Behind every high-quality chocolate product lies a long journey involving nature, farmers, and dedication. In North Lombok, Indonesia, a movement to improve the quality of local cacao is growing through Vancacao Vanilla & Chocolate Agritourism, which not only produces chocolate products but also actively collaborates with and supports local cacao farmers to create higher value and premium cacao products.
One of the most remarkable local cacao treasures is Ijo Kajuman, a unique cacao variety native to North Lombok. This special cacao was developed by an inspiring local farmer, Jabat Menjulu, who dedicated years of passion and effort to preserving and improving this unique cacao variety.
The name Ijo Kajuman represents its distinctive characteristics. Unlike common cacao varieties, Ijo Kajuman has a unique green colored cacao pod and produces significantly larger cacao beans compared to many other cacao varieties. These special characteristics make Ijo Kajuman a valuable local genetic heritage with great potential to become a premium chocolate source.
Recognizing this potential, Vancacao Vanilla & Chocolate Agritourism has built a partnership with cacao farmers to improve cultivation practices, strengthen post harvest processes, and develop better quality cacao products. One of the main focuses is encouraging farmers to apply proper cacao fermentation techniques, because the quality and flavor of fine chocolate begin from the moment cacao pods are harvested.
Through direct collaboration with farmers, Vancacao aims to create a shorter and more sustainable supply chain while providing greater value to cacao growers in North Lombok. Cacao beans that were previously sold as raw commodities now have the opportunity to be transformed into premium products such as dark chocolate, cocoa powder, cocoa paste, cocoa nibs, and other chocolate creations.
Beyond chocolate production, this journey represents a commitment to preserving local heritage and creating a better future for farmers. Every Ijo Kajuman cacao bean carries a story of North Lombok’s land, the dedication of farmers, and the determination to prove that Indonesian local cacao has the potential to compete in the global chocolate industry.
Through the tree-to-bar concept, Vancacao Vanilla & Chocolate Agritourism invites people to discover the complete story behind chocolate from the cacao plantation, the hands of farmers, fermentation and processing, until it becomes a premium chocolate experience enjoyed by chocolate lovers around the world.
Ijo Kajuman is not just a cacao variety; it is a symbol of local pride, innovation, and hope from North Lombok.
From the Local Farmers of North Lombok to the World of Premium Chocolate.
Vancacao Vanilla & Chocolate Agritourism
Empowering Farmers, Preserving Local Cacao Heritage, Creating a Sustainable Chocolate Future.