Cacao is a little like Goldilocks; it needs just the right conditions to grow—lots of humidity, consistent warm temperatures, not too windy—which means it only grows in select locations near the equator.
Historically, this led to an unequal and unethical supply chain, as raw cocoa beans were (and still are) shipped elsewhere for processing. When cocoa prices don’t cover the cost of production, the bulk of the profits go to the countries processing the cocoa, so some cocoa farmers engage in cruel labor practices (like human trafficking and child slavery) and problematic growing practices (like deforestation and extensive use of chemicals) to maintain their place in the supply chain.
It’s a bitter truth that’s tough to learn about something so sweet, which is why we think it’s important to do our part to support positive changes in the industry.
That’s why we’re working with small collectives and producers who source directly from growers and process the cacao from start to finish in the country of origin. When the cocoa is processed where it’s grown, great things happen. Farmers receiving fair prices can invest more in their crops, improving cocoa quality and supporting sustainable growing practices.
That results in increased income, improving the farmers’ quality of life and providing an economic boost to the community.
