HOW DOES COCOA WASTE AFFECT HEALTH? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Cocoa pod husk (CPH) and cocoa bean shell (CBS) are cocoa by-products that remain after cocoa bean extraction and often become environmental pollutants (cocoa waste). Numerous studies have demonstrated that both of them are sources of bioactive compounds. This review outlines the potential effects of cocoa waste on health and discusses current knowledge regarding the health potential of cocoa waste. Most of the research on this topic has been conducted in vitro and has shown some potential health benefits of cocoa waste products, both for CPH and CBS. Cocoa waste can influence body weight and food intake, increase serum protein concentrations, lower blood pressure, exhibit hypolipidemic effects, elevate HDL, act as an antidiabetic, possess antibacterial properties, and serve as an antioxidant that combats inflammation and reduces MDA levels. Cocoa waste holds significant potential for health, although its effectiveness is still largely studied in vitro. Further research is needed to demonstrate in vivo the potential of bioactive compounds from cocoa shell waste products to address various health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.