The future of chocolate.

• Autores: Harold H. Schmitz, Howard-Yana Shapiro
• Localización: Scientific American, ISSN 0036-8733, Vol. 306, Nº. 2, 2012, págs. 60-65
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • The article discusses efforts by researchers to fortify the cacao tree and meet the increasing demand for cocoa made from its seeds. The authors note that the cacao tree is threatened by a variety of factors, including pests, fungal infections, and farmers' lack of access to fertilizers and other yield-enhancing products. Topics include the cultural importance of the cacao tree and cocoa products, such as its use as an aphrodisiac by 19th-century Cubans, the economic impact of increased consumer demand for chocolate, and research attempting to bolster the cacao tree through selective breeding, farmer education, and pest-management techniques. INSET: Global Efforts to Boot Cacao Crops.