Project summary
One-third of global food production is wasted, including cacao fruit, where only beans are used for chocolate. The pulp goes to waste, despite being a valuable source of nutrients and income. Kumasi innovates by utilizing the neglected pulp and juice for soft drinks, benefiting farmers. Hence their slogan: we squeeze cacao fruit, not the farmer. This reduces waste by 50% and lifts farmers’ income up to 30%, combating both food waste and poverty. Supported by the Dutch Good Growth Fund with start-up pre-financing, Kumasi is able to import the juice from Ghana to the Netherlands. Their products, including soft drinks, are stocked by retailers like Albert Heijn, marking a sustainable shift in the cocoa industry’s dynamics, stimulating responsible consumption and production (SDG 12).
Project impact
Stimulating local employment
Kumasi's juice production sustains 358 indirect jobs. The local factory provides employment for approximately 30 to 40 people.
Mitigating food waste
Kumasi's initiative saves an estimated 1 million cacao fruits from being discarded, contributing significantly to waste reduction efforts.
Improvement of living conditions
Sourcing juice from 200 cocoa farmers in the Assin Fosu region provides income for them and supports approximately 1000 family members in their households.
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