El Grano de Oro means the Golden Seed. It's the creation of Abuelo Efrén, guardian of ancient cacao wisdom from the historic cultivation region of Mihuatlán, Tabasco, Mexico. The cacao is planted, cultivated, and harvested with respect for the ancestry and worldview of the Yokot'an Mayan culture. The cacaotal (cacao farm) is prayed for, sung to, and cared for following Mayan traditions for more than 11 generations. It is fermented for 4-5 days in the dry season, and 5-7 days in the rainy season. PROFILE: Earthy, coarse grind. With only 30mg of caffeine but a high 420mg of theobromine per serving, this cacao also has the unique distinction of a theobromine to caffeine ratio of 14 to 1 – much higher than average. Because of the deep history behind this cacao and the fact that it is made with no machines, we consider it a "top shelf" option. *Our labels and branding are approved by the producers, and we have their consent to share the cacao for the betterment of humanity.* WHY IS THE PRICE DIFFERENT? For years, the true value of ceremonial cacao has been artificially suppressed. Black market resales and factory-made imitations flooded the market, driving down prices and undermining the indigenous communities who have carried cacao’s sacred traditions forward. In the past we tried to match those prices, but as a legal food business trying to maintain our high ethics, we barely covered our operational costs. Soul Lift Cacao is proud to lead a historic correction by restoring ceremonial cacao to its rightful worth. This new pricing honors the true labor, lineage, and spirit behind every seed — and helps protect the future of this sacred medicine by ensuring that Soul Lift Cacao can keep serving you and the mission. Read more on our Blog. MORE ABOUT CACAO Cacao has been considered sacred in Mesoamerica for thousands of years, long before the chocolate industry altered the original treasure. It has numerous superfood benefits, and can also deepen introspective practices like yoga and meditation. Every purchase of this cacao supports Mayan indigenous people through ethical direct trade, and helps them preserve their spiritual traditions and values. For more info about us and our partners, visit our Sources page. DIRECTIONS To make a drink of ceremonial cacao, finely chop the cacao. Measure 1/4 cup ground cacao and 6-8 oz of hot water (steaming but not boiling). Mix with a blender (with caution!), handheld frother, or other agitator to fully melt the cacao.