Peruvian Cocoa and Chocolate Day: 120,000 producers boost their production

Since 2012, every October 1st we celebrate the Peruvian Cocoa and Chocolate Day with the aim of strengthening the entire production chain of this bean. Peru is recognized as the main center of origin of cocoa, thanks to the more than 120,000 producers who work in the sustainable production of this crop in 16 regions of the country. Cocoa is a multifaceted fruit that, thanks to its multiple benefits, offers a wide range of commercial opportunities for its derivatives. These cover a variety of ingredients and products in the different stages of raw cocoa processing, which form the basis for edible and non-edible products, such as in cosmetics. Among the main processed products derived from cocoa are cocoa liquor, cocoa powder, cocoa butter, cocoa nibs and chocolate. The uses and benefits of Peruvian cocoa are numerous. Cocoa has been shown to help with weight loss, increase glucose uptake in muscles, protect neurons and improve both cognition and mood, among other benefits. ...