HACKETTSTOWN, N.J., Sept. 20 (UPI) -- Candy maker Mars Inc. created a new division to push its CocoaVia line of chocolate snacks that retain heart-healthy flavanols removed by typical processing.
The CocoaVia line also includes cholesterol-lowering plant sterols from soybeans and is fortified with calcium and other vitamins.
"It's a first-of-its-kind product that was purposely designed to deliver heart-health benefits and real chocolate pleasure in products that are less than 150 calories per serving," said Mars Chief Science Officer Harold Schmitz.
Mars said it spent 15 years developing a patented process to retain flavanols in processed chocolate. Flavanols also are found in red wine and green tea.
Mars, which has M&M's, Dove Chocolates and Snickers under its candy banner, will push the CocoaVia line through its newly created Mars Nutrition for Health & Well-Being division.
