Cacao with a purpose: innovation, upcycling and opportunities beyond beans

In the fertile fields of Villanueva, Casanare, in Colombia, a revolution is taking place. What was once considered waste in cacao production now represents a valuable opportunity for farmers and communities.

Swisscontact, committed to sustainable economic development, and focused on strengthening the private sector through the Colombia + Competitiva programme, has supported an innovative project led by Casa Luker and co-financed by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).  

This upcycling project aims to transform bio-waste from the production of fine and flavoured cacao into high value-added ingredients and products for the food industry.

First cacao by-products processing plant is born

This initiative represents a shift that will benefit the entire value chain of Casa Luker, a company that has been producing and selling chocolates since 1906.

Today, 20 local farmers have been included in a pilot programme that will transform bio-waste into marketable products. This not only improves the productivity of their farms, it also fosters a new relationship between the community and the environment, where almost 100% of the cacao is used.

The support received by financing one-third of the plant's infrastructure, has been key for Casa Luker in order to develop new initiatives that make better use of resources, improve its competitiveness and promote sustainability in the cacao industry.  

We have also favoured the development of prototypes to generate new business initiatives from cacao biowaste. This effort has resulted in the creation of two products derived from these residues, which have already reached commercial scale and are being sold. The upgrading of technical capabilities necessary for the operation of the plant, has been crucial to bring these prototypes to the market.

By collaborating with companies such as Casa Luker, we contribute to the strengthening of value chains and foster an environment of continuous innovation, as part of a comprehensive approach aimed at generating a positive economic and social impact in the communities where we operate.

These by-products will be used in a variety of foods, such as syrups for beverages, creams, cookies and brownies, offering new sweet and sustainable options.

The juice concentrate has attracted the interest of international customers in countries such as the United States, Slovakia, England and Japan. The first sale was made in Slovakia, where the juice is being used in refreshing summer drinks, ice cream and even cereal bars. And this is just the tip of the iceberg. 

Gradually, Casa Luker will have the capacity to expand production and respond to growing international demand.

Sustainability and employment in the cacao industry

Traditionally, only 18.3% of the cacao, specifically the bean, was used. The other 82% of the fruit, which includes the pulp, husk and other parts, was simply wasted. But Casa Luker saw something else: a hidden potential in these bio-waste products that could not only reduce environmental impact, but also generate innovative products.

The project has ushered in a new era for cacao farmers in Casanare, enabling them to increase their income and improve the sustainability of their farms.

The support received by Casa Luker. The expansion of the production lines is expected to generate more jobs; so far there have been five since the opening of the plant.

For many workers at Casa Luker Agrícola, this represents an opportunity for professional development as they move from field work to food production processes.