Cacao consumption during the 8th century at Alkali Ridge, southeastern Utah

► We report Theobroma cacao in R/O vessels at Alkali Ridge, southeastern Utah. ► Cacao was found in shallow bowls decorated with a non-local design system. ► The non-local R/O design system contrasts with local B/W design system. ► Cacao use coincides with the establishment of the corn lifeway during the 8th century. ► We associate cacao use with the migration of corn farmers from Mexico into the Southwest.