There are three main cacao tree varieties worldwide: Forastero, Trinitario and Criollo. Forastero, robust and highly productive, accounts for around 80% of world production. Trinitario, a hybrid of the other two, makes up about 15%. Criollo represents only 3–5% of total production, making it a genuinely rare and precious variety, distinguished by its incomparable aromatic finesse and exceptional nutritional richness.

Raw Criollo cacao powder is extremely versatile in the kitchen. Use it to make hot chocolate by mixing it into warm plant milk (not too hot, to preserve nutrients) with a little honey or agave syrup. It’s also perfect in smoothies and breakfast bowls, blended with fruit, seeds and almond milk. In raw baking, it works beautifully in energy balls, homemade energy bars and raw avocado chocolate mousse. Count on one to two tablespoons per serving, roughly 10–20g a day.

The key difference lies in processing temperature. Conventional cacao is roasted between 120–160°C and often alkalised (Dutch processing) to soften its taste and change its colour — treatments that significantly alter the cacao’s composition. Raw cacao, processed at low temperature, retains a higher content of flavonoids, magnesium and vitamins. The taste also differs: more raw and vegetal, with fruity notes and a natural bitterness. Raw cacao powder is typically lighter in colour than conventional cacao, leaning towards light brown or beige.

Saldac is a French pioneer of fair trade, engaged for many years in direct partnerships with smallholder cooperatives across Latin America. This raw Criollo cacao comes from certified organic Peruvian cooperatives, where cacao trees are grown under agroforestry — shaded by fruit and forest trees. This traditional growing method preserves biodiversity and soil health while producing cacao of superior taste and nutritional quality. Organic certification guarantees the absence of chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, while fair trade ensures fair pay for producers.

Store the powder in an airtight container, away from light, moisture and heat. An opaque glass jar or the carefully resealed original pack both work well; under these conditions, the powder keeps its taste and nutritional qualities for 12–18 months. Avoid storing it in the fridge, as moisture can affect its texture.

Food supplement — does not replace a varied, balanced diet or a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Keep out of reach of children.

Does raw Criollo cacao contain caffeine?

Raw Criollo cacao contains very little caffeine, but is rich in theobromine, a related alkaloid with a milder, more gradual stimulating effect. A 10g serving of raw cacao powder provides roughly 20mg of caffeine and 200mg of theobromine.

Why is Criollo cacao more expensive than conventional cacao?

The premium reflects several factors: its rarity (under 5% of world production), the lower yield of Criollo trees, their greater susceptibility to disease, and the special care needed in cultivation — plus organic certification, fair trade and low-temperature processing, all of which add to production costs.

How should I store raw Criollo cacao powder?

Keep it in an airtight container away from light, moisture and heat. An opaque glass jar or a carefully resealed pack will keep it in good condition for 12–18 months. Avoid the fridge, as moisture can affect its texture.

Where can I buy organic Criollo cacao in Paris?

Saldac’s Organic Raw Criollo Cacao Powder (250g) is available at Herba Barona, in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. Come discover this exceptional product and get advice from our passionate team.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.