The origin
Cacao has its origin in the djungles of the upper amazon. Archaeological findings from the Mayo Chinchipe-Marañón culture reveals that humans used cacao as far back as 5,600 years ago. It is assumed that they used the sweet pulp that surrounds the cacao beans to make fermented drinks, sometimes in combination with corn and chili.
Cacao is then spread by humans to the coastal areas and to Central America. The Mayans and Aztecs continued to use cacao as a drink, but now also made from fresh pulp, as well as from roasted cacao beans. Cacao was also used in different types of rituals because it was considered very valuable. In a period, the beans were actually used as currency.
The Europeans first encounter with cacao was during Columbus's fourth expedition in 1502. He also brought cacao home to Spain, but the bitter drink was not initially appreciated by the Spanish royalty. Only in the beginning of the 17th century it had gained a stronghold in Europe, mainly among religious and wealthy, and special 'chocolate houses' opened where they sold drinking chocolate.
Modern times
It was only when Dutchman Van Houten invented the cocoa press, allowing cocoa butter to be squeezed out of cacao, that producers saw the opportunity to create the world's first chocolate bar. By mixing ground cacao with cocoa butter and sugar, the english company Fry's sold the first chocolate bar in 1847.Just 20 years later milk powder was developed, allowing the creation of the first milk chocolate bar. A great invention, but also a great way to hide the taste of low quality cacao. During industrialization, the focus changed from high quality cacao and exceptional flavors to focus on cost savings. As a result, the cacao flavor was hidden behind milk powder and sweeteners, the cocoa fat was exchanged for cheaper vegetable fat and the high quality cacao was replaced by poorer varieties that instead gave larger harvests.
Sadly, this is still what it looks like today, but we think it's time to change that. We think it's time to again highlight cacao with exceptional flavor, without a lot of unnecessary additives.
Join us in the craft chocolate revolution!
