Category: Cacao

Over the past several years, brewed cacao has emerged as a popular alternative to coffee, but many people are surprised by its flavor. The short answer to "is brewed cacao bitter?" is yes, it can be, especially when unsweetened, and its rich, dark notes are a key part of its appeal.

A study analyzed commercial chocolate liquor, the base ingredient for many chocolate products, finding an average of 0.21% caffeine. Therefore, the answer to 'does cacao liqueur have caffeine?' is yes, though the exact amount is typically very low and depends heavily on the liqueur's specific production method.

Did you know that despite its energizing reputation, raw cacao is a relatively poor source of caffeine? The popular superfood blend, Cacao Bliss, reflects this, containing only a small amount of caffeine per serving while relying on a different compound for its revitalizing effects.

Ceremonial-grade cacao boasts up to 40 times more antioxidants than blueberries, a fact that hints at its complex chemical makeup. The unique blend of stimulants, minerals, and mood-boosting compounds explains why this ancient beverage is distinct from regular chocolate and why so many people are interested in what are the chemicals in ceremonial cacao.

According to a 2014 review, filamentous fungi can contaminate various stages of the cocoa production process, raising concerns about mycotoxin formation. While raw cocoa beans are susceptible, modern processing significantly reduces the risk of consuming these naturally occurring toxins.

Over 200 chemical compounds have been identified in cacao beans, with a significant portion being flavanols like epicatechin. So, does cacao contain epicatechin? The answer is a resounding yes, and its presence is a key reason behind the many health benefits associated with high-quality cocoa products.

Raw cacao powder naturally contains caffeine, with approximately 12 milligrams per tablespoon, which is significantly lower than a cup of coffee but still present. For those seeking a chocolate fix without the stimulating effects, a common question arises: Is there decaf cacao? The answer is nuanced, as true decaf cacao is rare, but low-caffeine cocoa powder is a viable and nutritious option.