Written and Published by BMT Foods, December 28, 2021
Cacaofruit, from the cacao tree, is the source of something millions of us eat each day: chocolate. However, did you know that cacaofruit is full of nutrients, including antioxidants that can help reduce numerous health issues? Today, the nutrients of the cacaofruit are typically consumed in the form of cacao water.
What is the cacaofruit?
Grown on the cacao tree, synonymous with the harvesting of cocoa beans and integral to the production of chocolate, the cacaofruit is a bumpy, elongated red to yellow colored fruit that is shaped like an American football. Once you cut into the cacaofruit, through its hard shell, there are cacao seeds (used for chocolate production) and white sweet cacao pulp. It’s this fruit pulp that is made into cacao water and subsequently added into a variety of drinks worldwide. When consumed, cacao pulp typically has a sweet fruity honey taste, unleashing an array of pleasant flavors.
How is cacao water harvested and produced?
A lot of the cacao pulp found in the cacaofruit is discarded during the chocolate making process, which is a shame because it truly is so nutritious. In recent years, and in different cultures around the world, cacao pulp is used to make cacao water, a nutritious beverage in its own rite and an ingredient added to various beverage products.
What are the health benefits of cacao water?
The cacaofruit, from which cacao water is derived, contains many nutrients including a variety of powerful antioxidants which have been shown to reduce inflammation, slow aging, slow cell decay, promote cardiovascular health, and bring other benefits to the human body. Additionally, when harvested, cacao water is naturally high in fiber, helping to aid digestion. It is also a great source of potassium, critical for healthy blood pressure and hydration. Other nutrients present in cacao water include magnesium, manganese, calcium, phosphorous, iron, zinc, and vitamins B and D.
How sustainable is BMT Foods’ cacao water production process?
Today, with cacaofruit harvesting having a negative reputation among those who value sustainability and eco-friendly farming practices, it’s more important than ever to make sure your cacao water supplier uses the most sustainable methods available. BMT Foods’ production partners are members of the Upcycled Food Association, which seeks to use food that would otherwise go to waste to produce other products. Since a large portion – as much as 70% – of the cacaofruit is typically discarded after cacao seeds are harvested, our partners use the rest of the cacaofruit to harvest the fruit’s sweet pulp and produce sustainable cacao water products.
BMT Foods offers sustainable cacaofruit products, including cacao pulp and cacao water.
BMT Foods supplies cacao pulp, which has been harvested sustainability through certified upcycled production processes. The pulp can be used in everything from ice creams to sorbets to frozen purees and more. Our cacao water is filtered, gently pasteurized, and concentrated and is used in the production of many types of beverages including superfood drinks, hydration products, energy drinks, and more.
BMT Foods works closely with our trusted, sustainable cacao product producers. We are available to answer any questions you have about our cacao product offerings. Reach out to us today to learn more.
