PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT CRUNCH
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT CRUNCH receives a FoodScore of 8/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
This product has a FoodScore of 8/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 46.4g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
The product is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain sparkling water, this product offers minimal nutritional benefits and high caloric density.
Consider this product an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
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
0mg
0% 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
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT CRUNCH earned a FoodScore of 8 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factors contributing to this low score are its high added sugar content and its classification as an ultra-processed food. With 46.4g of added sugar per 100g, this product significantly exceeds recommended daily limits, leading to a substantial penalty of 25 points. Additionally, the presence of 17.9g of saturated fat per 100g resulted in a 15-point penalty, reflecting concerns about cardiovascular health. The product's NOVA class 4 designation, indicating it is ultra-processed, incurred a 10-point penalty, and the concentrated ultra-processed fat further reduced the score by 3 points. While the product does offer some fiber (7.1g) and iron (9.64mg, 54% DV), providing a combined bonus of 11 points, these benefits are largely overshadowed by the negative nutritional aspects. The ingredient list, including sugar and corn syrup in the peppermint candy, highlights the sources of added sugars. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, this PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS product provides a high calorie and sugar load with limited essential nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific coast selections peppermint crunch dark chocolate, peppermint crunch actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This product provides a notable amount of iron, with 9.64mg per 100g, which is 54% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various cellular functions. While not a primary source, consuming a portion of this product can contribute to your daily iron intake, particularly for individuals who may need to increase their iron consumption. It is important to consider the overall nutritional profile when relying on such products for micronutrient contributions.
Dietary Fiber Contribution
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE contains 7.11g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. While this product is not a primary source of fiber in a balanced diet, this amount can contribute to your daily fiber goals. Including fiber-rich foods is generally recommended for overall well-being, and this product offers some contribution in that regard, despite its other nutritional considerations.
Occasional Indulgence
As a dark chocolate product with peppermint crunch, this item can serve as an occasional treat within a balanced dietary pattern. For individuals who enjoy the flavor combination, it can satisfy a craving for something sweet. The key is moderation, ensuring that such indulgences do not displace more nutrient-dense foods in the diet. It is designed for enjoyment rather than as a staple food for nutritional benefits.
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT CRUNCH receives a FoodScore of 8/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This dark chocolate bar is typically consumed as a dessert or a sweet snack. Given its concentrated sugar and fat content, it's best enjoyed in small portions. It's not intended as a meal replacement or a significant source of daily nutrients.
Consider pairing a small piece with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add fiber and healthy fats to your snack.
Portion control is key; divide the bar into smaller servings to help manage added sugar and calorie intake.
Enjoy this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily habit to align with dietary guidelines for added sugar moderation.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain its texture and prevent melting, especially the dark chocolate component.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains soy lecithin, an emulsifier commonly used in chocolate products. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with soy allergies should be aware of its presence. The ingredient list also includes Red 40, an artificial food coloring found in the crushed peppermint candy. Some individuals may experience sensitivities to artificial food colorings, though scientific evidence on widespread adverse effects is mixed. Given the high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with extreme caution and in very small amounts. It is also an ultra-processed food, which is generally recommended to be limited in a healthy diet.
Is PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE healthy?
PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE has a FoodScore of 8/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is high in added sugar (46.4g/100g) and saturated fat (17.9g/100g), and is classified as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some iron and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by its less desirable nutritional aspects.
How does PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS compare to other dark chocolate brands?
Compared to many other dark chocolate brands, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE's nutritional profile is similar in terms of high sugar and fat content, especially when considering flavored varieties. For example, a plain dark chocolate bar like Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao might have slightly less added sugar but still contains significant fat. The peppermint crunch adds additional sugar and an artificial color (Red 40) not always found in simpler dark chocolates.
What is 'soy lecithin' and should I be concerned about it?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, commonly used in chocolate to create a smooth texture and prevent ingredients from separating. For most people, it is safe to consume. However, individuals with a soy allergy should avoid this product as it contains a soy-derived ingredient.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chocolate bar?
The declared serving size is 0.333 bar. Given its high calorie (535.71 per 100g) and added sugar content, sticking to this small portion or even less is advisable. Consuming a smaller portion helps to limit the intake of added sugars and saturated fats, aligning better with dietary recommendations for occasional treats.
Does this product contain caffeine?
Yes, as a dark chocolate product, PACIFIC COAST SELECTIONS PEPPERMINT CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE naturally contains some caffeine from the chocolate liquor and cocoa butter. While the exact amount is not provided, dark chocolate generally has more caffeine than milk chocolate. Individuals sensitive to caffeine should be mindful of this when consuming the product, especially in larger quantities or close to bedtime.