Mars Uses Gene-Editing Technology to Improve Cocoa Plants Amid Chocolate Shortage
Candy giant Mars is harnessing the power of gene-editing CRISPR technology to enhance cocoa plants as the chocolate industry faces challenges from climate change and disease pressures. The maker of popular brands like Snickers and M&M’s has partnered with Pairwise, a company specializing in CRISPR technology, to bring innovation to cocoa research and development.
The global cocoa shortage has significantly impacted chocolate production, leading to rising costs and prompting companies like Hershey and Lindt to increase prices. Mars aims to use gene-editing technology to identify genetic traits in cocoa plants that can make them more disease-resistant and better suited to changing climates, ensuring a stable cocoa supply for the future.
Challenges in the Chocolate Industry
The scarcity of cocoa has forced companies to reevaluate their strategies and explore new solutions to combat the challenges faced by the industry. Hershey recently announced price hikes due to the soaring cost of cocoa, while Lindt also raised prices in response to the volatile market conditions.
The depletion of cocoa supply in West Africa, a key region for cocoa production, has been exacerbated by factors such as drought, aging trees, and plant diseases. Companies are hopeful that improvements in crop quality and reduced demand will help stabilize supply, but the situation remains unpredictable.
The Role of Gene-Editing Technology
Mars’ collaboration with Pairwise and their use of CRISPR technology signify a significant step towards addressing the farming challenges in cocoa production. Pairwise’s innovative platform, Fulcrum, offers a range of tools for utilizing gene-editing to develop improved crops more efficiently than traditional breeding methods.
Mars’ plant sciences director, Carl Jones, emphasized the potential of CRISPR technology to enhance crops and support global supply chains amidst climate challenges and resource constraints. The company is committed to conducting transparent and responsible research in plant science to ensure sustainable cocoa farming practices.
Food industry giants like Hershey, Mondelēz, and Nestlé have also invested in initiatives to boost cocoa output and promote sustainable farming practices. Additionally, companies are exploring alternative solutions, with Mondelēz’s venture capital arm investing in lab-grown cocoa production as a potential avenue for future sustainability.
As Mars continues to drive innovation in cocoa research through gene-editing technology, the chocolate industry looks towards a more resilient and sustainable future for chocolate production.
