Traces of chocolate drinks found in ceramic pots and cocoa-related scripture – these archaeological findings from Mexico and Central America dating back to 1900 BC reveal cocoa’s rich history. In the Mayan civilization, cocoa was not only a key source of food but was also of great social importance. The scientific name of cocoa, Theobroma cacao, meaning “food of the gods”, highlights its importance within ancient cultures. The term cacao refers to the plant that produces cocoa, from which we make chocolate today.

Cocoa has been under threat since it was first traced almost 4,000 years ago. From the pre-Columbian era right up to the present day, cocoa has been affected by both pests and disease, and now water shortages are having a further detrimental impact on the crop. This is why it is vital to enhance our knowledge, understanding and management of cocoa.

For hundreds of years, cocoa farmers and researchers understood cocoa genetics as being separated into only two groups: Criollo, meaning local, and Forastero, meaning foreign. As part of a large scientific research program, Mars scientists have traced the true genetic nature of cocoa. Far from the simplistic dual classification once assumed, the origin of this species highlights a very complex evolutionary process. A study, conducted by Mars, has identified ten distinct genetic groups of cocoa and pinpointed their exact origin. Such knowledge of the complex evolutionary process of cocoa gives us great insight into the crop’s future development across the globe.

Key facts

• By analyzing the DNA segments of hundreds of cacao trees in South America, we have identified ten distinct genetic groups of the cacao plant, their exact origins and their localization. These discoveries give us new insights into the differentiation of cocoa and will aid the future management of this diverse species.
• Cocoa has long played a key role in the mythology of Latin America. According to the K’iche people of Guatemala, Christ used a cacao tree’s white flowers to shield Himself from His enemies. In return, He blessed the cacao tree and thus cocoa is regarded as a gift to perpetuate the memory of Christ.
• Since its domestication, cocoa has had an important cultural role. In the ancient Mayan civilization, cocoa beverages were consumed during wedding ceremonies and cocoa beans were traded as currency. The crop also had a key ceremonial function as cocoa was used as an offering to the deities.