BAKER'S SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE 56% CACAO PREMIUM BAKING BAR, SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE
BAKER'S SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE 56% CACAO PREMIUM BAKING BAR receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
This product scores 11/100 on FoodScore, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 42.9g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 7.1g of fiber per 100g, it offers a notable amount of dietary fiber.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food, unlike plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea.
Use in small portions as an occasional ingredient rather than a primary food source.
Scores -21 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
7.1g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
42.9g
86% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
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What holds it back
Added sugar (42.9g)-25
Saturated fat (21.4g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 11
BAKER'S SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE 56% CACAO PREMIUM BAKING BAR scores 11 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its high added sugar content, which is 42.9g per 100g. This amount significantly penalizes the score, aligning with dietary guidelines to limit added sugars. The product also contains 21.43g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing another substantial penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it incurs an additional penalty, reflecting its formulation with multiple industrial ingredients like soy lecithin and vanilla extract. While it receives some bonuses for its 7.1g of fiber and 7.14g of protein per 100g, and a small bonus for its iron content (10mg, 56% DV), these are not enough to offset the penalties from added sugar, saturated fat, and its ultra-processed nature. In contrast, the reference baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea contains no added sugar, saturated fat, or processing, resulting in a much higher nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in baker's semi-sweet chocolate 56% cacao premium baking bar, semi-sweet chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This BAKER'S product provides 7.1g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet may also support feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for appetite regulation. While this product contains fiber, it should be consumed in moderation due to other nutritional factors.
Contains Iron
BAKER'S SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE offers 10mg of iron per 100g, which is 56% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and for energy production. Adequate iron intake is vital for preventing iron deficiency anemia. Consumers can incorporate this product as a minor source of iron within a balanced diet, keeping portion sizes small.
Provides Antioxidants from Cocoa
Cocoa, a primary ingredient in this baking bar, is known to contain flavonoids and other antioxidants. These compounds help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. While this product contains cocoa, the overall nutritional profile, particularly the high added sugar and saturated fat, means it should not be considered a primary source of antioxidants. Enjoying it in small quantities can offer some of these benefits.
BAKER'S SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE 56% CACAO PREMIUM BAKING BAR receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
This semi-sweet chocolate baking bar is typically used as an ingredient in desserts, baked goods, or as a coating. It's not usually consumed as a standalone snack due to its intensity and form. Common pitfalls include using large quantities in recipes, which can significantly increase the added sugar and fat content of the final dish.
When baking, reduce the amount of added sugar in other recipe components to balance the sweetness from the chocolate.
Use this chocolate to create small, portion-controlled treats, such as a thin chocolate drizzle on fruit or a small square melted into oatmeal.
Pair with fiber-rich foods like berries or nuts to enhance the nutritional value and provide a more satisfying experience.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soy lecithin, an emulsifier commonly used in chocolate products. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with soy allergies should be aware of its presence. The high added sugar content (42.9g per 100g) means individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very small amounts. The significant saturated fat content (21.43g per 100g) also warrants moderation for those monitoring their cardiovascular health. There are no other specific additives or cross-contamination risks declared that would be of particular concern beyond common food allergens.
Is BAKER'S SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE 56% CACAO PREMIUM BAKING BAR healthy?
BAKER'S SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE 56% CACAO PREMIUM BAKING BAR is not considered healthy for regular consumption, scoring 11/100 on FoodScore. This is primarily due to its high added sugar and saturated fat content. While it offers some fiber and iron, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does BAKER'S SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE compare to other baking chocolates?
Compared to other baking chocolates like Ghirardelli Semi-Sweet Baking Bar, BAKER'S will have a similar nutritional profile, often high in added sugar and saturated fat. The specific cacao percentage can influence bitterness and sugar content. Always check the nutrition facts panel for direct comparisons, especially for added sugars and fat.
What is soy lecithin, and is it safe?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used to create a smooth texture in chocolate. It is generally considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies. Individuals with a soy allergy should avoid products containing soy lecithin, as it can trigger allergic reactions.
What is a reasonable portion size for this baking chocolate?
The declared serving size is 2 pieces, but this is for baking. For direct consumption, a reasonable portion would be a very small amount, perhaps one small square, due to its high calorie, added sugar, and saturated fat content. It is best used as an ingredient rather than a snack.
Can this chocolate be used in a low-sugar diet?
This BAKER'S chocolate is not suitable for a low-sugar diet as it contains 42.9g of added sugar per 100g. For low-sugar baking, consider unsweetened cocoa powder or baking chocolate with 100% cacao, which contains no added sugar, and sweeten with alternatives if desired.