Quality attributes of dark chocolate produced from Vietnamese cocoa liquors

This study provides the quality aspects of Vietnamese (VN) dark chocolates produced by cocoa liquors exhibiting different degrees of acidity. Hereto, the impact of preconching the highly acidic cocoa liquors was investigated. Results show that three out of four VN chocolates attained comparable solid fat content at 35C, particle sizes and flow properties to a Ghanaian reference, ensuring a similar volatile release and taste perception. Principal component analysis of the aroma compounds obtained using headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography mass-spectrometry clustered the chocolates into three groups: those from GH and VN liquor with intermediate acidity, those from preconched VN liquors and that from highly acidic VN liquor. A more detailed interpretation of the flavor profile revealed that VN chocolates exhibit more profound acidic, fruity and flowery aroma. Furthermore, liquor preconching positively affected chocolate flow and decreased volatile acids, however, partly removed both highly and less volatile, desired aroma compounds. Practical Applications As the demand and deficit for chocolate are increasing worldwide, the hunt for additional high-quality cocoa resources will bring added value for both farmers and chocolate industry. Vietnamese (VN) cocoa, as a newcomer, is recently expanding its global market potential, however, how its quality can be positioned in the world supply is not assessed yet. The results of this study could reveal the applicability of VN cocoa liquors varying in acidity for the production of high-quality dark chocolates with specific aroma notes. However, the typical high acidity in Southeast Asian cocoa is regarded as detrimental flavor attribute, thus inspiring this work to study whether cocoa liquor preconching could improve the overall aroma as well as mouthfeel perception.