VANILLABEANS launches book covers made from upcycled cacao husks

Chocolate Design Co., Ltd., the operator of the Yokohama-based craft chocolate brand VANILLABEANS, has launched a new line of book covers crafted from upcycled cacao husks. The product debuted on the company’s online shop on 13 January, showing how this long supporter of ethical consumption continues to make waves in eliminating waste within the confectionery supply chain.

The Cacao Husk Leather Book Cover is manufactured using a synthetic leather material that incorporates a 30% concentration of cacao husks. These husks are the outer shells of cacao beans, which are traditionally removed and discarded during the roasting and crushing process. Repurposing this byproduct allows VANILLABEANS to upcycle approximately 12 tonnes of cacao husks  that its operations generate annually.

The A6-size covers are designed for standard Japanese pocketbooks and are priced at 4,950 yen. According to the manufacturer, the material is characterised by a moist texture and a subtle, natural fragrance of cacao. While online sales are currently underway, the product will become available at physical locations, including the brand’s Minato Mirai flagship store and VANILLABEANS THE ROASTERY at YOKOHAMA HAMMERHEAD, from 16 March.

Chocolate Design Co., Ltd. has been active in the upcycle scene since 2020. To date, the company has commercialised a range of items made using cacao husks, including reusable tumblers and craft beer developed in collaboration with domestic breweries.