DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE, Dark Chocolate scores 13/100 (Avoid) due to its significant content of added sugar and saturated fat, which heavily outweigh its modest fiber and protein contributions.
This DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE product receives a FoodScore of 13/100 (Avoid).
It contains 28.75g of added sugar per 100g, a primary factor for its low score.
With 8.89g of fiber per 100g, it offers a notable amount of dietary fiber.
Categorized as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
A typical serving provides 21.43g of saturated fat, contributing significantly to daily intake.
Scores -19 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
8.89g
32% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
28.75g
57% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (8.9g)+11
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (28.8g)-25
Saturated fat (21.4g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 13
DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE, Dark Chocolate receives a FoodScore of 13 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. The product contains 28.75g of added sugar per 100g, incurring a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, its 21.43g of saturated fat per 100g results in a -15 point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, leading to an additional -10 point deduction. There's also a -3 point penalty for concentrated ultra-processed fat. On the positive side, the product gains +11 points for its 8.89g of fiber and +3 points for its 7.14g of protein per 100g. It also receives +2 points for its iron content. The presence of cane sugar as a primary ingredient after cacao beans highlights the source of the added sugar. Compared to a reference baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, this DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE product offers a significantly different nutritional profile, with substantial calories and macronutrients not present in the baseline.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in dagoba organic chocolate, dark chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE product provides 8.89g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet may also help with satiety, potentially aiding in portion control when consumed in moderation. The fiber content in this dark chocolate is a notable nutritional aspect.
Contains Iron
DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE, Dark Chocolate offers 3.21mg of iron per 100g, which is 18% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. Adequate iron intake is important for maintaining energy levels and preventing iron deficiency. While not a primary source, it contributes to overall iron intake.
Provides Protein
With 7.14g of protein per 100g, this product contributes a modest amount of protein. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. While not a high-protein food, this amount can contribute to your daily protein needs, especially when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE, Dark Chocolate scores 13/100 (Avoid) due to its significant content of added sugar and saturated fat, which heavily outweigh its modest fiber and protein contributions.
How to eat it
Dark chocolate like DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE is typically consumed as a treat or dessert, often in small portions. It can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into recipes. Given its calorie and sugar density, moderation is key to fitting it into a balanced dietary pattern.
Consider pairing a small piece of dark chocolate with fresh fruit like berries or an apple to add more fiber and nutrients to your snack.
Use a small square (around 10-20g) as a dessert after a meal rather than a standalone snack to help manage portion sizes.
Instead of eating a whole bar, break off a pre-portioned amount and store the rest out of sight to avoid overconsumption.
For a lower-sugar alternative, consider unsweetened cocoa powder in recipes instead of relying on sweetened chocolate bars.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk and non-GMO soy lecithin, which are common allergens. Individuals with milk or soy allergies should avoid this product. The high content of added sugar and saturated fat means that individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, or those monitoring their cardiovascular health, should consume this product in very limited quantities. While dark chocolate contains some beneficial compounds, the overall nutritional profile of this specific SKU, with its ultra-processed nature and high sugar and fat content, suggests it should be an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of the diet.
Is DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE, Dark Chocolate healthy?
DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE, Dark Chocolate scores 13/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high levels of added sugar (28.75g per 100g) and saturated fat (21.43g per 100g) are significant nutritional drawbacks. While it offers some fiber and iron, these do not outweigh the penalties from less desirable nutrients.
How does DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE compare to other dark chocolate brands?
Compared to some other dark chocolate brands, DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE's nutritional profile is similar in terms of high calories, added sugar, and saturated fat. For example, a standard Hershey's Special Dark bar also contains significant added sugar. Consumers looking for lower sugar options might need to seek out brands with higher cacao percentages and no added sugar, or smaller portion sizes.
What is 'non-GMO soy lecithin' and why is it in this product?
Non-GMO soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used to create a smooth texture and prevent cocoa butter from separating in chocolate. Its 'non-GMO' designation means the soybeans used were not genetically modified. It is a common ingredient in many chocolate products and is generally recognized as safe for consumption, unless you have a soy allergy.
What is a reasonable portion size for this dark chocolate?
A reasonable portion size for DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE, Dark Chocolate would be a small square, typically around 10-20g. This helps to manage the intake of 482.14 calories, 28.75g of added sugar, and 21.43g of saturated fat per 100g. Enjoying it as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack is advisable due to its nutritional density.
Can I use this dark chocolate in baking?
Yes, you can use DAGOBA ORGANIC CHOCOLATE, Dark Chocolate in baking. However, be mindful of its existing sugar and fat content when adjusting other ingredients in your recipe. If you are aiming for a less sweet or lower-fat baked good, you might consider using unsweetened cocoa powder or a higher percentage cacao chocolate with less added sugar.