Are the skins of cocao beans edible?

[sveltlana]

I think i read somewhere recently that the skins of cocao beans are ok to eat and it is not necessary to peel them. Does anyone know if this is true? Thanks

[Ginger]

I believe so. I don't think you can eat very many though. I heard they do have a certain property found either only in the skins or possibly in very rare other cases.

[sveltlana]

Thanks. I guess i could peel them but it's such a pain!