CACAO

Peruvian Criollo

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Peru is one of the world’s richest centers of cacao biodiversity, home to 16 of the 25 genetic cacao groups identified in Latin America (APP Cacao). Native to the Amazon rainforest, cacao later expanded into the Andean valleys, where altitude, fertile soils, and unique microclimates create the ideal conditions for cultivating fine aroma cacao. At Amazon Andes, we work with native cacao grown in traditional agroforestry systems that protect biodiversity, regenerate soils, and support local farming communities. The result is a cacao that carries both heritage and flavor—an authentic taste of the Amazon, nurtured by the Andes..

Peru is one of the world’s richest centers of cacao biodiversity, home to 16 of the 25 genetic cacao groups identified in Latin America (APP Cacao). Native to the Amazon rainforest, cacao later expanded into the Andean valleys, where altitude, fertile soils, and unique microclimates create the ideal conditions for cultivating fine aroma cacao. At Amazon Andes, we work with native cacao grown in traditional agroforestry systems that protect biodiversity, regenerate soils, and support local farming communities. The result is a cacao that carries both heritage and flavor—an authentic taste of the Amazon, nurtured by the Andes..

PERUVIAN CRIOLLO CACAO

Less than 5% of the world's cacao is Criollo. Understand why this ancestral variety is chosen for ceremonial purposes and high-end products.

Our Peruvian Criollo cacao, “The Food of the Gods” for our ancestors, stands apart from conventional African cacao. Its sensory profile and artisanal process make it the preferred choice for ceremonial experiences and premium chocolates.

CHARACTERISTIC
PERUVIAN CRIOLLO CACAO (AMAZON ANDES)
COMMON AFRICAN CACAO
AROMA
Soft, floral bouquet with delicate tropical-fruit notes.
More bitter and astringent character.
FLAVOR
Smooth and delicate, with hints of tropical fruits, flowers, and nuts.
Pronounced acidity and stronger bitterness.
PROCESS
Artisan production preserving natural cacao flavors through traditional fermentation and sun-drying.
Industrial-scale fermentation, mechanical drying, and mass-processing methods.
USAGE
Valued for gourmet quality—ideal for high-end chocolates, premium confections, and ceremonial beverages.
Commonly used in bulk cocoa powder, cocoa butter, and mass-market chocolate products.
PERUVIAN CRIOLLO CACAO
  • CACAO CULTIVATION
    CACAO CULTIVATION

    Our premium Criollo cacao is cultivated in the Peruvian Amazon. Farmers carefully tend to cacao trees that are grown at optimal altitudes between 800–1,200 meters.

  • SUSTAINABLE FARMING
    SUSTAINABLE FARMING

    Our cacao comes from sustainable farms managed by Amazonian communities in Peru. We practice regenerative agriculture that preserves biodiversity and ensures long-term soil health.

  • BEAN HARVESTING
    BEAN HARVESTING

    Cacao pods are carefully hand-harvested when fully ripe. The timing is crucial as it affects the flavor profile. Each pod contains 20–40 beans surrounded by sweet pulp that contributes to the fermentation process.

  • FERMENTATION & DRYING
    FERMENTATION & DRYING

    Beans undergo traditional fermentation for 5–7 days, developing complex flavors. They are then sun-dried slowly to preserve ceremonial properties and achieve optimal moisture content.

  • PROCESSING & PACKAGING
    PROCESSING & PACKAGING

    Dried beans are carefully processed into ceremonial-grade cacao paste, powder, or nibs. Products are packaged in food-grade containers that preserve freshness and sacred properties.

CACAO CULTIVATION
CACAO CULTIVATION

Our premium Criollo cacao is cultivated in the Peruvian Amazon. Farmers carefully tend to cacao trees that are grown at optimal altitudes between 800–1,200 meters.

SUSTAINABLE FARMING
SUSTAINABLE FARMING

Our cacao comes from sustainable farms managed by Amazonian communities in Peru. We practice regenerative agriculture that preserves biodiversity and ensures long-term soil health.

BEAN HARVESTING
BEAN HARVESTING

Cacao pods are carefully hand-harvested when fully ripe. The timing is crucial as it affects the flavor profile. Each pod contains 20–40 beans surrounded by sweet pulp that contributes to the fermentation process.

FERMENTATION & DRYING
FERMENTATION & DRYING

Beans undergo traditional fermentation for 5–7 days, developing complex flavors. They are then sun-dried slowly to preserve ceremonial properties and achieve optimal moisture content.

PROCESSING & PACKAGING
PROCESSING & PACKAGING

Dried beans are carefully processed into ceremonial-grade cacao paste, powder, or nibs. Products are packaged in food-grade containers that preserve freshness and sacred properties.

Amazon Andes - Video

Which Organic Raw Cacao Powder doesn't have heavy metal • Amazon Andes

CRIOLLO UNIQUE?

SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF CEREMONIAL CACAO

AMAZON ANDES and PROFONANPE signed a cooperation agreement to promote sustainable cacao cultivation and forest conservation in the Peruvian Amazon. We work directly with indigenous farming communities, preserving traditional organic methods while protecting biodiversity. In 2023, we expanded organic cacao areas by 30%, supporting 200+ families and preserving 1,000+ hectares of native forest.

CEREMONIAL CACAO
HIGH QUALITY

HIGH QUALITY

Organic, with smooth and

complex flavor.

CRIOLLO VARIETY

CRIOLLO VARIETY

The purest and most

aromatic strain.

UNIQUE ORIGIN

UNIQUE ORIGIN

Satipo, Peru — cradle of

ancestral cacao.

TRADITIONAL PROCESS

TRADITIONAL PROCESS

Natural fermentation, sun

drying, artisanal methods.

CONSCIOUS USE

CONSCIOUS USE

Ideal for ceremonial

beverages and products

seeking depth.

INTENTION AND RESPECT

INTENTION AND RESPECT

Connection with nature

and tradition.

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Icono Years of Experience Years of Experience
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WHYAMAZONANDES?

Diagrama circular Amazon Andes

BIOTRADE

We work directly with farmers and collectors to ensure a positive social-economic impact in the regions where we operate, improving the lives of our suppliers. Our sustainable practices guarantee the long-term preservation of this powerful superfood.

WHERE ARE WE

Amazon Andes has a wide distribution network present in all continents of the world, we are present in more than 42 countries.

HIGH QUALITY

Our products meet strict microbiological, pesticide, and heavy metal standards, ensuring compliance with market regulations. We hold certifications from top global quality and organic control organizations

ASSOCIATED FARMERS

We are associated with the main cacao producing communities of Satipo and Tarapoto, Peru. We work directly with cacao farming families, supporting sustainable cultivation practices. More than 120 families and 280 people depend on our cacao commercial activity.

  • BIOTRADE

    We work directly with farmers and collectors to ensure a positive social-economic impact in the regions where we operate, improving the lives of our suppliers. Our sustainable practices guarantee the long-term preservation of this powerful superfood.

  • WHERE ARE WE

    Amazon Andes has a wide distribution network present in all continents of the world, we are present in more than 42 countries.

  • HIGH QUALITY

    Our products meet strict microbiological, pesticide, and heavy metal standards, ensuring compliance with market regulations. We hold certifications from top global quality and organic control organizations

  • ASSOCIATED FARMERS

    We are associated with the main cacao producing communities of Satipo and Tarapoto, Peru. We work directly with cacao farming families, supporting sustainable cultivation practices. More than 120 families and 280 people depend on our cacao commercial activity.

FOOD SAFETY

We guarantee safe, low‑cadmium cacao for every market.

SITE SELECTION
1

SITE SELECTION

Areas with low cadmium transfer; focus on Criollo varieties.

SOIL & WATER TESTING
2

SOIL & WATER TESTING

Periodic monitoring and external certifications; batch traceability.

SUSTAINABLE AGRONOMY
3

SUSTAINABLE AGRONOMY

Good agricultural practices, organic management and control of potential sources.

PROCESSING CONTROLS
4

PROCESSING CONTROLS

Fermentation and drying that do not increase metals; contact control.

THIRD‑PARTY VERIFICATION
5

THIRD‑PARTY VERIFICATION

COAs for EU, US, JP and CA standards from accredited labs.

INDUSTRIES BENEFITING FROM CEREMONIAL CACAO

Ceremonial cacao serves multiple industries with its heart‑opening properties and nutritional benefits:

WELLNESS & SPA INDUSTRY

WELLNESS & SPA INDUSTRY

Retreats, spas and wellness centers use ceremonial cacao for ceremonies, meditation and therapies that enhance spiritual practice and emotional healing.

NUTRACEUTICAL & SUPPLEMENTS

NUTRACEUTICAL & SUPPLEMENTS

Health supplement companies leverage antioxidants, anandamide, PEA and natural theobromine for functional products.

PREMIUM FOOD & BEVERAGE

PREMIUM FOOD & BEVERAGE

Restaurants and beverage makers craft luxury drinking chocolates and functional drinks with sustained energy without caffeine crashes.

ARTISAN CHOCOLATE MANUFACTURING

ARTISAN CHOCOLATE MANUFACTURING

Bean‑to‑bar makers and artisan confectioners source ceremonial‑grade cacao for superior flavor and preserved nutrition.

CERTIFICATIONS

USDA
USDA
HACCP
HACCP
GMP
GMP
NSF
NSF
BIOTRADE PERÚ
BIOTRADE PERÚ

RETAIL

PRODUCTS
Productos retail Amazon Andes
Muestra etiqueta privada Amazon Andes
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HOW TO BUY?

PRIVATE LABEL

Create your own brand with our premium ceremonial cacao. We offer complete private label solutions including custom packaging, branding, and formulations. Perfect for wellness brands, chocolate manufacturers, and retailers seeking authentic Peruvian cacao under their own label.

Vaina de cacao ceremonial
CACAO PASTE / LIQUOR

Pure cacao paste (also known as cacao liquor) is the ground essence of cacao beans, containing both cacao solids and natural cacao butter. Essential for chocolate making and premium wellness formulations.

CACAO PASTE / LIQUOR
CACAO BUTTER

Premium cacao butter extracted via traditional cold‑pressing from ceremonial beans. Ivory‑colored fat that melts at body temperature, providing creamy texture and subtle chocolate aroma.

CACAO BUTTER
CACAO POWDER

Premium powder made from carefully selected beans, processed to retain maximum nutritional value and rich, intense flavor. Ideal for wellness products, artisanal beverages and gourmet recipes.

CACAO POWDER
CACAO NIBS

Raw, crushed cacao beans providing the purest chocolate flavor. Nutrient‑dense superfood pieces ideal for texture and intense flavor in premium products.

CACAO NIBS
US

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