FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 3/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This FOLGERS hot cocoa scores 3/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
It contains 37.33g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 1200mg of sodium per 100g, this product is high in sodium.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food product.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular beverage.
Scores -30 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
6.67g
24% of Daily Value
Protein
6.67g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
37.33g
75% of Daily Value
Sodium
1200mg
52% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (6.7g)+8
Protein (6.7g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (37.3g)-25
Saturated fat (16.7g)-15
Sodium (1200mg)-6
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 3
FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE earns a FoodScore of 3 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary reason for this low score is its high added sugar content, contributing 37.33g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, the product is high in saturated fat, with 16.67g per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. The sodium content is also notable at 1200mg per 100g, resulting in a -6 point penalty. As a NOVA 4 classified food, it is considered ultra-processed, incurring a further -10 points, along with an additional -3 points for concentrated ultra-processed fat. While the product does offer some fiber (6.67g, +8 points), protein (6.67g, +2 points), and iron (7.2mg, +2 points), these bonuses are significantly outweighed by the penalties. The ingredient list begins with sugar and includes creamer with coconut oil, indicating a formulation that prioritizes palatability over nutritional density, especially when compared to a generic dairy equivalent like plain milk.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in folgers cafe, hot cocoa, milk chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Iron
This FOLGERS hot cocoa provides 7.2mg of iron per 100g, which is 40% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. While not a primary source of iron in a balanced diet, this product can contribute to daily iron intake, especially for individuals who may have difficulty meeting their needs through other foods. It's important to consider the overall nutritional profile when relying on a product for micronutrients.
Source of Fiber
FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE contains 6.67g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this product is not a whole food source of fiber, the amount present can be a small addition to a diet that might otherwise lack sufficient fiber. It's best to obtain fiber from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables for broader health benefits.
Provides Protein
With 6.67g of protein per 100g, this hot cocoa can contribute a modest amount of protein to your diet. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. While this product is not a high-protein food, the protein content can add to satiety when consumed as part of a meal or snack. For optimal protein intake, prioritize lean meats, legumes, and dairy products.
FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 3/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Hot cocoa is typically consumed as a warm beverage, often as a comfort drink or a treat. It's commonly prepared by mixing the K-Cup pod with hot water, making it a convenient option. Due to its high sugar and fat content, it's generally consumed in single servings.
Consider this hot cocoa as an occasional treat rather than a daily beverage to manage added sugar intake.
Pair with a source of lean protein or fiber, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help balance the meal and increase satiety.
If you enjoy the flavor, consider making your own hot cocoa from scratch with unsweetened cocoa powder and controlling the amount of added sugar and fat.
Be mindful of the serving size; one K-Cup pod is a standard serving, and consuming multiple servings will significantly increase sugar and calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. The creamer includes coconut oil, which is high in saturated fat, contributing to the product's overall saturated fat content. It also contains sodium caseinate, a milk derivative, and nonfat dry milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy allergies. The presence of acesulfame potassium and sucralose indicates the use of artificial sweeteners, which some individuals may choose to limit in their diet. While generally recognized as safe, some people report digestive sensitivities to artificial sweeteners. The high sodium content (1200mg per 100g) should be noted by individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management.
Is FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE healthy?
FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 3/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat are the primary reasons for this low score. While it offers some iron, protein, and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does FOLGERS hot cocoa compare to other hot cocoa brands?
Compared to a generic hot cocoa mix, FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE is likely to have a similar nutritional profile, often characterized by high added sugar and fat. For example, Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix also lists sugar as its first ingredient and contains comparable amounts of added sugar and saturated fat. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What is 'processed with alkali' in cocoa?
Cocoa 'processed with alkali' refers to Dutch-processed cocoa. This process reduces the acidity of the cocoa, making it milder in flavor and darker in color. While it can slightly reduce the antioxidant content, it doesn't significantly impact the overall nutritional value of the cocoa in this product, which is primarily driven by other ingredients like sugar and creamer.
How much added sugar is in one serving of this hot cocoa?
One K-Cup pod serving of FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE contains a significant amount of added sugar. Based on 37.33g per 100g, and considering a typical K-Cup pod is around 20-25g of powder, a single serving would contain approximately 7-9g of added sugar. This contributes to a substantial portion of the daily recommended limit for added sugars.
Can I drink this hot cocoa every day?
Due to its high added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium content, daily consumption of FOLGERS CAFE, HOT COCOA, MILK CHOCOLATE is not recommended as part of a balanced diet. It is best enjoyed as an occasional treat. Frequent consumption could contribute to exceeding daily limits for these nutrients.