Trader Joe's 85% Cacao The Dark Chocolate Lover's Chocolate Bar

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Common questions

Is Trader Joe's 85% Cacao The Dark Chocolate Lover's Chocolate Bar healthy?

Trader Joe's 85% Cacao The Dark Chocolate Lover's Chocolate Bar scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This chocolate bar contains beneficial ingredients like cocoa mass and cocoa butter, which are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.

How processed is Trader Joe's 85% Cacao The Dark Chocolate Lover's Chocolate Bar?

Trader Joe's 85% Cacao The Dark Chocolate Lover's Chocolate Bar is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Trader Joe's 85% Cacao The Dark Chocolate Lover's Chocolate Bar's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cocoa mass, Cocoa butter count in its favor; Sugar, Soy lecithin are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Trader Joe's 85% Cacao The Dark Chocolate Lover's Chocolate Bar

Trader Joe's
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$13.99 · 3.5 oz · 4 bars · pack of 2 · $2.00 / ounce
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Near you

Trader Joe's is carried at Trader Joe stores. Find one within 25 miles.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Trader Joe's
Category Chocolate
Summary

This chocolate bar contains beneficial ingredients like cocoa mass and cocoa butter, which are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. However, the presence of refined sugar and soy lecithin, a processed emulsifier, detracts from its health profile. Additionally, the product's ultra-processed nature limits its overall score despite the high cocoa content.

Key ingredients 5

Cocoa mass
Very Good

Cocoa mass is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can support heart health and reduce inflammation. It is minimally processed, retaining most of its natural nutrients. The high cocoa content provides a rich source of magnesium and iron.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to caffeine-related side effects such as insomnia or jitteriness.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants that may improve heart health and reduce inflammation. Provides essential minerals like magnesium and iron.

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Cocoa butter
Good

Cocoa butter is a natural fat extracted from cocoa beans, known for its moisturizing properties and healthy fat profile. It contains stearic acid, which may have a neutral effect on cholesterol levels. The processing retains beneficial compounds that support skin health.

Benefits

Provides healthy fats that may support cardiovascular health. Contains compounds that can benefit skin health.

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Natural vanilla flavor
Neutral

Natural vanilla flavor is derived from vanilla beans, providing a pleasant aroma and taste. It is less processed than artificial flavors but may still contain additives. The flavoring is used in small amounts, contributing minimally to nutritional value.

Benefits

Enhances flavor profile without the use of artificial additives.

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Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is associated with increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. It is highly processed and lacks nutritional value. Excessive sugar intake can lead to metabolic issues and dental problems.

Risks

High consumption can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and dental cavities.

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Soy lecithin
Bad

Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, often genetically modified and processed. It may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The processing involves chemical solvents, which can be a concern for some consumers.

Risks

Potential allergen for individuals with soy allergies. May contain traces of chemical solvents used in processing.

Benefits

Acts as an emulsifier, improving texture and consistency in food products.

See more about Soy lecithin →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Amazon pricing & content

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