PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS BRAZILIAN SEA SALT DARK CHOCOLATE, BRAZILIAN SEA SALT
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS BRAZILIAN SEA SALT DARK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
This dark chocolate scores 11/100, indicating it should be avoided as a regular dietary item.
It contains 32.1g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 25g of saturated fat per 100g, it exceeds daily recommendations for this nutrient.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed, unlike plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea.
Scores -21 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
32.1g
64% of Daily Value
Sodium
571.43mg
25% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Potassium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (32.1g)-25
Saturated fat (25g)-15
Sodium (571.4mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 11
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS BRAZILIAN SEA SALT DARK CHOCOLATE achieved a FoodScore of 11 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, which includes significant amounts of added sugar and saturated fat. The product contains 32.1g of added sugar per 100g, leading to a substantial penalty of -25 points. Similarly, its 25g of saturated fat per 100g resulted in a -15 point deduction. As a NOVA 4 classified food, it is considered ultra-processed, incurring an additional -10 point penalty. The presence of chocolate liquor and cocoa butter contributes to its fat content. While it does offer some fiber (7.1g) and protein (7.1g), earning +9 and +3 points respectively, and some micronutrients like potassium and iron (+4 points), these bonuses are not enough to offset the penalties. Compared to a baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, which contain no added sugar, fat, or sodium, this product presents a considerably different nutritional composition.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific coast selections brazilian sea salt dark chocolate, brazilian sea salt actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This dark chocolate provides a notable amount of iron, with 9.64mg per 100g, contributing 54% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and plays a role in energy metabolism. Including sources of iron in the diet is important for maintaining healthy red blood cells and preventing iron deficiency. While this product contributes iron, it should be considered within the context of its overall nutritional profile.
Contains Dietary Fiber
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS BRAZILIAN SEA SALT DARK CHOCOLATE offers 7.11g of dietary fiber per 100g. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this is a positive attribute, it is important to remember that fiber is best obtained from whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which also provide a wider array of nutrients without the high levels of added sugar and saturated fat found here.
Provides Potassium
This product contains 500mg of potassium per 100g, which is 11% of the Daily Value. Potassium is an important electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and supports normal blood pressure. While this is a beneficial mineral, the amount provided here should be weighed against the product's high added sugar and saturated fat content. Other foods like fruits, vegetables, and legumes are generally better sources of potassium with a more favorable nutrient profile.
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS BRAZILIAN SEA SALT DARK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
Dark chocolate is typically consumed as a treat or dessert, often in small portions. It can be enjoyed on its own, paired with fruit, or used in baking. Due to its high energy density and sweet flavor, it's commonly eaten to satisfy cravings.
To manage added sugar intake, consider pairing a small piece with unsweetened fruit like berries.
Portion control is key: limit consumption to a small square or two to keep saturated fat and added sugar in check.
Consider this as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack to align with dietary guidelines.
For a more balanced snack, try combining a small piece of dark chocolate with a handful of nuts or seeds.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soy lecithin, an emulsifier derived from soy, which is a common allergen. Individuals with a soy allergy should avoid this product. The high content of added sugar makes it less suitable for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. The significant amount of saturated fat also warrants caution for those monitoring their cardiovascular health. While dark chocolate is often perceived as healthy, the specific formulation of this PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS product, with its high sugar and fat content, means it should be consumed in moderation.
Is PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS BRAZILIAN SEA SALT DARK CHOCOLATE healthy?
With a FoodScore of 11/100, this product is categorized as 'Avoid.' It contains high levels of added sugar and saturated fat, which are not conducive to a healthy diet when consumed regularly. While it offers some fiber and iron, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable components.
How does PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS BRAZILIAN SEA SALT DARK CHOCOLATE compare to other dark chocolates?
Compared to some other dark chocolate brands, such as Ghirardelli Intense Dark, this product's nutritional profile would need a direct comparison of their specific added sugar and saturated fat content. Generally, dark chocolates with higher cocoa percentages tend to have less added sugar, but this can vary significantly by brand and specific product formulation.
What is 'chocolate liquor' in the ingredient list?
Chocolate liquor, despite its name, is a non-alcoholic ingredient. It is the pure, solid, or semi-solid form of cocoa mass, produced from cocoa beans that have been fermented, dried, roasted, and ground. It is a key component in making chocolate and contributes to the product's fat content.
How much of this dark chocolate can I eat daily?
Given its high added sugar (32.1g per 100g) and saturated fat (25g per 100g) content, it is advisable to consume this dark chocolate in very small, infrequent portions. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars and saturated fats, so daily consumption is not recommended.
Does this dark chocolate contain caffeine?
Yes, dark chocolate naturally contains caffeine, derived from the cocoa solids. The exact amount can vary based on the cocoa content. While not listed as an ingredient, the chocolate liquor and cocoa butter contribute to its natural caffeine content, which may be a consideration for some individuals.