Cacao
What is Cacao?
Cacao is the dried and fermented seed of the Theobroma cacao tree, native to Central and South America. The beans are roasted and ground to produce cocoa powder, cocoa butter, and chocolate liquor, which are the base ingredients for many chocolate products.
Is Cacao vegan?
Cacao is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Cacao a major allergen?
Cacao itself is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens.
What is Cacao used for?
Cacao and its derivatives are primarily used to provide the characteristic flavor and color of chocolate in a wide variety of foods.
Is Cacao safe?
Cacao is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food.
Why it's used
Cacao and its derivatives are primarily used to provide the characteristic flavor and color of chocolate in a wide variety of foods. They also contribute to the texture and richness of products like candies, baked goods, beverages, and dairy or plant-based alternatives.
Health notes
Cacao is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It contains flavanols, which are antioxidants. Some research suggests potential cardiovascular benefits from regular consumption of flavanol-rich cacao products, but more studies are needed. JECFA has evaluated cacao products. Evidence on the health effects of cacao is still being researched.
Allergen info
Cacao itself is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens. However, many products containing cacao are processed in facilities that also handle allergens like milk, soy, or peanuts, leading to potential cross-contamination.
Foods that contain Cacao
Compare products →
Learn more
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.