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Step-by-Step Preparation of Cocoa Beans from Cocoa Fruits

1. Harvesting the Pods
  • Ripe cocoa pods are cut from the trunk or branches using knives or sickles.
  • Pods are carefully harvested to avoid damaging the tree.
2. Pod Breaking
  • Pods are split open manually.
  • Inside, you’ll find 20–50 seeds (cocoa beans) surrounded by a sweet, white pulp.
3. Bean Extraction
  • Wet beans and pulp are scooped out of the pods.
  • These freshly extracted beans are the starting point for processing.
4. Fermentation
  • Beans with pulp are placed in boxes or covered with banana leaves for 5–7 days.
  • Natural microorganisms break down the pulp, reduce bitterness, and develop the chocolate flavor.
  • Fermentation is the most critical step for quality.
5. Drying
  • After fermentation, beans are spread under the sun or dried mechanically.
  • Moisture is reduced to ~7%, preventing mold and ensuring safe storage.
6. Storage & Transport
  • Dried beans are bagged and stored in cool, dry conditions.
  • These beans are now ready for roasting and further processing into chocolate products.