Other ways to enjoy cacao powder
Apparently some people in Europe have started snorting cacao powder at dance parties. The writer of this answer has tried that, twice, and decided that he vastly prefers to consume cacao the old-fashioned way–by eating or drinking it. It’s tastier that way, and less messy.
How do you preserve heirloom cacao?
To’ak and its rainforest conservation partner Third Millennium Alliance (TMA) have embarked on a project to pull Ancient Nacional cacao variety back from the precipice of extinction. Click to read the details.
Is your cacao fermented?
Yes, we consider fermentation to be one of the single most important steps in the chocolate-making process, in terms of flavor profile.
What is terroir-driven chocolate & why do you release different harvest years?
To’ak’s Harvest editions offer connoisseurs of dark chocolate this same opportunity—to taste not only the land, but also the characteristics of the particular year in which it was harvested.
What are the main steps in the production of your chocolate?
Our production of chocolate starts with planting the cacao tree, includes the key post-harvest step of fermentation, the traditional steps of chocolate making, and finishes with packaging your bar in Ecuador. Read on to discover all 14 steps!
What are the health benefits of cacao?
Cacao is arguably the healthiest thing you can put into your body. It allows you to operate at a high level and helps you feel good throughout the day. Read on for six of the most compelling reasons for enjoying cacao as part of a healthy diet.
How and why do you age your chocolate?
Aged chocolate is a new phenomenon that To'ak has been pioneering since 2013. The process is grounded in the science of flavor extraction, and draws heavily from long-standing practices in both the wine and whisky traditions.
Is each edition a limited edition production? How many bars do you make?
Yes. Our Origin Bars are typically limited to only 150 bars per edition. Each bar is packaged in a handcrafted hardwood box that has the individual bar number engraved on the bottom. Our Signature Bars are somewhat more numerous, but are typically limited to 1,000 per edition.
What are your shipping rates & shipping policy?
We offer free shipping to the USA for orders of USD $75 and to most other countries for orders of USD $175. Our shipping services include overnight express (USA only), 2-day express (USA only), express worldwide courier (international) and regular USPS service (USA only). Read on for full rates and conditions.
What can I do if my chocolate arrived damaged (broken, discolored or melted)?
We’re sorry about this. We’ve spent a great deal of time and resources trying to figure out the best possible way to protect your chocolate during shipment, but our system is not perfect. A broken bar can still be enjoyed but we understand this can be disappointing and you are entitled to file an insurance claim should you wish.