Led by University of Alberta professor Janice Cooke, we’re moving beyond the wrapper to explore the biological wonders, global challenges, and molecular chemistry of cacao. This session of ChocoTalks explores three subjects: Part 1: The Birth of the Bean Discover the miracle of fertilization as Janice explains the complex journey from a tiny tropical blossom to a fully developed cacao pod. Part 2: A Changing Canopy Cacao is at a crossroads. We’ll discuss the real-world impacts of climate change on cacao botany and how these environmental shifts are driving the global price of your favourite treat. Part 3: The Chemistry of Flavour Why do we crave the "snap" and "melt"? We’ll look at the science of polyphenols and the biology of bitterness. Come curious, leave inspired (and well-fed).