Mason & Co: India’s Ethical Vegan Chocolate from Auroville
As the world becomes increasingly conscious of sustainable living and environmental responsibility, the demand for eco-friendly and cruelty-free products has grown exponentially. In the world of chocolate, this has led to a proliferation of vegan and bean-to-bar chocolate brands that prioritize fair trade practices, sustainable sourcing, and minimal waste packaging. Among these pioneers is Mason & Co, a woman-led vegan chocolate brand from Auroville, India. Founded by Jane Mason, this remarkable brand is not only dedicated to crafting exquisite, bold-flavored chocolate bars but also to empowering local women, supporting farmers, and promoting eco-friendly practices.
A Bean-to-Bar Revolution
Mason & Co’s story begins with a passion for high-quality, artisanal chocolate-making. Jane Mason, a British entrepreneur with a background in culinary arts, discovered the art of bean-to-bar chocolate-making during a trip to Europe. Intrigued by the process, she returned to India and set up her own atelier in Auroville, a international town in southern India known for its spiritual and artistic community.
Bean-to-bar chocolate-making is a labor-intensive process that involves roasting, winnowing, and grinding cacao beans to create the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Mason & Co takes this process to the next level by using only the finest, sustainably sourced cacao beans from small-scale farmers in India. This direct-to-farmer approach not only ensures that the farmers receive a fair price for their crops but also allows for more control over the quality of the beans.
Bold Flavors and Sustainable Packaging
Mason & Co’s chocolate bars are known for their bold, intense flavors, which are carefully crafted to balance the natural sweetness of the cacao beans with subtle notes of spice, fruit, and nuts. From the 85% Intense Dark to the Sea Salt and the creamy White Chocolate, each bar is a masterclass in flavor profiling. But what sets Mason & Co apart from other chocolate brands is its commitment to sustainable packaging.
The brand’s eco-friendly packaging is made from biodegradable materials and is fully compostable, reducing waste and minimizing its carbon footprint. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of the brand’s operations, from sourcing to production to distribution.
Empowering Local Women and Supporting Farmers
At the heart of Mason & Co’s mission is a commitment to empowering local women and supporting small-scale farmers. The brand’s factory in Auroville is staffed by a team of local women who are trained in the art of chocolate-making and are given the opportunity to develop their skills and contribute to the community.
The brand’s partnership with small-scale farmers is also a key aspect of its operations. By working directly with farmers, Mason & Co ensures that the farmers receive a fair price for their crops and are able to invest in their communities. This approach not only benefits the farmers but also helps to preserve the unique flavor profiles of the cacao beans and promotes sustainable agriculture practices.
Conclusion
Mason & Co is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, creativity, and commitment to sustainability come together. This woman-led vegan chocolate brand from Auroville is revolutionizing the world of chocolate-making with its bold flavors, sustainable packaging, and commitment to empowering local women and supporting small-scale farmers.
As consumers become increasingly aware of the impact of their purchasing decisions on the environment and the communities involved in the production process, brands like Mason & Co will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the chocolate industry. With its dedication to quality, sustainability, and social responsibility, Mason & Co is an inspiring example of what it means to do good while doing well.
Source:
https://ascendants.in/small_business/mason-co-indias-finest-bean-to-bar-vegan-chocolate-brand/
