GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 10/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high content of added sugar** and **saturated fat**.
FoodScore: 10/100 (Avoid) for GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE.
Contains 31.32g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
Provides 7.89g of fiber and 9.47mg (53% DV) of iron per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Best consumed in very small portions due to its concentrated energy and fat.
Scores -22 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
7.89g
28% of Daily Value
Protein
5.26g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
31.32g
63% of Daily Value
Sodium
26mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.9g)+10
Protein (5.3g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (31.3g)-25
Saturated fat (21g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 10
GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE scores 10 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. Per 100g, this product contains 31.32g of added sugar, which incurs a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, the 21g of saturated fat per 100g leads to a -15 point penalty. The presence of cocoa butter and milk fat contributes to this saturated fat content. As a NOVA 4 classified food, it is considered ultra-processed, resulting in a further -10 point penalty, with an additional -3 points for concentrated ultra-processed fat. While the product does offer some positive nutrients, such as 7.89g of fiber (+10 points) and 9.47mg of iron (+2 points), these benefits are significantly outweighed by the penalties. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, which contain no added sugars or fats, GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE is a nutrient-poor choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ghirardelli dark chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE provides a notable amount of iron, with 9.47mg per 100g, contributing 53% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production. While this product is not a primary source of iron in a balanced diet, it can contribute to daily intake when consumed in moderation, especially for individuals who may need to increase their iron consumption.
Contains Dietary Fiber
This product offers 7.89g of dietary fiber per 100g, which is a positive attribute. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. The fiber content in GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE primarily comes from the unsweetened chocolate and cocoa components. However, the overall nutritional profile suggests that other foods should be prioritized for fiber intake.
Potential for Antioxidants
Dark chocolate, including the unsweetened chocolate and cocoa processed with alkali in this product, contains compounds that may act as antioxidants. These compounds can help protect cells from damage. While the processing and other ingredients in this ultra-processed product may affect the bioavailability of these compounds, the cocoa content does offer some inherent antioxidant potential, though not enough to offset the other nutritional concerns.
GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 10/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
GHIRARDELLI DARK 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 high energy density, it's important to consider portion sizes to align with dietary goals.
Consider pairing a small piece of GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE with a piece of fruit, like berries, to add additional fiber and vitamins to your snack.
Use this chocolate sparingly as a flavor enhancer in recipes, such as a small amount grated over oatmeal, rather than consuming large portions directly.
Practice mindful eating by savoring a single section slowly to satisfy cravings without overconsumption.
For a lower-sugar alternative, consider unsweetened cocoa powder in recipes, which provides chocolate flavor without the added sugar.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies should note that this product contains milk fat and soy lecithin, indicating potential allergens for those with dairy and soy sensitivities. The presence of vanillin- artificial flavor and other natural and artificial flavors means this is an ultra-processed food, which may not be suitable for those aiming to minimize such ingredients in their diet. Due to its high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The concentrated fat content also means it is high in calories, which should be considered for weight management.
GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 10/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its high levels of added sugar (31.32g per 100g) and saturated fat (21g per 100g) are the primary reasons for this low score. While it offers some iron and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by its less desirable nutritional components.
How does GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE compare to other chocolate brands?
Compared to other dark chocolate brands like Hershey's Special Dark, GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE shares similar nutritional challenges, particularly in its added sugar and saturated fat content. Many conventional dark chocolates are ultra-processed and contain significant amounts of these ingredients. For a more nutritionally favorable option, look for chocolates with a higher cocoa percentage and minimal added sugars.
What is 'cocoa - processed with alkali'?
'Cocoa - processed with alkali' refers to cocoa powder that has been treated with an alkaline solution, often potassium carbonate. This process, also known as Dutching, reduces the acidity of cocoa, making it milder in flavor and darker in color. However, it can also reduce the antioxidant content of the cocoa.
What is a reasonable portion size for GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE?
The declared serving size is 3 sections. Given the high calorie and sugar density of this product, adhering to this small portion size is advisable. For many, even smaller portions may be appropriate to manage intake of added sugars and saturated fats, especially if consumed frequently.
Can GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE be part of a balanced diet?
While GHIRARDELLI DARK CHOCOLATE can be included in a balanced diet, it should be treated as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular food item. Its ultra-processed nature and high content of added sugar and saturated fat mean it contributes minimal beneficial nutrients relative to its calorie load. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods for the majority of your diet.