LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate receives a FoodScore of 1/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high levels of added sugar and saturated fat**, contributing to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate scores 1/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
The product contains 30g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 26.67g of saturated fat per 100g, this SKU is high in less desirable fats.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, similar to other chocolate bars.
Consume in small, infrequent portions to manage intake of added sugar and saturated fat.
Scores -15 points above the sweet category average (16/100 across 71 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
6.67g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
30g
60% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (6.7g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (30g)-25
Saturated fat (26.7g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 1
LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate receives a FoodScore of 1/100, largely due to its nutritional profile which includes significant amounts of added sugar and saturated fat. Per 100g, this product contains 30g of added sugar, resulting in a substantial penalty of -25 points. Additionally, its 26.67g of saturated fat per 100g incurs a -15 point penalty. The presence of soy lecithin as an emulsifier, along with other processing, classifies this product as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which leads to a -10 point penalty. A further -3 points are applied due to its concentrated ultra-processed fat content. While it gains minor bonuses for protein (6.7g) and iron (3.33mg), these are insufficient to offset the major penalties. Compared to a generic unbranded dark chocolate, this LINDT product's nutritional profile, particularly in terms of added sugar and saturated fat, is consistent with typical formulations in this category.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in lindt excellence 70% dark chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This LINDT dark chocolate provides 3.33mg of iron per 100g, contributing 19% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. 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 intake from various dietary sources.
Potential for Antioxidant Compounds
Dark chocolate, including this LINDT product with 70% cocoa, contains compounds derived from the cocoa bean that possess antioxidant properties. These compounds may help protect cells from oxidative stress. While the processing and added sugar content can impact the overall benefit, the cocoa content itself is a source of these plant-based compounds.
Mindful Indulgence in Small Portions
For individuals who enjoy chocolate, this product can be incorporated into a diet as a mindful indulgence in small, controlled portions. The rich flavor of 70% dark chocolate often encourages slower consumption, which can help manage overall intake of added sugar and saturated fat. It can satisfy a craving without requiring large quantities.
LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate receives a FoodScore of 1/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat, contributing to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Dark chocolate is typically consumed as a treat or dessert. A common portion size is 1-2 squares, often enjoyed after a meal or as a small snack. The primary pitfall is overconsumption due to its palatability and energy density.
Pair a small piece of dark chocolate with fresh fruit like berries or an apple to add fiber and nutrients, balancing the indulgence.
Consider melting a small amount and drizzling it over plain Greek yogurt for a controlled portion of sweetness and healthy fats.
Break off a single square and allow it to melt slowly in your mouth to savor the flavor and promote mindful eating, which can help prevent overeating.
Use small amounts as an ingredient in baking, such as in homemade granola bars, to control the total added sugar in your recipe.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soy lecithin, an emulsifier derived from soy, which is a common allergen. Individuals with soy allergies should avoid this product. While dark chocolate contains some caffeine, the amount in a typical serving is generally not a concern for most adults, but very sensitive individuals or young children might consider intake. Due to its high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and account for its impact on their daily carbohydrate intake. There are no specific interactions with medications commonly associated with chocolate in typical consumption amounts.
LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate receives a FoodScore of 1/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its high levels of added sugar (30g per 100g) and saturated fat (26.67g per 100g). While it offers some iron, its overall nutritional profile is not conducive to a health-promoting diet when consumed frequently or in large portions.
How does LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate compare to other dark chocolates?
Compared to a generic unbranded 70% dark chocolate, LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate has a similar nutritional profile, particularly in its high added sugar and saturated fat content. Many dark chocolate brands, such as Ghirardelli 72% Cacao, also feature significant amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, placing them in a similar FoodScore category. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What is 'soy lecithin' and why is it in this chocolate?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier, meaning it helps to bind ingredients that don't naturally mix, like cocoa solids and cocoa butter. In chocolate, it contributes to a smoother texture and helps prevent 'bloom' (a grayish film on the surface). It is generally recognized as safe but is derived from soy, a common allergen.
What is a reasonable portion size for this dark chocolate?
A reasonable portion size for LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate is typically 1-2 squares (around 10-20g). This helps to limit intake of added sugar and saturated fat. Consuming more than this regularly would contribute significantly to exceeding daily recommendations for these nutrients, especially given the 30g added sugar per 100g.
Can I eat this dark chocolate every day?
Given its FoodScore of 1/100 and its high content of added sugar and saturated fat, daily consumption of LINDT Excellence 70% Dark Chocolate is not recommended. It is best reserved for occasional indulgence in small portions. Frequent intake could contribute to exceeding dietary guidelines for these components.