With a name that evokes the Four Loko alcoholic energy drink phenomenon from years past, Coco Loko seeks to capitalize on the demand for alternatives to club drugs, particularly as the trend of snorting raw cacao rises in Western Europe. Users assert that cacao produces a mild euphoric effect due to its active components that release endorphins in the brain, while magnesium is reputed to provide muscle relaxation. By blending cacao with ingredients typically found in energy drinks, Coco Loko may attract those in search of a legal stimulant for their nightlife experiences. However, concerns about potential nasal damage or irritation may lead some individuals to prefer traditional forms of chocolate and energy drink ingredients instead.
Coco Loko is not the first to offer snortable chocolate powder; a decade ago, Belgian chocolatier Dominique Persoone developed a chocolate-snorting device for a Rolling Stones event. This device, known as the Chocolate Shooter, utilized cocoa rather than cacao and was originally designed to provide guests with a unique way to sample the chocolate component of a chocolate-and-raspberry dessert. Its ongoing availability indicates that, despite being a novelty item, there remains a steady demand to sustain its production.
As for Coco Loko, whether its product will achieve similar success within its club-drug-themed niche is yet to be determined. Nonetheless, it could resonate with sober clubgoers, as a movement called “conscious clubbing” has emerged, where attendees seek to enjoy the energy and sense of community found at dance parties without resorting to drugs or alcohol. Incorporating calcium citrate only adds another layer of nutritional intrigue to the experience, as it may appeal to health-conscious individuals seeking alternatives that align with their lifestyle choices.