Cafe Gratitude
Organic & Raw
Gluten-Free
Vegan
8 oz.

Cacao (Theombroma cacao)

Theombroma literally means "Food of the Gods". Human use of cacao dates back more than 5,000 years, and evidence suggests that it was used by the Olmec, Mayan, and Aztec people of Mexico shamanistically and ritualistically as well as a form of currency - and of course, as food! Raw cacao is one of the most complex known food sources, containing an estimated 1,200 chemical constituents including anandamide (bliss chemical), arginine (needed for proper cell division and the healing of wounds), dopamine (a neurotransmitter associated with the pleasure system of the brain), serotonin (a neurotransmitter needed for mood modulation), tryptophan (a precursor for serotonin and melatonin), and phenylethylamine (boosts our ability to be alert and pay attention and is noticeably abundant in the brains of happy people). In addition, cacao contains Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, which allow more of these and other neurotransmitters to circulate in the brain). Raw cacao is an incredibly rich source of magnesium, which is needed for the heart to function well (it is the primary mineral missing when heart problems occur). Research has shown cacao also to be extraordinarily high in antioxidants - nearly twice that of red wine and three times what is found in green tea.

Our cacao is of the superior Criollo variety, the original cultivated variety in pre-Columbian Central America. It is grown in Peru and certified organic, kosher, fair trade and raw. Our premium cacao beans come directly from the farmers who cultivate them using sustainable methods that have been used for generations.

Our organic, raw cacao powder is made by separating the oil (cacao butter) from the protein and fiber through a cold-press process, leaving cacao's phytonutrients intact. Once the oil is removed, the remaining cacao cake is milled into a fine powder with a low fat and high flavor content.

GLUTEN FREE

VEGAN

Suggested use: add to your favorite smoothie, sprinkle on top of cereal, or use in any way you would traditionally use cocoa podwer.

Suggested serving size: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon depending on your preference.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, nor is this information meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.