Dutch-process cocoa is a modified form of natural cocoa. In this process the cocoa beans are treated with an alkali. A solution of alkali (usually sodium bicarbonate) is added to the partially roasted beans and the excess water is evaporated off. The beans are then treated as for the manufacture of natural cocoa. The purpose of dutching the cocoa is to darken the colour, modify the flavour and to improve the dispersibility of the natural cocoa. This process also reduces the natural acidity of the cocoa because the alkali neutralizes some of the acidity. Dutching not only darkens the colour, but also makes the cocoa less bitter and easily dispensable.