When cacao is traditionally processed, it is sun dried on the ground and therefore can become contaminated with surface bacteria and mold. A light toasting and peeling eliminates any cause for concern and results in a superior product. Properly toasting the beans also develops the rich chocolatey flavors that we all love. Hand peeling the beans ensures that only the finest quality beans are used to create Keith’s Cacao products as each bean is inspected as it’s peeled.