Ingredient · Updated

Dark Chocolate

Positive in 5 products Neutral in 2 Flagged in 1

Found in 8 products

What is Dark Chocolate?

Dark chocolate is made from cocoa beans and typically contains a higher percentage of cocoa solids and cocoa butter compared to milk chocolate. It is made by fermenting, drying, roasting, and grinding cocoa beans into cocoa mass, which is then mixed with ingredients like sugar to create chocolate.

Dark chocolate is used for its rich flavor and is often found in desserts, snacks, and confections. Research suggests that it contains antioxidants like flavonoids, which may contribute to heart health, although the evidence is mixed and often dependent on consumption levels. Too much consumption can offset potential benefits with high sugar and calorie intake.

When you see dark chocolate on a label, consider the cocoa percentage, as higher percentages typically indicate lower sugar content and more intense cocoa flavor.

Commonly found in: Granola, Confectionery, Desserts, Snack Bars, Baking Ingredients

What to watch

  • Dark chocolate can be high in calories and sugar, which might contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

Benefits

  • Contains flavonoids which may support heart health when consumed in moderation.
FDA

Dark chocolate is regulated as a food product with no specific restrictions beyond standard food safety guidelines.

Research

Some studies highlight potential heart health benefits due to antioxidants, but results vary and depend on consumption levels.

Vegan

Dark chocolate can be vegan if made without milk additives, but not all dark chocolate is free from animal products.

Sources: Cocoa and Chocolate in Human Health and Disease

Scout's take

Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which support heart health. The presence of chocolate liquor, cane sugar, cocoa butter, and vanilla indicates a relatively clean composition. It provides a source of magnesium and iron.

The case against

Excessive consumption may lead to high calorie intake and potential weight gain.

from the analysis of SkinnyDipped Dark Chocolate Cocoa Almonds · echoed in 1 other analysis

Contains sugar, which should be consumed in moderation to avoid negative health impacts.

from the analysis of Unreal Dark Chocolate Coconut Minis 15.3 Ounce

Excessive consumption may lead to high sugar intake.

from the analysis of Aloha Peanut Butter Cup Bar

The case for

Contains antioxidants that may improve heart health and reduce inflammation. Provides a source of magnesium and iron.

from the analysis of SkinnyDipped Dark Chocolate Cocoa Almonds

Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, supporting cardiovascular health and providing essential minerals.

from the analysis of Unreal Dark Chocolate Coconut Minis 15.3 Ounce

Contains antioxidants that may support heart health when consumed in moderation.

from the analysis of Havanna Alfajores 70% Cacao Puro (9 Alfajores).

Rich in antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

from the analysis of Aloha Peanut Butter Cup Bar

More from Scout's analyses

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and flavonoids that can support heart health. It is made from cocoa, which is a source of beneficial compounds. The presence of unsweetened chocolate and cocoa butter enhances its nutritional profile.

from the analysis of SkinnyDipped Dark Chocolate Cocoa Almonds

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and is a source of iron and magnesium. It is less processed than milk chocolate and contains less sugar. Organic certification indicates higher quality and absence of synthetic additives.

from the analysis of Aloha Peanut Butter Cup Bar

Dark chocolate contains cocoa, which can provide antioxidants, but it is also high in sugar. The presence of emulsifiers and artificial flavoring reduces its purity. It is a processed product with mixed health impacts.

from the analysis of Havanna Alfajores 70% Cacao Puro (9 Alfajores).

All 8 products with Dark Chocolate

Where Dark Chocolate shows up

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