GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE MILK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CASHEW
GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE MILK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CASHEW receives a FoodScore of 9/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
This product has a FoodScore of 9/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 24.5g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 15g of saturated fat per 100g, this product exceeds daily recommendations.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, unlike generic dairy options.
Consume in very small, infrequent portions to minimize its impact on overall diet quality.
Scores -24 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
10g
20% of Daily Value
Added sugar
24.5g
49% of Daily Value
Sodium
312.5mg
14% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (10g)+6
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (24.5g)-25
Saturated fat (15g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 9
GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE MILK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CASHEW scores 9 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat. Each 100g serving contains 24.5g of added sugar, which incurs a substantial penalty of 25 points. Additionally, the 15g of saturated fat per 100g contributes another significant penalty of 15 points. The product's classification as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, further reduces its score by 10 points. A specific ingredient, soy lecithin, is used as an emulsifier, common in many processed chocolates. While it does offer some positive nutrients, such as 10g of protein and 2.5g of fiber, earning 6 and 2 bonus points respectively, these are outweighed by the penalties. The presence of calcium (12% DV) and iron (20% DV) also adds 4 bonus points. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has less added sugar and saturated fat, this GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE product presents a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ghirardelli chocolate milk chocolate, sea salt cashew actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This product provides 3.6mg of iron per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, consuming a small portion can contribute to your daily iron intake, especially for individuals who may need to increase their iron consumption.
Contains Protein
With 10g of protein per 100g, this product offers a notable amount of this macronutrient. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, and for the production of enzymes and hormones. While this product is not a primary protein source, the protein content can contribute to satiety when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Provides Calcium
A 100g serving of GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE MILK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CASHEW contains 150mg of calcium, providing 12% of the Daily Value. Calcium is well-known for its role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, and it also plays a part in nerve function and muscle contraction. This contribution, though modest, can be a small part of meeting daily calcium needs.
GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE MILK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CASHEW receives a FoodScore of 9/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
This chocolate product is typically consumed as an indulgent treat or dessert. Common portion sizes are often larger than recommended due to its palatability. It's important to recognize its role as a discretionary food rather than a staple.
Pair with a piece of fruit like an apple or a handful of berries to add dietary fiber and reduce the overall glycemic impact.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a single piece slowly, rather than consuming multiple pieces at once.
Consider this product as an occasional treat, rather than a regular snack, to manage intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
Break off a small square and combine with unsalted nuts for a more balanced snack that includes healthy fats and additional protein.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies should note that this product contains milk, cashews, and soy lecithin, which are common allergens. While not explicitly listed, cross-contamination with other tree nuts or peanuts is possible in manufacturing facilities. The high added sugar content makes this product less suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. The presence of confectioner's glaze, while generally recognized as safe, is an indicator of its ultra-processed nature. Overall, for most healthy adults, consuming this product in moderation is unlikely to pose significant health risks beyond those associated with high sugar and fat intake.
Is GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE MILK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CASHEW healthy?
This product is not considered healthy for regular consumption. It has a FoodScore of 9/100, primarily due to its high levels of added sugar (24.5g per 100g) and saturated fat (15g per 100g). While it offers some iron and protein, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE compare to other chocolate brands?
Compared to a generic milk chocolate bar, GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE MILK CHOCOLATE, SEA SALT CASHEW is similar in its high content of added sugar and saturated fat. For instance, a Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar also contains significant amounts of added sugar. Both are considered ultra-processed treats and should be consumed in moderation.
What is 'soy lecithin' and why is it in this chocolate?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans. It's commonly used in chocolate to help bind ingredients together, creating a smooth texture and preventing the cocoa butter from separating. It's generally considered safe for consumption, though some individuals prefer to avoid soy-derived ingredients.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chocolate?
Given its high calorie, added sugar, and saturated fat content, a reasonable portion size would be one to two pieces (approximately 10-20g) as an occasional treat. Consuming the full serving size of 11 pieces would contribute significantly to daily limits for added sugar and saturated fat.
Can children eat this GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE product?
Children can consume this product in very small amounts as an occasional treat. However, due to its high added sugar and saturated fat content, it should not be a regular part of a child's diet. Excessive intake of such products can contribute to poor dietary habits and nutrient displacement.