Cocoa Mass in Dubai, UAE (Cocoa Liquor)
If you’re in the business of making chocolate, desserts, or even working in food manufacturing anywhere in the UAE, there’s a good chance you’ve come across the term cocoa mass — or as it’s sometimes called, cocoa liquor.
Now, the name “liquor” might throw some people off, but there’s actually no alcohol in it. It’s just what we call pure ground cocoa beans that have been roasted, shelled, and turned into a thick, smooth paste. This paste is a foundational ingredient in a lot of chocolate-based products. Whether you’re making dark chocolate bars, baking brownies on an industrial scale, or blending fillings for desserts — cocoa mass is usually the starting point.
In the UAE — especially in places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and even the industrial zones of Ajman or Ras Al Khaimah — the demand for cocoa ingredients has grown over the years. We’re seeing more local chocolate brands pop up, bigger bakeries scaling up, and even cosmetic companies exploring cocoa-based products. Naturally, a lot of businesses are now asking the same thing:
Where can I buy good quality cocoa mass in the UAE — and in bulk?
That’s what this blog is here to help with.
We’ll walk through:
- What cocoa mass is really made of
- How it’s used in different industries in the UAE
- What to look for when sourcing it
- The differences in origin and quality
- And how buyers in the UAE typically go about purchasing it in bulk
If you’re someone in the UAE just trying to understand your options or you’re a procurement person for a food brand, this will give you a clearer picture.
What Exactly Is Cocoa Mass Made Of, and How Is It Used in the UAE?
Let’s break it down simply — cocoa mass is basically 100% pure cocoa. Nothing added. It’s made by taking fermented, dried cocoa beans (usually from West Africa or South America), roasting them, removing the shells, and grinding the nibs into a smooth, thick paste. This paste contains both cocoa solids and cocoa butter, which makes it rich, aromatic, and perfect as a base ingredient in a wide range of products.
So, what is it used for?
In the UAE, cocoa mass is used in more places than you might think. Here are a few common ones:
1. Chocolate Manufacturing
This is the most obvious one. Whether it’s a boutique chocolatier in Dubai Mall or a commercial chocolate factory in Dubai Industrial City, cocoa mass is where most recipes begin — especially for dark and milk chocolate. It’s where the actual cocoa flavor comes from.
2. Bakeries and Dessert Brands
From high-end bakeries in Abu Dhabi to homegrown brands across Sharjah and Ajman, cocoa mass is used to make chocolate fillings, glazes, ganache, frostings, and more. Some dessert makers prefer cocoa mass over cocoa powder because it offers a deeper flavor and smoother texture.
3. Ice Cream and Beverage Production
Some UAE-based producers blend cocoa mass into premium chocolate ice creams, hot chocolate mixes, or gourmet milkshakes. It adds that full-bodied chocolate flavor that cocoa powder alone doesn’t quite deliver.
4. Cosmetics and Natural Products
Outside of food, some cosmetic and skincare companies use cocoa mass or raw cocoa derivatives in moisturizers, balms, and soaps because of its high antioxidant and fatty acid content. While not as common, it’s a growing niche in the wellness space.
Why is this relevant in the UAE? Because the country imports all its cocoa. There’s no local cocoa farming here — so manufacturers, chocolatiers, and food brands are heavily reliant on bulk cocoa mass suppliers who can bring in high-quality product from origin countries.
And that’s where sourcing gets important — because not all cocoa mass is the same.
How to Choose the Right Cocoa Mass — Origin, Quality & Certifications
If you’re buying cocoa mass in the UAE — especially in bulk — you’ll want to go beyond just price. The origin, quality standards, and how the cocoa was processed all affect the final product you’re working with. This is especially true if you’re making premium chocolate or food products where flavor, texture, and consistency really matter.
So, how do you know what to look out for?
1. Origin of the Cocoa Beans
Where the cocoa comes from can influence everything — from aroma to bitterness, texture, and even color.
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West African cocoa mass (especially from Ghana, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast) is often bolder and more balanced. It’s commonly used in commercial and artisanal chocolate making.
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Latin American beans (like Ecuador or Peru) tend to have fruitier, more acidic notes — often preferred by high-end chocolatiers.
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In the UAE, many manufacturers prefer African cocoa mass because of its strong cocoa profile and better availability in large volumes.
2. Alkalized vs. Natural Cocoa Mass
You’ll sometimes hear about alkalized (or “Dutched”) cocoa mass. This simply means the cocoa has been treated to reduce acidity and deepen the color. It gives a smoother, less bitter flavor — good for chocolate milk, cakes, and mellow-flavored bars.
On the other hand, natural cocoa mass is more acidic and bright, often used when a stronger, sharper cocoa flavor is needed.
Knowing which one you’re getting is important — especially if your recipe calls for a certain profile.
3. Certifications Matter
In the UAE, especially for export-ready food products or ethically-conscious brands, certifications are becoming more important. Some things to check for:
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Organic certified cocoa mass
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Fairtrade or Rainforest Alliance certifications
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HACCP, ISO, or FDA compliance — especially for food-grade bulk shipments
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Halal certification (critical in the UAE market)
If your buyer or factory is exporting to Europe or producing for health-conscious consumers, these certifications may be non-negotiable.
4. Packaging and Delivery Conditions
This might seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference in the UAE’s hot climate.
Bulk cocoa mass usually comes in blocks or slabs, packed in cartons or vacuum-sealed bags. They need to be stored and shipped in temperature-controlled containers (especially in the summer) to avoid melting or spoilage. So always check if your supplier is shipping in food-safe and climate-safe conditions.
In short: when choosing cocoa mass for your business in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, don’t just buy based on price. Look at the origin, processing method, certifications, and handling — these details will save you trouble later.
Buying Cocoa Mass in the UAE – How Businesses Source It and What to Expect
Now that we’ve covered what cocoa mass is and what to look for in terms of quality, let’s talk about something more practical: how businesses in the UAE actually go about sourcing cocoa mass, especially in bulk.
Whether you’re a chocolatier, a dessert producer, or a distributor, here’s what you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re planning to buy cocoa mass in Dubai or other emirates.
1. Cocoa Mass Is Mostly Imported — So Know Your Source
There’s no local cocoa production in the UAE, so everything is imported — usually from Africa, South America, or Asia. That means the supplier you work with really matters. Some buyers choose to work directly with producers in origin countries (which can take more time), while others go through trusted UAE-based suppliers who import in bulk and handle the logistics.
Companies like Radad International (based in Dubai, with sourcing operations in Nigeria) specialize in bulk cocoa mass supply from Africa, offering a reliable route to consistent quality without dealing with the complexities of cross-border importing yourself.
2. Volumes and Packaging: What You Should Expect
Most cocoa mass in the UAE is sold in bulk — especially for industrial use. Here’s what typical buyers are dealing with:
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Packaging: Usually comes in 25kg blocks, packed in cartons or lined boxes
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Container Loads: Businesses importing directly often order in 20-foot or 40-foot containers, depending on their monthly or quarterly demand
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MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity): If you’re buying from a UAE-based supplier, you can often request smaller loads — even a few tons — which is perfect if you’re not ready to import full containers. Radad International can customize smaller quantities based on your business needs per time
This makes it easier for medium-sized businesses or growing brands to scale without overspending.
3. Logistics and Storage in the UAE
Dubai, being a major logistics hub, makes it relatively easy to bring in cocoa mass — but storage is a key concern. Cocoa mass needs to be kept in a cool, dry place, ideally below 25°C to avoid melting or oxidation.
Most suppliers store in warehouses located in areas like:
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Dubai Industrial City
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Jebel Ali Free Zone
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Sharjah Industrial Area
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KIZAD (Abu Dhabi)
If you’re planning to store your own stock, you’ll want to consider temperature-controlled warehousing or work with a distributor who already handles this.
4. Price Ranges and What Affects Cost
In the UAE, the price of cocoa mass depends on a few things:
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Global cocoa market prices (which have been quite volatile recently)
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Origin – African cocoa is generally more affordable and widely available
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Processing quality – e.g., stone-ground, fermented vs. non-fermented
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Certifications – organic, fairtrade, or halal options often cost more
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Shipping & customs fees
As of now (mid-2025), cocoa prices are higher than usual globally due to weather and supply chain factors in West Africa — so if you’re sourcing, it’s wise to secure supply early.
Who’s Buying Cocoa Mass in the UAE – Key Industries and Trends
So, who actually uses cocoa mass in the UAE — and why is the demand growing?
When most people think of cocoa, they imagine chocolate bars or desserts. And sure, that’s a big part of it. But in reality, cocoa mass buyers in the UAE are spread across a few key industries, and each has its own needs and buying patterns.
Let’s break it down.
1. Chocolate Manufacturers (Large & Small)
No surprise here — chocolate makers are the number one buyers. In Dubai alone, there’s a growing number of local brands, custom chocolate creators, and even high-end international players who’ve set up production here.
Whether it’s factory-scale producers in Dubai Investment Park, or boutique artisans in Al Quoz or Downtown Abu Dhabi, they all need a consistent and high-quality supply of cocoa mass.
Most of them buy:
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Natural cocoa mass for dark chocolate
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Alkalized cocoa mass for smoother blends or milk chocolate
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In bulk blocks, usually 25kg or more
Some even request customized blends, depending on the flavor profile they’re after.
2. Bakeries, Cafés, and Dessert Brands
The UAE’s food scene is booming. Cafés, bakeries, and dessert shops — especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi — are using cocoa mass in:
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Brownies and cakes
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Chocolate sauces and glazes
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Truffles and filled desserts
A lot of these businesses don’t need container-loads of cocoa, but they still want access to premium ingredients in medium quantities. That’s where local suppliers who import in bulk and resell in smaller batches play a big role.
3. Food & Beverage Manufacturers
Beyond chocolate and pastries, there are F&B manufacturers creating things like:
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Chocolate spreads
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Ice creams
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Beverages and protein shakes with cocoa base
These companies often require long-term contracts with reliable suppliers. For them, stability in pricing, consistent quality, and proper certifications (like HACCP, ISO, Halal) are crucial.
4. Exporters & Traders
Some buyers in the UAE aren’t using cocoa mass locally — they’re buying to re-export to other countries in the region, like:
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Saudi Arabia
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Oman
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Kuwait
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East Africa
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India
Dubai’s port and logistics infrastructure make it a great re-export hub. Traders buy from suppliers like Radad International and sell to clients outside the UAE who want high-grade African cocoa but prefer to deal with a UAE-based vendor.
5. Cosmetics and Wellness Companies (Emerging Market)
Here’s a more niche use: cocoa mass, especially unrefined versions, is being used in natural beauty products. Skincare and soap manufacturers — often small-scale or artisan brands — use cocoa for its antioxidant properties and natural fat content.
These buyers usually want:
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Raw or lightly processed cocoa mass
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Organic certification (if available)
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Smaller quantities (1–5 tons)
It’s a growing market, especially as demand for clean-label and plant-based products increases across the Gulf.
Why More Buyers Are Sourcing Cocoa Mass Through Radad International
When you’re sourcing cocoa liquor for your business, especially in bulk, the route you take matters just as much as the product itself. For many buyers in the UAE, it’s not just about getting cocoa — it’s about getting the right quality, at the right time, with the right support.
That’s why more buyers — especially in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi — are now choosing to work with suppliers based right here in the UAE, but with direct links to cocoa-producing regions in West Africa.
And this is where Radad International stands out.
Direct Sourcing from Africa (Without the Middlemen)
Radad sources its cocoa mass straight from West African countries like Ghana, Nigeria, where the company also has physical operations. This means:
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Full control over the quality of the beans and how they’re processed
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Faster turnaround times (no third-party bottlenecks)
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Better pricing — because there’s no long chain of resellers in between
For buyers in the UAE, this direct connection ensures traceability and consistency, which is often hard to guarantee when sourcing through multiple brokers.
Based in Dubai – With Local Support
Unlike suppliers who are based only overseas, Radad also operates from Dubai. So if you’re a buyer here in the UAE, you’re not stuck coordinating with people halfway across the world. You can:
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Get local support for logistics and documentation
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Arrange sampling and quality checks
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Communicate in real time, with better response and transparency
Having that local presence also means that smaller or mid-sized buyers — who don’t want to import full containers — can get access to premium cocoa mass in manageable volumes.
Bulk Supply with Flexibility
Whether you need a few tons every month or you’re scaling up to full container loads, Radad caters to:
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Chocolate manufacturers
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Food and beverage brands
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Traders and re-exporters
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Even cosmetic and wellness producers
With flexible supply arrangements, halal certification, and standard food safety documentation, they help UAE buyers focus on production — not paperwork.
Strategic Storage and Delivery
Cocoa mass can be sensitive to temperature and handling. Radad ensures:
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Properly packed cocoa mass in food-safe, sealed 25kg cartons or vacuum bags
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Secure warehousing in Dubai
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Timely delivery within the UAE and GCC region
This is especially useful for buyers who don’t have temperature-controlled facilities or prefer to receive shipments in batches.
In short, Radad bridges the gap between African cocoa producers and UAE-based businesses, offering a straightforward way to source high-quality cocoa mass with confidence and local support.
How to Start Buying Cocoa Mass in Dubai (Step-by-Step Tips)
If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’re seriously considering sourcing cocoa mass — whether you’re a small food business, a chocolate manufacturer, or even a trader looking to resell. So let’s close things off with some clear, practical tips to help you get started.
Step 1: Know What You Actually Need
Before reaching out to a supplier, be clear on:
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How much cocoa mass you need (monthly or quarterly)
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Whether you want natural or alkalized cocoa mass
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Packaging preferences (most bulk orders come in 25kg blocks)
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Any certifications you require (like halal, organic, or food safety certifications)
This helps the supplier give you the right product without back-and-forth delays.
Step 2: Ask About Origin and Processing
Don’t hesitate to ask where the cocoa comes from. Is it single-origin? Is it fermented or unfermented? Alkalized or natural? These details matter, especially if you’re aiming for a consistent product flavor and texture in your final goods.
Step 3: Request a Sample (If Needed)
If you’re dealing with a new supplier, especially for large orders, you might want to test a sample batch. A reputable supplier like Radad International will typically support this.
Step 4: Check Storage and Shipping Conditions
Cocoa mass needs to be stored properly. Make sure your supplier:
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Ships in temperature-controlled containers (especially in summer)
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Stores in a certified warehouse
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Handles customs clearance and documentation if you’re importing yourself
Or — if you’re sourcing locally in the UAE — ask whether the supplier delivers directly and how soon.
Step 5: Choose a Reliable Partner
At the end of the day, consistency matters more than just price. Choose a supplier who:
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Understands the product
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Can deliver on time
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Communicates clearly
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Has presence in the UAE (makes life easier for support and logistics)
Radad International, for example, ticks all of those boxes — giving you access to premium African cocoa mass, backed by local presence and global sourcing.
Quick Recap
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Cocoa mass (cocoa liquor) is a key raw ingredient used across food, chocolate, dessert, and even beauty industries.
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The UAE imports all of its cocoa — so sourcing from trusted suppliers is critical.
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Quality, origin, and certifications should guide your decision, not just cost.
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Radad International supplies premium-grade cocoa mass from Africa, with local support in Dubai — making the whole process smoother for buyers in the UAE.
Want to Learn More or Place a Bulk Order?
If you’re ready to buy cocoa mass in Dubai or just want to understand your options better, you can get in touch with Radad International to explore available stock, pricing, and delivery timelines.
Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, sourcing the right cocoa liquor in Dubai can really transform your product, and we hope this guide helped make your decision a little easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cocoa Mass in Dubai, UAE
❓ 1. What exactly is cocoa mass or cocoa liquor?
Answer: Cocoa mass — also called cocoa liquor — is a thick, pure paste made from ground cocoa nibs. It’s produced by fermenting, roasting, and grinding cocoa beans. Despite the name “liquor,” it contains no alcohol. Cocoa mass is used as a base ingredient in chocolate, desserts, ice cream, beverages, and even some cosmetic products.
❓ 2. Where can I buy cocoa mass in bulk in Dubai or the UAE?
Answer: You can source bulk cocoa mass from specialty ingredient suppliers, chocolate distributors, or import-export companies based in the UAE. Radad International, for example, supplies premium African-origin cocoa mass from Nigeria, available in Dubai and other emirates. They offer flexible order quantities and local delivery support.
❓ 3. Is cocoa mass the same as cocoa butter or cocoa powder?
Answer: Not quite. Cocoa mass contains both cocoa solids and cocoa butter in natural proportions.
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Cocoa butter is extracted fat from the cocoa bean, used for creaminess in chocolate or in cosmetics.
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Cocoa powder is what’s left after most of the cocoa butter is removed. Cocoa mass is more intense in flavor and richer in texture than either of these.
❓ 4. What industries in the UAE typically use cocoa mass?
Answer: Cocoa mass is used by:
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Chocolate manufacturers
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Bakeries and dessert brands
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Beverage companies
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Ice cream producers
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Exporters and traders
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Cosmetic and wellness product makers
It’s a versatile raw ingredient, and demand is rising across multiple sectors in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates.
❓ 5. Can I buy cocoa mass in smaller quantities or only in containers?
Answer: Yes, depending on the supplier. While international suppliers often sell in 20ft or 40ft containers, UAE-based suppliers like Radad International can accommodate medium-volume and smaller bulk orders, typically starting from a few tons. This is ideal for growing businesses and artisan producers.
❓ 6. What packaging does cocoa mass come in?
Answer: Cocoa mass is commonly packed in:
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25kg blocks or slabs
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Food-grade cartons
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Vacuum-sealed or lined bags to preserve freshness
Proper packaging is important to avoid melting or contamination, especially in the UAE’s hot climate.
❓ 7. Does cocoa mass need special storage?
Answer: Yes. Cocoa mass should be stored in a cool, dry place, ideally below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and strong odors. If you’re importing or buying in large quantities, make sure to use temperature-controlled warehousing or work with a supplier that offers proper storage and logistics support.
❓ 8. What certifications should I look for when buying cocoa mass?
Answer: If you’re selling to health-conscious or international markets, check for:
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Halal certification (important in the UAE)
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ISO / HACCP compliance for food safety
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Organic certification
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Fairtrade or Rainforest Alliance if ethical sourcing matters to your brand
Radad International provides cocoa mass with standard food safety documentation and Halal compliance for UAE businesses.
❓ 9. What’s the difference between natural and alkalized cocoa mass?
Answer:
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Natural cocoa mass has a stronger, slightly acidic cocoa flavor.
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Alkalized cocoa mass (also called “Dutched”) is treated to reduce acidity, giving it a smoother taste and darker color.
Your choice depends on your product’s flavor profile — for example, some dessert manufacturers prefer alkalized for a milder taste, while craft chocolatiers often go with natural for bolder cocoa notes.
❓ 10. Is cocoa mass suitable for cosmetics or skincare use?
Answer: Yes, especially raw or lightly processed cocoa mass. It’s rich in antioxidants and natural fats (like cocoa butter), making it useful for moisturizers, balms, and soaps. Ensure that it’s cosmetic-grade and cleanly processed if that’s your intended use.
❓ 11. How is cocoa mass priced in the UAE market?
Answer: Pricing depends on:
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Global cocoa market fluctuations
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Origin of the cocoa (West Africa is generally more cost-effective)
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Certifications and processing quality
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Volume and packaging
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Shipping and customs charges
As of 2025, prices are higher globally due to limited supply from West Africa, so sourcing from reliable, direct suppliers like Radad can help reduce risk and cost.
❓ 12. How do I start placing an order for cocoa mass in the UAE?
Answer: You can get started by:
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Reaching out to a trusted supplier (like Radad) with your quantity, packaging, and certification needs
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Requesting a product sample
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Confirming logistics support (especially for storage and delivery within the UAE)
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Finalizing a supply agreement and delivery schedule
