APPLICATION OF STABLE ISOTOPE RATIOS ANALYSIS FOR MALAYSIAN COCOA BEANS TRACEABILITY IN DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL ORIGIN
Authors: *Mohd Zaini Nanyan1, Ahmad Nazrul Abd Wahid6, Albert Ling Sheng Chang4, Ahmad Kamil Mohd Jaaffar4, Suzannah Sharif1, Nurul Elma Sabri6, Mohd Noor Hidayat Adenan6, Nur Hafizati Halim6, Muhamad Taufik Abdullah6, Badrul Hisyam Zainudin1, Nuraziawati Mat Yazik2 and Aizat Japar5
Journal Issue: Malaysian Cocoa Journal, Volume 17 2025
Keywords: Stable isotope, cocoa beans, geographical origin, EA-IRMS, traceability, Malaysian cocoa beans
Published On: 5/11/2025
Abstract
This research investigates the use of stable isotope ratio analysis to trace the geographical origins of Malaysian cocoa beans by examining stable isotopic values of δ13C and δ15N using an Elemental Analyzer – Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer (EA-IRMS). The study aims to determine whether these isotopic signatures can effectively differentiate Malaysian cocoa beans from those produced in other regions in Malaysia. Cocoa samples from diverse locations, including Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular areas, were analyzed to create baseline isotope profiles. The results revealed that isotopic values of δ13C and δ15N were particularly useful in distinguishing cocoa beans from various geographic origins. The study demonstrates that stable isotope ratio analysis is a valuable tool for verifying the origin of cocoa beans, which can enhance product authenticity and quality control measures. The ability to differentiate Malaysian cocoa from beans of other origins underscores the potential for advancing traceability and highlighting the unique attributes of Malaysian cocoa in the global market. This work supports the development of more accurate traceability methods and enriches the understanding of how geographic factors influence cocoa bean composition.