
Mason & Co: India’s Ethical Vegan Chocolate from Auroville
Imagine a world where indulging in your favorite chocolate doesn’t come at the cost of the environment or animal welfare. A world where every bite is not only delicious but also sustainable and kind. Welcome to Mason & Co, India’s finest bean-to-bar vegan chocolate brand, founded by Jane Mason in the heart of Auroville, a self-sustaining town in southern India.
As a pioneer in the vegan chocolate industry, Mason & Co is on a mission to redefine the way we enjoy chocolate. By empowering local women, supporting small-scale farmers, and using eco-friendly packaging, this woman-led brand is redefining the standards of ethical indulgence.
A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Jane Mason’s journey with chocolate began over a decade ago, when she stumbled upon a small chocolate-making workshop in Auroville. Her fascination with the art of chocolate-making and her passion for creating something unique and sustainable led her to establish Mason & Co in 2013.
As a vegan and an animal lover, Jane was determined to create a chocolate brand that not only delighted the taste buds but also aligned with her values. She embarked on a journey to source high-quality cocoa beans from small-scale farmers, many of whom were struggling to make a living from their crops.
With her expertise in chocolate-making and her commitment to sustainability, Jane set out to create unique and bold flavors that would set Mason & Co apart from other chocolate brands. Her flagship bars, 85% Intense Dark and Sea Salt, quickly gained popularity among chocolate connoisseurs and vegans alike.
Empowering Local Women
At the heart of Mason & Co’s mission is the empowerment of local women. Jane recognized that women played a crucial role in the chocolate-making process, from harvesting cocoa beans to crafting the final product. However, they often lacked the resources and opportunities to take their skills to the next level.
To address this, Mason & Co established a training program for local women, providing them with the skills and knowledge to become expert chocolate makers. Today, many of these women are part of the company’s production team, working alongside Jane to create some of India’s finest vegan chocolates.
Supporting Small-Scale Farmers
Mason & Co’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the chocolate-making process. The brand sources its cocoa beans from small-scale farmers who cultivate the beans using eco-friendly methods and organic farming practices.
Jane believes that supporting small-scale farmers is crucial to ensuring the long-term survival of the cocoa industry. By purchasing beans directly from these farmers, Mason & Co is able to provide them with a fair price for their produce, enabling them to invest in their farms and communities.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
In a world where single-use plastics are increasingly being banned, Mason & Co is leading the way in eco-friendly packaging. The brand’s chocolate bars are wrapped in biodegradable and compostable packaging made from natural fibers such as bamboo and sugarcane.
This commitment to sustainability extends to the company’s overall operations, with Jane striving to minimize waste and reduce the brand’s carbon footprint.
The Future of Vegan Chocolate
As the demand for vegan and sustainable chocolate continues to grow, Mason & Co is well-positioned to lead the charge. With its unique flavors, commitment to empowerment, and dedication to sustainability, this Indian brand is redefining the way we enjoy chocolate.
As Jane Mason reflects on her journey, she is proud of the impact Mason & Co has had on the lives of local women and small-scale farmers. She is also excited about the brand’s future, which includes expanding its product range and exploring new markets.
Conclusion
Mason & Co is a shining example of what it means to be an ethical and sustainable business. By empowering local women, supporting small-scale farmers, and using eco-friendly packaging, this woman-led brand is redefining the standards of indulgence.
As we indulge in our favorite chocolate, let us remember the farmers, women, and communities who have worked tirelessly to bring us this treat. And let us support brands like Mason & Co, which are committed to making a positive impact on the world.
Source:
https://ascendants.in/small_business/mason-co-indias-finest-bean-to-bar-vegan-chocolate-brand/