Makeup of Cocoa Beans

Like most nuts and seeds, cocoa nibs contain valuable nutrients. Figure 15.2 compares the makeup of roasted cocoa nibs to roasted almonds and sunflower seeds. Although there are some differences (most notably, almonds are highest in protein), there are many similarities. All are very high in fat and low in water, and all are a good source of dietary fiber and minerals (ash).

As with other sources of tropical fats like coconuts and palm kernels, cocoa nibs contain fat that is naturally saturated and is solid at room temperature. Although saturated, cocoa butter does not appear to raise blood cholesterol levels the way most saturated fats do. Besides containing fat high in saturated fatty acids, cocoa butter contains small amounts of lecithin and other natural emulsifiers.