The Legacy of Theobroma Nacional L. Cacao

The Legacy of Theobroma Nacional L. Cacao

Ecuador’s Theobroma Nacional L., often called Arriba Nacional, is one of the rarest and most celebrated cacaos in the world. Known for its delicate floral aroma and complex flavor profile, it is a variety that almost disappeared after early twentieth century disease outbreaks. Today, preserving its genetic heritage is vital not just for flavor, but for biodiversity and cultural history.

Through our partnerships, we support efforts to conserve these heirloom genetics alongside Criollo varieties in Colombia and Peru. These initiatives help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy cacao that tastes as nature intended.

Preserving Ecuador’s Native Cacao

At WithOrganics, we believe the world’s best chocolate begins long before the bean reaches a roaster. It starts in the rainforest on family farms where cacao trees have been part of the landscape for generations. This is why we work closely with local experts and community-led projects in Ecuador, to protect native cacao varieties, improve farmer livelihoods and safeguard the biodiversity that makes this cacao so extraordinary.

From Farm to Flavor: Training and Support

Our partners provide hands-on technical training to farmers, covering pruning, plant health, and post-harvest fermentation techniques that help improve both yield and quality. Regular farm visits ensure these practices are maintained, reducing crop losses and elevating the flavor profile of every harvest.

This work allows farmers to access premium markets, receive better prices, and reinvest in their communities. For us, it is about more than buying cacao. It is about building a system where everyone thrives.

Quality You Can Taste and Trust

Every batch of cacao we source from these communities goes through rigorous testing for heavy metals, pesticide residues, and quality benchmarks. We are committed to full transparency and traceability from the moment a pod is cut from the tree to the final bag of beans or paste we deliver.

Our organic and regenerative farming partnerships go beyond compliance. They represent our promise that every WithOrganics product meets the highest standards for purity, sustainability, and ethical trade.

Why This Matters

When you choose cacao from WithOrganics, you are doing more than buying chocolate ingredients. You are supporting the preservation of native cacao genetics, investing in regenerative farming systems, ensuring farmers receive fair, sustainable compensation, and helping maintain the biodiversity of tropical ecosystems.

Taste the Legacy

From the lush rainforests of Ecuador to the rich soils of Colombia and Peru, our cacao tells a story of heritage, resilience, and flavor. By working hand in hand with the people who grow it, we are not just preserving the world’s rarest cacao. We are building a future where it can flourish.

Discover our collection of pure, single origin cacao products and taste the difference that purpose driven partnerships make.