PACIFIC FOODS CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT PLANT-BASED BEVERAGE, CHOCOLATE scores 18/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its classification as an ultra-processed food and its significant added sugar content.
This PACIFIC FOODS beverage receives a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
It contains 6.7g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its low nutritional density.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is considered ultra-processed.
Compared to generic dairy milk, this beverage offers significantly less protein and calcium.
Due to its sugar content, consider this product an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
Scores -15 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.4g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
0.83g
2% of Daily Value
Added sugar
6.7g
13% of Daily Value
Sodium
54.17mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (6.7g)-7
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 18
PACIFIC FOODS CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT PLANT-BASED BEVERAGE, CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 18 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by several factors. The product is categorized as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty of 10 points. A primary nutritional concern is the added sugar content, with 6.7g per 100g. This contributes to 26.8 calories from added sugar per 100g, leading to a 7-point penalty. Ingredients like cane sugar and rice sweetener are key contributors to this sugar load. Furthermore, the beverage is penalized 15 points for 'empty calories' due to its low density of beneficial nutrients relative to its calorie count. While it provides some calcium (4% DV per 100g), it offers minimal protein (0.83g) and fiber (0.4g). In comparison to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically provides more protein, calcium, and vitamin D, this PACIFIC FOODS product offers a less nutrient-dense profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific foods chocolate hazelnut plant-based beverage, chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
A Dairy-Free Alternative
For individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, PACIFIC FOODS CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT PLANT-BASED BEVERAGE, CHOCOLATE offers a suitable alternative to traditional cow's milk. It allows those avoiding dairy to enjoy a chocolate-flavored beverage. This product can also be a choice for individuals following a vegan diet, providing a plant-based option for various culinary uses or as a standalone drink. Its formulation avoids common dairy allergens while providing a familiar taste profile.
Source of Calcium
This beverage provides 50.83mg of calcium per 100g, contributing 4% of the Daily Value. While not a primary source, it can contribute to daily calcium intake, which is essential for bone health and other bodily functions. For those who do not consume dairy, fortified plant-based beverages like this one can help bridge some nutrient gaps. The calcium is added in the form of tricalcium phosphate, a common fortification agent in plant-based drinks.
Versatile for Specific Dietary Needs
This PACIFIC FOODS product is naturally cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat, with only 0.21g per 100g. This makes it a suitable option for individuals monitoring their intake of these nutrients. Its plant-based nature also aligns with dietary patterns that emphasize reducing animal product consumption. It can be incorporated into recipes or consumed as a beverage by those seeking to limit cholesterol or saturated fat in their diet.
PACIFIC FOODS CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT PLANT-BASED BEVERAGE, CHOCOLATE scores 18/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its classification as an ultra-processed food and its significant added sugar content.
How to eat it
This chocolate hazelnut beverage is typically consumed as a drink on its own, often chilled. It can also be used in smoothies, poured over cereal, or incorporated into recipes where a sweet, chocolatey flavor is desired. Common portion sizes are usually one cup, as indicated on the label.
To reduce added sugar intake, consider diluting this beverage with unsweetened plant milk or water when using it in smoothies or cereals.
Pair this beverage with a source of protein and fiber, such as nuts or whole-grain toast, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Use this product sparingly as a treat, rather than a daily beverage, due to its ultra-processed nature and sugar content.
Incorporate it into recipes that call for a small amount of chocolate flavor, such as a dessert sauce, to control portion size and overall sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with hazelnut allergies must avoid this product, as ground roasted hazelnuts are a primary ingredient. The beverage contains cane sugar and rice sweetener, contributing to 6.7g of added sugar per 100g. This level of added sugar may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or prediabetes, or those aiming to reduce overall sugar intake. The presence of gellan gum and xanthan gum, common thickeners and stabilizers, is generally recognized as safe, but some sensitive individuals may experience digestive discomfort. As an ultra-processed food, it contains several ingredients beyond whole foods, which is a factor to consider for those prioritizing minimally processed diets.
Is PACIFIC FOODS CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT PLANT-BASED BEVERAGE, CHOCOLATE healthy?
This PACIFIC FOODS beverage scores 18/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice according to FoodScore. While it is dairy-free and low in saturated fat, its significant added sugar content (6.7g per 100g) and ultra-processed classification contribute to its low nutritional score. It should be considered an occasional treat rather than a staple for health.
How does PACIFIC FOODS CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT PLANT-BASED BEVERAGE compare to other plant milks?
Compared to unsweetened plant milks like Silk Unsweetened Almond Milk or Oatly Original Oat Milk, this PACIFIC FOODS product contains significantly more added sugar. While it offers a distinct chocolate hazelnut flavor, other plant milks may provide a more neutral base with less sugar, allowing for greater control over the nutritional profile of your beverages and recipes.
What is 'rice sweetener' in the ingredient list?
Rice sweetener is a sugar derived from rice, typically through enzymatic hydrolysis of rice starch. It functions as a sweetening agent, similar to cane sugar, and contributes to the overall added sugar content of the product. It is one of the sources of the 6.7g of added sugar per 100g in this beverage.
What is a reasonable portion size for this beverage?
The declared serving size is 1 cup (240ml). Given its added sugar content, consuming this portion occasionally is more aligned with dietary guidelines for added sugars. Regularly exceeding this portion or consuming it multiple times a day would significantly increase your intake of added sugars.
Can this be used in coffee or tea?
Yes, this beverage can be used in coffee or tea for a chocolate hazelnut flavor. However, be mindful that it will add sweetness and calories from added sugar to your drink. If you typically add sugar to your coffee or tea, this product might serve as a combined creamer and sweetener, but it's important to account for the sugar content.