A process for the production of black cocoa powder comprises an alkalization step in which an alkalizing salt is added to cocoa beans, or products derived therefrom, in the absence of iron. The alkalizing salt may be ammonium, calcium, magnesium, potassium or sodium carbonate, ammonium, potassium or sodium bicarbonate, ammonium, calcium, magnesium, potassium or sodium hydroxide, magnesium oxide or any combination thereof. Cocoa powder resulting from the process, and products comprising the cocoa powder, are also described.
