Yes, Hershey processes cocoa beans.
Based on the provided information, The Hershey Company engages in several steps to process cocoa beans once they arrive at their facilities. This processing transforms the raw beans into the ingredients needed for making their products, such as chocolate and cocoa butter.
Hershey's Cocoa Processing Steps
The reference highlights key activities undertaken by Hershey after the cocoa beans have been received. These steps are essential parts of the cocoa processing journey:
- Testing: Cocoa beans undergo rigorous testing to identify and eliminate defects such as insects and mold. This ensures the quality and safety of the raw material.
- Cleaning: After testing, the beans are cleaned to remove any foreign matter or debris.
- Roasting: The beans are then roasted. Roasting is a crucial step that develops the characteristic flavor and aroma of cocoa.
- Making Chocolate Liquor: Following these initial steps, the processed cocoa beans are ground into a paste known as chocolate liquor. This substance is a key intermediate product used to create various chocolate and cocoa products, including cocoa butter and the final chocolate bars.
Once the cocoa beans have reached the Hershey's Company, they are ready to be made into cocoa butter and chocolate. The first steps are testing, cleaning and roasting. The cocoa beans are tested for any defects like insects and mold. After they have done this, they make the cocoa beans into chocolate liquor. These steps clearly indicate that Hershey is directly involved in processing cocoa beans.
By performing these detailed steps, Hershey effectively processes cocoa beans to produce the high-quality ingredients required for their wide range of confectionery products.
