Common questions

Is cacao healthy?

cacao scores 90/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This product is minimally processed, consisting primarily of cocoa with a small amount of potassium carbonate, which is used to adjust acidity.

How processed is cacao?

cacao is NOVA Group 1: Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive cacao's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Cocoa counts in its favor. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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cacao

Name: cacao
Brand: Simple V

Simple V

Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1

Harmful ingredients 0

Category Chocolate

Summary

This product is minimally processed, consisting primarily of cocoa with a small amount of potassium carbonate, which is used to adjust acidity. The high fiber content and absence of harmful additives contribute to its healthfulness, making it a nutritious choice within its category.

Key ingredients 2

Cocoa

Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Risks

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

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which may support heart health and reduce inflammation.

See more about Cocoa →

Potassium carbonate

Neutral

Potassium carbonate is used in cocoa processing to neutralize acidity and improve flavor. It is generally recognized as safe when used in food processing. Its impact on health is minimal when consumed in typical food quantities.

See more about Potassium carbonate →

Processing

Group 1 · Minimally processed

Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods

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