Kellogg's Special K Dark Chocolate

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Common questions

Is Kellogg's Special K Dark Chocolate healthy?

Kellogg's Special K Dark Chocolate scores 63/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This cereal contains beneficial ingredients like wholewheat and dark chocolate, which provide fiber and antioxidants.

How processed is Kellogg's Special K Dark Chocolate?

Kellogg's Special K Dark Chocolate is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Kellogg's Special K Dark Chocolate's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Wholewheat, Dark Chocolate count in its favor; Sugar, Emulsifier 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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Kellogg's Special K Dark Chocolate

Kellogg's
63 Fair

Analysis updated May 2026 · How Scout scores

$11.40 · 15.5 oz · pack of 2 · $0.37 / ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Mars
Category Snack Bars
Summary

This cereal contains beneficial ingredients like wholewheat and dark chocolate, which provide fiber and antioxidants. However, the presence of refined sugar and emulsifiers indicates a higher level of processing, which can negatively impact health. The product's processing level and the inclusion of additives limit its overall healthiness despite some positive nutritional aspects.

Key ingredients 10

Wholewheat
Good

Wholewheat is a whole grain that retains its bran and germ, providing fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and may help in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Its nutrient density is higher compared to refined grains.

Risks

May cause digestive issues for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health.

Dark Chocolate
Good

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants like flavonoids, which may support heart health. It is less processed than milk chocolate and typically contains less sugar. The cocoa content provides beneficial compounds that can improve mood and cognitive function.

Risks

High in calories and fat, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

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Rice
Neutral

Rice is a staple carbohydrate source that provides energy. It is minimally processed and generally well-tolerated. However, it lacks significant nutritional diversity compared to whole grains.

Benefits

Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.

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Cocoa Mass
Neutral

Cocoa mass is a key component of chocolate, providing flavor and texture. It is a concentrated source of cocoa solids and cocoa butter. While it contributes to the chocolate's antioxidant content, it is also high in fat.

Risks

High in saturated fat, which may impact heart health if consumed excessively.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and contributes to the rich flavor of chocolate.

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Milk Fat
Neutral

Milk fat is a natural fat derived from milk, providing a creamy texture and flavor. It contains saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation. It is less processed than hydrogenated fats.

Risks

High in saturated fat, which may affect heart health if consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Provides a rich flavor and texture to foods.

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Sunflower Lecithin
Neutral

Sunflower lecithin is a natural emulsifier derived from sunflower seeds. It is used to improve texture and mixability in foods. Unlike soy lecithin, it is non-GMO and allergen-free.

Benefits

Helps improve texture and consistency in food products.

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Barley
Neutral

Barley is a whole grain that provides fiber and essential nutrients. It is less processed and supports digestive health. However, it contains gluten, which may not be suitable for everyone.

Risks

Contains gluten, which can cause issues for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Benefits

Rich in fiber and nutrients, supporting digestive health.

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Malted
Neutral

Malted grains are partially germinated to enhance flavor and sweetness. They are used in various food products for their unique taste. The malting process can increase the bioavailability of certain nutrients.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and may improve nutrient absorption.

Sugar
Bad

Refined sugar is a common sweetener that provides empty calories without nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes. It is often added to enhance flavor but can contribute to tooth decay.

Risks

High intake is linked to increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

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Emulsifier
Bad

Emulsifiers are additives used to stabilize and improve texture in processed foods. They are often synthetic and can disrupt gut health. Their presence indicates a higher level of processing in the product.

Risks

May disrupt gut microbiota and contribute to digestive issues.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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