ETHEL M CHOCOLATES, MINT DARK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 8/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar and saturated fat content** and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product scores 8/100, indicating it is an item to avoid for regular consumption.
It contains 30.51g of added sugar and 23.1g of saturated fat per 100g.
Classified as NOVA class 4, it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain sparkling water, it offers minimal nutritional benefits.
Consider this product an occasional treat due to its high caloric density.
Scores -24 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
5.1g
18% of Daily Value
Protein
5.13g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
30.51g
61% of Daily Value
Sodium
37.95mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.1g)+6
Protein (5.1g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (30.5g)-25
Saturated fat (23.1g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 8
ETHEL M CHOCOLATES, MINT DARK CHOCOLATE earns a FoodScore of 8 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary drivers for this low score are its significant content of added sugar and saturated fat, along with its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 30.51g of added sugar, incurring a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, it has 23.1g of saturated fat, leading to a -15 point penalty. The presence of semisweet chocolate and other refined ingredients contributes to its NOVA class 4 ultra-processed designation, resulting in a further -10 point penalty. A specific penalty of -3 points is also applied for concentrated ultra-processed fat. While it receives minor bonuses for its 5.1g of fiber (+6 points), 5.1g of protein (+1 point), and some micronutrients like iron and Vitamin A (+4 points), these are largely overshadowed by the penalties. In comparison to a baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, ETHEL M CHOCOLATES offers a significantly higher calorie count and minimal beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ethel m chocolates, mint dark chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Iron
This product contributes a small amount of iron to the diet, providing 1.85mg per 100g, which is 10% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily iron intake, especially for individuals who may not meet their needs through other foods. It is important to consider the overall nutritional profile when relying on such products for micronutrient intake.
Contains Vitamin A
ETHEL M CHOCOLATES, MINT DARK CHOCOLATE offers 28% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and cell growth. The presence of Vitamin A in this product, likely from the milkfat in the semisweet chocolate, can contribute to meeting daily requirements. However, it is important to balance this with the product's high sugar and fat content, and prioritize whole food sources for Vitamin A.
Offers a Small Amount of Fiber
With 5.1g of fiber per 100g, this product provides a modest contribution to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and satiety. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a positive aspect compared to many other confectionery items that offer little to no fiber. Consumers should still aim to obtain most of their fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
ETHEL M CHOCOLATES, MINT DARK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 8/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar and saturated fat content and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This mint dark chocolate bar is typically consumed as a dessert or a sweet treat. It is designed for occasional indulgence rather than regular dietary inclusion. Common pitfalls include consuming multiple servings or pairing it with other high-sugar items.
Enjoy a small, pre-portioned piece to manage calorie and sugar intake.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add fiber and healthy fats to your snack.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple to align with dietary guidelines for added sugar.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain quality and prevent melting, which can affect portion control.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of several ingredients in ETHEL M CHOCOLATES, MINT DARK CHOCOLATE. The product contains soy lecithin, a common emulsifier, and milkfat, which are common allergens. Individuals with soy or dairy allergies should avoid this product. The ingredient list also includes several artificial colorings such as Blue 1 Lake, Blue 2 Lake, Yellow 5 Lake, and Yellow 6 Lake. Some individuals may experience sensitivities to these artificial colors. Furthermore, the presence of high fructose corn syrup and a blend of vegetable gums (including carob bean gum, locust bean gum, cellulose gum, guar gum, gum arabic, gum aracia, gum tragacanth & xanthan gum blend) indicates a highly processed food. Due to its high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very small portions.
Is ETHEL M CHOCOLATES MINT DARK CHOCOLATE healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 8/100, ETHEL M CHOCOLATES MINT DARK CHOCOLATE is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar and saturated fat and is classified as an ultra-processed food. While it offers minor amounts of iron, Vitamin A, and fiber, these benefits do not outweigh its overall nutritional profile.
How does ETHEL M CHOCOLATES compare to other dark chocolate brands?
Compared to a plain dark chocolate bar like Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao, ETHEL M CHOCOLATES MINT DARK CHOCOLATE may have similar or higher added sugar due to its mint filling and overall formulation. Plain dark chocolate often has a higher cacao percentage, which can mean more antioxidants and less added sugar. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons, especially for added sugar and saturated fat content.
What is semisweet chocolate and is it good for you?
Semisweet chocolate is a type of dark chocolate that contains a significant amount of sugar, along with chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, and often milkfat and soy lecithin. While cocoa itself contains beneficial compounds, the added sugar and fat in semisweet chocolate mean it should be consumed in moderation. It is not inherently 'good for you' in large quantities.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chocolate bar?
The declared serving size is 1 bar, but for a product with a FoodScore of 8/100, a more reasonable portion for occasional enjoyment might be half a bar or even a quarter. This helps to significantly reduce the intake of added sugar and saturated fat per sitting. Moderation is key for this type of product.
Can I eat this chocolate if I am trying to lose weight?
Due to its high calorie density (564.1 calories per 100g) and significant amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, ETHEL M CHOCOLATES MINT DARK CHOCOLATE is not ideal for weight loss. If you choose to consume it, strict portion control is essential to avoid exceeding your daily calorie goals. It is best reserved for very infrequent treats.