There is some debate over the qualifications of an eco-friendly business. Since we don't know if we qualify as an  eco-friendly business or not because the definition of this hasn't been defined, we would like to document our efforts in being an eco-friendly chocolate company. This article will document the eco-friendly aspects of our business, the aspects of our company that are not considered eco-friendly, and our goals to develop more eco-friendly practices and production methods for our chocolate company as we grow.

Production Methods - We have developed a production method for our truffles that uses very little water. Our chocolate ganache's are all mixed in the same container that they are stored in. This process eliminates the need for using and washing mixing bowls. We also have very little product waste because our chocolate is produced as needed so we do not have lot of finished products on hand which are susceptible to spoilage. Most of our equipment is made in America and we don't use disposable tools whenever possible. Our chocolate production methods and tools are constantly under review for eco-friendly improvements. 

Whole Foods Chocolate Ingredients -  Whole foods are foods that are unprocessed and unrefined, or processed and refined as little as possible before being consumed. We don't use artificial flavors, preservatives, or artificial colors in our truffles and most of our other products. We never add sugar, preservatives, or artificial flavors to any of our products unless required. Some of our ingredients do contain artificial colors but we are currently seeking acceptable alternatives. We typically use honey and brown sugar as a substitute for refined sugar. We make our flavorings from scratch  which reduces packaging and deliveries. We only use one food service purveyor which is family owned and based in Houston.

Local Products - None of our truffle flavors come from a bottle or jar, with the exception of our mint truffle which uses a mint oil and our liqueurs and wines. This means that most of our truffles are flavored with fresh fruits, spices, and premium liqueurs which reduces the amount of waste from packaging and transportation. A lot of our wares use Texas materials as ingredients, which also reduces the amount of travel a product has to make before it reaches you. However, some of our primary ingredients are not grown locally or even in the United States, so occasionally we do buy products from around the world. Whenever possible though, we prefer to shop locally and support businesses that practice fair trade standards, and are family run.

Organic Products - We use a lot of organic ingredients and are always expanding our line of organic chocolates and organic chocolate truffles. The benefits of using organic ingredients is more than apparent. Organic farming is a form of agriculture which excludes the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, plant growth regulators, and livestock feed additives. This means that by using organic ingredients we are contributing to better food, better water, a better earth, and better health.

Packaging and Shipping - We use an alternative styrofoam packaging material that is made from corn starch and dissolves in water.  The rest of our packaging is not considered eco-friendly but we are constantly seeking new alternatives.

Diversity - Our products appeal to a diverse group of earthlings. We hope that chocolate will contribute to peace on earth and help promote understanding of diversity through cuisine. As an old saying goes "It takes a village.". One small company can make a small difference but it will take the world to make a change.

Advertising Model - Our advertising model is based on the concepts of green advertising and cause. Most of our advertising is created and delivered digitally. Our chocolate festival marketing supports several causes. The first is to raise money for the Susan G. Komen For the Cure Austin Affiliate. The other causes are to promote local Texas businesses, support our local economy in Austin by promoting tourism and trade, and promote local chocolates. It just makes sense to choose advertising methods that benefit and promote economic growth in your community. With effective online advertising strategies we are able to market our products to the world without the need of traditional print campaigns and mailers.

Office Procedures - Our office procedures are constantly being evaluated for environmental efficiency. Most of our order process is paper free. Most of our transactions are completed electronically and customers are always asked if they would like a receipt when we are operating our point of sale. Most of our paper goods are made from recycled products. We use refillable cartridges in our ink-jet printers. Our laser printer is a new model from Xerox that offers very green packaging for their large crayon like toners and energy saving features.

Automobiles - Currently our company does not own any automobiles. We personally do not own eco-friendly automobiles, but we plan to make our next personal automobile purchase a hybrid vehicle and any vehicle purchased by the company will also be hybrid or equivalent.

Our Goals as an Eco-Friendly Chocolate Company - Our goal is to make eco-friendly business decisions in an effort to reduce waste, reduce the use of natural resources, improve air and water quality, and to help make the world a better place. In order to achieve these goals we will support our community, local farmers and small businesses; participate in eco-friendly production methods; constantly look for eco-friendly improvements that we can make; and of course, continue to spread our love of chocolate to the world that has been so gracious to us.