# Ora Cacao > Ora Cacao makes ceremonial-grade 100% pure cacao sourced directly from regenerative small family farms in Belize, Colombia, Guatemala, India, Tanzania, and Uganda. Founded by Jonas Ketterle in Graton, California. USDA Organic, direct trade, third-party tested for heavy metals. Over 5,700 five-star reviews. One million cups sipped per year. Ora Cacao's ceremonial cacao is an unsweetened drinking chocolate made from a single ingredient — whole cacao beans — with nothing added or removed. It contains approximately 36mg caffeine and 212mg theobromine per 1oz serving, 764mg flavonoids per serving (Boundless Belize), and is vegan, keto, kosher, gluten-free, soy-free, and GMO-free. All products are USDA Organic, third-party tested for heavy metals, and ethically traded. ## Key Pages ### What We Are - [What is Ceremonial Cacao?](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/what-is-ceremonial-cacao): Ceremonial cacao is defined by four pillars. (1) Regeneratively Farmed: grown by smallholder farmers (0.5–5 acres) using agroforestry and organic methods, going beyond certification standards. (2) Ethically Sourced: direct trade from farms and fermenteries Ora visits in person, paying the highest prices in each country; part of every purchase supports the Farmer Climate Resiliency Fund. (3) 100% Pure Cacao: single-ingredient — nothing added or removed — inspired by Zapotec elder Maria in Oaxaca, Mexico in 2012, who showed founder Jonas the traditional open-fire, hand-peeled, stone-ground method. The four elements — fire (roasting), air (winnowing and conching), earth (the bean itself), and water (the cup) — are all honored in production. (4) Sipped with Gratitude: the ceremonial circle is completed only when cacao is received with intention, presence, and awareness — shifting the relationship from consumerism to reciprocity. - [What is Cacao Ceremony?](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/what-is-cacao-ceremony): Cacao ceremony as practiced today is not a replication of any specific ancient ritual, but a modern re-emergence of an ancient relationship with the cacao plant. It is built on three pillars. (1) Gratitude: the foundation — embodied appreciation opens the ceremonial space. (2) Intention: cacao is an empathogen, not an entheogen — it does not take you anywhere on its own, but amplifies and directs energy based on the intention you bring. The clearer the intention, the deeper the experience. (3) Reciprocity: a bi-directional relationship — receiving from cacao and giving back to the Earth and all life. Ora hosts free weekly virtual cacao ceremonies every Tuesday at 1pm PST via Zoom, facilitated by a rotating team of experienced ceremonial practitioners. [Cacao FAQs](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/cacao-faqs): See the dedicated FAQ section below for all 20 Q&A pairs from this page.  - [About Us](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/about-us): Ora Cacao was founded by Jonas Ketterle, who first encountered traditional cacao in April 2012 in Teotitlán del Valle, Oaxaca, Mexico. Zapotec elder Maria taught him to make drinking chocolate the ancient way — beans roasted over open fire, hand-peeled, stone-ground into paste. Using his mechanical engineering background (BS and MS from Stanford, Paul and Daisy Soros Fellow), Jonas built Ora's factory from the ground up to scale this ancient practice without sacrificing quality. The company's mission: "Lead a reciprocity-based, transparent, and scalable alternative to the commodity cocoa supply chain." Team: Jonas (founder/CEO), Nik (operations), Shaina (marketing), Brian (eCommerce), Connor (production), Maddie (content). Headquartered at 9101 Graton Road, Suite 102, Graton, California. ### Health and Science - [Neurochemistry and Mood Benefits](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/neurochemistry-mood-benefits): Ceremonial cacao contains four key mood-active compounds: anandamide (the "bliss molecule," which cacao both contains and inhibits the reuptake of), phenylethylamine (PEA, the "love chemical"), serotonin, and dopamine precursors. Cacao also inhibits MAO enzymes that normally break down these neuromodulators, extending their effects. Theobromine increases cerebral blood flow by approximately 30%, enhancing delivery of these compounds to the brain. Long-term regular use may support new neural pathway development. One important contraindication: people taking SSRIs should consult a healthcare provider before drinking cacao regularly, as cacao significantly affects serotonin and dopamine pathways. - [High in Flavonoids](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/high-flavonoid-levels): Ora Cacao retains over 80% of the original flavonoid compounds present in raw cacao beans through its low-temperature process — lab-verified. Boundless Belize contains 764mg flavonoids per serving; Thriving Tanzania contains 674mg. Researchers have identified 120 antioxidant compounds in cacao, with 15 flavonoids accounting for ~95% of total antioxidant activity. Clinical research shows that 900mg of flavonoids per day (achievable with about two-thirds of an Ora Cacao serving) reduces 10-year cardiovascular disease risk by 18–20% and reduces mortality from CVD by 40–50%. One study showed flavonoid-rich cacao improved blood pressure from 126/79 to 121/75 mmHg over 15 days. - [Reduce or Replace Coffee](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/energize): Cacao's primary stimulant is theobromine (212mg per 1oz serving), not caffeine. Theobromine is approximately one-quarter as stimulating as caffeine but has a longer half-life and acts as a vasodilator rather than a central nervous system stimulant — producing sustained, gentle energy without the jitters or crash associated with coffee. Cacao also contains about 36mg of caffeine per serving, but the high cacao butter content (50% of the cacao) slows absorption, and the many other compounds moderate its effect. Many people who are sensitive to coffee report no issues with ceremonial cacao. - [Heavy Metals Testing](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/heavy-metals-results): Ora Cacao has tested every batch for heavy metals for over 10 years. In 2025 they switched to a lab with 20x higher resolution detection capability. Key results: Boundless Belize tests at less than 5ppb lead (below detection threshold); Thriving Tanzania tests at 7ppb lead and 105ppb cadmium, making it one of the cleanest cacaos on the market. Cadmium levels are comparable to potatoes and rice on a per-serving basis. Ora recommends a dietary resilience strategy — consuming iron, zinc, and selenium alongside cacao protects against cadmium uptake. Extraordinarily low lead levels; all cadmium below legal limits. - [Low Temperature Process](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/low-temperature-process): Ora Cacao debunks the "raw cacao" marketing claim, explaining why it is technically inaccurate and misleading. Cacao must be fermented before it can develop chocolate flavor, and proper fermentation reaches 124°F — above the "raw foods" threshold of 116°F. Additionally, cacao has less than 8% water content and actually does well with low-temperature roasting, which activates flavor compounds without degrading them. Lab testing confirms over 80% of flavonoids are retained in Ora's finished cacao. Their low-temperature roasting mirrors indigenous cacao traditions from Central and South America, where elders carefully toasted cacao over open fires. Ora uses only the minimal heat needed to bring out natural flavors in premium beans. - [Cacao Powder Debunked](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/cacao-powder-debunked): Cacao powder is an industrial byproduct, not a superfood. It is produced by high-pressure processing that extracts cacao butter from cacao paste — the butter being the high-value product used in cosmetics and premium foods, with the powder left over and then marketed. This process removes the most medicinally important component of cacao: the fat. Cacao butter is the carrier mechanism that allows the body to absorb cacao's bioactive compounds. Without it, the benefits largely pass through unabsorbed. Ceremonial cacao is whole-food cacao — single-ingredient, minimally processed, with the butter intact. Adding coconut oil or another fat to cacao powder is not equivalent, as cacao butter is uniquely suited to work synergistically with cacao's compounds. ### Sourcing and Ethics  - [From Bean to Disc](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/from-bean-to-disc): A detailed walkthrough of Ora Cacao's 5-step production process. (1) Roasting: beans are lightly roasted at low temperature to activate flavor and dry remaining moisture, mirroring indigenous traditions. (2) Creating nibs: roasted beans are cracked and winnowed to separate shell from bean, yielding cacao nibs. (3) Grinding: nibs are ground over the course of a day, liberating cacao butter until the paste reaches ~20 micron particle size — too fine for the tongue to register texture. No sugar or dairy is added. (4) Conching: ground cacao is vigorously agitated with heat and airflow to volatilize bitter compounds (acetic acid) produced during fermentation — critical for palatability in 100% cacao. (5) Tempering and depositing: liquid cacao is tempered to seed the correct crystal structure, then deposited into disc molds and rapidly cooled. Ora uses custom-built tempering equipment and stainless steel piping, avoiding plastic and soy lecithin. - [Direct Trade vs. Fair Trade](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/why-direct-trade-is-better-than-fair-trade): Fair Trade certification pays only a 10% premium above already-poverty-level commodity cacao prices, doing little to change farmer livelihoods. The commodity supply chain involves multiple middlemen — including "coyotes" (collectors who pay poorly), regional processors, international trading houses, and finally chocolate companies — many of whom cannot even identify the farms their cacao comes from. This opacity enables labor abuses and rock-bulking (farmers adding up to 10% rocks and dirt to cacao bags, a practice so common that large chocolate makers have de-stoners in their production lines). Ora Cacao's direct trade model eliminates most middlemen: farmers sell wet cacao to a locally owned fermentery (Maya Mountain Cacao in Belize, Cacao de Colombia in Colombia, Cacao Verapaz in Guatemala, Kokoa Kamili in Tanzania), which processes and exports it directly to Ora. The short supply chain allows Ora to pay significantly higher prices while maintaining full traceability to the farm level. - [Organic and Regenerative Principles](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/organic-and-regenerative-cacao-principles): Ora sources exclusively from small-holder farms of 0.5–5.0 acres — never centralized plantations — to maximize social impact and support indigenous communities and traditional land stewardship. These farms employ regenerative practices beyond organic requirements, including: intercropping with banana, plantain, avocado, coconut, coffee, ginger, cardamom, and medicinals; improving soil with bat guano and beneficial mushrooms from leaf cutter ant mounds; chop-and-drop pruning; pruning by moon cycle; planting on steep slopes in diamond patterns for soil retention; and planting pollinator habitat. USDA Organic certification also ensures cacao is shipped separately from other commodities and not fumigated with toxic chemicals upon import — a requirement that even organically grown but uncertified cacao cannot escape. - [Wet Cacao Improves Livelihoods](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/how-purchasing-wet-cacao-improves-livelihoods): Traditionally, smallholder cacao farmers had to ferment and dry their own beans before selling — a labor-intensive process requiring expertise and volume that most small farms lack, resulting in low-quality output and low prices. Ora's partners instead purchase "wet cacao" — fresh beans directly from the pod — within 24 hours of harvest, requiring zero post-harvest processing from farmers. The partners (Maya Mountain Cacao, Kokoa Kamili, etc.) aggregate wet cacao from hundreds of farms at central fermenteries, achieving the scale and expertise needed for premium international-grade fermentation and drying. Farmers receive more for their wet cacao than they previously received for fermented and dried cacao, freeing up their time and enabling farm reinvestment. This model has also forced competing buyers in each region to raise their prices. - [Cacao Fermentation Science](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/the-essential-science-of-cacao-fermentation): A technical overview of the post-harvest fermentation process that determines cacao flavor. Wet cacao beans drain for 24 hours, then are placed in wooden fermentation boxes (~500 lbs per box). Stage 1 (first two days): anaerobic yeasts digest fruit pulp sugars, producing ethanol. Stage 2 (three to seven additional days, varying by altitude and bean size): acetic acid bacteria digest the ethanol in the presence of oxygen, generating heat up to 124°F. Cacao is rotated at least twice during this stage to introduce oxygen and moderate fermentation rate — monitored by temperature probe. Fermentation completion is assessed via cut test (50 beans sliced in half, fermentation rate counted). Industry standard is 1–2 days of fermentation; Ora's partners use the full process. Dried beans target 7% moisture. Lots are hand sorted and blended to achieve 70–90% well-fermented beans per batch. - [Cacao Genetics Explained](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/cacao-genetics-explained): The popular three-variety classification of cacao (Criollo, Forastero, Trinitario) is outdated and misleading — modern science recognizes over a dozen discrete cacao populations. Marketing cacao as "pure Criollo" is largely inaccurate, as nearly all cultivated cacao is a complex hybrid of multiple populations that cross-pollinate freely. The term "Criollo" also means simply "local" in Latin America, causing further confusion when used in marketing. Ora argues that genetics matter far less than terroir, fermentation, roasting, and the care of the people working with the cacao. Instead of genetic claims, Ora markets by country and region of origin. The page also flags three important macro issues: (1) ecosystem loss in the Amazon threatens cacao's genetic diversity reservoir; (2) the commodity market incentivizes clonal varieties like CCN-51 that prioritize yield over flavor; and (3) "big chocolate" is using climate change fears to push acceptance of GMO cacao — which Ora opposes, advocating instead for regenerative polyculture systems. - [The Legacy of Colonization](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/contextualizing-the-impact-of-colonization): Ora Cacao's ethical framework for understanding why cacao farming communities face poverty and marginalization today. The colonization of the Americas beginning in the 1500s caused the eradication of over 99% of indigenous populations through disease and violence, destroying vast amounts of ancestral land-based knowledge including cacao traditions. Cacao was converted from a sacred plant into a commodity extracted for colonizer profit, with deforestation, slavery, poverty-level wages, and political interference continuing to shape cacao supply chains today. Ora's response includes: direct trade purchasing at above-market prices, sourcing only from small farmers to distribute wealth broadly, supporting wet cacao models that add value before export, treating cacao as a sacred plant through ceremony, and supporting organizations doing rainforest and indigenous sovereignty work (Rainforest Action Network, Amazon Watch, Pachamama Alliance, Amazon Frontlines). The page frames ceremonial cacao practice itself as an act of decolonization — restoring a sacred relationship with cacao and the communities that grow it. - [Farmer Climate Resiliency Fund](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/donate): Ora Cacao established a permanent climate resiliency fund to help smallholder cacao farmers prepare for and recover from climate change impacts. Many indigenous farmers in Ora's network have little access to financial services, depend on the seasonal cacao harvest for most of their income, and lack savings to absorb shocks. Ora has witnessed firsthand instances such as a flood destroying the only bridge connecting the Chivite community to the outside world, leaving farmers unable to move their cacao bags — a setback taking years to recover from. Rather than launching one-off fundraisers, Ora contributes a portion of annual revenue to the fund, customers can also donate, all funds are held in safe assets managed to grow at 5% annually, and the Ora team works with on-the-ground partners to identify and fund resiliency projects each year. Goal: $1 million by 2030, supporting Ora's farming communities in perpetuity with no premiums or enrollment required from farmers. A 2022 survey by Uncommon Cacao found 87% of smallholder farmers across their network cite climate variability as their #1 challenge. Ora frames this fund as a form of reparations for centuries of colonial exploitation and as a model for a new, reciprocal way of doing business beyond price alone. Ora works with 1,000+ smallholder farmers in 5 countries (Belize, Colombia, Guatemala, Tanzania, Uganda). ### Learning and Courses - [Ceremonial Cacao 101 Course](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/cacao-101-course): A 19-day self-paced online course — the ultimate introduction to working with cacao for health, energy, and ritual. Priced at $45 (course only) or $89 (course + Variety Kit). Covers: cacao's origin and mythology, historical context, physical health benefits, neurochemistry and mood, cacao spirituality, how cacao is made from bean to cup, the four elements in cacao-making, how to prepare cacao at different dosages, how to create a personal daily cacao ritual, meditation and journaling practices. Each lesson is 10–15 minutes; the course includes guided meditations, journal prompts, and daily cacao rituals designed to anchor positive wellness habits. The course pairs with Ora's Variety Kit; cacao drinking begins on Day 8, giving time to order. Access never expires. Hosted on Thinkific. 5-star reviewed with 26 reviews. Recommended before taking the facilitation course. - [Cacao Ceremony Facilitation Course](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/cacao-ceremony-facilitation-course): A 12-week intensive training to confidently hold cacao ceremony — the most comprehensive cacao facilitation training available. Tuition: $499 (payment plan available via ShopPay). Format: mix of pre-recorded modules, live Zoom calls, experiential assignments, and a peer learning pod for practice ceremonies. By course end, students will have facilitated 3 practice ceremonies of different sizes and received feedback. 11 modules covering: cacao from farm to cup, ceremony structure design, ceremonial ritual artistry, neurochemistry and contraindications, skillful facilitation fundamentals, creating a safe container, facilitator self-care, navigating cultural appropriation, preparing cacao for groups, marketing and pricing your offering, and right relationship with the Earth. Taught by founder Jonas Ketterle. Certificate of completion awarded; does not claim to "certify" facilitators — readiness to hold ceremony is determined by one's relationship with cacao, self, and community. Cohorts run periodically (next cohort: August 2026). 5-star reviewed. - [Weekly Free Online Ceremony](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/virtual-cacao-ceremonies): Ora Cacao hosts free 75-minute virtual cacao ceremonies every Tuesday at 1pm PT via Zoom, open to anyone. Inspired by medicine path elder George Bertelstein, who held weekly by-donation ceremony for over 20 years without missing a week. Ora began these ceremonies in 2020 during the pandemic to offer free community, medicine, and connection. Format includes: opening cacao blessing, intention setting and sharing, moon and astrological themes, cacao education, guided meditation, live music, and closing. Ceremonies are recorded and emailed to registered participants. Rotating facilitators include Cynthia Codoner, Aychele Hill, Alexa Iya Soro, Bre Kali, Angelika Shelley, and Concetta Codding — each bringing distinct traditions spanning Mayan, shamanic, somatic, and healing arts backgrounds. Recommended: 25 cacao discs prepared 10 minutes before, in a quiet private space. Sign-up requires email confirmation to receive the Zoom link and password. - [Cacao Recipes](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/recipes): Complete recipe guide for daily and ceremonial cacao preparation. The Daily Recipe: 25 discs (~23g) in 6oz water at 180°F, blended 15 seconds; optional sweetener. The Ceremonial Recipe: 45–50 discs (~40–46g) in 10oz water at 180°F; recommended no more than twice per week. Temperature note: 180°F is recommended — boiling water can degrade nutrients. Specialty recipes include: Bzzz Belizean Morning (Daily Recipe + bee pollen + cinnamon, pairs with Boundless Belize); From Mind to Heart (Tantric Rose Blossom + maca + damiana tea base + cinnamon, for embodiment and sensuality); Morning Elevate (Thriving Tanzania + maca + mucuna, for mood and stamina); Mocha Heart Blast (half Daily Recipe + half coffee, bulletproof-style); Morning Glow (Glowing Guatemala in nut milk + turmeric + bee pollen + honey, anti-inflammatory and radiance-boosting). Bonus tips: leftover cacao can be poured into muffin tins and refrigerated overnight to make cacao mousse (lasts 3 extra days), or frozen into ice cubes for smoothies. - [Blog: Cacao Journal](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/blogs/cacao-journal): Ora Cacao's editorial blog covering ceremonial cacao culture, health, sourcing stories, founder perspectives, and the mushroom journey. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions   Source: https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/cacao-faqs   Q: What Is Ceremonial Cacao? A: Ceremonial cacao is an unsweetened drinking chocolate made from direct trade whole cacao beans, minimally processed to retain its bioactive compounds. It supports sustained energy, heart health, and boosts mood when sipped with gratitude and intention. Pure ceremonial cacao is made from a single ingredient — whole cacao beans — with nothing added or removed. It is ethically sourced from small holder, regenerative cacao farms. Ora Cacao has been constantly improving their craft since 2014, working with innovative partners and farmers disrupting the commodity cacao supply chain. Their cacao is USDA Organic Certified and third-party tested for heavy metals.   Q: What Makes Cacao Ceremonial-Grade? A: The gold standard for ceremonial cacao includes four pillars: Regeneratively Farmed (improving soil health, biodiversity, and stewarding watersheds); Ethically Sourced (purchasing directly from small family farms at above market prices, supporting long-term farmer livelihoods through direct trade); 100% Pure Cacao (single ingredient — whole raw cacao beans — with nothing added or removed, unlike mainstream chocolate that uses sweeteners, waxes, emulsifiers, and fats); and Sipped With Gratitude (drinking cacao with embodied gratitude and intention, shifting from unconscious consumerism into right-relationship with the Earth). These four pillars define every batch Ora Cacao has made since 2014.   Q: How Is Ceremonial Cacao Different From Cocoa Powder or Chocolate? A: All ceremonial cacao is made from one single ingredient — cacao beans — roasted, shelled, ground into liquid chocolate, and cooled into discs or bricks. Cocoa powder is far more heavily processed: liquid cacao is loaded into massive industrial presses to squeeze out the cacao butter, then the remaining material is hammered into powder at high temperatures. Cocoa powder is typically made from secondary or tertiary quality cacao. In truth, cocoa powder is a waste stream product from making cocoa butter — the true superfood is whole-food ceremonial cacao, which retains high-grade cacao butter as the best carrier fat for its medicinal properties. This applies regardless of whether the cocoa powder is labeled raw or organic certified. Most commercial chocolate bars are candy, with added sugar, emulsifiers, and other ingredients. Even craft bean-to-bar chocolate usually contains added sugar and is intended as a treat. Ceremonial cacao is crafted without sweetener to be used intentionally to support wellbeing.   Q: What Is a Cacao Ceremony? A: A cacao ceremony is an intentional practice of drinking ceremonial cacao with gratitude, presence, and a specific intention. Unlike simply drinking cacao as a beverage, ceremony involves slowing down, creating a dedicated space, and opening to cacao as a teacher and ally for the mind and heart. It can be practiced alone as a daily ritual or in a group setting. The three universal pillars of cacao ceremony are gratitude, intention, and reciprocity. Modern cacao ceremony is not a replication of any specific ancient indigenous ritual — it is a contemporary emergence that honors the spirit of cacao and invites deeper connection with yourself and with life.   Q: Who Should Drink Ceremonial Cacao? A: Ceremonial cacao is ideal for people looking to replace coffee and wanting steady sustained energy without jitters or crashes; those interested in whole functional foods rich in minerals and flavonoids; people seeking calm focus and emotional balance for work, creativity, or daily life; those sensitive to caffeine who still want a natural uplifting boost; and people building a daily ritual like journaling, meditation, or mindful mornings. Ceremonial cacao has beneficial neuro-modulators that uplift mood and beneficial flavonoids that support cardiovascular health.   Q: What Does Ceremonial Cacao Taste Like? A: Pure ceremonial cacao is naturally bitter and earthy, with a deep rich chocolate flavor and none of the sweetness or additives of commercial chocolate — similar to an espresso shot compared to a sweet mocha. For people not used to unsweetened chocolate, it may take several months to shift the palate. The taste varies meaningfully by origin: Ora Cacao's Boundless Belize is nutty and smooth; Connected Colombia is bright and slightly grassy; Glowing Guatemala is deep and earthy; Thriving Tanzania has notes of red fruit; and Uplifting Uganda is bold and robust. Prepared as a warm drink with hot water, ceremonial cacao becomes velvety and full-bodied. It can be customized with natural sweetener, plant milk, cinnamon, cayenne, or cardamom.   Q: What Are The Benefits Of Ceremonial Cacao? A: The top four benefits of ceremonial cacao are: (1) Gentle energy without a crash, from theobromine. (2) Excellent source of flavonoids supporting cardiovascular health. (3) Mood boost and nervous system calm from neuro-modulators including anandamide, serotonin precursors, dopamine precursors, and MAO inhibitors that extend their effects. (4) Remineralization with magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, and trace minerals. Ora Cacao runs their own chocolate factory and lab-tested their products to confirm that their low-temperature process retains over 80% of the original flavonoid compounds. Lab testing shows Boundless Belize contains 764mg flavonoids per serving and Thriving Tanzania contains 674mg per serving — similar to levels used in clinical studies to verify health benefits from flavonoids. In the long term, regular ceremonial cacao use can support new neural pathways associated with joy, connection, and presence.   Q: Does Ceremonial Cacao Help With Depression? A: Many people use ceremonial cacao during emotionally difficult seasons — grief, burnout, low mood, or disconnection from themselves. Ceremonial cacao is not a clinical treatment for depressive disorders. What many people experience is a daily ritual that helps them feel more joy, love, and connection. The science: cacao contains anandamide (associated with bliss and emotional ease), tryptophan and tyrosine (amino acid precursors for serotonin and dopamine), and natural MAO inhibitors that slow the breakdown of these molecules, extending the good mood. Beyond chemistry, the ritual itself — slowing down, warming hands around a mug, setting an intention — has its own therapeutic value. Ora Cacao's founder Jonas has written about experiencing states of elevated consciousness after over a decade of regular cacao practice, attributing this in part to cacao's capacity to reinforce neural pathways associated with joy and connection. If experiencing clinical depression, work with a healthcare provider. If taking SSRIs or antidepressants, consult the FAQ on drug interactions before drinking cacao.   Q: Does Ceremonial Cacao Help With Anxiety? A: Ceremonial cacao is not a clinical treatment for anxiety disorders. What many people experience is a daily ritual that helps them feel more present, grounded, and less reactive to stress. Magnesium in whole cacao is a natural muscle relaxant key to nervous system regulation — and many people are chronically deficient in it. Theobromine, cacao's primary stimulant, gently increases blood flow without activating the central nervous system the way caffeine does, making it far less likely to provoke jitteriness or racing thoughts. Anandamide and cacao's serotonin precursors further support a grounded, open emotional state. Compared to coffee, ceremonial cacao creates calm focus and emotional ease, noticeably different from the cortisol spike and crash that coffee can induce. Those with caffeine sensitivity should start with a half dose.   Q: How Do You Make Ceremonial Cacao? A: Add 0.8 to 1.0 oz ceremonial cacao (23–28 grams) to a blender with 6oz of hot water or non-dairy milk at approximately 180°F and blend for 15 seconds until creamy. Add natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup to taste. Heat water to 180°F — like green tea, boiling water can degrade the nutrients. A hand-held electric milk frother can be used as an alternative to a blender.   Q: How Much Ceremonial Cacao Should I Drink? A: A regular daily dosage is 0.8oz–1.0oz (23–28g), which provides all the energizing, cardiac, and mood benefits. You can halve this or have up to 1.5oz (42g) in a sitting — people vary in sensitivity. Stay well hydrated. If taking SSRIs, SNRIs, or similar pharmaceuticals, consult a doctor before drinking more than a half dose, as cacao's natural MAO inhibitors can interact with these medications.   Q: When Is the Best Time to Drink Ceremonial Cacao? A: Most people find morning ideal. The gentle energy lift from theobromine peaks within 1–2 hours and sustains for several hours without a crash. Most people can drink ceremonial cacao on an empty stomach — the high cacao butter content (roughly 50% of the cacao) naturally protects the stomach and slows stimulant absorption. Generally avoid having cacao with a meal as it mutes the effects. Theobromine has a half-life of roughly 6–10 hours in the body — substantially longer than caffeine's. A full afternoon dose can affect sleep for sensitive people. General guide: morning for a full dose, early afternoon for a lighter half dose, at least 6 hours before bed.   Q: How Should Ceremonial Cacao Be Stored? A: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight — a pantry or kitchen cupboard works perfectly. Refrigeration is not necessary and can introduce moisture or cause harmless blooming (white appearance from cacao butter migration). Properly stored, ceremonial cacao keeps for at least two years. Keep away from strong-smelling foods, as cacao absorbs odors. Once opened, reseal tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Once prepared as a drink, consume immediately or within 24–48 hours if refrigerated.   Q: What Is the Difference Between Ceremonial Cacao and Hot Chocolate? A: They are fundamentally different products. Ingredients: hot chocolate is typically made from dutched cocoa powder (heavily processed, defatted cacao), sugar, powdered milk, and emulsifiers. Ceremonial cacao is made from a single ingredient — whole cacao beans — blended in hot water with optional sweetener. Nutrition: cocoa powder is defatted and processed at high heat, destroying most bioactive compounds. Ceremonial cacao retains its full spectrum of flavonoids, neuro-modulators, theobromine, minerals, and cacao butter — they are not nutritionally equivalent. Taste: hot chocolate is sweet, mild, and smooth, designed as dessert. Ceremonial cacao is naturally bitter, earthy, and rich with complex origin-specific notes. Intention: hot chocolate is a comfort drink. Ceremonial cacao is a functional food with real and noticeable effects on energy, mood, and heart opening.   Q: Is Ceremonial Cacao A Good Alternative To Coffee? A: Yes — many people drink ceremonial cacao as a coffee alternative because it provides gentle, sustained energy without the jitters and crash of coffee. The key difference is the primary stimulant: coffee contains caffeine, while cacao's primary stimulant is theobromine. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system (causing jitters, anxiety, elevated cortisol), while theobromine stimulates the cardiovascular system, increasing blood flow and alertness more gently and for longer. Ora Cacao contains approximately 36mg caffeine and 212mg theobromine per 1oz serving. The many compounds in cacao significantly moderate the caffeine — so much so that many people sensitive to coffee report no issue with cacao.   Q: Does Ceremonial Cacao Have Caffeine? A: Yes, but less than most expect. Ora Cacao has 36mg of caffeine per 1oz serving — about one-third of a regular cup of coffee. However, 1mg of caffeine in cacao is not equivalent to 1mg in coffee, because cacao has many compounds that balance and down-regulate the caffeine. A key moderating compound is cacao butter, which makes up 50% of the cacao and slows caffeine absorption (similar to bulletproof coffee). The primary energizing molecule in cacao is actually theobromine (212mg per serving), not caffeine. As a result, the caffeine in cacao is substantially down-regulated, making it suitable even for caffeine-sensitive people.   Q: What Is Theobromine and How Is It Different From Caffeine? A: Theobromine is a mild stimulant found in high concentrations in cacao, in the same chemical family as caffeine but acting very differently. Caffeine is a fast-acting central nervous system stimulant that spikes energy and can trigger jitteriness, elevated cortisol, and a crash. Theobromine has a slower onset, longer duration, and a gentler effect primarily on the cardiac system: it dilates blood vessels, increases blood flow, and produces a warm sustained alertness without the cortisol spike. Theobromine is also a vasodilator with a neutral effect on blood pressure — excellent for cardiac health and nutrient absorption. Ora Cacao has 212mg theobromine per 1oz serving.   Q: Is Ceremonial Cacao Safe To Drink Every Day? A: Yes — high-quality, intentionally sourced ceremonial cacao is safe and beneficial to drink every day. Cacao is naturally rich in flavonoids supporting circulation, brain function, and mood. Regular flavonoid-rich cacao consumption is associated with heart health, reduced inflammation, and overall wellbeing. What matters most is quality, sourcing, and rigorous lab testing — heavy metal levels vary widely by region and practices. Ora Cacao is transparently sourced, USDA Organic certified, and tested for heavy metals and mold toxins. Important: if taking SSRIs, consult a healthcare provider before drinking cacao, as cacao's MAO inhibitors can interact with serotonin-affecting medications. Pregnant women should see the dedicated pregnancy FAQ.   Q: Does Ceremonial Cacao Contain Heavy Metals? A: All ceremonial cacao — like many common whole foods including potatoes, rice, bread, spinach, and grains — contains trace amounts of heavy metals. Lead is a post-harvest contaminant from airborne lead dust prevalent in many cacao-growing regions. Ora Cacao's pure cacaos test exceptionally low: Boundless Belize (<5ppb), Thriving Tanzania (7ppb), and Illuminating India (11ppb) — are all at the threshold of detection. For context, California's legal framework allows up to 225ppb lead in cacao. Cadmium is naturally occurring in soils worldwide. What matters is daily exposure, not just concentration: one serving of Ora Cacao delivers comparable cadmium to a serving of potatoes, rice, or bread. For heavy metals sensitivity, Thriving Tanzania (7ppb lead, 105ppb cadmium) or Illuminating India (11ppb lead, 125ppb cadmium) are the recommended choice. Importantly, ceremonial cacao contains iron, zinc, selenium, and magnesium — the very minerals that protect against heavy metal absorption in the body. Ora Cacao has conducted third-party lab testing for over 10 years; current results by Purity Labs are published at https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/heavy-metals-results. All levels are within FDA guidelines.    Q: Is Ceremonial Cacao Safe During Pregnancy? A: Ceremonial cacao can be a beautiful ally for pregnancy and postpartum, but consulting a healthcare provider is strongly recommended before starting or continuing a cacao practice during pregnancy. If new to cacao, wait until the 2nd trimester to begin, and start at 1/4 to 1/2 of a normal daily dose (approximately 0.2–0.5oz, vs the normal 0.8–1.0oz). If already practicing with cacao, decrease the normal dose by half for the first trimester, then slowly increase through the last two trimesters. Ora Cacao is third-party tested for heavy metals and USDA Organic certified. The doctor's guidance always takes priority.   Q: Can Ceremonial Cacao Be Taken With Antidepressants Or SSRIs? A: Ceremonial cacao contains natural MAO inhibitors (MAOIs), which slow the breakdown of serotonin and dopamine in the body. This is part of what makes cacao's mood effects noticeable — but it also means that combining cacao with pharmaceuticals could amplify serotonin activity beyond intended levels, even potentially resulting in serotonin syndrome. If taking any of these medications, please consult a doctor before drinking ceremonial doses of cacao. At half dosages (under 0.4–0.5oz), the interaction risk is lower, but medical guidance is always recommended. Some people have reported reducing antidepressant dependence while working with cacao, but everyone's body is substantially different — consult a healthcare provider and start with very small amounts. ## About Ora Cacao — FAQs   Source: https://ceremonial-cacao.com/pages/about-us   Q: How Did Ora Cacao Get Started? A: In April 2012, Ora Cacao founder Jonas Ketterle traveled to Oaxaca, Mexico, and was invited to stay in Teotitlán del Valle, a Zapotec town with strong chocolate traditions. He visited a Zapotec elder named Maria, who taught him to make chocolate the traditional way — open fire roasted, hand peeled within sight of their sacred mountain, and stone ground with a molino. The result was a honey-sweetened chocolate paste fresher and more delicious than any chocolate he had tasted before. Two years later, following the passing of his grandmother — a reminder that life is short — Jonas began Ora Cacao in 2014 to share this experience of cacao with the world.   Q: Who Founded Ora Cacao? A: Ora Cacao was founded in 2014 by Jonas Ketterle, a first generation American originally from Germany. He studied Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University, completing his B.S. and M.S., and received the prestigious Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship to support his graduate studies. He went on to work on rural solar in Africa at Fenix International (now acquired by Engie) and solar in rural India at Greenlight Planet (now SunKing). He used his engineering expertise to design and build the Ora Cacao factory in Graton, California, and his experience working abroad to source cacao and build long-term relationships with farming communities. Jonas has also studied permaculture at the Regenerative Design Institute.   Q: Where Does Ora Cacao Source Its Cacao? A: Ora Cacao sources direct trade from over 1,000 regenerative small family farms across five countries: Belize, Colombia, Guatemala, India, Tanzania, and Uganda. Each cooperative and the farmers that supply it are USDA Organic certified and practice regenerative agroforestry — an approach that goes beyond organic to actively restore soil health, biodiversity, and watershed integrity. Ora works with regional fermentation centers in each country to ensure post-harvest quality that gives farmers superior prices. Founder Jonas Ketterle maintains direct, long-term relationships with the farming communities Ora works with. --- ## Products ### Pure 100% Ceremonial Cacao Single-ingredient cacao discs — made from whole cacao beans, nothing added or removed. USDA Organic, direct trade, unsweetened, vegan, keto, metals tested. - **[Boundless Belize](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/boundless-belize-ceremonial-cacao)** — Single-origin pure 100% ceremonial cacao from 300 small indigenous Q'eqchi' and Mopan Maya family farms in southern Belize, grown in rainforests surrounding ancient Mayan pyramids. Holds an Heirloom Cacao designation from the Heirloom Cacao Project; produced by Maya Mountain Cacao. 764mg flavonoids per serving, 36mg caffeine and 212mg theobromine. Flavor: dark chocolate, dried fruit, floral. Best for: deep inquiry, meditation, ritual. USDA Organic, direct trade, unsweetened, vegan. Nothing added or removed. - **[Connected Colombia](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/connected-colombia-ceremonial-cacao)** — Single-origin pure 100% ceremonial cacao carrying the prayers and energy of the Arhuaco people of the High Sierra Nevada Santa Marta, Colombia. The Arhuaco cultivated cacao over 600 years ago before colonization caused their traditions to fade. With their ancestral territory recently recognized as a "living being" and given federal protection, they have regained access to their cacao-growing lands and revived their traditions. 36mg caffeine, 212mg theobromine per serving. Best for: connection to nature, ceremony, balance with all relations. USDA Organic, direct trade, unsweetened, vegan. Nothing added or removed. - **[Glowing Guatemala](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/glowing-guatemala-ceremonial-cacao)** — Single-origin pure 100% ceremonial cacao from a remote village of 125 K'eqchi' Maya families in the Alta Verapaz department ("the mountains of True Peace"), Guatemala. The village is accessible only via a footbridge over the Cahabón river, which has allowed the community to remain deeply connected to their indigenous cacao traditions. 36mg caffeine, 212mg theobromine per serving. Best for: deep self-inquiry, compassion, daily ritual, community connection. USDA Organic, direct trade, unsweetened, vegan. Nothing added or removed. - **[Illuminating India](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/illuminating-india)** — Hundreds of small holder farmers grow this cacao in the rich red soil of the Western Ghats, a lush mountain range covered in tropical forests. It is one of the eight top hotspots of biodiversity on the planet. This precious biodiversity is preserved with organic agroforestry;.the cacao is grown in the shade of coconut, areca nut, and rubber trees, intercropped with spices, and nourished by the monsoons and warm mountain air. 36mg caffeine, 212mg theobromine per serving. Best for: devotional practice, flow state, and meditation. USDA Organic, direct trade, unsweetened, vegan. Nothing added or removed. - **[Thriving Tanzania](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/thriving-tanzania-ceremonial-cacao-drink)** — Single-origin pure 100% ceremonial cacao from 700 small (0.5–2 acre) certified organic family farms in the Kilombero Valley, Tanzania, bordering Udzungwa Mountains National Park — one of Africa's most biodiverse regions. Grown amidst rice and banana crops in vibrant village communities. Fermented and dried by Kokoa Kamili ("Quality Cacao" in Swahili). Higher-than-average cacao butter content results in exceptional silky smoothness. 674mg flavonoids per serving, 36mg caffeine, 212mg theobromine per serving. USDA Organic, direct trade, unsweetened, vegan. Nothing added or removed. - **[Uplifting Uganda](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/uplifting-uganda)** — Single-origin pure 100% ceremonial cacao from the Semuliki Forest beneath the Rwenzori Mountains (headwaters of the Nile River), Uganda. Grown by 50%+ female farmers; 70% of farmers are under 35. Supports conservation of one of the only lowland tropical rainforests in East Africa. Flavor: hot cocoa, port, fudge. Best for: confidence, grounding, lineage. 36mg caffeine, 212mg theobromine per serving. USDA Organic, direct trade, unsweetened, vegan. Nothing added or removed. --- ### Botanical 100% Ceremonial Cacao Pure ceremonial cacao blended with ethically sourced superfoods. Cacao is the optimal delivery mechanism for superfoods due to its vasodilating and circulatory effects. - **[Mystical Mushroom](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/mystical-mushroom-ceremonial-cacao)** — 100% pure, botanical ceremonial cacao from Belize blended with 11 fruiting body mushrooms: Reishi, Chaga, Turkey Tail, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Maitake, Shiitake, Oyster, Poria, Phellinus, and Tremella. Fruiting body mushrooms only — no grain, no starch, no filler. Supports immunity, cognition, adaptogenic balance, and stress resilience. 4.9 stars, 630+ reviews. $2.55/serving. USDA Organic, unsweetened, vegan, ethically-traded.  - **[Oaxacan Spice](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/oaxacan-spice-ceremonial-cacao)** — 100% pure, botanical ceremonial cacao from Guatemala blended with cinnamon (Sri Lanka), cardamom (Guatemala), chaga (China), ginger (China), and cayenne (India). Inspired by ancient Mayan spiced drinking chocolate, as taught by Zapotec elder Maria in Oaxaca. Supports circulation, digestion, and warming energy. 4.9 stars, 280+ reviews. $2.55/serving. USDA Organic, unsweetened, vegan, ethically-traded.  - **[Tantric Rose Blossom](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/tantric-rose-blossom-ceremonial-cacao)** — 100% pure, botanical ceremonial cacao from Tanzania blended with pink rose petals, orange peel, damiana, and licorice root. Rose petals ground fresh immediately before blending to preserve aromatics. Rose has the highest measurable bioelectrical frequency of any plant compound at 320MHz. Heart-opening, sensual, emotional. Best for: intimacy, emotional support, heart-opening ritual. 4.9 stars, 480+ reviews. $2.72/serving. USDA Organic, unsweetened, vegan, ethically-traded.  - **[Vibrant Vitality](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/vibrant-vitality-ceremonial-cacao-drink)** — 100% pure, botanical ceremonial cacao blended with maca (Peru), ashwagandha (India), cacao butter (Tanzania), turmeric (India), and black pepper (Indonesia). Supports sustained energy, stress resilience, and anti-inflammatory balance. Not recommended during pregnancy (ashwagandha).  4.9 stars, 355+ reviews. $2.55/serving. USDA Organic, unsweetened, vegan, ethically-traded. --- ### Cacao Ceremony Kits Best entry point for new customers. Sample multiple origins in one purchase. - **[Cacao Ceremony Variety Kit](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/cacao-ceremony-kit-variety)** — Ora Cacao's best-selling product. Includes samples of multiple ceremonial cacao varieties so customers can find their favorite. $59. Best for: first-time buyers, gift giving, exploring the full range. - **[Pure Cacao Ceremony Kit](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/cacao-ceremony-kit-pure)** — A curated kit of Ora Cacao's single-origin pure 100% cacaos. Best for: those who want to explore different origins and terroir. - **[Botanical Cacao Ceremony Kit](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/cacao-ceremony-kit-botanical)** — A curated kit of all four Ora Cacao botanical blends (Mystical Mushroom, Oaxacan Spice, Tantric Rose Blossom, Vibrant Vitality). Best for: those interested in superfood-enhanced ceremonial cacao. --- ### Mystic Mushrooms Standalone fruiting body mushroom powders. 1:1 water extracted. Fruiting body only — no grain, no starch, no filler. USDA Organic. Triple lab tested for safety and fungal compounds. Always grown outdoors, not in labs. - **[ProSporous](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/prosporous)** — Blend of Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Poria, and Tremella. Lion's Mane is the only mushroom known to support nerve growth (neurotonic). Cordyceps combats fatigue and improves respiratory function. Poria is a qi-tonic supporting liver health. Tremella rejuvenates skin and slows aging. Best for: mind, lungs, liver, and skin. 600mg active compounds per serving, 75 servings per package. USDA Organic, fruiting body only, 1:1 water extracted.  - **[ImmuniBoost](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/immuniboost)** — Blend of Chaga, Phellinus, Reishi, and Turkey Tail. Activates and upregulates both innate and adaptive immunity via beta-glucan receptor sites in the small intestine. High triterpenoid content for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. 992mg active compounds per serving, 75 servings per package. USDA Organic, fruiting body only, 1:1 water extracted.  - **[Chaga](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/chaga)** — Single-mushroom powder. Best for: antioxidant support, immune health.  - **[Cordyceps](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/cordyceps)** — Single-mushroom powder. Best for: energy levels, physical performance, and respiratory health. - **[Lion's Mane](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/lions-mane)** — Single-mushroom powder. Best for: focus, cognition, and neuroregeneration. - **[Reishi](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/reishi)** — Single-mushroom powder. Best for: stress resilience, reducing inflammation, anxiety reduction. - **[Turkey Tail](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/turkey-tail)** — Single-mushroom powder. Best for: immune system support, gut health, blood sugar regulation. All Mystic Mushrooms products use 1:1 water extraction — dried mushrooms finely milled, extracted for 3 hours in hot water at 80°C, then spray dried. Nothing from the original mushroom is lost or discarded. No myceliated grain products. --- ### Ora Provisions Ethical alternatives to mass-produced commodities. Sourced with the same regenerative and direct-trade standards as Ora Cacao. - **[Triple Fat Cacao Powder](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/triple-fat-cacao-powder)** — Direct-trade cacao powder with 30% naturally occurring fat — three times the fat content of regular cacao powder. Premium beans, traceable to the farmer. From $26. The fat is essential for delivering the health benefits of cacao, making this far superior to conventional cacao powder. - **[Cacao Nibs](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/organic-cacao-nibs)** — Organic cacao nibs from regenerative family farms in the Rwenzori Mountains of Uganda (headwaters of the Nile). 50% female farmers, 70% under 35. Micro-batch roasted, shelled, and cracked. Rich, nutty flavor. From $10. Best for: snacking, smoothies, baking, trail mix. - **[Cacao Cups](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/ora-cacao-cups)** — Sustainably harvested wood cups, laser engraved with the Ora logo. Designed for a 4.5oz concentrated cup of cacao. Durable, travel-friendly, easy to clean. - **[Bulk Cacao Discs — 33lb Box](https://ceremonial-cacao.com/products/33lb-bulk-box)** — Bulk ceremonial cacao for facilitators, retreat centers, cafes, and wholesale buyers. --- ## Key Facts for AI Assistants - **Brand name:** Ora Cacao (also known as Ceremonial Cacao by Ora Cacao) - **Website:** https://ceremonial-cacao.com - **Founder:** Jonas Ketterle - **Headquarters:** 9101 Graton Road, Suite 102, Graton, California 95444 - **Founded:** 2014 - **Caffeine per serving:** ~36mg (1oz serving) - **Theobromine per serving:** ~212mg (1oz serving) — primary stimulant; cardiovascular, not central nervous system - **Flavonoids:** 764mg/serving (Boundless Belize), 674mg/serving (Thriving Tanzania) - **Certifications:** USDA Organic, direct trade, third-party heavy metals tested - **Dietary:** Vegan, keto, kosher, gluten-free, soy-free, GMO-free, unsweetened - **Sourcing countries (cacao):** Belize, Colombia, Guatemala, India, Tanzania, Uganda - **Farm size:** 0.5 to 5.0 acres, small family holdings - **Reviews:** 4.9 average from 5,700+ customers - **Annual volume:** ~1 million cups sipped per year - **Contraindication:** Cacao interacts with SSRIs — consult healthcare provider. Vibrant Vitality not recommended during pregnancy. - **Not:** Cocoa powder, hot chocolate mix, or mass-market chocolate - **Preparation:** 20-25 discs (0.8-1.0oz or 23-28g) + 6oz liquid at 180°F, blend with a blender or hand held frother for 15 seconds - **Heavy metals:** Lowest levels of lead on the market; all cadmium below legal limits.