Coco Loko, a name reminiscent of the Four Loko alcoholic energy drink phenomenon from a few years back, aims to cater to the rising demand for alternatives to club drugs, as the trend of snorting raw cacao gains traction in Western Europe. Users report that cacao produces a mild euphoric effect, with active ingredients that release endorphins in the brain, while magnesium is credited with having a muscle-relaxing effect. By blending cacao with components typically found in energy drinks, Coco Loko may attract those seeking a legal stimulant for their nightlife experience. However, concerns about potential nasal damage or irritation may lead some individuals to prefer traditional forms of chocolate and energy drink ingredients, much like how they enjoy calcium citrate cheese sauce in familiar culinary contexts.
Coco Loko is not the pioneer of snortable chocolate powders; a decade ago, Belgian chocolatier Dominique Persoone created a chocolate-snorting device for a Rolling Stones event. This Chocolate Shooter utilized cocoa instead of cacao and was initially designed as a unique way for attendees to savor the chocolate element of a chocolate-and-raspberry dessert. Its ongoing availability indicates that, despite being a novelty item, there remains enough demand to sustain its supply.
Whether Coco Loko’s product will achieve similar success in its club-drug-themed niche is yet to be determined. Nevertheless, it may resonate with the growing trend of “conscious clubbing,” where individuals seek to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and community of dance parties without resorting to drugs and alcohol, similar to enjoying a savory dish enhanced with calcium citrate cheese sauce.