Cacao (Theobroma cacao)

Cacao, scientifically known as Theobroma cacao, is a tropical evergreen tree that produces cacao pods containing seeds, commonly called cacao beans. These beans are the primary ingredient used to make chocolate. The tree thrives in humid, warm climates near the equator. Cacao beans are rich in fats and compounds like theobromine, which give chocolate its unique taste and stimulating effects. Cultivating cacao involves harvesting ripe pods, fermenting and drying the beans, and then processing them into cocoa products. Cacao plays a vital role economically and culturally in many countries, especially in West Africa, Central and South America.