GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE scores 9/100 (Avoid) due to its significant contribution from **added sugar** and **saturated fat**.
FoodScore: 9/100 (Avoid).
Contains 28g of added sugar per 100g serving.
Provides 6.67g of fiber and 7.2mg (40% DV) of iron per 100g.
This product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Consider this product for occasional consumption in small portions.
Scores -23 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
6.67g
24% of Daily Value
Protein
6.67g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
28g
56% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% 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 (28g)-25
Saturated fat (23.3g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 9
GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 9 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat. Per 100g, the product contains 28g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. Additionally, it has 23.33g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. The presence of soy lecithin as an emulsifier, along with other processing, classifies this product as NOVA class 4 (ultra-processed), resulting in a further -10 point deduction. A penalty for concentrated ultra-processed fat also applies. While it does offer some positive nutrients, such as 6.67g of fiber (+8 points) and 7.2mg of iron (+2 points), these are not sufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to a baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, GHIRARDELLI chocolate provides a much higher caloric density and nutrient profile with significant amounts of components to limit.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ghirardelli 60% cacao bittersweet chocolate, chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE provides 6.67g of dietary fiber per 100g serving. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While this product should be consumed in moderation due to other nutritional factors, the fiber content from the cocoa solids is a notable positive aspect.
Good Source of Iron
This product is a good source of iron, supplying 7.2mg per 100g, which is 40% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. Including iron-rich foods in the diet is important for preventing iron deficiency, though this chocolate should not be considered a primary source due to its overall nutritional profile.
Potential for Antioxidant Compounds
As a product containing 60% cacao, GHIRARDELLI chocolate inherently includes cocoa solids, which are known to contain flavonoids and other antioxidant compounds. These compounds are studied for their potential roles in cellular protection. While the processing and added sugar content should be considered, the cacao itself contributes these plant-based components.
GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE scores 9/100 (Avoid) due to its significant contribution from added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE is typically consumed as a dessert, snack, or an ingredient in baking. It's often enjoyed in small portions to satisfy a craving for something sweet and rich. The standard serving size is 1 section, which is considerably less than 100g.
Pair a small piece with fresh fruit like berries or an apple to add more fiber and vitamins to your snack.
Use a small amount as a topping for plain Greek yogurt or oatmeal to add flavor without excessive sugar.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a single section slowly to appreciate its flavor and avoid overconsumption.
Consider using it as an ingredient in homemade treats where you can control the overall sugar content.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk fat and soy lecithin, which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies to milk or soy should avoid this product. While the cacao content offers some benefits, the high levels of added sugar and saturated fat mean it should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals monitoring their blood sugar or cholesterol levels. There are no artificial colors or preservatives listed, but it is an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4).
Is GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 9/100, this product is not considered a healthy everyday food choice. It is high in added sugar (28g per 100g) and saturated fat (23.33g per 100g), which contribute significantly to its low score. While it offers some fiber and iron, these do not outweigh the less favorable nutritional aspects for regular consumption.
How does GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE compare to other chocolate brands?
Compared to other dark chocolate brands like Lindt Excellence 70% Cacao, GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE has a slightly lower cacao percentage, which often correlates with higher sugar content. Consumers should always check the nutrition label for added sugar and saturated fat when comparing different chocolate products, as these can vary widely even within the same category.
What is 'soy lecithin' and why is it in this chocolate?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans. In chocolate, it helps to create a smooth texture and prevents the cocoa solids and cocoa butter from separating. It's a common ingredient in many processed foods and is generally recognized as safe, though it is an allergen for some individuals.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chocolate?
The recommended serving size is 1 section. Adhering to this portion size helps to manage the intake of added sugar and saturated fat. Consuming larger portions regularly would significantly increase your intake of these components, making it harder to align with dietary guidelines.
Can I use this chocolate in baking?
Yes, GHIRARDELLI 60% CACAO BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE can be used in baking. When incorporating it into recipes, be mindful of the other ingredients you are adding, especially additional sugars and fats. This allows for better control over the overall nutritional profile of your homemade baked goods.