Fair Trade Certified Organic Cacao Powder

Fair Trade Certified Organic Cacao Powder is made from roasted cacao beans, which are the seeds of the cacao tree. The beans are fermented, dried, roasted, and then ground into a powder. The 'Fair Trade Certified' label means the cocoa was produced under fair labor and environmental standards, and 'organic' means it was grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

Cacao powder is primarily used to add a rich chocolate flavor and dark color to foods. It is a key ingredient in baked goods like cookies and cakes, as well as in beverages such as hot chocolate and smoothies. It can also be found in candies, ice cream, and some savory dishes.

Cacao powder is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It contains flavanols, which are plant compounds that may have antioxidant properties. Some research suggests flavanols might support heart health, but more studies are needed. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated cacao and its derivatives. Evidence on the health effects of cacao at typical consumption levels is still developing.