The "Cocoa, Food of the Gods" exhibition explores the rich history and cultural significance of cocoa, an ancient fruit, food, and beverage originating in tropical America. The Aztecs and Mayas prepared their cherished chocolatl drink from fermented and roasted cocoa beans, flavored with vanilla and spicy-hot chili. This original, bitter recipe was adapted for European tastes with the addition of sugar, gaining popularity in Europe after the Spanish colonization of the New World, initially enjoyed only by the wealthy upper class. The creation of solid chocolate bars was a later European innovation.

The exhibition delves into the botanical features of the cocoa plant, its cultivation history, and its various uses. Modern processing techniques, from cocoa beans to finished chocolate products, are also covered. The exhibition highlights the issue of child labor in cocoa plantations, advocating for Fair Trade standards to ensure ethical practices and better conditions for workers.

Visitors can view a variety of plants and objects related to cocoa and chocolate. The exhibition is complemented by lectures, tours, and interactive activities. A special bilingual booklet (German-English) has been published by the Palmengarten in conjunction with this exhibition and is available for purchase, offering further insights into the fascinating world of cocoa.