Story perspectives

Cacao of Excellence Program Sparks 30% Sales Rise

5/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Bioversity International and CIAT launched the Cacao of Excellence program in Italy.
Julien Simonis leads a 15-taster panel that evaluates acidity and bitterness.
The program provides free guides and a flavor wheel while charging certification fees.
Roong Kumpan in Thailand, Rosaura Laura’s farm in Peru and Julia Butac in Philippines joined program, with Peruvian farm seeing a 30% sales rise and Butac processing beans sorting, slicing, roasting, milling and tempering.

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Story summary

Bioversity International and CIAT launched the Cacao of Excellence program in Italy.
Julien Simonis leads a 15-taster panel that evaluates acidity and bitterness.
The program provides free guides and a flavor wheel while charging certification fees.
Roong Kumpan in Thailand, Rosaura Laura’s farm in Peru and Julia Butac in Philippines joined program, with Peruvian farm seeing a 30% sales rise and Butac processing beans sorting, slicing, roasting, milling and tempering.