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Barry Callebaut-owned Dutch brand Van Houten has announced the launch of a new powdered chocolate drink made from ruby chocolate.

The Swiss chocolatier says it is the first to introduce ruby chocolate in a powdered form.

The ruby chocolate drinking powder will initially be made available to the hospitality sector, specifically to baristas and coffee bars across the UK.

Ruby chocolate was the fourth type of chocolate to be introduced by Barry Callebaut in 2017, described as having a naturally occurring fresh berry fruitiness and reddish colour.

“The new Van Houten ruby chocolate drink confirms the brand’s status as a cocoa pioneer,” said Freek van der Knaap, vice president of vending & beverages EMEA at Barry Callebaut.

He added: “This chocolate drink has all the flavour and colour of ruby chocolate and the powder dissolves very easily in any type of milk, or hot and cold applications. It’s the perfect option for when speed and preparation is important.

“This is a real innovation for the beverages industry, and we are proud to be the first company to offer this brand-new product.”

Owned by Barry Callebaut since 1998, Van Houten is known for its range of confectionery bars and cocoa powders used to make chocolate drinks.