Short Wave Short Wave

Inside the lab taste-testing the world's chocolate

Jun 15, 2026 · 10m

Summary

Hosts Regina Barber and Ari Daniel explore the Cacao of Excellence program, which standardizes cacao evaluation to help small-scale farmers. By treating cacao like wine, the initiative allows producers in countries like Peru and Thailand to command higher prices for quality beans. This scientific approach aims to improve farmer livelihoods and dignify their labor amidst global supply chain challenges.

Topics discussed

Capella University Sponsor Message Intro: Chocolate shortage and the Perugia lab NetSuite and Edward Jones Sponsor Messages The standardized cacao processing method Cacao of Excellence program and farmer economics Tasting chocolate: Peru vs. Hawaii samples Impact on small farmers and global recognition Outro and production credits Tiny Desk Tour and Wait Wait Don't Tell Me promos
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