Looking at the climatic and geographical conditions of the Philippines you would think it is a major producer of cacao. However, this is not the case. Let’s take a closer look at the cacao landscape of the Philippines.
Although cacao has always existed in Nicaragua, it was never an important export product. Only in 1990s the potential of cacao for the national economy became apparent and production has increased steadily. What makes Nicaraguan cacao so good? Let's explore this a bit more.
We had the opportunity to have a long talk with Ellen and Luca from GoGround and heard their journey from a romance in Hyderabad to a professional cacao-processing unit in Kerala. It is a story full of highs and lows. We are sure you'll appreciate India Idukki cacao even more after reading this!
When sourcing cacao, it is interesting to know who is involved in the production, as it tells you more about the impact you are making on the field. At Silva we select our cacao suppliers because they bring something extra: Flavour, Farmer, Forest and the Future.
You might have seen pictures like the one above. Cut tests are quite photogenic. However, good looks are not the prime reason this test is performed. It is an important tool to identify problems in an early stage, assess the level of fermentation and evaluate beans. One of the most interesting difference between cacao purchaser for bulk industry and specialty cacao purchasers is that they use cut tests in completely different ways.
Unlike its neighbors Ivory Coast and Ghana, Togo is not known for its cacao. Nor is it recognized as a producer of first class, fine flavor, specialty cacao. However, this situation is changing. Along with coffee, cacao is Togo's third export product and an important source of income for the country. But it takes the energy and inspiration of individuals like Abra Benczedi to bring it all together and create a community. Read here her extraordinary life story.
Read all about the rise and fall of Brazilian cacao due to one of the deadliest diseases known to cacao farmers: witches' broom.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez congratulated Auro Chocolate for being the first Philippine company to provide cacao beans to the European market. On 16 April 2020, the container shipment of Mindanao-sourced, premium cacao beans arrived at the port of Antwerp, Belgium.