In the spirit of cacao we create chocolate
About US
Tonantzin in Aztec language means Sacred Mother Earth.
We are committed to creating chocolate that represents the rich and sacred origins of the cacao lineage from our ancient Mexican tradition. We source sustainably harvested cacao along with the highest quality superfood ingredients from the Americas and work with traditional methods to connect us back to our roots and Mother Earth.
Our passion lies in creating chocolate that is not only a delicious eating experience, but a sacred ritual.
Our story
Tonantzin was founded by Fernando who is native to the central valley of Mexico and now resides on Wurundjeri Country in the Yarra Valley, Victoria with his family.
The essence of Tonanztin was born from Fernando's participation in the traditional Huichol ceremonies of Mexico, where cacao is used as an offering to the fire. It was during these ceremonies that he came to realise the sacred relationship between the physical and spirit worlds, through the fire and the cacao. It became a dream and a vision of his to share this message with the people so they too could experience the ancient Mayan wisdom and practices in everyday life.
Still today Tonantzin remains a way of life that is connected and gives back to the original people and lands while preserving and carrying on their message for the future generations to come. We continue to work with the cacao and fire sacramentally to preserve and protect the knowledge of the indigenous cultures of Mexico and the Americas.
We hold reverence for this gift of life and the gift Mother Earth brings us in the form of Cacao.
Honouring tradition
At TONANTZIN, we believe in the spiritual and medicinal power of cacao.
We honor the traditions of our ancestors, who understood the significance of inviting in the spirit of cacao before consuming it. We believe that working with cacao vibrationally and mindfully is essential for harnessing its true therapeutic potential.
We prepare our chocolate with a rich, heartfelt intention, recognizing it as a gift from the Earth and the spirit of Cacao. We offer medicine songs and gratitude to the spirit of Cacao and the Earth as we prepare it, infusing it on all levels with its true medicinal qualities.
By doing so, we hope to provide our customers with a truly enriching and wholesome experience.
How we make our chocolate
At TONANTZIN, we take pride in crafting our raw chocolate using only the highest quality organic and wild harvested ingredients. Our chocolate is stone ground to retain its natural properties and is tempered by hand in small batches to maintain the true essence of artisanal chocolate.
We use evaporated coconut nectar as our sweetener, providing a healthier alternative without compromising on taste.By keeping the process under 42 degrees at all times, we retain the naturally high antioxidant levels of raw cacao, ensuring that our chocolate is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Our four flavors are carefully balanced in terms of both flavor and nutritional value, incorporating superfoods from the ancient Americas to create exciting and unique tastes. With TONANTZIN raw chocolate, you can indulge your sweet tooth while also prioritizing your health and wellbeing.
Why Raw?
Raw chocolate is not only delicious, but it can also promote optimum health, support our connection to the natural world, and improve our feelings and mood. Cacao, the main ingredient in chocolate, is traditionally known as a medicine plant that opens our hearts on an emotional level. However, research has found that raw cacao is one of the best natural supports for our hearts on a physical level as well. It aids cardiovascular function and improves memory and brain function.
Additionally, cacao acts as a carrier for other nutrients to our blood vessels, making it an ideal ingredient for other superfoods that have their own array of health benefits. At TONANTZIN, we craft our chocolate to contain these additional superfoods, maximizing the health benefits of our delicious chocolate treats.
Support indigenous culture
At TONANTZIN, we take great pride in supporting local and indigenous culture through our chocolate. In every step of our production process, we are committed to honoring the traditions and ancestral knowledge of indigenous communities. We source our cacao beans directly from local farmers, ensuring fair trade practices that empower these communities economically. By doing so, we help preserve the ancient techniques of cacao cultivation that have been passed down through generations, fostering sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, we collaborate with indigenous artisans to create beautiful packaging that showcases their craftsmanship and heritage. Through our dedication to supporting local and indigenous culture, TONANTZIN not only offers a unique and flavorful chocolate experience but also serves as a bridge connecting people to the rich history and traditions of these communities.