SEA SALT EXTRA DARK CHOCOLATE 70% COCOA, STEVIA SWEETENED
Summary
This chocolate product is sweetened with stevia and erythritol, which are natural sweeteners, and contains beneficial ingredients like unsweetened chocolate and chicory root fiber. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the presence of additives and emulsifiers like sunflower lecithin. Despite having a clean ingredient list without seed oils or artificial sweeteners, the high level of processing limits its score.
At a glance
Key ingredients 8
Unsweetened ChocolateGood
Unsweetened chocolate is a pure form of chocolate that contains no added sugars. It is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which may support heart health. The absence of sugar makes it a healthier option for those monitoring sugar intake.
Risks
Excessive consumption may lead to caffeine-related side effects such as jitteriness or insomnia.
Benefits
Rich in antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
ErythritolNeutral
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener. It is absorbed in the small intestine and excreted unchanged, minimizing its impact on blood sugar levels. It is generally well-tolerated but may cause digestive discomfort in large amounts.
Risks
May cause digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea when consumed in large quantities.
Benefits
Provides sweetness with minimal calories and does not significantly affect blood sugar levels.
Chicory Root FiberGood
Chicory root fiber is a natural source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health. It can improve digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. Additionally, it may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve calcium absorption.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to digestive discomfort such as gas or bloating.
Benefits
Supports digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria and may improve calcium absorption.
Cocoa ButterNeutral
Cocoa butter is a natural fat extracted from cocoa beans, used to provide a smooth texture in chocolate products. It is high in saturated fats, which can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. It does not contain trans fats, making it a preferable option to hydrogenated oils.
Risks
High in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation to maintain heart health.
Benefits
Provides a smooth texture and is free from trans fats, making it a preferable fat source in chocolate.
Sea SaltGood
Unrefined sea salt — a minimally processed, natural source of sodium and essential trace minerals, and a legitimate whole-food seasoning. Treated as a positive ingredient.
Risks
Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Contains trace minerals and enhances flavor with less processing than table salt.
Sunflower LecithinBad
Sunflower lecithin is an emulsifier used to improve texture and consistency in processed foods. It is derived from sunflower seeds, which are high in omega-6 fatty acids. While it is a natural emulsifier, excessive consumption of omega-6 fatty acids may contribute to inflammation.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Benefits
Acts as a natural emulsifier, improving texture and consistency in food products.
Vanilla ExtractNeutral
Vanilla extract is a flavoring derived from vanilla beans, used to enhance the taste of food products. It is a natural flavoring agent with minimal processing. While it provides flavor, it does not offer significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Enhances flavor naturally without significant processing.
Stevia ExtractNeutral
Stevia extract is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia plant. It provides sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels, making it suitable for diabetics. It is a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners with no significant health concerns.
Benefits
Provides sweetness without calories and does not impact blood sugar levels.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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