Dark chocolate candy

Candy

Item Rating: 40/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 550 calories, 5.1 grams of protein, 32.2 grams of fat, and 60.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (160g)

Calories		880
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		51.5 g	66%
	Saturated Fat	30.4 g	152%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	1.8 g
Cholesterol		11.2 mg	3%
Sodium		36.8 mg	1%
Total Carbohydrates		96 g	34%
	Dietary Fiber	11.5 g	41%
	Sugars	73.8 g
protein		8.1 g	16%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		91.2 mg	7%
Iron		13.0 mg	72%
Potassium		908.8 mg	19%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

USDA FoodData - Dark chocolate candy Data

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.

View source →

Food Attributes

🧂 Low sodium

🧂 Low salt

🧈 High saturated fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 463 cal (52.7%)

Protein: 32 cal (3.7%)

Carbs: 384 cal (43.6%)

About Dark chocolate candy

Dark chocolate candy, derived from cacao beans, has a rich history rooted in Mesoamerican cultures like the Aztecs and Mayans, where cacao was consumed as a ceremonial beverage. Dark chocolate contains a higher cacao content (typically 50-90%) compared to milk chocolate, giving it a more intense flavor and lower sugar levels. Nutritionally, it is dense in essential minerals such as magnesium, iron, copper, and manganese. It is also a source of antioxidants, primarily flavonoids, which are compounds associated with numerous health benefits. Dark chocolate tends to have minimal dairy, though some brands may still include milk solids or emulsifiers.

Health Benefits

• Supports heart health due to flavonoids, which help improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure.
• Provides iron (2.4 mg per ounce on average), essential for oxygen transport and red blood cell production.
• Contains magnesium (64 mg per ounce), aiding in muscle function and energy production.
• Rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation.
• Boosts mood by promoting the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains milk (in some brands), soy (common in lecithin)

Suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan (if explicitly dairy-free), gluten-free (if labeled)

Not suitable for: Dairy-free diets (if containing milk solids), soy-free diets (if containing soy lecithin)

Selection and Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, ideally between 60-70°F, to prevent melting or bloom (whitening effect).

Common Questions About Dark chocolate candy Nutrition

Is dark chocolate candy high in protein?

Dark chocolate candy typically contains around 2-3 grams of protein per ounce (28 grams), which is relatively low compared to high-protein foods. Its main macronutrients are fats and carbohydrates, so it should not be relied on as a protein source.

Can I eat dark chocolate candy on a keto diet?

Dark chocolate candy can be keto-friendly if it contains at least 70-85% cocoa and is low in added sugar. A typical 1-ounce serving of unsweetened dark chocolate has around 12 grams of fat, 3 grams of net carbs, and 2 grams of sugar, aligning with keto diet requirements.

What are the health benefits of dark chocolate candy?

Dark chocolate candy, particularly with high cocoa content (70% or more), is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which may support heart health and reduce inflammation. It also contains minerals like iron, magnesium, and copper. However, overconsumption can lead to excessive calorie and sugar intake.

How much dark chocolate candy should I eat in a day?

A recommended serving size for dark chocolate is 1-2 ounces (28-56 grams) per day to balance nutritional benefits with calorie intake. Make sure to choose varieties with minimal added sugar to maximize health benefits.

How does dark chocolate candy compare to milk chocolate?

Dark chocolate candy has less sugar, more cocoa solids, and a higher concentration of antioxidants, making it a healthier choice compared to milk chocolate. Milk chocolate, by contrast, is higher in sugar, lower in cocoa content, and less nutrient-dense.

Data Sources & Scientific References

1. USDA FoodData - Dark chocolate candy Data

   U.S. Department of Agriculture

   Official nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.

   View source →