1 serving (5 grams) contains 11 calories, 1.0 grams of protein, 0.7 grams of fat, and 2.9 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
182.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.0 g | 14% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 16.8 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 46.3 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.6 g | 105% | |
| Sugars | 1.4 g | ||
| protein | 15.7 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 102.4 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 11.1 mg | 61% | |
| Potassium | 1216.0 mg | 25% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Cocoa powder
Cocoa powder is a product derived from cacao beans, the seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree, native to Central and South America. It is a staple in many global cuisines, particularly in desserts, beverages, and baked goods. Nutritionally, unsweetened cocoa powder is rich in dietary fiber and essential minerals, including magnesium, iron, and potassium. It also contains antioxidants such as flavonoids, which support cellular health. A 5-gram serving (about 1 tablespoon) typically provides around 12 calories, 1 gram of protein, 2 grams of dietary fiber, and nearly no fat, making it a nutrient-dense addition to a variety of recipes.
Health Benefits
- Supports heart health due to flavonoids, which may improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure.
- Rich in magnesium, which is essential for healthy nerve function, muscle relaxation, and energy production.
- Contains iron, aiding in red blood cell production and oxygen transport throughout the body.
- Loaded with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation.
- Fiber content supports digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cocoa powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from light and humidity to preserve flavor and nutrients.
Common Questions About Cocoa powder Nutrition
Is cocoa powder high in protein?
Cocoa powder is not particularly high in protein. One tablespoon (5 grams) contains about 1 gram of protein. It is more commonly known for its high content of dietary fiber and antioxidants rather than being a significant source of protein.
Can I eat cocoa powder on a keto diet?
Yes, cocoa powder can be included in a keto diet as it is relatively low in carbs. One tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder contains only about 3 grams of total carbs and 2 grams of fiber, resulting in just 1 gram of net carbs per serving. Be sure to choose unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars.
What are the health benefits of cocoa powder?
Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which can support heart health by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation. It also contains minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc. However, excessive consumption of cocoa powder can contribute to caffeine sensitivity or digestive issues due to its theobromine content.
What is the recommended serving size for cocoa powder?
The typical serving size for cocoa powder is 1 to 2 tablespoons (5 to 10 grams). This amount provides a rich chocolate flavor for recipes while keeping calorie and fat intake moderate, as one tablespoon contains about 10-15 calories and less than 1 gram of fat.
How does cocoa powder compare to chocolate for health and cooking?
Cocoa powder is lower in fat and sugar compared to most chocolate products, making it a healthier option for recipes. It provides a concentrated chocolate flavor without the added calories from sugar and cocoa butter. However, it can be more bitter, so it often pairs well with sweeteners in desserts or drinks.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Cocoa powder DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Flavonoids and cardiovascular health: Cocoa as a sourceNIH National Center for Biotechnology Information (PubMed)Research on cocoa flavonoids and their effects on cardiovascular health and overall benefits.
- The role of chocolate and cocoa products in human healthJournal of NutritionPeer-reviewed article discussing cocoa powder's nutritional profile and associated health benefits, such as antioxidant properties.
- 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Added Sugars and CocoaU.S. Department of Health & Human ServicesGuidelines on limiting added sugars and incorporating unsweetened cocoa powder in a healthy diet.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
