Cacao, one of the most complex superfoods in the world

Cacao is a type of evergreen tropical tree that produces chocolate in the fresh form before sugar, fat and other additives are added to it. It grows in special regions including Mexico and South America, where most cacao beans come from.

Cacao beans, chocolate and cacao butter are obtained from cacao beans. Cacao is full of antioxidants, magnesium and nutrients that fill us with energy, make us healthy and happy.

From a tiny flower to a large fruit

We get cacao from the fruits of the Theobroma cacao tree. It is a tall, evergreen tree that grows in shady areas of the rainforests along the equator. The flowers and later the fruits of the cacao grow directly from the trunk or older branches. The flowers are small, 1-2 cm in diameter, with a pink stalk, and the fruits are larger. The cocoa beans are enclosed in a large colourful pod that turns yellow, reddish-yellow or orange during ripening. The fruits vary greatly in size, shape and texture, as their diameter ranges from about 10 cm to 40 cm and more. The pods in the shape of an American football are very valuable as they contain 20 to 60 cocoa seeds or beans that are hidden inside a snow-white pulp called the pulp. Cacao nibs are used to make cacao and chocolate. Each grain contains a large amount of fat and the specific alkaloid theobromine, after which the plant got its scientific name. Harvesting cacao pods is not limited to the season, so they are harvested throughout the year, as one tree can have fruits at different stages of maturity.

Mood-boosting food

• Cacao contains the amino acid tryptophan, which stimulates the production of serotonin promoting a feeling of joy and helping prevent mild depression. The benefits of including cacao in the diet can be exploited with the help of cacao in the following forms:
• Cacao nibs are the foundation of all chocolate products. These super seeds are sugar free but contain protein, fat, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamins B, C and E and many other nutrients. The high magnesium content in cocoa beans can increase the strength of the heart muscle, regulate our blood pressure and reduce the possibility of blood clots and strokes. Magnesium removes toxins from our body and increases alkalinity.
  Crushed cocoa beans are great in yogurt, desserts, beverages, etc.
• Cacao powder is delicious in hot and cold beverages.
• Cacao butter is a common ingredient in cosmetic products due to its nutritional value and durability. It nourishes dry skin, softens it and makes it pleasantly fragrant. It has a beneficial effect  before and after sunbathing. It can be used for homemade cosmetics (body care lotion, soap …).