CONTENTS
History of cocoa
The benefits of cocoa
Choisir un cacao équitable et bio
1. History of cocoa
The cocoa tree is the tree that produces cocoa beans, which are the source of, among other things, chocolate. Discovered by the Mayans, cocoa was originally used as a means of payment (for bartering, buying slaves), as a foodstuff or for religious ritual. It was the Spaniards, during the triangular trade (deportation of black slaves from Africa for European products and then to America for raw materials), who brought it back to Europe in the holds of their ships. Since then, our use of cocoa and its popularity have continued to grow.
As you can see, cocoa is rich in history, rather inglorious but not only...
2. The benefits of cocoa
The benefits of cocoa are very diverse, among them let's first focus on what it can prevent. There is no reason to deprive yourself of a good cup of cocoa because it contains antioxidants! The antioxidants contained in cocoa could control the level of blood pressure, thus reducing the risk of stroke. In addition, these antioxidants are said to be beneficial in preventing the development of cancerous cells.
Cocoa, thanks to its composition rich in magnesium and potassium, can help fight or reduce certain physical pathologies, such as anaemia, diabetes and coughs. It can also limit deficiencies and thus prevent certain diseases such as osteoporosis or chronic fatigue. Generally speaking, cocoa can be useful in a multitude of situations: for example, xanthine is found in cocoa, a molecule used in the treatment of asthma.
What if cocoa allowed you to become a better version of yourself? A version where you would be less stressed, where you would sleep better, where you would have better skin, a better memory... Not only is cocoa effective for weight loss, it is also a source of good fats that will provide your body with energy. In addition, the fibre present in the beans is very important for the proper functioning of the intestine. In short, cocoa allows a general improvement of the metabolism, consuming it as a preventive measure is an asset!
3. Choosing fair trade and organic cocoa
Choosing a Fair Trade cocoa powder gives value to the work of the cocoa farmers. It allows them to invest in the education and future of their children and the community in which they live.
Paying attention to where the cocoa in your shopping cart comes from is an active way to fight child labour. 90% of the world's cocoa is produced by small-scale farmers and their families. They live in precarious situations and are not able to negotiate the price of their production.
A minimum price for their cocoa provides a safety net. Production is paid for in advance, which allows better planning of production and avoids credits.
Is it worth explaining why you should choose organic cocoa? Organic cocoa guarantees respect for the work of people and respect for the land. The cocoa tree is particularly well suited to agroforestry: growing one plant among others. This type of cultivation requires less fertiliser, preserves the soil and water, provides a wide variety of products, promotes biodiversity and can extend the length of time it is farmed.
In the end it's quite simple, I consume a little less but better!
Jefferson.