So, I finally managed to get my hands on that new ethical Green & Blacks rival, Malagasy. After the arduous task of consuming several kilogrammes of chocolate, I can confidently say: big thumbs-up with a couple of caveats. The caveats are the packaging, which is a bit shabby, and the flavour - it's obviously extremely good cocoa, but I slightly prefer the flavour of Valhrona and Green & Blacks. The ethical part of the Malagasy equation is that its products are being made entirely in Madagascar; most choc companies export the raw materials from places like Madagascar and central America and refine them into products in the Europe and the US. The company's also working to get Fairtrade status. The Sambirano (bitter) and MoraMora (slightly sweeter) bars go on sale in Fortnums next month for a rather pricey £3.50. Waitrose is expected to be next.
From: BEST OF 2008: Eco-friendy and sustainable shoes