Shop Better Cacao & Chocolate

Ideas and inspiration for smarter choices that are better both for planet and people (including you).

Before my second trip to Indonesia in 2014, a stranger prayed for me and said, "I see you working with women." He was right.

Emily Urías, Belú Cacao, El Salvador

Emily was the first female bean-to-bar chocolate maker in El Salvador. Discover her surprising story of being empowered to lead the way for an all-woman team.

Alejo & Agus, Mashpi Chocolate, Ecuador

We often see examples of chocolate that is either environmentally or socially minded. Mashpi is both.

Corinne, Askanya Chocolates, Haiti

Askanya Chocolates is Haiti’s first premium bean-to-bar chocolate company, sourcing cacao, sugar, and citrus all locally.

How can the Whole Cacao Pod be Upcycled? Cacao Pod Husks

Cacao pod husks account for two-thirds or more of a cacao pod's weight. Upcycling them transforms waste into food, soap, bioenergy, and valuable farm inputs.

How can the Whole Cacao Pod be Upcycled? Cacao Fruit

70% of a fresh cacao pod is often discarded in chocolate making. Cacao fruit is ripe for upcycling in these deliciously innovative new products.

"Local" Chocolate for the Global North

How can we best achieve the goals of eating local - lowering our environmental impact and boosting the local economy - in our imported chocolate choices?

Ayu, Chair[wo-]man, Koptan Masagena, Indonesia

Ayu was elected the first female head of a farmer co-op in her regency – before she turned 30!

Sandra Marleny, COAGRICSAL, Honduras

Marleny brings a uniquely feminine perspective, energy & beauty to a male dominated industry.

Who gets paid for your Chocolate?

Cocoa farmers earn about 1/3 of a living wage. Is fair trade enough?