The Difference Between Cocoa and Cacao Powders

When comparing cocoa vs cacao one similarity is they’re both beans from the cacao plant. The beans are milled and processed in different ways to make cocoa powder and cacao powder. The procedure for processing and the results of the processing cause the differences in the powders.

Cocoa vs Cacao

Cocoa powder is made by processing cacao beans at a high temperature. For cocoa, the beans are fermented and roasted whereas they are only fermented when making cacao powder. Sugar or milk solids are sometimes added to cocoa to give it a sweeter, more mellow flavor.

You can use cocoa and cacao interchangeably in recipes as long as you use unsweetened cocoa. However, cacao loses some of its nutritional value when used in baked goods. To get the maximum benefits from cacao add it to a smoothie, toss some into a trail mix, or eat a piece of cacao daily. Cacao beans are processed at a low temperature to make cacao powder. The beans are considered raw when they are milled into a powder. The result of the beans being in a raw state is they don’t lose their nutritional value during processing. From a flavor perspective, cocoa and cacao have a chocolate flavor. However, cacao has a bitterness that cocoa doesn’t have.

Organic Cocoa Powder

When you buy organic cocoa powder, you know you’re getting a product that doesn’t contain additives or preservatives. You can also be assured the cacao plants have been grown in an environment that is free of pesticides and chemicals. This product is gluten-free. It can be used in a Paleo diet plan. When the packaging indicates the product’s sole ingredient is cacao you can use the product as part of a vegan diet.

Cocoa Beans

One very simple step you can take toward improving your overall health and well-being is to eat cocoa beans daily. These beans are an excellent source of fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and potassium. They are a plant-based source of protein. You can increase your intake of vitamins B6, B5, B3, B2, B1, and folate by adding these beans to your daily diet. Eating cacao nibs and chocolate-covered cacao beans are good ways to boost your energy and your health.