Ingredient

Cacao Beans

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Cacao beans are the primary ingredient in chocolate, providing its characteristic flavor and color. …

What it is

Cacao beans are the seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree, native to the Americas. They are fermented, dried, roasted, and ground to produce cocoa liquor, the base for chocolate. Further processing separates cocoa butter (fat) and cocoa solids (flavor and color).

Why it's used

Cacao beans are the primary ingredient in chocolate, providing its characteristic flavor and color. They are used in a wide range of products, including confectionery, baked goods, beverages, and desserts. Cocoa solids can also act as a natural colorant.

Health notes

Cacao beans and their derivatives are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. They contain flavanols, which are antioxidants. Some research suggests potential cardiovascular benefits from flavanol consumption, but more studies are needed. JECFA has evaluated cocoa and cocoa products, establishing standards for identity and quality. Evidence on health effects is mixed and depends on the specific compounds and processing methods.

Allergen info

Cacao beans are not one of the nine major allergens identified by the FDA. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing Cacao Beans

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KA.KA.O St. Louis Missouri Kakao Chocolate Chocolate High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 514kcal 5.7Protein 42.9Fat 45.7Carbs Premium Dark Chocolate Drops The Hershey Company Premium Dark Chocolate Drops Chocolate High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 467kcal 6.7Protein 40Fat 46.7Carbs The Hershey Company Dagoba, Organic Chocolate, Orange, Orange Chocolate High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving 482kcal 7.1Protein 35.7Fat 55.4Carbs The Hershey Company Organic Chocolate, Unsweetened Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings High in saturated fat — 50% DV per serving 500kcal 14.3Protein 53.6Fat 25Carbs The Hershey Company Extra Dark Chocolate Chocolate High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving 500kcal 12.5Protein 47.5Fat 35Carbs The Hershey Company Organic Cacao Gems, Picante Chocolate, Lavender Blueberry, Ginger Lime Chocolate High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 500kcal 7.5Protein 35Fat 52.5Carbs The Hershey Company Dagoba Organic Chocolate, Organic Milk Chocolate Chocolate High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving 536kcal 5.4Protein 35.7Fat 58.9Carbs The Hershey Company Dagoba Organic Chocolate, 37% Cacao Milk Chocolate, Chai, Chai Chocolate High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving 518kcal 5.4Protein 33.9Fat 58.9Carbs The Hershey Company Dagoba Organic Chocolate, Dark Chocolate Chocolate High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving 482kcal 7.1Protein 35.7Fat 55.4Carbs The Hershey Company Dagoba Organic Chocolate, Xocolatl Rich Chocolate, Chilies & Nibs Chocolate High in saturated fat — 75% DV per serving 500kcal 10.7Protein 42.9Fat 42.9Carbs The Hershey Company Dagoba, Milk Chocolate Chocolate High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 525kcal 5Protein 35Fat 57.5Carbs The Hershey Company Dagoba, Dark Chocolate Chocolate High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 475kcal 7.5Protein 35Fat 55Carbs
Cocoa Butter (201 products) Vanilla Beans (141 products) Sunflower Lecithin (109 products) Sugar (102 products) Pure Cane Sugar (99 products) Cane Sugar (95 products) Dark Chocolate (75 products) Soy Lecithin (58 products) Milk (53 products) Sea Salt (46 products)

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.