FrequentlyAsked Questions

Welcome to our ceremonial cacao FAQ. Here, we address common questions about our cacao, its origins, preparation, and benefits. If you have further inquiries, feel free to reach out.

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What is Ceremonial Grade Cacao?

Ceremonial grade cacao is pure, minimally processed cacao made from high-quality beans, typically of the Heirloom Criollo varieties. Unlike conventional chocolate, it retains its natural fats and is free from additives, ensuring a rich, authentic experience.

What is a Cacao Ceremony?

A cacao ceremony is a sacred ritual that uses cacao as a heart-opening tool. Participants consume ceremonial cacao to facilitate meditation, self-reflection, and emotional healing. Rooted in ancient Mesoamerican traditions, these ceremonies promote connection and mindfulness.

Why Peruvian Cacao?

Peru is renowned for its rich cacao heritage, with cultivation dating back over 3,000 years. The country's diverse ecosystems yield cacao with complex flavors and potent medicinal properties. By sourcing from Peru, we honor this deep-rooted tradition and support sustainable farming practices.

Health Benefits of Ceremonial Cacao

Ceremonial cacao is packed with antioxidants, magnesium, and theobromine. Regular consumption may:

  • Enhance mood and cognitive function
  • Improve heart health by promoting blood flow
  • Support emotional balance and stress reduction
  • Boost energy levels without the jitteriness of caffeine

Heavy Metals Testing

We prioritize your health and safety. Our cacao undergoes regular testing for heavy metals & minerals. We’re proud to say that our cacao has consistently tested within safe consumption levels—with no traces of lead ever detected.

Shelf Life and Storage

To maintain freshness and potency, store your cacao in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. When kept in an airtight container, it has a shelf life of up to two years. Avoid exposure to moisture and humidity to preserve its quality.

Why has my Cacao become White or Crumbly?

Noticing a white coating or crumbly texture? That’s called cacao bloom, and it’s totally normal. It occurs when the natural cacao butter rises to the surface due to changes in temperature and when the cacao butter crystals change structure over time. This is a natural feature of pure, untempered ceremonial cacao—not a sign of spoilage. It doesn't affect the taste, potency, or nutritional quality. In fact, it’s a mark of cacao that hasn't been overly processed or refined.

Cacao Bloom – What Does It Mean?

'Cacao Bloom' may appear as a whitish coating or patterns on the surface of your cacao, or a crumbling texture within your block of cacao. This natural occurrence results from temperature fluctuations and is a sign of pure, untempered cacao. It does not affect the taste or quality; instead, it reflects the authenticity and artisanal nature of the product.

How to Prepare Ceremonial Cacao

For a traditional preparation:

  1. Finely chop 2–4 tablespoons of cacao paste.
  2. Heat 8 oz (240 ml) of water in a pot over medium flame until steaming (not boiling).
  3. Whisk cacao into the water, stirring until fully dissolved.
  4. Optionally, blend for a frothy texture.

Customize with spices like cinnamon or chili, use your favourite milk instead of water, or sweeten with natural sweeteners to suit your taste.

Can I Use Cacao in Recipes?

Absolutely! Ceremonial cacao can be incorporated into smoothies, desserts, or baked goods. Its rich flavor and health benefits enhance various recipes. Just ensure you adjust quantities to match the intensity of the cacao.

Ethical Sourcing

Our cacao is sourced from small-scale, organic farms in the Amazon region of Peru, where it grows naturally within its native environment. The Cacao Pods are harvested traditionally and are fermented for up to two weeks to develop the bean, before being sun-dried. By choosing Wild Craft ceremonial cacao, you're supporting ethical farming and contributing to the preservation of indigenous agricultural practices.

Where Is Wild Craft Cacao Made?

While our cacao beans are ethically sourced from Peru, all production happens right here in southern Tasmania, Australia. We handcraft each batch with intention, ensuring the highest quality from bean to block. Our small-batch process allows us to stay connected to every step and maintain the integrity of the ceremonial experience.

Solar Powered production

Our production facility is powered by solar energy, reflecting our commitment to treading lightly on the Earth. By using renewable energy, we reduce our carbon footprint while crafting cacao that’s both powerful and planet-friendly.
The Cacao Beans are stone-ground for 24+ hours until they become a smooth and velvety cacao 'paste'.

100% biodegradable packaging

We’re proud to package all of our ceremonial cacao in 100% biodegradable materials. Sustainability is a core value for us—so you can enjoy your cacao knowing it leaves no trace behind. From source to our making process, we do our best to honour the Earth as much as the plant itself.

If you have any more questions or need further information, please contact us. We are here to support your journey with Ceremonial Cacao ♥