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The launch comes as consumer interest in protein-fortified snacks continues to rise across North America, creating opportunities for manufacturers seeking cleaner labels, better sourcing credentials and premium product experiences.
Presented at the company’s booth during the annual industry gathering in Las Vegas, Luker’s Functional Chocolate Couvertures range includes whey-protein chocolate formulations with cocoa content ranging from 44% to 65%, available in both regular-sugar and no-added-sugar options.
Premium Chocolate
According to the company, the range has been developed to give product developers greater flexibility when creating protein-enhanced confectionery and snack products while maintaining the flavour and texture characteristics expected from premium chocolate.
Rachel Fish, Business Development Manager for North America at Luker Chocolate, told cocoaradar.com the company is seeing growing interest from brands looking for both functional ingredients and greater supply chain transparency.
“The demand is continually growing for transparency, ethical sourcing, and really understanding where things come from at a foundational level.”
Fish said customers are increasingly approaching Luker not only for its sourcing credentials but also for its ability to develop tailored chocolate solutions.
Excellent Research & Developoment
“One of the other things that Luker offers is customisation. We have very excellent R&D developers who can take an idea and build it for us. We’re doing a lot of customisation, and that’s something that we always highlight and showcase because we can take an idea and bring it to life for our clients.”
The protein chocolate range reflects a broader trend toward functional confectionery, in which manufacturers seek to combine indulgence with added nutritional benefits.
Fish noted that Luker’s collaborative approach to product development is resonating with manufacturers and brands looking for more responsive ingredient partners.
“We work very collaboratively to support the client, grow the client, partner with them, because their success is our success.”
A Growing Presence in North America
The Sweets & Snacks Expo marks the second consecutive year that Luker has exhibited in the event’s main exhibition area, reflecting the company’s growing presence in the US market.
“We’ve just started to find more of a home in the US and Canadian markets,” Fish said.
She added that awareness of the Luker brand continues to increase among manufacturers and consumer brands.
“I’m hearing it over and over again: ‘We’re hearing more, we’re seeing more of you. How are things going and what’s new?’”
Luker Chocolate, which traces its roots back more than 120 years, produces the majority of its chocolate in Colombia and has built its reputation on vertically integrated sourcing, sustainability programmes and direct relationships with cocoa-growing communities.
Manuel de la Peña, Vice President Global Sales, said the company continues to invest in long-term customer relationships as it expands internationally.
“What we do with my team is to try to keep the relationships with the customers going, so that we can continue growing in a good way and continue helping them.”
He added that the company works closely with customers on product development and innovation projects.
“We continue giving service, product, and having conversations regarding new products and the way that we can help them continue growing.”
Functional Foods
While functional foods have become one of the fastest-growing categories in snacking, manufacturers often face challenges balancing nutritional enhancement with consumer expectations around flavour and texture. Luker believes its whey protein chocolate platform can help bridge that gap, enabling brands to develop higher-protein products while maintaining a premium chocolate experience.
The launch also highlights the company’s strategy of leveraging its customisation capabilities and technical expertise to support emerging brands, co-manufacturers and established confectionery businesses alike.
As functional snacking continues to evolve, Luker’s latest innovation positions the company to serve a market increasingly seeking products that combine indulgence, nutrition, and transparent sourcing.
