The German Confectionery Giant Behind Moser Roth
When you unwrap a bar of Aldi's premium Moser Roth dark chocolate, you are holding a product of the renowned German confectionery company, August Storck KG. Storck, a company with a history dating back over a century, is a major player in the European candy market and also produces other well-known products like Werther's Original, Mamba, and Knoppers. The Moser Roth name itself has a rich history, originating from a standalone chocolate company in Stuttgart, Germany. Storck acquired the brand and later relaunched it in 2007 to create an exclusive, high-end chocolate line for Aldi stores, helping to establish Aldi's reputation for quality European-made treats at affordable prices. This collaboration allows Aldi to offer a consistently delicious and affordable premium chocolate experience to its customers.
The Manufacturer of Choceur Chocolate
Beyond the premium Moser Roth brand, Aldi's popular and more value-oriented Choceur dark chocolate is also produced by a branch of the same company. The manufacturing for the Choceur line is handled by WIHA GmbH, a subsidiary of the Storck Group, located in Halle, Westphalia, Germany. The partnership allows Aldi to maintain consistency and quality across different price points. Notably, the Choceur brand also includes more sustainably sourced options, such as the 'Choco Changer' bar, which adheres to stringent ethical sourcing principles through partnerships like Tony's Open Chain. This demonstrates a commitment not only to affordability but also to responsible sourcing practices within Aldi's chocolate range.
Aldi's Global Network of Private Label Suppliers
While August Storck is a primary manufacturer for Aldi's dark chocolate, it's important to recognize that Aldi operates globally and uses a network of suppliers. The specific company producing a chocolate product can depend on the country where it is sold. For example, some Moser Roth chocolates in the UK are manufactured by Hames Chocolates, a British company. Other private label manufacturers, like Poland's Millano Group and Ravensbergen Food B.V., also produce chocolate products for Aldi stores in different regions. This explains why a product might have a slightly different taste or country of origin label depending on your location, though the core German-made products like Moser Roth are widely consistent.
Behind the Wrapper: A Comparison of Aldi's Dark Chocolate Brands
| Feature | Moser Roth Dark Chocolate | Choceur Dark Chocolate |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | August Storck KG | WIHA GmbH (Subsidiary of August Storck) |
| Sourcing (Primary) | German-made | German-made |
| Market Position | Premium | Value-Oriented/Mainstream |
| Cocoa Content | Wide range (e.g., 70%, 85%) | Variety of cocoa percentages available |
| Key Features | High-quality ingredients, often individually wrapped pieces | Broad selection of flavors, sustainably sourced options |
Sourcing and Ethical Considerations for Aldi Chocolate
In recent years, the food industry has placed a greater emphasis on ethical sourcing and supply chain transparency. Aldi has responded by partnering with organizations like Fairtrade, Fair Trade USA, and Rainforest Alliance to promote sustainable cocoa farming. This ensures that the cocoa used in many Aldi products is grown under strict social and environmental standards. For those interested in deeper ethical commitments, the 'Choco Changer' from Choceur is a specific product designed around Tony's 5 Sourcing Principles for fairness. More information about these ethical practices can be found on the Tony's Open Chain website at https://www.tonysopenchain.com/whos-in/mission-allies/aldi.
A word of caution: Some reports have raised concerns about heavy metals like lead and cadmium in certain dark chocolate products, including some brands not specifically named by Aldi. As with any food, moderation is key. Checking for updated information from consumer advocacy groups is a good practice, and understanding that naturally occurring elements can vary is important. Aldi's commitment to sourcing transparency, however, gives consumers more information to make informed decisions.
The Taste of Aldi's Dark Chocolate
Beyond its origins, Aldi's dark chocolate receives consistently positive reviews for its taste. The Moser Roth line, in particular, is often praised for its rich, European flavor profile and smooth texture, rivaling much more expensive brands. The Choceur brand provides a delicious, everyday dark chocolate option with various flavor combinations. These offerings, along with the competitive pricing, are a major reason why Aldi has cultivated a dedicated fan base for its private-label brands.
Conclusion: The Story Behind Your Aldi Chocolate
So, who makes Aldi dark chocolate? It's a tale of a long-standing German confectionery giant, August Storck KG, and its subsidiary WIHA GmbH, working in partnership with Aldi to provide high-quality, affordable products under the Moser Roth and Choceur brand names. This collaboration, combined with Aldi's global network of private label suppliers, delivers a diverse range of dark chocolate options to consumers worldwide. From the premium taste of Moser Roth to the ethical sourcing of Choceur's 'Choco Changer,' Aldi offers more than just a sweet treat—it provides a product backed by a rich history and a modern commitment to value and quality.
