Kumasi Drinks is a Dutch startup that transforms the pulp of the cacao fruit into premium drinks and products. Cacao pulp is the fleshy, juicy part surrounding the beans used to make chocolate, traditionally discarded during processing. By turning it into juices, smoothies, and other beverages, Kumasi not only prevents a significant source of waste, but also creates an additional revenue stream for farmers.

Founded in 2021, the Utrecht-based company grew out of the experience of journalist Lars Gierveld, who, while filming a documentary, was able to see first-hand how farmers in West Africa still struggle to make a living selling cacao beans alone.

“The more cacao fruit juice is used, the more extra income farmers earn,” explains Gierveld. “It’s actually absurd that for all this time, only the beans have been used and the fruit was thrown away. Especially when you realise it’s an exotic fruit with a refreshing tropical taste and that most cacao farmers can barely make ends meet with only the bean.”

So Gierveld began experimenting with the fresh, sweet juice that was being wasted in large quantities. Together with Rogiér Power and Linda Klunder, he launched Kumasi, introducing the juice as a non-alcoholic drink on the European market.

The juice lends itself to many applications: soft drinks, dairy products, ice cream, cocktails, wine, beer, and more. Today, Kumasi not only sells the juice under its own brand but also supplies it to other brands for use in a range of products.

Name:
Kumasi

Website:
www.kumasi-drinks.nl

Sector:
Plant-based beverages

Pros:
A short supply chain model that guarantees farmers up to 30% additional income compared to selling beans alone

Features:
Production and sale of juices and beverages made from cacao pulp

Cover: image by Kumasi