PS 9919 - Intro to Cacao

Immerse yourself into the world of chocolate, the good the bad and the ugly. In this course we will take a multidisciplinary journey from the origins of cacao bean through its transformation to your favorite chocolate bar. Rarely do we reflect that ingrained in that chocolate bar is a tale of ingenuity and exploitation of both humans and nature and the interactions among them. As we trace its value chain from production to consumption, students will gain a greater perspective on some of the complexities that surround such cacao. Specifically, we will delve into the interplay between the agronomical, ecological, economic and social factors that come together to produce this beloved crop. Furthermore, we will also address and discuss some of the most pressing challenges to its sustainable production. Finally, students will have the opportunity to engage their senses and learn how to properly evaluate chocolate by participating in two tasting sessions. The sensory aspects learned will help students make informed choices about the chocolate you buy, but also how best to pair it so that you can enjoy it anytime during the day in a conscious manner.

2.00