FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidbeverageCOTE D'OR· 4 sections (40g)

COTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK 1X3.52 OZ

COTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK receives a FoodScore of 14/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.

  • FoodScore: 14/100 (Avoid) indicates this product is not recommended for regular consumption.
  • Contains 10g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its nutritional profile.
  • High in added sugar (19.25g per 100g) and saturated fat (30g per 100g).
  • Classified as NOVA class 4 (ultra-processed), unlike plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea.
  • Best consumed in small, infrequent portions due to its concentrated energy and fat content.
  • Scores -18 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
10g
36% of Daily Value
Protein
7.5g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
19.25g
39% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (10g)+12
Protein (7.5g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (19.3g)-25
Saturated fat (30g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 14

The COTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK earns a FoodScore of 14 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by significant penalties for its nutritional composition. The product contains 19.25g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, its high content of saturated fat at 30g per 100g leads to a -15 point deduction. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, resulting in a further -10 point penalty, with an additional -3 points for concentrated ultra-processed fat. On the positive side, the 10g of fiber per 100g provides a +12 point bonus, and the 7.5g of protein contributes +3 points. The presence of iron (40% DV) also adds +2 points. However, these bonuses are significantly outweighed by the penalties, especially from the added sugar and saturated fat, making it a less favorable choice compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, which contain no added sugar or saturated fat.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in cote d'or experiences chocolate bar 70% dark 1x3.52 oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

This COTE D'OR chocolate bar provides 10g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and potentially supporting a healthy gut microbiome. While this product is not a primary fiber source, it can offer a supplemental amount when consumed in moderation.

Provides Iron

With 7.2mg of iron per 100g, this product contributes 40% of the Daily Value for iron. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and various cellular functions. Including iron-rich foods in the diet is important for preventing iron deficiency, though this chocolate should not be relied upon as a primary source due to its overall nutritional profile.

Contains Protein

The COTE D'OR chocolate bar offers 7.5g of protein per 100g. Protein is a crucial macronutrient necessary for muscle repair, tissue building, and enzyme production. While not a high-protein food, this amount can contribute to your daily protein goals, especially when combined with other protein sources throughout the day.

How to eat it

Chocolate bars like COTE D'OR are typically consumed as an occasional treat or dessert. A common portion size is often smaller than the declared serving size of 4 sections (40g), as it is a concentrated source of calories and sugar. It's usually eaten on its own, but can also be incorporated into desserts.

To manage added sugar intake, consider breaking the bar into smaller pieces and consuming only one or two sections at a time.
Pair a small piece of this chocolate with a source of fiber and protein, such as a handful of unsalted nuts or a piece of fruit, to help slow sugar absorption.
Use small amounts of this chocolate as a topping for plain Greek yogurt or oatmeal to add flavor without overconsuming.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware that this product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. The ingredient list includes soy lecithin, a common emulsifier. This product contains milk and tree nuts, which are common allergens, and individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid it. While the product is high in added sugar and saturated fat, it does not contain artificial sweeteners or colors. Due to its high sugar and fat content, individuals managing blood sugar levels or cardiovascular health should consume this product infrequently and in very small portions.

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Reader questions
Is COTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK healthy?
No, COTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK is not considered healthy for regular consumption. It scores 14/100, primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. While it offers some fiber and iron, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does COTE D'OR compare to other dark chocolate brands?
Compared to other dark chocolate brands, COTE D'OR's nutritional profile will vary. For example, a brand like Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao might have similar levels of saturated fat and added sugar. Consumers should always check the Nutrition Facts label for specific comparisons, as formulations differ.
What is 'soy lecithin' and should I be concerned about it?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used to help blend ingredients and improve texture in many processed foods. For most people, it is generally recognized as safe. Individuals with a severe soy allergy may need to be cautious, though highly refined soy lecithin typically contains minimal soy protein.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chocolate bar?
The declared serving size is 4 sections (40g). However, given its high calorie, added sugar, and saturated fat content, a more reasonable portion for occasional enjoyment might be one or two sections. This helps to moderate intake of less desirable nutrients.
Can this chocolate be part of a balanced diet?
This chocolate can be part of a balanced diet, but only when consumed infrequently and in very small portions. It should be viewed as an occasional treat rather than a regular food item. Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods for daily nutrition is key.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages BrandAll COTE D'OR SKUs Competitor · 82/100Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER Competitor · 82/100LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW Head-to-headCOTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK 1X3.52 OZ vs. Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER Head-to-headCOTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK 1X3.52 OZ vs. LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW Head-to-headCOTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK 1X3.52 OZ vs. WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER Head-to-headCOTE D'OR EXPERIENCES CHOCOLATE BAR 70% DARK 1X3.52 OZ vs. GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT

Data & references