Origin of chocolate shifts 1,400 miles and 1,500 years

Cacao was in use in South America centuries before its exploitation by civilisations in Mexico and Central America, experts say

The key ingredient of chocolate was being used in South America centuries before it was exploited by civilisations in Mexico and Central America, according to new research.

The cacao tree, and in particular the drinks made from its dried seeds, has long been linked to the Maya and other ancient civilisations in Mesoamerica - a heritage embraced by chocolate companies that produce goods with monikers like Maya Gold.