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Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares

Common questions

Is Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares healthy?

Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares scores 55/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a below-average score in Scout's analysis. This dark chocolate product contains a high cacao content, which is beneficial due to its antioxidant properties.

How processed is Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares?

Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares compare to other chocolate?

Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares ranks #20 of 36 chocolate in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is Hu Nut Butter Filled Almond Butter + Crispy Quinoa Dark Chocolate at 87/100.

Which ingredients drive Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Unsweetened chocolate, Cocoa butter, Vanilla extract count in its favor; Cane 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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Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares

Ghirardelli
55 Fair
$25.88 · pack of 2 · $12.94 / ounce
View on Amazon
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Lindt & Sprüngli
Category Chocolate
Summary

This dark chocolate product contains a high cacao content, which is beneficial due to its antioxidant properties. However, it is classified as ultra-processed due to the inclusion of refined sugar and soy lecithin, which are processed ingredients. While the ingredient list is relatively short and lacks artificial additives, the presence of refined sugar and the processing level limit its overall health score. Notably, Consumer Reports' independent lab testing (2022-2023) found this bar among the LOWEST in lead and cadmium of all 28 dark chocolates tested — a meaningful differentiator in a category where heavy metals are pervasive.

Key ingredients 5

Unsweetened chocolate
Good

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

See more about Unsweetened chocolate →
Cocoa butter
Good

Cocoa butter is a natural fat from cocoa beans that enhances the smooth texture and flavor of the chocolate.

See more about Cocoa butter →
Vanilla extract
Good

Vanilla extract adds a natural flavor that complements the chocolate without artificial additives.

See more about Vanilla extract →
Cane sugar
Bad

Cane sugar adds sweetness but also contributes to higher sugar content, which can be less healthy if consumed in excess.

See more about Cane sugar →
Soy lecithin
Bad

Soy lecithin is an emulsifier that is often processed and may contain genetically modified soy, which some consumers prefer to avoid.

See more about Soy lecithin →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Amazon pricing & content

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