BROOKSIDE, SMOOTH DARK CHOCOLATE, BLUEBERRY & CRANBERRY ALMOND scores 9 out of 100, largely due to its nutritional profile. A significant factor is the 35.78g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty. The presence of sugar as the first ingredient in dark chocolate and in the sweetened dried blueberries and cranberries contributes to this high amount. Additionally, the product contains 17.8g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to another penalty. Its classification as a NOVA class 4 food signifies it is ultra-processed, further reducing its score. While it receives small bonuses for its 6.7g of fiber and 6.7g of protein, and a minor bonus for iron content (33% DV), these are outweighed by the penalties. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, BROOKSIDE, SMOOTH DARK CHOCOLATE, BLUEBERRY & CRANBERRY ALMOND provides a high calorie and sugar load without comparable micronutrient density.
What the nutrients in brookside, smooth dark chocolate, blueberry & cranberry almond, blueberry & cranberry almond actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
This product provides iron, with 6mg per 100g, which is 33% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While this product contributes to iron intake, it should be considered in the context of its overall nutritional profile, which includes high amounts of added sugar and saturated fat. For individuals seeking to increase their iron intake, other food sources with a more favorable nutrient balance are generally recommended.
BROOKSIDE, SMOOTH DARK CHOCOLATE, BLUEBERRY & CRANBERRY ALMOND offers dietary fiber, with 6.71g per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. The fiber content likely comes from the almonds and the fruit components. While this is a positive aspect, the product's high added sugar content means it should not be relied upon as a primary source of daily fiber intake. Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are typically better choices for fiber.
This product contains 6.67g of protein per 100g, primarily from the almonds. Protein is a macronutrient vital for building and repairing tissues, and for producing enzymes and hormones. While this amount contributes to daily protein needs, it is not a significant source when considering a typical serving size of 0.5 bar. For substantial protein intake, lean meats, legumes, dairy, and other nuts are more concentrated and often more nutritionally balanced options.
BROOKSIDE, SMOOTH DARK CHOCOLATE, BLUEBERRY & CRANBERRY ALMOND is typically consumed as a snack or dessert. Due to its high calorie and sugar content, it is best enjoyed in moderation. A common portion size might be smaller than the 0.5 bar used for nutrient calculations, which is 50g.
This product contains several common allergens, including milk, soy, and almonds. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin, a common emulsifier. Due to its high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The product is ultra-processed, which means it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens, such as cocoa processed with alkali and natural flavors, which may be a consideration for some consumers.