HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its **high content of added sugar and saturated fat**.
This HAAGEN-DAZS product scores 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
A single 0.5 cup serving contains 16.83g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), similar to many other ice cream products.
Compared to generic chocolate ice cream, this SKU has a comparable nutritional profile.
Consume this product in very small portions and infrequently due to its nutrient density.
Scores -16 points above the sweet category average (16/100 across 71 foods).
Fiber
1g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
4.81g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
16.83g
34% of Daily Value
Sodium
62.02mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (16.8g)-22
Saturated fat (10.6g)-15
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 0
HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream scores 0/100, primarily due to its nutritional profile that aligns with an 'Avoid' recommendation. Per 100g, it contains 16.83g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -22 points. The product also has a high amount of saturated fat at 10.58g per 100g, leading to a -15 point deduction. The presence of trans fat, even in small amounts (0.48g), results in a -20 point penalty. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA 4 indicates it is ultra-processed, contributing a -10 point penalty, with an additional -3 points for concentrated ultra-processed fat. While it receives a minor bonus of +2 points for Vitamin A content (43% DV), this is insufficient to offset the substantial penalties from high levels of added sugar, saturated fat, and trans fat. Ingredients like corn syrup and sugar are prominent, directly contributing to the high added sugar content. This nutritional profile is typical for ice cream and is comparable to a generic unbranded chocolate ice cream.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in haagen-dazs chocolate ice cream actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamin A
This HAAGEN-DAZS ice cream provides 43% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that supports vision, immune function, and cell growth. While not a primary source, it contributes to daily intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. The Vitamin A content comes from the dairy components like cream and milk fat.
Energy Source
With 288.46 calories per 100g, this product can serve as a quick source of energy. This can be useful for individuals needing to increase caloric intake, such as athletes after intense exercise or those with specific dietary needs for weight gain. However, the energy comes primarily from added sugars and fats, which should be considered in the context of overall dietary goals.
Occasional Indulgence
As an occasional treat, this HAAGEN-DAZS ice cream can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. The sensory experience of enjoying a dessert can contribute to overall dietary satisfaction, potentially helping to prevent overconsumption of less satisfying foods. It is important to view this product as a dessert rather than a significant nutritional contributor.
HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream is typically consumed as a dessert or a treat, often after meals or as a snack. Common portion sizes are around 0.5 cup, though it's easy to exceed this. The primary pitfall is overconsumption due to its palatability and high caloric density.
To manage portion sizes, serve this ice cream in a small bowl rather than eating directly from the container to help visualize and control intake.
Pair a small serving with fresh fruit, such as berries, to add fiber and micronutrients to your dessert.
Consider this ice cream as an infrequent treat, perhaps once a week, to align with dietary guidelines for limiting added sugars and saturated fats.
If you enjoy the flavor, try making your own chocolate 'nice' cream with frozen bananas and cocoa powder for a lower-sugar, higher-fiber alternative.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including milk, egg, and soy lecithin, as listed in the ingredients. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The high content of added sugar (16.83g per 100g) makes this product less suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes. The significant amount of saturated fat (10.58g per 100g) should also be noted by those monitoring their cardiovascular health. While corn syrup is present, it is a common sweetener and generally well-tolerated by most individuals without specific sensitivities.
HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream is not considered a healthy food choice. It receives a FoodScore of 0/100, primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat. While it provides some Vitamin A, its overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed sparingly.
How does HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream compare to other ice creams?
Compared to many other premium ice cream brands, HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream has a similar nutritional profile, often high in calories, added sugar, and saturated fat. For instance, it is comparable to Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie in terms of energy density and sugar content. Lighter ice cream options or frozen yogurts may offer lower calorie and fat alternatives.
What is 'cocoa processed with alkali'?
Cocoa processed with alkali, also known as Dutch-processed cocoa, is cocoa powder that has been treated with an alkaline solution. This process reduces the acidity of the cocoa, making it darker in color and milder in flavor. It does not significantly alter the nutritional impact of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this ice cream?
A reasonable portion size for HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream, given its nutritional density, is 0.5 cup (the declared serving size). This helps to limit intake of added sugars and saturated fats. Consuming larger portions frequently would contribute significantly to exceeding daily recommended limits for these nutrients.
Can I eat this ice cream if I am lactose intolerant?
HAAGEN-DAZS Chocolate Ice Cream contains cream and skim milk, which are sources of lactose. Therefore, it is not suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. There are specific lactose-free ice cream brands available that would be a more appropriate choice.