Functional products and experiences dedicated to cocoa, inspired by Mesoamerican traditions and the culture of good living in Sardinia
100% WHOLE COCOA FOR YOUR WELL-BEING · VEGAN · FROM CONSCIOUS SUPPLY CHAINS · MINIMALLY PROCESSED
Why should drinking cocoa be extraordinary?
Because you're not just making a drink.
You are connecting with a plant with ancient roots, carefully cultivated, traced to its origin, and artisanally transformed from cocoa beans into 100% cocoa mass.
Melt it slowly, savor it, and allow yourself a moment of connection with what truly matters, alone or shared with others ✨
Discover our whole cocoa pastes from Mesoamerica
For your daily rituals and well-being✨
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Ceremonial Cacao Mesoamerican Collection
4.98 / 5.0
(53) 53 total reviews
Regular price From €62,40Regular priceSale price From €62,40 -
Beginners Ceremonial Cacao – Start with our Mesoamerican Classics
5.0 / 5.0
(3) 3 total reviews
Regular price €62,40Regular price€0,00Sale price €62,40 -
Ceremonial Cacao Comalcalco - Mexico
Regular price From €21,90Regular priceSale price From €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Atehuán - El Salvador
4.89 / 5.0
(45) 45 total reviews
Regular price €21,90Regular priceSale price €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Masaya - Nicaragua (NEW)
Regular price From €21,90Regular priceSale price From €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Cuyancùa
4.97 / 5.0
(36) 36 total reviews
Regular price €21,90Regular priceSale price €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Tláloc - El Salvador
5.0 / 5.0
(24) 24 total reviews
Regular price From €21,90Regular priceSale price From €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Lenca - El Salvador
5.0 / 5.0
(23) 23 total reviews
Regular price From €21,90Regular priceSale price From €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Tuzantán · Chiapas, Mexico
4.96 / 5.0
(26) 26 total reviews
Regular price €21,90Regular priceSale price €21,90 -
Cacao Nibs
5.0 / 5.0
(17) 17 total reviews
Regular price From €14,90Regular price€0,00Sale price From €14,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Ulúa Honduras
5.0 / 5.0
(8) 8 total reviews
Regular price From €21,90Regular priceSale price From €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Cunduacán - Mexico
Regular price From €21,90Regular priceSale price From €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Q'eqchi' - Guatemala
4.94 / 5.0
(50) 50 total reviews
Regular price From €21,90Regular priceSale price From €21,90 -
Ceremonial Cacao Nahua - Costa Rica
4.93 / 5.0
(28) 28 total reviews
Regular price From €21,90Regular priceSale price From €21,90
A cocoa bridge between El Salvador and Sardinia
We are Elisa and Juan Rafael , custodians of a vision that combines history, innovation, and territory.
Together we have created the first integrated short supply chain of fino de aroma cocoa between El Salvador and Italy , a project that generates real impact in the communities and ecosystems we support.
Every seed is traceable, every gesture is conscious.
Cocoa born from respect: for the lands, the people and their Mesoamerican history
WE CREATED THE FIRST INTEGRATED SHORT SUPPLY CHAIN OF ITALIAN-SALVADORIAN COCOA 🇮🇹🇸🇻
Ethical, sustainable, and transparent are not just random words, but the founding principles of our project. For all cocoa from El Salvador , we purchase directly at the farm gate, or plantation, completely independently, personally overseeing all stages of export and import all the way to Sardinia, for a vertically integrated and short supply chain.
THE SUPPLY CHAIN FOR HONDURAS, GUATEMALA, COSTA RICA, MEXICO AND NICARAGUA
For these Mesoamerican countries, the specialty cocoa traders we work with purchase cocoa directly from the cooperatives involved in our projects. In many countries, managing the entire operation alone would be complex and inefficient; this model, however, allows us to guarantee quality, decent payments, and continuity in working with producers, even when we aren't physically present in the field, as is the case in El Salvador.
100% VEGAN
We do not use ingredients of animal origin
GLUTEN-FREE, LACTOSE-FREE, PRESERVATIVE-FREE
Our products are naturally gluten- and lactose-free. We don't add vegetable oils, thickeners, lecithins, or artificial flavors or colors, ensuring clean labels.
FAST SHIPPING TO ITALY, EUROPE AND THE WORLD
We ensure all shipments are prepared as quickly as possible. Each order is tracked, so you'll receive everything conveniently at your home or office, ensuring it won't get lost (no waiting at the post office, for example). We ship throughout Italy and Europe, with delivery times of approximately 2-7 business days.
LIGHTWEIGHT AND RECYCLABLE PACKAGING
We too are concerned about the excessive accumulation of plastic in the world, and we certainly don't want to contribute to creating even more environmental pollution.
→ Boxes recyclable in paper and sealed with paper tape for more efficient disposal
→ Our chocolate boxes are made of 100% FSC-certified recycled paper, promoting the circular economy. The inner wrapping of the chocolate is made of aluminum/paper.
→ The Ceremonial Cacao packaging is made of a DPE multilayer with a predominantly paper-based material, FSC Certified, so it can be recycled. We've eliminated the zip closure to allow for complete recycling.
We ask for your full cooperation in ensuring this packaging is disposed of correctly, following your local authority's regulations.
Aware that zero impact does not exist and that truly sustainable solutions are still lacking , we want you to know that we are very sensitive to the issue and that we make decisions aimed at keeping our environmental impact low.
STONE GROUND
We process our cocoa and chocolates exclusively with mills produced in Italy, certified and safe for both those who use them and the product. Unlike industrial machinery for mass production, the stone mill works more slowly, preserving the purity of the cocoa.
GENTLE TOASTED
We ensure that each cocoa is roasted in the most respectful way possible. Thanks to the advanced technology of our 4.0 oven, which uses air circulation, each cocoa is delicately wrapped, preserving its characteristics without burning it 🫶🏼
SMALL LOTS
Our processes are carried out on a small artisanal scale, allowing us to work with small batches that are always fresh and full of vibration. Unlike large industries, we value each individual cocoa, enhancing its qualities through scrupulous artisanal processing.
Everything you want to know about our cocoa collection
How can I best use 100% cocoa paste?
🌿 Focus & Well-being
For a moment of concentration or presence, you can enrich your cocoa with turmeric, nutmeg, or cloves, or with functional ingredients like ashwagandha or medicinal mushrooms. Small additions that make your cup even more aromatic and personal.
🌅 Pre-workout
For an energizing drink before physical activity, prepare cocoa with water or a plant-based drink and add naturally stimulating spices such as cinnamon, ginger, or chili pepper. You can blend it with banana or dates for a natural source of carbohydrates to fuel your workout.
💪 Post-workout
After physical activity, cocoa can become a more nutritious drink. Add plant-based proteins (such as hemp, pea, or rice) and, if desired, a natural source of carbohydrates like banana or dates, to create a more complete warm or lukewarm smoothie.
🌙 Evening Cup
For a more delicate preparation, use about 15g of cocoa and prepare the drink with a chamomile, mallow, or lavender infusion instead of water. Simply prepare the infusion and use that liquid as the base to dissolve the cocoa.
This softer, more floral version is recommended only for people not sensitive to caffeine and can accompany a moment of calm and relaxation at the end of the day.
☕️ Create Your Cocoa Moment
Pour the cocoa into your favorite cup, take a moment to breathe deeply, and if you wish, adorn the surface with edible flower petals. Let this moment become a space of calm, listening, and connection, accompanied by the depth of cocoa.
How is it prepared?
You can dissolve it in hot or warm water or plant-based milk. We recommend not boiling it, to preserve all its natural compounds, including its precious antioxidants.
You can use:
- Small saucepan (taking care not to burn the contents or bring them to the boil)
- Blender (add cocoa, spices and hot water and blend everything)
- Milk frother
How often can I take it?
Even every day. Our cocoa is 100% natural, without artificial stimulants , and you can adjust the dose according to your body and your needs:
Light dose (10–15g): for daily use, focus or relaxation
Medium dose (15–20g): for moments of introspection
Ceremonial dose (25–35g): for deeper experiences (only if you are already familiar)
What is the difference between this and the cocoa powder I find at the supermarket?
Commercial cocoa powder is a derivative of cocoa mass, but it is not the same thing.
To obtain the powder, the cocoa mass is pressed to remove most of the naturally present cocoa butter. What remains is processed into powder and, very often, subjected to a process called alkalization (or dutching), which modifies the pH.
In most cases, commercial/industrial cocoa powders are derived from blends of cocoa from different origins, often with limited traceability. Furthermore, the cocoa used is frequently selected based on cost rather than genetic or aromatic quality.
A small clue? In general, the darker and more intense a powder appears, the more it may have been stripped of its natural cocoa butter and subjected to alkalization treatments (although this is not always an absolute rule).
Some powders may also contain added sugars or other ingredients.
Being a product very different from whole cocoa mass—which naturally retains its cocoa butter—the nutritional profile, aromatic profile, and sensory experience are also different.
What makes cocoa a natural ally of well-being?
Smart Food for the Brain
Cocoa has a positive impact on the brain, particularly on neurotransmitter regulation. Neurotransmitters are essential chemicals for communication between nerve cells and play a key role in regulating mood, sleep, and cognitive functions.
It is rich in flavonoids (antioxidants), compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can contribute to better brain health.
Furthermore, theobromine, an alkaloid found in cocoa, has been associated with cognitive benefits and may have positive effects on memory.
Helps protect the heart
Incorporating cocoa into your diet is a gesture of love for the heart: its precious antioxidants help keep blood vessels flexible and promote healthy circulation.
Concentrated Vegetable Proteins and Fibers for a Healthier Microbiota
The fibers present in cocoa act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, while quality proteins contribute to the proper functioning of the digestive system.
Incorporating it into your daily routine can support intestinal well-being and overall health.
Natural mood support
It contains neurotransmitter precursors that help regulate mood, including:
Tryptophan: An essential amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin, known as the happiness hormone. An adequate serotonin level helps improve mood, reduce stress, and promote a general sense of well-being.
Phenylethylamine (PEA): A compound that stimulates the release of endorphins and dopamine, associated with feelings of pleasure, energy, and motivation.
Theobromine: An alkaloid similar to caffeine but with more delicate and prolonged effects, contributing to a sense of sustained energy.
Natural Support for Muscle Health and Female Wellness
It can contribute to improving muscle tone and alleviating the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in women, thanks to its richness in essential nutrients:
Magnesium: essential for muscle relaxation and contraction. Adequate magnesium intake helps prevent cramps, fatigue, and muscle tension.
Proteins and essential amino acids: cocoa contains vegetable proteins that can contribute to maintaining muscle mass and post-workout recovery.
Iron: cocoa is a good source of vegetable iron, useful for compensating for any deficiencies due to blood loss during the menstrual cycle.
Bean to Bar Chocolate
Choose our high-cocoa chocolates, with no added cocoa butter.
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Chocolate 75% Atehuàn, El Salvador + Raspberries & Rose Petals
5.0 / 5.0
(2) 2 total reviews
Regular price From €7,00Regular priceSale price From €7,00Sold out -
Chocolate 72% · Cuyancùa, El Salvador
5.0 / 5.0
(1) 1 total reviews
Regular price From €7,00Regular priceSale price From €7,00Sold out -
100% Chocolate · Tláloc, El Salvador
5.0 / 5.0
(4) 4 total reviews
Regular price From €7,00Regular priceSale price From €7,00 -
Chocolate 75% Q'eqchi', Guatemala + Whole Almonds from Sardinia
5.0 / 5.0
(1) 1 total reviews
Regular price From €7,00Regular priceSale price From €7,00 -
80% Chocolate · Lenca El Salvador + Sardinian Lavender Flowers (coming back soon!)
Regular price From €7,00Regular priceSale price From €7,00Sold out -
Sold outChocolate 80% · Lenca, El Salvador
5.0 / 5.0
(3) 3 total reviews
Regular price From €7,00Regular priceSale price From €7,00Sold out -
Chocolate Collection (We're working on a new line - coming back soon!)
Regular price From €39,90Regular priceSale price From €39,90Sold out
Do you know the history of the Kakaw in Mesoamerica?
This companion book is a valuable guide for anyone ; whether you are new to cacao, an expert or a seasoned ceremonialist, or simply a passionate and curious person, this book is for you.
Blogs
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A Deeper Conversation on Ceremonial Cacao
An exploration of how cacao is grown, processed, used, and why context matters. What makes ceremonial cacao credible, and why do distinctions truly matter? Introduction “Ceremonial cacao” is a term...
A Deeper Conversation on Ceremonial Cacao
An exploration of how cacao is grown, processed, used, and why context matters. What makes ceremonial cacao credible, and why do distinctions truly matter? Introduction “Ceremonial cacao” is a term...
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Ceremonial Cacao: What makes it credible, and w...
Ceremonial cacao is a term that is increasingly used across different contexts, and with that growth comes a wider range of interpretations. Rather than seeing this as a problem, we...
Ceremonial Cacao: What makes it credible, and w...
Ceremonial cacao is a term that is increasingly used across different contexts, and with that growth comes a wider range of interpretations. Rather than seeing this as a problem, we...
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Why we updated our pricing: A clearer direction
Over the past few years, VAICACAO has grown into something very clear to us. This is not a product from A commodity , meant to be expedited, hoarded, or consumed carelessly....
Why we updated our pricing: A clearer direction
Over the past few years, VAICACAO has grown into something very clear to us. This is not a product from A commodity , meant to be expedited, hoarded, or consumed carelessly....
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Reading the cocoa label: yes, but really unders...
Reading the cocoa label: yes, but by really understanding what is written We live in a world full of high-sounding words: Single Origin , Cooperative , Federation, Consortium, Single Estate...
Reading the cocoa label: yes, but really unders...
Reading the cocoa label: yes, but by really understanding what is written We live in a world full of high-sounding words: Single Origin , Cooperative , Federation, Consortium, Single Estate...
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