Introducing Chak'ao : A Journey into the Heart of Ancestral Cacao

Our Journey Begins

When we first arrived in the Ecuadorian Amazon in 2017, we had no idea that cacao would become our passion and focus. While we were aware of its therapeutic qualities and health benefits, we hadn't yet experienced the full magic of this heart-opening medicinal plant. Initially, we were on the hunt for the energizing Guayusa tea, but what we found instead was something that changed our path entirely: an association of 13 farming communities dedicated to the preservation of the rare 'Arriba Nacional' cacao strain, also known as 'Fino de Aroma' or simply 'Nacional.'

Preserving Ancestral Cacao

Ancestral varieties like 'Nacional' are becoming increasingly rare as hybrid strains encroach on their natural ecosystems. Most cacao exported from South America that claims to be 'Nacional' actually contains traces of 'CCN51,' a hybrid strain that, while high-yielding, is far inferior in quality. The lure of high yields from 'CCN51' monoculture farming can be tempting for many farmers and processors. However, this isn’t where the challenges in ethical practices end.

Since the beginning of our search for ethical farming partners, we quickly learned to question the meaning behind organic, fair trade, or any other certification. In many cases, these certifications were linked to practices that were far from ethical. We discovered that some of the most "accredited" entities were also among the worst offenders when it came to cutting corners and compromising on quality.

Finding the Farmers with Principles

Yet, there are still farmers and processors who stand out — those who work with principles, passion, and integrity. You can recognize them by the pride they take in their work and the care they put into every aspect of farming and production. This dedication always translates into a superior end product.

If you are looking for cacao sourced from Kichwa farming communities, it’s essential to understand the methods they use. A strong indicator of quality is whether they employ the ancestral 'Chakra' farming method. Also known as jungle farming, this practice combines organic, permaculture, polyculture, and smallholder farming principles. The 'Chakra' system ensures that every action — whether planting or cutting a tree — is in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem. This sustainable practice not only protects biodiversity but also produces cacao of unparalleled quality.

A Commitment to Quality Over Quantity

Once the cacao is harvested, it is taken in its wet state to the association, where it is weighed and quality-checked before the fermentation process begins. This is the moment when farmers convert their labor into income. At Chak'ao, we are committed to ensuring these farmers are compensated fairly — paying more than double the average rate for those who adhere to sustainable, ethical practices.

In contrast, a walk through the local towns reveals a different reality. Middlemen buy and sell natural products from neighboring communities, often with a low-price focus. With the rising global demand for cacao, quantity often takes precedence over quality. These middlemen frequently blend heirloom varieties with hybrids, passing off the mix as 100% heirloom. It’s common to see cacao beans being dried on asphalt along bus routes, a practice that makes the cacao carcinogenic. These lower-quality beans are often sold to cooperatives that claim to be ethical — many of which bear certifications that suggest otherwise. If the cacao is cheap, now you know why.

The Importance of the Right Processing

The journey from bean to cup doesn't stop at harvesting. The processing stage — including fermentation, drying, and grinding — is equally critical to maintaining the quality of the cacao. Finding a processor who understands and respects this is not easy, but when you do, it’s like a breath of fresh air. Proper care at this stage includes clean fermentation boxes, perfected fermentation methods, and raised drying racks made from suitable materials. All these details make a significant difference in the final product's quality.

Chak'ao: Honoring Tradition and Integrity

At Chak'ao, we work exclusively with associations and farming communities that demonstrate a deep commitment to quality, ethics, and sustainability. Our partners adhere to traditional practices like the 'Chakra' farming method, where cacao is grown with care, respect, and a profound understanding of its relationship to the environment. We believe that by honoring these traditions and working directly with farmers who share our values, we can offer you the purest and most transformative cacao experience possible.

Why We Share Our Journey

We hope that by sharing our journey, we inspire others to seek out and support products that genuinely embody integrity and quality. Our commitment to ethical practices goes beyond just selling cacao — it’s about building a community that values the land, honors traditional knowledge, and creates a positive impact on the world. We invite you to join us on this journey and experience the true value of ancestral cacao.