Topic: Cocoa

Major candy brands like Almond Joy and Mr. Goodbar have subtly changed their labeling from "milk chocolate" to "chocolate candy" or "chocolatey." This shift occurs because manufacturers are replacing expensive cocoa butter with alternative fats like palm oil, which disqualifies the products from the FDA's strict definition of milk chocolate. The hosts warn consumers that "mouth appeal" is being prioritized over traditional ingredients due to rising cocoa costs.

Listener-submitted reports from meetups in Toronto and Cocoa Beach are played, featuring enthusiastic "baked" producers. The hosts list upcoming gatherings in Connecticut, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Idaho as part of the 15th-anniversary celebrations. They encourage all listeners to attend at least one meetup to experience the community firsthand.

A series of No Agenda meetups are scheduled across the U.S., with organizers framing them as "protests" to comply with local lockdown laws. Upcoming events include gatherings in Cocoa, Florida; Austin, Texas; and a "Super Spreader Luncheon" in Houston. These meetups provide a space for listeners to socialize and discuss the show's themes in person.

Warren Buffett predicted a "bad ending" for cryptocurrencies, stating he would never take a position in them because he doesn't understand them. During the interview, Buffett appeared to conflate cryptocurrency with cocoa beans, leading to speculation about his interest in the commodities futures market.

The conflict in the Ivory Coast has led to a massacre of over 1,000 people and a global cocoa shortage. Alassane Ouattara, a former IMF official and University of Pennsylvania graduate, is being positioned by the international community to replace incumbent Laurent Gbagbo.

A study conducted by scientists at Hershey's claims that dark chocolate and cocoa powder contain more antioxidants than "superfruits" like blueberries and cranberries. The study suggests that cocoa seeds should be classified as a fruit. Media outlets have reported these findings as a scientific breakthrough, despite the study being funded and conducted by the chocolate manufacturer itself.

A news blooper regarding the disappearance of teacher Deborah Schmidt in Marin County is shared. In international news, UN-sanctioned leader Alassane Ouattara has banned cocoa exports from the Ivory Coast, causing global prices to spike. The hosts suggest the UN's involvement in the region is corrupt.

A report from The Telegraph details a mystery trader who purchased nearly all of Europe's physical cocoa stocks, valued at approximately $1 billion. The trade sent cocoa prices to their highest levels since 1977. The hosts question the lack of transparency in the market and the inability of financial reporters to identify the individual or group behind the massive acquisition.

Kellogg's has added "immunity" branding to Cocoa Krispies cereal boxes, claiming the product supports children's health through added vitamins. This marketing occurs while the FDA is actively threatening herbal medicine providers who claim their products, such as Vitamin D3, can combat H1N1. The hosts highlight the hypocrisy of allowing sugary cereals to make health claims while suppressing natural alternatives.

Observations from the Fancy Food Show in San Francisco reveal that gourmet salt is no longer a dominant trend, replaced by an explosion of artisanal chocolate and flavored teas. Cocoa prices have hit a 24-year high, while the bottled water industry is pivoting toward "hint" flavors and products marketed specifically to children.