ingredients.
• In April 2024, Barry Callebaut launched the Future Farming Initiative in April 2024, led by Steven Retzlaff. This program focuses on building a high-tech, sustainable cocoa farming model in Brazil and Ecuador. Its goal is to help farmers adopt modern techniques, ensuring a steady, sustainable supply of cocoa materials—including nibs—for the future.
• In February 2024, Alter Eco, known for organic dark chocolate bars, truffles, granola, and quinoa, was acquired by Trek One Capital, a Texas-based investment firm. The deal aims to expand the brand’s presence in organic/natural grocery channels across North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Alter Eco is renowned for its regenerative, Fair-Trade sourcing and 100% carbon-neutral production.
• In February 2021, Ghirardelli introduced 72% Cacao Dark Chocolate Chips in March 2024. These chips use high-quality cocoa nibs in their recipe, feature real vanilla, and contain 50% less sugar than previous versions—ideal for bakers seeking rich, intense flavor with reduced sweetness.

Conclusion

The Cocoa Nibs Market is experiencing steady growth, driven by rising health awareness, the shift toward plant-based diets, and increasing demand for natural, minimally processed ingredients. Their versatility, nutritional benefits, and appeal to both consumers and commercial buyers contribute to their expanding presence in global food sectors.

As innovation in product applications and ethical sourcing continues, cocoa nibs are well-positioned to remain a key ingredient in health-conscious and premium food markets across diverse regions.

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