BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE DARK CHOCOLATE BLUEBERRY WITH QUINOA CRUNCH
BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE DARK CHOCOLATE BLUEBERRY WITH QUINOA CRUNCH scores 2/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE scores 2/100, indicating it is not a recommended daily food choice.
This product contains 35g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount.
It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain sparkling water, this product offers minimal nutritional benefits.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.
Scores -30 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
35g
70% of Daily Value
Sodium
75mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (35g)-25
Saturated fat (12.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 2
BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE DARK CHOCOLATE BLUEBERRY WITH QUINOA CRUNCH receives a FoodScore of 2 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the high amount of added sugar, contributing 35g per 100g serving, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, the product contains 12.5g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. Its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, further deducts 10 points. The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat, likely from the chocolate and sunflower oil, results in another -3 point penalty. While the product does offer some positive nutrients, such as 2.5g of fiber (+2 points), 5g of protein (+1 point), and 4.5mg of iron (+2 points), these bonuses are insufficient to offset the significant penalties. Ingredients like sugar, sweetened blueberries, and glazed quinoa contribute to the high sugar load. Compared to a reference baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE offers a high calorie and sugar density without comparable micronutrient benefits.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barkthins snacking chocolate dark chocolate blueberry with quinoa crunch actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE provides 4.5mg of iron per 100g, which is 25% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. Including iron-rich foods in the diet can help prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. While this product is not a primary source of iron, it can contribute to daily intake when consumed in moderation.
Contains Dietary Fiber
This product offers 2.5g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While 2.5g is not a large amount, it can contribute to your daily fiber goals. Most Americans do not consume enough fiber, so any contribution from food sources is beneficial for overall gut health.
Provides Protein
BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE contains 5g of protein per 100g. Protein is a macronutrient vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. While not a high-protein food, this amount can contribute to satiety and provide some building blocks for the body. For a snack, the protein content can help in feeling more satisfied compared to snacks with negligible protein.
BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE DARK CHOCOLATE BLUEBERRY WITH QUINOA CRUNCH scores 2/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE is typically consumed as an indulgent snack or dessert. People often eat a portion directly from the bag, making it easy to overconsume due to its palatability and small pieces. It's commonly enjoyed in the afternoon or evening.
To manage added sugar intake, measure out a single serving (1.4 oz) rather than eating directly from the bag.
Pair with a source of whole fruit, like a small apple or a handful of berries, to add fiber and micronutrients.
Consider this as an occasional treat, perhaps once or twice a week, rather than a daily snack to align with dietary guidelines.
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. The ingredient list also includes sugar, sweetened blueberries, and glazed quinoa, all of which contribute to the high added sugar content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very small portions due to the significant sugar load. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed. The product does not declare common allergens like milk, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg on the provided ingredient list, but cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities.
Is BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE DARK CHOCOLATE BLUEBERRY WITH QUINOA CRUNCH healthy?
With a FoodScore of 2/100, BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. Its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food are the main reasons for this score. It offers minimal essential nutrients compared to its calorie density.
How does BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE compare to other chocolate snacks?
Compared to a plain dark chocolate bar like Ghirardelli Intense Dark, BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE may have similar or higher added sugar due to the sweetened blueberries and glazed quinoa. Many chocolate snacks are high in added sugar and saturated fat, so it's important to check the nutrition facts for each specific product.
What is 'quinoa crunch' in this product?
The 'quinoa crunch' in BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE refers to glazed quinoa, which is quinoa coated with cane sugar, agave syrup, and rice syrup. This process adds sweetness and a crunchy texture to the product, but also contributes to the overall added sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this snack?
A reasonable portion size is the manufacturer's suggested serving of 1.4 ounces (approximately 40g). This helps manage the intake of added sugar and calories. Consuming larger portions frequently would lead to excessive intake of these components, which is not aligned with dietary guidelines.
Can I eat BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE every day?
Given its FoodScore of 2/100 and high added sugar content, BARKTHINS SNACKING CHOCOLATE is not recommended for daily consumption. It is best enjoyed as an occasional treat to minimize its impact on your overall dietary quality and adherence to healthy eating patterns.