Yes, that can be a problem with certain brands. I have never had that problem with Navitas brand that I find at my Sprouts Market. I think they have that brand at Whole Foods also, but I don't usually shop there. Sprouts used to carry a brand (name I can't recall) in a large glass jar that was really good and no hulls, but lately I haven't been able to find it. I just ordered a two pound package from Amazon called Terra Foods. I opened the first package and there was a large hull sitting right on top, so I will have to be really careful with these... I usually only use a tablespoon or two at a time, so I spread them out in my hand to make sure there are no tooth-breaking bits.
Now if you really want something tasty, get the cacao nibs that have been toasted/roasted. OMG, they are so good on anything, but they are not "raw food," so like dry roasted nuts, they snap and crumble easier than the raw ones and have a fuller chocolate taste, more like bittersweet chocolate chips. The nibs are also a source of "good" fat.
" I have never had that problem with Navitas brand"
Just received them (Navitas unsweetened Cacao Nibs).
Interesting (soft) crunch..
Something else I’ve never experienced, is a ‘delayed’ bitter taste. The bitterness sneaks up after a few seconds.
Honestly, I hate bitter, but I guess this is an exception, lol.
Will be trying to come up with ideas on what and how to add this stuff ;^)