Cocoa analysis test and its importance in the postharvest procedure

Abstract

To ensure the quality and safety of Venezuelan fine-flavored cocoa for entry into national and international markets, it must be evaluated strictly according to national and international standards. The purpose of this work is to associate each parameter evaluated in the analysis test with the good agricultural, harvesting, and storage practices applied to cocoa beans intended for domestic use or export, and to alert farmers so that they can correct the problems causing defects in the analysis. The methodology involved sampling from the warehouse, applying the quartering procedure to obtain representative samples, and conducting the analysis test. The analysis test comprises steps such as determining moisture content, waste, and bean count, as well as conducting a cut test to assess the quality and safety of the cocoa batch. This test revealed deficiencies in the post-harvest flow chart that could help farmers optimize their final product. Important findings showed that the samples met the required moisture content of 7.5%, as specified by the standards; however, some exhibited external and internal defects that could compromise their commercialization. The study is a useful tool for farmers to improve their post-harvest procedures.