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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