Macambo

Description

Chocolate may be heavenly, but macambo seeds – from a cousin of the cacao tree – may be the most exciting rainforest superfood that you’ve never heard of. Macambo packs a hefty dose of protein, fiber and antioxidants into a delicious, crunchy nut-like package.

Theobroma literally means “food of the gods,” and is the scientific name of the group of plant species that brings us chocolate. And while cacao (Theobroma cacao), from which chocolate is made, is far more famous, macambo (Theobroma bicolor), cultivated by indigenous farmers of the Amazon in Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, deserves to be more widely known.

A handful of about 10 of the lima bean-sized seeds provides 7 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber, which correspond to 14% of the protein and 37% of the fiber of an adult’s total daily requirements. At about 24% by weight, macambo beans pack in more protein than almonds, walnuts or cashews, and the fact that they´re loaded with fiber means it can contribute to improved digestion, cholesterol regulation and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Combined with high levels of Omega-9 (11.5%) and antioxidants, it’s perhaps not surprising that macambo has long been an important part of the diet of some Amazon indigenous groups, providing them with a powerful nutritious boost.

Tasty and snackable. Nutrient-dense. High protein. Fiber-rich. Antioxidant. Organic. And with deep roots in indigenous rainforest culture and nutrition. It seems like macambo has everything going for it to make it a blockbuster product.