GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid). The primary drivers for this low score are its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
This product scores 11/100, indicating it is best avoided in regular consumption.
It contains 23.8g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
With 28.57g of saturated fat per 100g, this is a notable nutritional concern.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Enjoy in very small portions to manage intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Scores -5 points above the sweet category average (16/100 across 71 foods).
Fiber
9.52g
34% of Daily Value
Protein
4.76g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
23.8g
48% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (9.5g)+12
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (23.8g)-25
Saturated fat (28.6g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 11
GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao scores 11/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its nutritional profile, particularly the high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. The product contains 23.8g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. Additionally, the saturated fat content is 28.57g per 100g, leading to a -15 point penalty. The presence of soy lecithin as an emulsifier and the overall formulation classify this product as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which further deducts -10 points. A concentrated amount of ultra-processed fat also contributes a -3 point penalty. On the positive side, the product receives +12 points for its 9.52g of fiber and +2 points for its iron content (19% DV). Compared to a generic dark chocolate baseline, GHIRARDELLI's formulation is similar in its high sugar and fat content, resulting in a comparable low nutritional score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ghirardelli intense dark 72% cacao actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This dark chocolate provides a notable amount of iron, with 3.43mg per 100g, contributing 19% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily iron intake, especially for individuals who may need to increase their intake.
Contains Dietary Fiber
GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao offers 9.52g of dietary fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote satiety. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet supports regular bowel function and can contribute to overall well-being. This amount of fiber is a positive aspect for a sweet treat.
Potential for Antioxidants
Dark chocolate, particularly varieties with higher cacao percentages, contains compounds that act as antioxidants. These compounds may help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. While this product is high in added sugar and fat, the cacao content does offer some of these beneficial plant compounds, which are naturally present in cocoa beans.
GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid). The primary drivers for this low score are its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
Dark chocolate squares like GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao are typically consumed as a small treat or dessert. They are often enjoyed on their own or paired with coffee. Due to their rich flavor, a small portion is usually satisfying, which is beneficial given the high caloric density and sugar content.
Pair with fruit: Enjoy a small square with a serving of fresh berries or an apple to add additional fiber and vitamins.
Mindful portioning: Stick to the recommended serving size of two squares to manage intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Use as an accent: Melt a small amount and drizzle over plain yogurt or oatmeal for flavor without consuming a large portion.
Occasional treat: Consider this product an occasional indulgence rather than a daily staple due to its nutritional profile.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content (23.8g per 100g) and saturated fat (28.57g per 100g) in this product. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited quantities. The ingredient list includes soy lecithin, which is a common allergen for individuals with soy sensitivities. While the product is dark chocolate, it still contains caffeine, which might be a consideration for individuals sensitive to stimulants, especially if consumed in larger amounts or close to bedtime. Always check the packaging for specific allergen warnings regarding cross-contamination.
GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao receives a FoodScore of 11/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat. While it offers some fiber and iron, these benefits are outweighed by less desirable nutritional aspects.
How does GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao compare to other dark chocolates?
Compared to a generic dark chocolate, GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. When compared to a brand like Hershey's Special Dark, the GHIRARDELLI product also contains significant amounts of these components, making both best consumed in moderation.
What is 'cane sugar' in the ingredient list?
Cane sugar is a form of added sugar derived from sugarcane. In GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao, it contributes to the 23.8g of added sugar per 100g, which is a significant factor in the product's low FoodScore. It provides sweetness but offers minimal nutritional value beyond calories.
What is a reasonable portion size for this dark chocolate?
The recommended serving size for GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 72% Cacao is 2 squares. This portion helps to limit the intake of added sugar and saturated fat, which are high in this product. Consuming larger portions regularly would significantly increase your intake of these components.
Does this product contain a lot of caffeine?
While the exact caffeine content is not listed, dark chocolate generally contains caffeine due to its cocoa content. A 72% cacao product will have more caffeine than milk chocolate. Individuals sensitive to caffeine should be mindful of their intake, especially if consuming multiple servings or close to bedtime.