Making The Cut: Testing Cacao Beans’ Health and Fermentation

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.

The Wonderful Story of How a Woman Put Togolese Cacao on the World Map

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.

Making Good Use of Cacao Shells

All chocolate makers recognize the excitement of seeing (and hearing) a constant flow of cacao nibs falling out of the winnower, ready for the grinder. And then their eye falls on the husks... Read on to discover a way to give them a new life!

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