Cupuassu— Theobroma grandiflorum

Among the Amazonian fruits, the cupuacu stands out for its economic potential. The pulp of the fruit has a yellowish-white color and strong flavor, being very appreciated by local communities, and also international markets. The seeds contain high amounts of fat and may be used in food products and in cosmetics. The seeds can also be processed to yield a chocolate-like product called “cupulate”. Thus, the rising commercial interest of this fruit has led to the development of new industries and has encouraged research on this food product. Moreover, this tree grows in synergy with other native rainforest species, offering an ecological approach for sustainable agroflorestal management and preservation.