Dark Chocolate

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Dark Chocolate scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Corn-Based Sweeteners (Corn Syrup): HFCS is a hallmark of ultra-processed foods.
• Artificial Colors (Yellow 6, Red 3): Synthetic colors are definitive UPF markers.
• Stabilizers & Gums (Pectin): Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.
• Emulsifiers (Glycerin): Industrial emulsifiers indicate UPF.
• Natural Flavors (Natural Flavor): Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.

Within Chocolate, this product is more processed than about 67% of the 9,618 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Dark Chocolate's ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Dark Chocolate [Sugar, Chocolate Liquor, Cocoa Butter, Soy Lecithin (Added As An Emulsifier), Vanilla Extract], Sugar.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Food AcidsProcessing indicator

In this product: Malic Acid.

Common in both traditional and industrial foods.

MineralsProcessing indicator

In this product: Sodium Citrate.

Added minerals often compensate for processing.