India’s chocolate consumption is evolving rapidly, with consumers increasingly embracing premium, healthier and internet-driven trends alongside traditional favourites, according to Instamart‘s latest order analysis released ahead of World Chocolate Day on July 7.The report, based on orders placed between July 2025 and June 2026 across more than 130 cities, found that orders for the viral Dubai pistachio-filled chocolate surged by 11,739%, making it the fastest-growing chocolate trend in the country. Classic milk chocolate remains the top choice, accounting for four in every 10 chocolate orders, while chocolate-coated wafer bars continue to enjoy strong popularity. Fruit and nut, caramel and hazelnut flavours also feature prominently among consumer favourites.
The analysis highlighted a shift towards mindful indulgence, with sugar-free chocolate orders rising 85% year-on-year and dark chocolate demand increasing nearly 50%. Protein chocolates also emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments, reflecting growing consumer interest in healthier alternatives. Bengaluru led overall chocolate consumption and accounted for nearly a quarter of all sugar-free and protein chocolate orders, while Mumbai recorded the strongest preference for premium chocolates. In Kolkata, the city is steadily emerging as an important market for premium chocolate consumption, with growing demand for hazelnut and white chocolate varieties. The findings indicate that Kolkata consumers are increasingly exploring premium and differentiated offerings while maintaining a strong preference for established favourites, signalling expanding opportunities for premium confectionery brands in eastern India.
The report also revealed that chocolate has become an everyday purchase rather than an occasional treat. Orders rose 74% on Valentine’s Day, peaking at 745 chocolates every minute, while consumers increasingly paired chocolates with groceries ranging from popcorn and ice cream to bananas, protein shakes and instant noodles. Among notable trends, one customer from Ahmedabad spent ₹1.59 lakh on chocolates in a year, underscoring the country’s growing appetite for indulgence.
