Quality Of Cocoa Beans Research Articles

Impact of cocoa variety on merchant quality and physicochemical characteristics of raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa mass

Cocoa, a widely cultivated crop in tropical countries, is a crucial raw material in the food industry, particularly in chocolate production. Its quality is influenced by various factors, including variety, cultivation practices, fermentation, and drying. The aim of this work was to investigate the impact of the cocoa variety on the merchant quality and the physicochemical properties of raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa mass produced in the urban commune of Pokola (Republic of the Congo) . Cocoa pods were sorted into three varieties (Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario) according to the physical identification criteria given in the literature. Cocoa samples were prepared according to the same process: each variety was separated into three 50-kg samples placed in cubic crates with 40 cm edges covered with banana leaves for 6 days of fermentation, then sun-dried at 28–32 °C for 7 days, leading to dried cocoa beans. Roasted cocoa masses were obtained by roasting at 140 °C followed by grinding. Merchant quality analyses were carried out on raw cocoa beans and physicochemical analyses were performed on raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa masses. Cocoa variety had the greatest impact on graining, Villtrop swelling index, proportion of brown beans, pH, total acidity, and protein content. The beans of all cocoa varieties were of intermediate merchant quality (grade II). Roasting resulted in an increase in pH and total carbohydrate content, and a decrease in water content, total acidity, protein content, and colorimetric parameters. Overall, the cocoa variety had a weaker influence on the quality and physicochemical properties of raw and roasted cocoa than roasting.

Analysis of the effect of fermentation duration on the organoleptic properties of dried cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.) at Nglanggeran Agricultural Technology Park

The post-harvest process of cocoa fruits includes fruit harvesting, cracking, wet bean sorting, fermentation, drying, dry bean sorting, and packaging. One of the post-harvest processes that significantly affects the quality of cocoa beans is fermentation. The fermentation process, facilitated by acetic acid and lactic acid bacteria, aims to reduce moisture content, enhance aroma and flavor, and improve the quality of cocoa beans. Acetic acid bacteria, such as Acetobacter and Gluconobacter, contribute to acetic acid production, giving cocoa beans their characteristic flavor. These bacteria convert alcohol into acetic acid, a process crucial for developing the beans' flavor. On the other hand, lactic acid bacteria, like Lactobacillus and Pediococcus, play a role in the breakdown of complex compounds, enhancing the aroma. These bacteria produce lactic acid, which contributes to the beans' aroma. One factor that influences the success of cocoa fruit fermentation is the duration of fermentation. The optimal fermentation time for cocoa fruits is 5 – 6 days. If it is less or exceeds the optimal time, the fermentation of cocoa fruits will not be perfect. The duration of cocoa fruit fermentation has been proven to affect the aroma, taste, texture, and color of dried cocoa beans. Keywords: Cocoa, Fermentation, Post-harvest process of cocoa, Organoleptic

Fermented and Unfermented Cocoa Beans for Quality Identification Using Image Features

Fermented cocoa bean products are one of the high-quality requirements of the cocoa processing industry. On an automated industrial scale, early identification of cocoa bean quality is essential in the processing industry. This study aims to identify the condition of quality cocoa beans based on fermentation and non-fermentation characteristics. This study applies analysis based on static images taken using a camera with a distance variation of 5 cm, 10 cm, and 15 cm in both classes, with 500 image data each. The Feature extraction Approach uses the Oriented Gradient (HOG) method with a Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification technique. Image analysis of both object classes was also performed with a color change to show the dominance of the color pattern on the skin of the cocoa beans to be analyzed. The results showed that fermented cocoa beans show a color pattern and texture that tends to be darker and coarser than non-fermented cocoa beans. Computational results with performance analysis using Receiver Operating Characterisic (ROC) on both classes showed the results that the distance of 5 cm and 15 cm has 100% accuracy, but based on the best performance, comprehensively seen in terms of Precision, Recall, and F1-Score shows the best value is at a distance of 15 cm. The results of this research based on the literature review conducted have better achievements, thus enabling further research on the development of conveyor models with real-time video data for automation systems.

Alternative fermentation method of cocoa beans: The use of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp.plantarum HL-15 as starter culture and valorization of cocoa pulp by-product

Inconsistency in quality remains a problem for Indonesian cocoa beans. This resulted in low-priced cocoa beans, significantly affecting the livelihood of its farmers. Optimization in cocoa bean processing methods focused on practical and high-value-added technology is urgently needed to solve the issue. This study aimed to evaluate the potential application of an alternative method based on de pulping treatment and adding Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum HL-15 as a starter culture in cocoa post-harvest processing. The physical and sensorial quality of cocoa beans obtained from the method were evaluated. Microbiological growth patterns during fermentation were analyzed to better understand the effect of L. plantarum HL-15 addition. Economic comparative analysis was done to assess the feasibility of implementing the alternative method. The results showed that depulping and adding L. plantarum HL-15 before fermentation could produce high-quality cocoa beans with an outstanding sensory profile. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum HL-15 exhibited the ability to regulate microorganism consortia and suppress the growth of fungi. Combining this fermentation technique with by-product utilization based on the production of probiotic drinks could support the smallholder's livelihood by increasing the added value of cocoa beans and providing significant income.

Impact of New Fermentation Systems on the Health Quality of Cocoa Beans (Theobroma cacao L. 1753) in the Main Cocoa-Growing Regions of Côte D'ivoire: Nawa, Bas-Sassandra and Haut-Sassandra

Aims: Cocoa cultivation plays a crucial role in the Ivorian economy, requiring rigorous post-harvest processes to ensure the quality of the chocolate produced. Fermentation is a fundamental step in these processes, directly influencing the development of the flavor and aromatic characteristics of cocoa beans. This study focuses on evaluating the impact of various fermentation supports on the microbiological quality of cocoa beans after drying. Study Design: The beans were fermented on six types of supports: palm leaves, cocoa pods, polypropylene tarps, polypropylene bags, jute bags, and banana leaves (control), using two varieties of cocoa, Forasteros and Mercedes in the San Pedro, Soubré and Daloa regions. Methodology: At the end of the drying process, 2 kg of dried beans from each fermentation support were collected. The analyses focused on moisture, pH, and the level of microbiological contamination, including fungal flora and Bacillus (spore-forming bacteria). The analyses were performed in triplicate. The fungal flora was identified through macroscopic and microscopic observations, while biochemical tests were used to identify presumptive Bacillus cereus. Results: The results indicate that beans fermented in pods showed a pH above 5.5, and those fermented on polypropylene bags had moisture exceeding 8%. Bacillus bacteria were more frequent in the beans fermented in cacao pods. Molds, primarily Aspergillus ochraceus and Aspergillus niger, were more prevalent on jute bags and in the pods compared to the control. The presence of Bacillus spores and ochratoxigenic molds in the fermented beans, in the pods, and on jute bags poses a risk to the quality and safety of the cocoa beans. Conclusion: In contrast, polypropylene bags, polypropylene tarps, and palm leaves are identified as suitable supports for maintaining the sanitary quality of the beans, similar to banana leaves (control support). These results show that, despite the gradual decline in banana plantations, cocoa producers will benefit from adequate support for the fermentation process, thereby guaranteeing the quality of cocoa beans and enabling them to obtain a competitive purchase price in the field, while offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to acquire higher quality products to increase their turnover.

Assessing Good Post-Harvest Practices and Barriers among Cocoa Farmers and Licensed Buying Agents in Southwest, Nigeria

This study assesses the post-harvest practices and barriers among cocoa farmers and Licensed Buying Agents (LBAs) in Southwest Nigeria. The research utilizes primary data collected through structured questionnaires distributed to 200 cocoa farmers and 120 LBAs in the region, analyzed using descriptive statistics and Tobit regression analysis. Findings reveal that although there is a high level of awareness of good post-harvest practices among farmers, adoption is hindered by cultural beliefs, labour constraints, and inadequate financial incentives. LBAs face similar challenges, including limited access to information, inadequate infrastructure, and financial constraints. The analysis highlights that education, experience, and access to credit significantly influence the adoption of GPHP among farmers and LBAs, while older age and larger family sizes negatively impact farmers' adoption rates. The study concludes that targeted educational programs and training, improved infrastructure, financial support, strengthened extension services, market stability mechanisms, enhanced regulatory frameworks, and ongoing research and development are essential to improve post-harvest practices in the cocoa sector. These measures will not only enhance the quality and marketability of Nigerian cocoa beans but also contribute to the economic well-being of farmers and the broader community. By addressing the identified barriers and leveraging the influencing factors, the cocoa sector in Southwest Nigeria can achieve significant advancements in post-harvest handling, thereby supporting sustainable development and increasing economic returns.

Uji Kinerja Alat Pengering Tipe Batch Dryer untuk Pengeringan Kakao (Theobroma cacao L.) dengan Sistem Penghembus Udara Panas

Cocoa is a superior export commodity for Indonesia. Lampung is one of the largest cocoa producing regions in Indonesia. In processing cocoa beans, drying is the most important factor for quality. The causes of the low quality of cocoa beans include unfermented cocoa beans before drying and the conventional drying process. Drying of cocoa can be done using a bacth type dryer with a hot air blower system with a large enough capacity that has been built on offer. This study aims to examine the performance of batch type cocoa dryers with hot air blowing systems. The method used in this study is an experimental and descriptive method that uses cocoa with different initial moisture content, namely 36.62%, 42.20%, and 32.61%. The results showed that the batch type dryer produced plenum temperature of 590 C, 580 C, 620 C and the temperature of the material that was 500 C, 500 C, and 510 C. The higher the temperature used, the faster the drying time and the lower the initial temperature of cocoa the faster the drying process. Rubber wood fuel used in each test is 101 kg, 123 kg, 95 kg. Drying time for all three tests is 10 hours, 11 hours, and 10 hours. The efficiency of drying using batch type dryer is 26.01%, 26.75%, 25.52%. The weight of 1 kg of rubber wood on average can dry 5 kg of wet cocoa Keywords: Bath Type Dryer, Cocoa, Moisture Content, Temperature.

Peningkatan Mutu Kakao Melalui Percepatan Lama Fermentasi dengan Penggunaan Pektinase Aspergillus niger dan Ion Kalsium

Indonesia is the third largest producer of cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.) in the world, but the quality of Indonesian cocoa beans is considered as low. Fermentation is one of the factors that affect the quality of cocoa beans. Fermentation of cocoa beans is a spontaneous fermentation and takes about 5-7 days (for bulk cacao). The objective of this study was to determine the potential of adding pectinase from Aspergillus niger and calcium ions in accelerating fermentation time and the quality of cocoa beans produced. The independent variable in this study was the concentration of calcium ions as an enzyme activator. The concentration of calcium ions and pectinase are applied to cocoa fermentation. The observations made were reducing sugar content, total sugar content, protein content, lactic acid bacteria and acetic acid bacteria levels. Parametric data will be analysed by T-test independent with a confidence level of α=0.05. The results showed that added 4.5 units of pectinase and 100 mM calcium ions have significant in reduce the total sugar compared with control due to enzimatic activity. Therefore, the addition of pectinase enzymes from Aspergillus niger and calcium ions have a potential to accelerate the fermentation time and the fermented cocoa beans that have been carried out have met the quality standards of SNI 2828:2008 and included in I – B group of forastero cocoa. This potential needs to be tested further with a larger fermentation volume, for example above 40 kg, to achieve the optimal temperature for the formation of flavor precursors. Keywords: cocoa bean, ion calcium, pectinase, quality

Effect of partial pulp removal and fermentation duration on drying behavior, nib acidification, fermentation quality, and flavor attributes of Ghanaian cocoa beans

The study investigated the impact of partial pulp removal (PPR) and fermentation duration (FD) on drying behavior, quality attributes and flavor profile of cocoa beans. The research explored the use of PPR (ranging from 0 % to 100 %) at various FDs (0–6 days) as potential pulp pre-conditioning technique to enhance the drying time, pH, titratable acidity (TTA), fermentation quality (FQ), fermentation index (FI), and flavor attributes of fermented and sun-dried Ghanaian cocoa beans. The results revealed a significant reduction in drying time from 144 to 4.3 h for the 6 days fermented beans subjected to 0–100 % PPR treatment. Nib pH levels increased from 5.28 to 5.74, while the nib TTA values decreased from 0.083 to 0.013 meq NaOH/100g for PPR treatment ratios of 0 %–100 % PPR, respectively. The FQ and FI values peaked at 98.7 % and 1.19 for the 50 % PPR treatment before decreasing to 58.3 % and 0.098, respectively, at 100 % PPR. Sensory evaluation revealed improved overall flavor quality scores with increasing PPR, reaching a maximum of 44.8 at 50 % PPR before reducing to 34.0 at 100 % PPR. Principal component analysis clustered samples according to the PPR treatment ratio, fermentation duration, and quality parameters measured. Optimal conditions for enhanced nib acidification, fermentation quality, and flavor attributes were identified at 50 % PPR and 6-days fermentation using the response surface methodology. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of PPR as a pulp pre-conditioning technique to improve drying time and enhance the quality of cocoa beans.

Effects of alternative hermetic bag storage on fermented and dried cocoa bean (Theobroma cacao L.)

Cocoa beans, derived from the Cacao Tree (Theobroma cacao L.), are a cash crop among smallholder farmers in tropical regions. After harvest and processing, maintaining cocoa bean quality is critical to access lucrative markets. This paper examines the impact of hermetic storage on insect damage, mold, moisture content, and water activity of fermented and dried cocoa beans under farm conditions in collaboration with a farmer association of Belén de Umbría in Colombia. Three types of hermetic storage systems were assessed for a period of 12 months: Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags, including both 2- and 3-layer variants, and Ecotact® hermetic storage bags, and plus traditional (jute) bags as a control. Regression analysis reveals varying effects across storage durations and treatments. Insect damage was significantly lower in hermetic bags compared to jute bags, with the trend increasing over storage period. Moisture content increased over time with hermetic bags maintaining more desirable levels compared to jute bags. While water activity increased with storage duration, there were minor differences between treatments. Mold presence varies, with jute bags showing lower presence initially, but no significant difference after three months of storage. Overall, results indicate that cocoa beans stored in regular PICS bags (3-layer, PICS3) exhibit superior quality than those stored in the other hermetic (PICS2 and Ecotact®) and jute bags. PICS (3-layer, PICS3) bag can be used to effectively maintain cocoa beans quality while building stocks for sale or processing. This information is valuable for smallholder farmers and cocoa value chain actors seeking to store cocoa beans for extended periods.

PENINGKATAN MUTU BIJI KAKAO MENGGUNAKAN TEKNOLOGI FERMENTASI DI DESA MASARI, PARIGI MOUTONG

Masari village is one of the cocoa production centers in Parigi Moutong regency, but in recent years cocoa production has decreased. The decline in cocoa production was due to the low selling value of cocoa beans, thereby reducing farmers' income. Farmers uncertain income caused the transition of crop commodities into plantation and food crops. The low selling value of cocoa beans was caused by the low quality of cocoa beans. One of the factors that caused the low quality of beans was post-harvest management, which is the cocoa bean fermentation process that is rarely done by the farmers. This community service program aims to provide knowledge about the correct bean fermentation method so they can improve the quality of cocoa beans. Service activities are carried out using counseling and training methods followed by demonstrations on how to ferment cocoa beans. In general, the counseling activity about the selection of cocoa pods that are ready to be harvested and fermentation procedures went well. The seed demonstration activity was also successful which was indicated by brown cocoa beans and had a fragrant smell. The target community already can carry out a good cocoa bean fermentation process. Cocoa bean fermentation technology can be used to improve the physical and chemical quality of cocoa beans so it can increase the value and sales of cocoa beans. The increase in sales will encourage farmers to develop a cocoa-based farming system.

Effect of Fermentation Methods and Turning Interval on the Quality of Cocoa Beans (Theobroma cacao)

Effect of Fermentation Methods and Turning Interval on the Quality of Cocoa Beans (Theobroma cacao)

Significant potential of tape yeast and plant leaves as a cover for fermented cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) beans to generate qualities of dry cocoa beans

The purpose of this study was to determine the response to the addition of tape yeast and various cover leaves in the fermentation process of quality cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.) according to the Indonesian National Standard (SNI). This research was conducted at PT Perkebunan Nusantara (PTPN) XII, Ngrangkah Pawon plantation, Kediri Regency and Laboratory of Agrotechnology, Universitas Darussalam Gontor in April-August 2020. The research design used a factorial completely randomized design (CRD). The first factor was the addition of tape yeast (R) which consisted of 5 levels, namely: no yeast (R0), the addition of 0.5% tape yeast (R1), 1.0% (R2), 1.5% (R3), and 2.0% (R4). The second factor was plant leaves (D) which consisted of 5 levels, namely: D1 (banana leaves), D2 (teak leaves), D3 (taro leaves), D4 (papaya leaves) and D5 (bamboo leaves). Observation parameters included fermentation temperature of cocoa beans, pulp acidity (pH) of cocoa beans, the account of cocoa beans per 100 g, moisture content, sugar content, cut test and, phytochemical qualitative test. Observation data were analyzed by using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and further tested with LSD 5%. The addition of tape yeast and plant leaves as a cover for fermented cocoa beans improved the quality of the dry cocoa beans. There was no interaction between the addition of tape yeast and plant leaves as a cover for fermented cocoa beans in all observations of the quality of dry cocoa beans. The addition of 1% tape yeast improved the quality of fermented cocoa beans on the parameters of fermentation temperature on day 2 (43.2℃), the account of cocoa beans per 100 g (93.8 cocoa beans), sugar content (2.8°Bx) and brown seed color (99.2%). Teak leaves, taro leaves, papaya leaves and bamboo leaves can be used as a cover for fermenting cocoa beans such as banana leaves which are commonly used by farmers.

Physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties of probiotic chocolate bar Dad-13 made from cocoa beans fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HL-15 during storage

Good-quality chocolate can be produced only from good-quality cocoa beans. The cocoa bean quality can be improved using indigenous Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HL-15 as a starter culture in fermentation. The functionality of chocolate can be enhanced by the addition of probiotic L. plantarum Dad-13. This research aimed to evaluate the physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory characteristics of the probiotic chocolate bar Dad 13 made from fermented cocoa beans L. plantarum HL-15 during storage at different temperatures. The research was conducted in three stages. The first stage was the cocoa bean fermentation with and without L. plantarum HL-15, the second stage was probiotic chocolate bar Dad-13 production, and the third stage was the storage of probiotic chocolate bar Dad-13 at temperatures of 4 and 26°C. This study found that adding L. plantarum HL-15 to the fermentation could produce good-quality cocoa beans, prevent the growth of fungi presented by the pH and Aw of cocoa beans, and form a probiotic chocolate bar during storage. Storage at 4°C maintained the viability of L. plantarum Dad-13 and minimized fat breakdown. The organoleptic attributes of the probiotic chocolate bar Dad-13 during storage at 4 and 26°C were not significantly different (p > 0.05).

Employing agricultural extension delivery services for improving cocoa bean quality

Employing agricultural extension delivery services for improving cocoa bean quality

Effect of addition of yeasts and enzymes during fermentation on physicochemical quality of fine aroma cocoa beans

Theobroma cacao is a recognized crop worldwide within the market for raw materials or processed products. Cocoa beans quality, industrial transformation and health benefits have been widely studied, but there are few studies on the fermentation process and even less on Ecuadorian cacao. In Latin America, this crop plays a very important role from an ecological and social viewpoint. Production is usually carried out by local farmers who also perform the natural fermentation of the beans, without specific management, which represents a challenge in terms of reliability and batch-to-batch homogeneity. This drawback can be effectively addressed by controlling the fermentation conditions. In addition, certain enzymes have the potential to improve the fermentation process. The aim of this work was to study the effect of using yeasts and/or enzymes during fermentation on the physicochemical quality characteristics of cocoa beans. Two trials were carried out, the first used yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), with and without molasses, and the second used enzymes (Polyphenoloxidase and Pectintranseliminase). During the fermentation process there was not external temperature control, although cocoa beans mass temperature was assessed. After the assay, the cutting test and physicochemical variables (percentage of testa, testa and cotyledon pH, moisture, ash, acidity, protein and fat contents) were evaluated. The yeasts trial stood out as the most favorable option, showing better fermentation in the cutting test, a slight increase in protein content and lower moisture. The inclusion of enzymes in the trials resulted in higher fermentation temperatures and fat content of the beans, but the samples showed lower fermentation percentage, higher moisture and mold presence, as enzymes make it difficult to completely dry the samples. It can be concluded that the addition of yeasts and/or enzymes influences fermentation and could improve the process in order to obtain high quality cocoa beans.

Daya Saing Ekspor Lemak Kakao Indonesia Di Pasar Internasional

International trade can be defined as trade transaction activities, carried out by citizens of a country and foreign nationals based on mutual agreement. Cocoa is one of the leading commodities struggling for export. Indonesian cocoa exports have changed in composition, cocoa butter contributes the largest export when compared to exports of other Indonesian processed cocoa products. The increasing world cocoa consumption will be an opportunity for Indonesia to increase cocoa butter exports. This study aims to: (1) Analyse the competitiveness of Indonesian cocoa butter exports in the international market based on comparative advantages. (2) Analyse the competitiveness of Indonesian cocoa butter exports in the international market based on competitive advantages. The object of this study focuses on the position and competitiveness of Indonesian cocoa butter exports in the international market by comparing the largest exporting countries on cocoa butter (HS 1804). The analysis methods used in this study were RCA, Product Mapping, and ECI The results of RCA analysis showed that Indonesian cocoa butter exports have comparative advantages and based on Product Mapping analysis, Indonesian cocoa butter exports are in group A, which means they have comparative advantages and export specialization. The results of the ECI analysis showed that cocoa butter exports have a competitive advantage and showed that Indonesia's cocoa butter exports have an upward trend. Indonesia has the opportunity to become a major country in dominating the cocoa butter market in the international market both in terms of comparative and competitive advantages. For this reason, in increasing competitiveness, efforts are needed to improve the quality of cocoa beans so that it will have an impact on the downstream industry, one of which is cocoa butter. There is also a need for further analysis of what factors affect the export of cocoa butter in Indonesia and its competitors.

Influence of Shade in Cocoa Agroforestry Systems on Physicochemical and Functional Characteristics of Cocoa Beans in Bonon, Central-West Côte d'Ivoire.

Côte d'Ivoire remains the world's leading producer of cocoa beans. However, cocoa farming is now recognized as a primary cause of deforestation in the country. To combat deforestation, the Ivorian government recently advocates for agroforestry, a farming technique involving the cultivation of cocoa trees with fruit or forest trees. Yet, the impact of these associated trees and their shade on the quality of produced cocoa beans remains relatively unknown. This study is aimed at evaluating the influence of tree shade in cocoa farms on the quality of cocoa beans produced in the Bonon area. Morphological, biochemical, and functional analyses were performed on cocoa beans from shaded, partially shaded, and sunny subplots. Overall, only beans from shaded subplots showed better commercial quality. Regarding nutritional potential, results demonstrated that acidity, protein content, and vitamin C levels were influenced by shade. Low protein levels were observed in beans from sunny areas. The presence of moderate shade significantly favored good foaming power and foam stability. These findings play a key role in the perceived quality and application of these beans in the food and cosmetic industry. Moreover, these discoveries open new research perspectives in the field of food biochemistry and sustainable agriculture.

Cocoa Producers’ Decision on Fermenting Beans in Jembrana Regency, Bali Province, Indonesia

Cocoa bean has an important role in the agricultural economy of Indonesia for its foreign earnings. Demand for high quality of cocoa beans is increasing fast due to the expansion of global cocoa and chocolate market. Bali Province also plays an important role in Indonesia’s cocoa production and export where the main cocoa plantation lies in Jembrana Regency cultivated by small-scale farmers. Chocolate industry requests for high quality cocoa beans from fermented cocoa for high prices, however farmers are still reluctant to do fermentation. This study aims at analyzing probability of farmer’s decision to ferment cocoa beans at Jembrana Regency, Bali Province, Indonesia. Logit regression was utilized where the dependent variable is in binary, which is the change in probability of a cocoa producer choosing to ferment their cocoa beans, given the independent variables included farm size, production and other occupation of farmers. The result from the average marginal effect shows that only production variable is significant to increase the probability of the cocoa farmers to ferment their cocoa beans. Result from the analysis indicates that on average for one kilogram increase in cocoa production per month, the probability of observing increases fermentation by approximately 0.26 percentage point. In other words, higher production volume increases the probability of the cocoa producers to ferment their cocoa beans. It is suggested to multi stakehonders in cocoa industry to further improve production through the implementation of good agricultural practices (GAP) and extending training for cocoa farmers.

Indigenous lactic acid bacteria as a biological control agent to prevent fungi contamination in the fermentation of cocoa beans

The contamination of mycotoxin-producing fungi during cocoa fermentation is a major concern of cocoa bean quality. This research aimed to investigate the effect of indigenous lactic acid bacteria starter culture, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum HL-15, on the fungi population and the quality of cocoa beans. Fermentation of cocoa beans was carried out by four treatments, namely, fermentation without starter culture in the used box, fermentation with starter culture in the used box, fermentation without starter culture in the new box, and fermentation with starter culture in the new box. The population dynamics of yeast, lactic acid bacteria, acetic acid bacteria, and fungi during fermentation were evaluated. The addition of L. plantarum subsp. plantarum HL-15 ensured the rise of temperature in the fermentation. There were changes in the growth pattern of these microorganisms during fermentation as the effect of starter culture addition. The addition of L. plantarum subsp. plantarum HL-15 effectively inhibited fungi growth. Fermentation using starter culture in newly made boxes was the most effective method to inhibit fungi growth and improve cocoa bean quality. Fermented cocoa beans produced by this method can adhere to the requirements of first-grade quality cocoa beans based on the Indonesian National Standard.