Certified Fair Trade Organic Cacao

Cacao is the dried and fermented seed of the Theobroma cacao tree, native to Central and South America. It is the source of chocolate and cocoa powder. "Certified Fair Trade Organic" means it meets standards for fair labor practices, environmental sustainability, and organic farming, without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

Cacao is primarily used to provide a chocolate flavor and aroma in foods. It is commonly found in chocolate bars, baked goods, desserts, and beverages like hot chocolate and protein drinks. Manufacturers add it for its rich taste and color.

Cacao is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It contains flavanols, which are antioxidants that may have heart health benefits, though research is ongoing. The FDA has not set specific upper intake limits for cacao. International bodies like EFSA have evaluated cocoa and cocoa products, but have not set specific ADIs. Some studies suggest potential benefits for blood pressure and brain function, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.