Cacao pod pericarp (CP) is used to produce a food ingredient, or flour, using convective-heat or freeze-drying and/or microwave drying methods. The observed physical and technological properties of dried CP revealed its potential application as an ingredient in manufactured food products. The levels of bioactive compounds are significantly increased in the dried CP samples compared to the raw material, especially in the case of the freeze dried methods. The commercially advantageous use of the cacao pod waste material can be used in treatments for humans and animals in order to improve several anthropometric measurements or cardiometabolic markers in the blood and to improve the composition and mass of the body. Embodiments for treating humans and animals include administering orally to decrease LDL/HDL ratios or triglyceride/HDL ratios, or administering topically as a cosmetic to treat fine lines, wrinkles, skin discoloration, and other skin conditions.
