Here’s some chocolate trivia few people know since its only recently been discovered:  The cacao plant has about 35,000 genes.

I looked it up and humans have about 30,000 genes.  Umm, should I be concerned?

11 years ago, the Cacao Genome Database Project was founded to sequence the genome of Theobroma cacao.  3 years ahead of schedule, the genome sequence was released on September 15, 2010!

The goal of the genome project is to provide as much genetic information as possible and as fast as possible.  A cacao tree takes up to 5 years to mature and start producing.  It is more beneficial to the farmer to find out if the tree has any weaknesses, such as vulnerability to disease, at the seedling stage.

Mars Inc. (makers of M&M’s) funded the project.  They hope the information has a positive impact on cacao farmers by helping them stay in business longer and giving the world a more sustainable and stable chocolate supply.

Gotta go.  I have a genome sequence to explore.  Care to join me? http://www.cacaogenomedb.org/

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Bryn Kirk

Course Facilitator at Chocolate University Online

Bryn worked for nearly 10 years in a research and product development for Ambrosia Chocolate Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Now she develops all of the CUO lessons and coaches the members of the Primal Chocolate Club.

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