Ecuador reveals the origins of cocoa and Bolivia promotes its excellence with international competition

15-03-24

Ecuador has established itself as the true epicenter of the origin of cocoa, challenging previous theories that placed its cradle in other regions of Latin America. A groundbreaking archaeological study, which analyzed residues found on 6,000-year-old pottery, has uncovered evidence that rewrites the history of cocoa, placing it firmly in Ecuadorian territory. Published in the journal Scientific Reports, this study not only disproves the common belief that cocoa originated in Colombia or Mexico, but also highlights Ecuador as a pioneer in the production and export of this prized ingredient.

The research sheds light on how this fruit, which today is synonymous with delight in the form of chocolate, began its journey in the highlands of the Ecuadorian Amazon, later expanding northward through intricate trade networks dating back more than five millennia. This revelation places Ecuador not only as the starting point for the use and cultivation of cacao, but also as a key player in its diffusion throughout Latin America.

Archaeologist Francisco Valdez, co-author of the study, highlighted the radical change in the understanding of the origin of cacao. Previous theory suggested that the domestication of cacao had occurred in the lowlands of Mesoamerica, from where it would have dispersed southward. However, the new findings indicate that the process was the other way around, with the Upper Amazon, specifically Ecuador, as the true starting point.

The study not only underscores the importance of Ecuador in the history of cacao, but also highlights the country's rich biodiversity and its role in the conservation of native varieties of cacao, such as the Nacional variety, recognized worldwide for its fine aroma and exceptional flavor. This cocoa, along with other ancestors, is among the most appreciated by chocolatiers and gourmets around the world.

The discovery has also sparked a renewed interest in Ecuador's culinary and agricultural history, positioning it as a leader in the research and preservation of cocoa's heritage. In addition, this recognition boosts the local economy by promoting cocoa-related tourism and trade, while encouraging sustainable and ethical production in rural communities that have kept these traditions alive for millennia.

With this new understanding of the cocoa legacy, Ecuador not only asserts itself as a pivotal country in the history of cocoa, but also positions itself on the world map as a must-see destination for chocolate lovers and those interested in the rich cultural and natural history surrounding this unique fruit.

The Minister of Rural Development and Lands, Santos Condori, expressed his enthusiasm for the official launch of the event, highlighting how this initiative seeks to improve opportunities for cocoa producers and processors in national and international markets. "Through this activity, we hope not only to celebrate the richness of Bolivian cocoa, but also to strengthen the cocoa value chain in Bolivia," Condori said.

The event is part of a broader effort by the Bolivian government to support cocoa producers and harvesters through significant investments. With an investment of more than 152 million Bolivianos, the Cocoa Production and Collection Support Program seeks to benefit more than 4,000 families in 36 municipalities, covering key regions such as La Paz, Beni, Pando, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz. The director of the Decentralized Public Institution for Food Sovereignty (IPDSA), Hugo Janco, highlighted that the program is designed to increase the productive potential of cultivated and wild native cocoa, thus improving production, harvesting and post-harvest processes.

Bolivia's history with cocoa is not recent. Since 2009, the country has had a notable presence in the international Cocoa of Excellence tournament, achieving a position among the 50 best in the world. In 2023, Bolivia reached a milestone by winning silver medals that recognized its cocoa bean among the best in the world.