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About the laboratory

Cacao of Excellence R&D Laboratory & Training Centre
Advancing global understanding of cacao quality and flavour

Based in Perugia’s Città del Cioccolato, the Cacao of Excellence R&D Lab is the scientific and technical backbone of the programme. We process cacao for the Cacao of Excellence Awards, conduct research on cacao quality and flavour, and host professional training and skill development.

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About the lab

The Cacao of Excellence R&D Laboratory supports global efforts to evaluate, understand and improve cacao quality. At our facility in Perugia, we conduct physical and sensory analysis, produce cacao mass and chocolate for international evaluation, and develop sensory and processing skills across the sector.

Our work combines scientific methods, controlled processing and training to build a shared, reliable understanding of cacao quality and flavour.

 

What we do

Scientific Analysis & Research

We evaluate cacao using standardised physical and sensory methods based on the Cacao of Excellence Guide for the Assessment of Cacao Quality and Flavour

Processing for the Cacao of Excellence Awards

Award samples are processed at our Lab following our protocols, from bean evaluation to cacao mass and chocolate production.

Training & Capacity Building

We deliver training at the Lab and globally through expert consultants and partners.

Our global work

We collaborate with national cacao sectors, producer groups, research institutions and private companies to strengthen sensory capacity, post-harvest practices and shared understanding of cacao quality in producing countries.

Training & Capacity Building

Strengthening skills in cacao processing, sensory evaluation and post-harvest practices.

Services

Technical support including bean analysis, cacao mass and chocolate preparation, and sensory evaluation.

Products

Training and evaluation tools including cacao mass kits, the Best 50 Chocolate Treasure Box and the CoEx Flavour Wheel.

Contact

For training, technical services or collaborations

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Latest News

First Seguine Cacao Auction Confirms Premium Value for Recognised Quality and Flavour

First Seguine Cacao Auction Confirms Premium Value for Recognised Quality and Flavour  Amsterdam, 20 February 2026 - The inaugural Seguine Cacao… [+ more]

Cacao of Excellence Names 50 Highest-Ranking Cacao Producers in 2025 Global Evaluation

Amsterdam, 20 February 2026 – The Cacao of Excellence programme of the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT has concluded its 2025 Edition,… [+ more]

2025 Bronze, Silver and Gold best 50 producers - Central America and the Caribbean

Central America & the Caribbean Announced 20 February 2026 at the Chocoa Trade Fair, Amsterdam The Central America & the Caribbean distinctions… [+ more]