NUTELLA HAZELNUT SPREAD WITH COCOA receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
NUTELLA scores 2/100, indicating it is an ultra-processed food to be consumed sparingly.
A 100g serving contains 51.4g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
It provides 2.7g of fiber and 5.4g of protein per 100g, offering some nutritional components.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food product.
Consider using NUTELLA in very small portions due to its high calorie and sugar density.
Scores -31 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.7g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
5.41g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
51.4g
103% of Daily Value
Sodium
41.08mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.7g)+2
Protein (5.4g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (51.4g)-25
Saturated fat (10.8g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 2
NUTELLA HAZELNUT SPREAD WITH COCOA receives a FoodScore of 2 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely attributed to its nutritional profile, particularly its high content of added sugar and saturated fat. Per 100g, the product contains 51.4g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list confirms sugar as the first ingredient, indicating its predominant presence. Additionally, the 10.8g of saturated fat per 100g leads to a -15 point penalty. The use of palm oil as a primary fat source contributes to this saturated fat content. As a NOVA 4 classified food, NUTELLA is considered ultra-processed, resulting in a further -10 point deduction. While it does receive minor bonuses for its 2.7g of fiber, 5.4g of protein, and some iron content, these are insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has lower added sugar and saturated fat, NUTELLA's formulation positions it as a less favorable choice for regular consumption.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in nutella hazelnut spread with cocoa, cocoa actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
NUTELLA provides 2.7mg of iron per 100g, contributing 15% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. While not a primary source, this contribution can help individuals meet their daily iron needs, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. It is important to consider the overall nutritional context of the product when relying on it for micronutrient intake.
Contains Protein
This product contains 5.41g of protein per 100g. Protein is vital for muscle repair, growth, and the production of enzymes and hormones. While NUTELLA is not a high-protein food, the protein content, primarily from skim milk and hazelnuts, can contribute to satiety when consumed in appropriate portions. Integrating it with other protein-rich foods can help balance its nutritional impact.
Provides Dietary Fiber
NUTELLA offers 2.7g of dietary fiber per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. The fiber content in this spread comes from hazelnuts and cocoa. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it does offer a small contribution to daily fiber intake, which is often lacking in typical American diets.
NUTELLA HAZELNUT SPREAD WITH COCOA receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
NUTELLA is commonly consumed as a spread on toast, pancakes, or waffles, or as an ingredient in desserts. A typical serving size is 2 tablespoons (37g), which is a concentrated source of calories and sugar. Due to its high energy density, moderation is key for fitting it into a balanced dietary pattern.
Pair NUTELLA with whole-grain toast or fruit to add fiber and other nutrients, balancing the meal.
Use NUTELLA as a flavor accent rather than a primary component; a thin layer is often sufficient.
Consider using NUTELLA in recipes that call for a small amount, such as a drizzle over plain yogurt or oatmeal, to control portion sizes.
When craving a sweet spread, try making a homemade version with less added sugar or opt for a nut butter with no added sugar.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar and saturated fat content in NUTELLA. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and in very limited amounts. The ingredient list includes hazelnuts and skim milk, which are common allergens; individuals with nut or dairy allergies should avoid this product. The presence of palm oil contributes to the saturated fat content, which, when consumed in excess, can impact cardiovascular health. The product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), indicating it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens.
NUTELLA HAZELNUT SPREAD WITH COCOA has a FoodScore of 2/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy food for regular consumption. Its high content of 51.4g of added sugar and 10.8g of saturated fat per 100g are the primary reasons for its low score. While it offers some protein and fiber, these are outweighed by the less favorable nutritional aspects.
How does NUTELLA compare to peanut butter?
Compared to many natural peanut butters (e.g., Smucker's Natural Peanut Butter), NUTELLA generally contains significantly more added sugar and saturated fat. While both are calorie-dense, natural peanut butter often provides more protein and fiber with less added sugar, making it a more nutritionally dense choice for regular consumption.
What is palm oil in NUTELLA?
Palm oil is a vegetable oil used in NUTELLA as a primary fat source. It contributes to the product's texture and shelf stability. However, palm oil is high in saturated fat, which, as part of a diet high in saturated fats, can impact cholesterol levels. Its inclusion is a factor in the product's lower FoodScore.
What is a reasonable portion size for NUTELLA?
The suggested serving size for NUTELLA is 2 tablespoons (37g). Given its high calorie (540.54 per 100g) and added sugar content (51.4g per 100g), adhering to this portion size is important for moderation. For some, even a smaller amount may be appropriate depending on individual dietary goals and overall intake.
Can NUTELLA be part of a balanced diet?
NUTELLA can be included in a balanced diet, but it should be consumed in very small, infrequent portions due to its high added sugar and saturated fat content. It is best viewed as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. Pairing it with nutrient-dense foods can help mitigate its less favorable nutritional profile.