Essence of England | Chapter 14 ~ Emily Collett

by Abbie Coombes
Essence of England

In our Essence of England series, we speak to values-aligned creatives, entrepreneurs and familiar faces from across the South West about their lives, work and what ‘Englishness’ means to them.

We spoke with local artisan, Emily Collett, Founder and chocolate maker at 'As Raw As' chocolates.

Lovingly handmade in a dedicated kitchen in Somerset, As Raw As chocolates are made with only organic, natural and ethically sourced ingredients. Every bite of this vegan friendly chocolate is free from Dairy, Refined Sugars, Gluten, Soy, or anything artificial.

We're delighted to say that we have collaborated with As Raw As chocolates to produce two beautifully fragrant and flavourful gift sets, perfect for Valentine's Day.

What inspired you to start your chocolate making business?

I began experimenting with chocolate-making 11 years ago, though my early results were far from what I create today! After running a soft furnishings business for 24 years, my husband's job in Dubai led me to explore a lifelong passion: chocolate. Growing up with health-conscious parents shaped my desire to create healthier treats. While living abroad, I researched the art of chocolate-making and, upon returning to England, took courses to refine my skills. As a mother, I wanted to craft sweet treats that were both nutritious and delicious.

Where are you based?

In 2016, my husband recognised that my hobby had outgrown our kitchen, so he converted an old farm building into a dedicated kitchen. 'As Raw As' was born in the heart of Somerset, surrounded by nature, including an orchard that grew from an apple my eldest son ate 30 years ago.

What makes As Raw As chocolate unique?

From the start, I committed to making raw chocolate, meaning I use unroasted cacao and never heat ingredients above 42°C to preserve nutrients. I compare it to eating a raw apples versus a cooked one - both taste great, but the raw version retains more goodness.

I also chose to make all my products dairy-free and gluten-free, as I feel better without them, Instead of refined sugar, I use coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index and a delicious caramel-like flavour. Over time, I've proven that indulgent chocolate, cakes and treats can be made without artificial additives. Nothing makes me happier than hearing from customers - whether those with dietary needs or those simply amazed that my products are free from unnecessary ingredients.

How do you incorporate sustainable practices into your business?

Sustainability at the Heart of As Raw As

From the start, As Raw As has been about more than just high-quality, organic ingredients—I’ve been committed to sustainability in every aspect of my business. That’s why I chose plastic-free, compostable, or recyclable packaging, including Naturflex bags made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, despite the higher costs. My husband may not always love it, but I reuse everything—from cardboard boxes to packing materials!

We’re also installing solar panels on my chocolate kitchen to offset rising electricity costs and contribute back to the grid. Additionally, I source my cacao directly from Peruvian farmers who use environmentally and socially responsible practices, ensuring fair wages and ethical working conditions. I also support www.sourcecacao.com a non-profit dedicated to transparency and cacao farmer support in Guatemala.

Food waste is minimal—any excess or imperfect chocolate is repurposed or shared with family and friends. Transparency is key, and I love sharing my process with customers, even offering hands-on chocolate-making workshops. Sustainability is at the heart of everything I
do because I want every bite of chocolate to feel as good as it tastes.

What is your greatest business achievement?

Starting my own chocolate company! What began as a hobby unexpectedly grew into a thriving business, replacing my Soft Furnishings venture. My early experiments were far from refined—I didn’t stone-grind cacao for 38 hours, age it for a month, or fully understand tempering. I never imagined others would be interested in my unique take on chocolate-making, but I’ve been wonderfully surprised by the support and loyalty of my customers.

There have been some incredible highlights along the way—creating a Raspberry Beetroot Boost bar for a friend climbing Everest (beetroot supports endurance at high altitudes), receiving a surprise call from Charlie Bigham to make chocolates for his hampers, and hearing Chris Evans unwrap one of my Easter eggs live on his morning radio show! This journey has given me the confidence to keep pursuing my passion—crafting healthier, delicious chocolate for everyone.

What inspires the flavours of your chocolate?

I use only natural flavours in my chocolates, drawing inspiration from the world around me. I often start with flavours I love—like orange, raspberry, or coffee—and enhance them with textures such as activated nuts, buckwheat groats, or cacao nibs. I also
incorporate ingredients from my own garden whenever possible.

For example, my sugar-free salted apricots are topped with dehydrated apple from trees my son planted. When in season, I swap hazelnuts for homegrown cobnuts, and I even dry my own rose petals to decorate my Rose Chocolates. Every creation is a
reflection of nature’s flavours, crafted with care.

Wy do you think it is important to celebrate handmade produce and what advice would you give to other artisans starting out on their journey?

Understanding where your food comes from, what’s in it, and how it’s made is essential for health and well-being. Handmade produce offers transparency—there’s no hidden list of additives or misleading labels. Every handmade product is crafted with care, passion, and integrity, which makes a real difference in the experience of eating it.

For new artisans, my advice is simple: go for it! Start small, don’t pressure yourself too much, and research your market thoroughly—know your costs, price accordingly, and value your time. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Many experienced artisans are happy to share their knowledge and support those just starting out.

What should be on the agenda for a weekend where you live?

Time to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Somerset with family and friends! I’m lucky to live in an area rich with stunning walks, like Cadbury Castle in South Cadbury, linked to the legend of King Arthur’s Camelot. For a dose of sea air, I head to Seatown with the dogs, taking in the breathtaking Golden Cap before refueling with a delicious meal at
The Anchor Pub.

Closer to home, we’re spoiled with fantastic farm shops and pubs. Higher Farm in Sutton, a regenerative farm with incredible homegrown food, is a current favourite. A visit to Castle Cary’s charming market town is always a treat, with its artisanal cafés, boutique shops, and a wonderful deli and butcher.

The Newt is another local gem—perfect for a relaxed wander, a great meal, and maybe even a cocktail. With a local membership, it’s easy to pop in and soak up the atmosphere whenever the mood strikes!

What does Essence of England mean to you?

For me, the "Essence of England" is a blend of tradition, charm, and culture. It’s a countryside walk on a crisp morning, a trip to a London theatre or art gallery, the excitement of Wimbledon, and the magic of Glastonbury Festival. It’s the beauty of changing seasons, the quirks
of British life, unwavering politeness, the nostalgia of Mary Poppins, and of course, a good pair of wellies

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