PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT BROWNIE
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE scores 8/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore for PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE is 8/100.
Contains 46.4g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Provides 7.1g of fiber per 100g, a notable positive nutrient.
Best consumed in very small portions due to its concentrated calories and sugar.
Scores -24 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
7.11g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
3.57g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
46.4g
93% of Daily Value
Sodium
36.07mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.1g)+9
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (46.4g)-25
Saturated fat (17.9g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 8
The PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 8 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high content of added sugar, which stands at 46.4g per 100g. This amount significantly exceeds daily recommendations and incurs a substantial penalty in the FoodScore calculation. The product also contains 17.9g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to a further penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4), it receives an additional penalty, reflecting its formulation with multiple industrial ingredients like corn syrup and canola oil. While it does offer 7.1g of fiber and 9.64mg of iron (54% DV) per 100g, these positive contributions are outweighed by the high levels of less desirable components. Compared to a baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, this product offers minimal nutritional benefits and a high caloric load from sugar and fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific coast selections peppermint brownie dark chocolate, peppermint brownie actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 7.1g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. While this is a positive aspect, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile of the product when relying on it for fiber.
Iron Contribution
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE contains 9.64mg of iron per 100g, which is 54% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. For individuals looking to increase their iron intake, this product could contribute, though it should be balanced against its high sugar and fat content.
Energy Source for Specific Needs
With 535.71 calories per 100g, this product provides a concentrated source of energy. For individuals with very high caloric needs, such as athletes during intense training or those needing to gain weight, small portions could serve as a quick energy boost. However, the energy comes primarily from added sugars and saturated fats, which are not ideal for sustained energy or overall health.
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE scores 8/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This peppermint brownie dark chocolate bar is typically consumed as an indulgent treat or dessert. Given its high caloric density and sugar content, it's best enjoyed in very small, controlled portions rather than as a regular snack or meal replacement.
Consider pairing a very small piece with a source of protein or healthy fats, like a handful of nuts or a glass of milk, to help slow sugar absorption.
Portion out a small square and store the rest out of sight to avoid overconsumption, as the concentrated sugar and fat can lead to easy overeating.
Use it as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence to minimize the impact of added sugar and saturated fat on your overall diet.
If you crave chocolate, consider alternatives with less added sugar and more fiber, such as a small square of 70% or higher dark chocolate.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high levels of added sugar and saturated fat in PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE. The ingredient list includes soy lecithin, which is a common allergen, and individuals with soy allergies should avoid this product. It also contains wheat flour, making it unsuitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. The presence of Red 40, an artificial color, may be a concern for some individuals, particularly children, although research on its effects is ongoing. Due to its high sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very limited quantities.
Is PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 8/100, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption. It is an ultra-processed product with high amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, which contribute to its low nutritional score.
How does PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE compare to other chocolate bars?
Compared to many standard chocolate bars, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT BROWNIE DARK CHOCOLATE is similar in its high sugar and fat content. For example, a Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar also contains significant added sugar and saturated fat. Healthier alternatives would include dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage (70% or more) and fewer added ingredients.
What is 'DARK CHOCOLATE CRUNCH' in the ingredient list?
The 'DARK CHOCOLATE CRUNCH' listed in the ingredients is a component made from unbleached wheat flour, sugar, canola oil, cocoa, baking soda, salt, and natural flavors. This ingredient contributes to the product's texture and flavor, but also adds to the overall sugar, fat, and processing level of the bar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The manufacturer's serving size is 0.333 bar, which is a small portion. Given the high calorie (535.71 per 100g) and added sugar (46.4g per 100g) content, adhering to this small serving size, or even less, is advisable to manage intake of less desirable nutrients.
Does this product contain artificial flavors?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies 'ARTIFICIAL FRENCH VANILLA FLAVOR'. This indicates the presence of synthetic flavor compounds, which contribute to the product's ultra-processed classification and may be a consideration for consumers preferring natural ingredients.