Nestlé Deutschland is launching a new product line together with the Munich foodtech startup Planet A Foods. Starting in April 2026, the food corporation is expanding its Choco Crossies brand with the “Snack Vibes” range. For the coating of the snacks, Nestlé is using Choviva, the cocoa-free chocolate alternative from the startup.
Choviva is based on sunflower seeds and replaces cocoa in chocolate applications. The ingredient is used in all products of the new range. With this, Planet A Foods is further expanding its presence in the international food market.
New snack line for Gen Z
According to the company, the “Snack Vibes” product line is specifically aimed at younger consumers. Nestlé is bringing the snacks to market in convenient snack pouches. Three varieties are available at launch: Classic, Hazelnut, and Salted Popcorn Caramel Taste. All three products have a full coating of Choviva.
“Generation Z is confronted daily with a flood of information across many channels and is looking for small breaks. The new varieties were developed precisely for these moments: a snack that appeals to the senses and provides a brief personal chill vibe,”
says Marc Nussbaumer, managing director of the confectionery business at Nestlé Deutschland.
Planet A Foods scales up Choviva
For the Munich foodtech startup, the partnership represents another step in scaling its technology. The startup is positioning Choviva as an ingredient for brand manufacturers looking to expand their portfolio.
“The partnership with Nestlé underscores Choviva’s role as a strategic partner for established brand manufacturers. We support companies in nimbly expanding their product range and thus binding tomorrow’s target audiences to them early on,”
explains Maximilian Marquart, CEO at Planet A Foods.
Choviva is now used in more than 120 products and is available in ten countries. In addition to private label brands, brand manufacturers such as Treets, Jokolade, and Griesson – de Beukelaer also use the ingredient.
For international availability, Planet A Foods also works with chocolate manufacturer Barry Callebaut. The partnership aims to provide food manufacturers with an additional option in managing the volatility of global cocoa markets and increasing demands for more sustainable supply chains.
