Ingredient Philosophy

In our product philosophy, we always start with real indulgent dark chocolate or milk chocolate, depending on the flavor. We don’t use fake or artificial sweeteners as we don’t believe they bring the same taste; and if you indulge, you might as well enjoy what you’re indulging in. We then elevate the chocolate by adding high quality casein protein, and whey protein crisps. Casein protein is slow absorbing and keeps you fuller longer, while whey protein is fast absorbing, making it perfect for a post-workout snack on the go. 

  • Sprouted Buckwheat

    Buckwheat is a nutritious, gluten-free pseudocereal rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's beneficial for gut health due to its high fiber content and resistant starch, which support digestion and nourish the gut microbiome. Environmentally, buckwheat is a sustainable crop requiring minimal water and pesticides, improving soil health. Overall, it's a versatile, gut-friendly, and eco-friendly food that supports individual and planetary well-being.

  • Dark & Milk Chocolate

    We purchase our high quality chocolate from world's largest B Corporation® – certified chocolate organization that is committed to sustainable, ethical and responsible sourcing of chocolate. All the cocoa beans that make our chocolate can be traced back to the producer which provides the assurance of knowing where the cocoa came from, who harvested it, and that it was produced in good conditions. 

  • Pink Himalayan Sea Salt

    Our Pink Himalayan Sea Salt is harvested from deep within the Himalayan mountain range. These ancient sea deposits are rich in minerals, producing a lovely pink coloration. Pink Himalayan sea salt is all natural and known to be used in a variety of culinary and therapeutic areas. Pink Himalayan Sea Salt is unique because it has a combination of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, and potassium, that help to stimulate circulation and detoxify the body. As a result, it can help to flush out toxins, reduce puffiness and bloating, and help keep your skin looking soft and healthy. Many athletes take this ingredient as there are also thought benefits of improving your athletic performance by aiding in hydration, maintaining electrolyte balance, and helping muscles contract.

  • Whey Crisps & Casein Proteins

    Milk is made of two proteins, casein and whey. Whey protein is generally used alongside an exercise routine to boost muscle protein synthesis and the growth of lean muscle mass. It is often referred to as “fast absorbing” and taken directly within minutes of exercise. Other possible benefits include helping with weight loss and lowering cholesterol. Casein is generally taken for recovery, and also known as “slow absorbing,” a benefit of which ensures that you stay fuller longer. Casein has similar benefits when it comes to weight management and muscle growth. DEFI utilizes European high quality clean label whey proteins in crisp form and casein proteins in powder form (that’s grinded into the chocolate to make it a perfect texture).

Chef Jean-François Bonnet

Jean-François Bonnet is the Chef responsible for the hand-crafted DEFI recipes. Born and raised in Fréjus, a small town in the South of France. His passion for pastry awoke in childhood, when the daily aroma of freshly baked breads filled his family home above a local bakery.

Chef Bonnet received his formal culinary training under Michelin two-star Chef Philippe Da Silva at the Hostellerie des Gorges de Pennafort before relocating to the United States in 1999. Eager to share his unique vision with the New York community, Jean-François served as pastry chef at several culinary powerhouses including Monkey Bar, Cello and the Ritz Carlton’s L'Atelier. 

In 2003, world-renowned chef Daniel Boulud invited Jean-François to become Executive Pastry Chef at his legendary flagship restaurant Daniel. Chef Boulud notes that Chef Bonnet "has the technique of an artisan and the creativity of an artist. He combines it with simplicity and respect for delicate flavors and textures.”

During his years at Daniel, Jean-François was twice listed among Dessert Professional Magazine’s "Top Ten Pastry Chefs in America," first in 2005 and again in 2006.

In 2005, Chef Bonnet opened his own chocolatier company and helps brands of various sizes bring their vision to life. His signature confections blend exotic fruits, spices and herbs with all-American ingredients including peanuts, crispy rice and graham crackers.

For Jean-François, chocolate is a labor of creativity and passion. His enthusiasm for blending classic American confections with artisan sensibilities is reflected in each distinctive recipe he creates.