Cocoa paste (liquor) is the whole ground cocoa nib, containing both cocoa solids and cocoa butter in their natural proportions — typically around 50–55% fat. Cocoa butter is the pure fat fraction separated from the paste by hydraulic pressing. They are distinct commodities with different trade classifications, pricing dynamics, and end uses; cocoa paste is the input from which both cocoa butter and cocoa powder are derived.

Cocoa paste imported in bulk liquid form requires temperature-controlled transport and storage, and importers should document handling conditions to support quality claims. FDA Prior Notice must be filed before arrival, and the foreign establishment must be registered with FDA. If the paste is certified organic or carries origin-specific quality designations, supporting third-party certification documents should accompany the commercial invoice.