What Brand of Cacao Does Dr. Berg Recommend?Updated 8 days ago

Dr. Berg does not provide a specific brand recommendation for cacao. Choosing the right source is essential to ensure you are getting maximum health benefits without unwanted contaminants. 

Best Buying Practices for Cacao 

When shopping for cacao, look for the following "gold standards" on the label: 

• Certified Organic: This is the most important factor. Conventional cacao is one of the most heavily chemically treated crops in the world. An organic label ensures it was grown without synthetic pesticides or herbicides.
• "Ceremonial Grade" or Raw: "Cacao" is different from "Cocoa." Raw cacao is processed at low temperatures, which preserves the delicate antioxidants and heat-sensitive phytonutrients that Dr. Berg often discusses.
• Heavy Metal Testing: Cacao plants can naturally absorb heavy metals such as cadmium and lead from the soil. Reputable brands often state on their websites that they conduct third-party testing for heavy metals.
• Fair Trade: This ensures the product was ethically sourced, supporting better conditions for farmers and higher quality control during harvesting and fermentation.
• Avoid "Dutch-Processed": Also labeled as "alkalized," this process reduces the acidity of cacao but also destroys up to 60–90% of the beneficial flavanols.