METHOD OF WASHING COCOA BEANS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF THE COCOA PRODUCTS OBTAINED FROM SUCH BEANS

摘要

Provided are methods of removing contaminants from cocoa beans, reducing free fatty acids in cocoa butter of the cocoa beans or a combination thereof. The methods are accomplished by use of a pre-washing solution placed in contact with the cocoa beans. Cocoa products produced by such methods and systems for performing such methods on cocoa beans are also disclosed.