Member of Parliament for Offinso South, Hon. Dr. Isaac Yaw Opoku has asked government and citizens of Ghana to help promote the cultivation of Cocoa and the processing of it in Ghana as the crop has several economic and health benefits.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament ahead of National Chocolate Day which is today, the Offinso South MP noted that ” Mr. Speaker, cocoa has so many uses and health benefits and I pray that one day Ghana will be in a position to process all or at least the greater part of cocoa produced in the country to improve our national economy. Cocoa can be used for the production of soaps, cosmetic products, wine, whisky, brandy, jam, vinegar, marmalade, bitters, animal feed and fertilizers. Cocoa powder can also be incorporated into our traditional diets such as banku, soups, baked products, breakfast cereals and many more.
Mr. Speaker, this statement is intended to raise awareness about the health benefits of cocoa consumption.
Mr. Speaker according to USDA, the macronutrient breakdown for one tablespoon of cocoa is as follows: protein (5.4g), fat (0.7g), carbohydrate (3.1g) and fiber (1.8g). Cocoa powder also contains important micronutrients including magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese and iron. Cocoa is also rich in polyphenols, flavonoids and niacin”.