Tag: Cocoa vs cacao

A single tablespoon of raw cacao powder generally contains between 20 and 29 calories. This superfood is known for its high antioxidant content and nutritional value, making it a popular choice for smoothies and desserts.

With raw cacao powder containing approximately 2509mg of potassium per 100g, it far surpasses other commonly cited high-potassium foods like bananas. This potent mineral content makes raw cacao a significant dietary source for supporting vital bodily functions, from heart health to nerve signaling.

Raw cacao powder is a superfood celebrated for its potent antioxidants and health-boosting properties, with a teaspoon typically containing just 4 to 20 calories, depending on the brand and processing. The minimally processed nature of raw cacao means it retains more of its nutritional value compared to regular cocoa powder. This low-calorie, high-impact ingredient is a great addition to smoothies, desserts, and drinks for a healthy chocolatey flavor.

According to the USDA, a typical 100g serving of raw cacao contains around 230mg of caffeine, but much less makes it into your cup. So, is Mexican hot chocolate caffeinated? The short answer is yes, it contains a small amount of caffeine from the cocoa solids, alongside another gentler stimulant called theobromine.

Over 70% of the world’s cocoa is grown by farmers who receive low wages, but raw cacao's growing popularity stems from its potential health benefits and less-processed nature. The question, however, is: can I eat cacao raw without risks?

According to the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) scale, raw cacao powder boasts one of the highest antioxidant scores of any food, significantly outranking blueberries and goji berries. Is cacao considered a superfood? The answer lies in its rich nutritional profile, which is largely preserved when consumed in its less-processed forms.

Over 3,000 years ago, the Maya, Toltec, and Aztec civilizations were already cultivating the cacao tree and using its beans to create a ceremonial beverage. Today, the question for home cooks and health enthusiasts alike is: is there a difference between cocoa and cacao powder? The definitive answer lies in how the raw beans are processed, which significantly impacts their nutritional value, flavor, and best uses.

A study found that the alkalization process used for Dutch-processed cocoa can destroy a significant portion of its original antioxidant content. This stark nutritional distinction highlights the fundamental difference between raw cacao powder and cocoa powder, rooted in how the cacao bean is processed after harvesting.

Archaeological evidence suggests cacao was cultivated over 5,000 years ago by ancient Amazonian cultures, long before it reached our modern kitchens. This is the long and surprising history behind the question: what is the big deal with cacao? Once a revered ceremonial drink and currency, cacao has reclaimed its status as a nutrient-dense superfood, valued for its potent health benefits far beyond its chocolatey flavor.

According to the brand's own packaging, Hershey's Natural Unsweetened Cocoa Powder contains only one ingredient: 100% cacao. While the name suggests a simple answer, the world of cocoa involves different processing methods that affect flavor, color, and nutritional value.