Green & Black’s

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, Green & Black’s Organic Hazelnut & Currant chocolate offers a middle-of-the-road option for those seeking cleaner food choices. This product prides itself on being organic and non-GMO, which are significant positives in a marketplace where such attributes are increasingly valued by health-conscious consumers.

The chocolate is composed of certified organic ingredients, which include cocoa mass, cane sugar, roasted hazelnuts, currants, cocoa butter, soya lecithins as an emulsifier, and vanilla extract. With a minimum of 60% cocoa solids, this product ensures a substantial organic chocolate content. Furthermore, it supports fair trade practices, as indicated by the Fairtrade cocoa, sugar, and vanilla that comprise 75% of its ingredients on a mass balance basis.

However, the inclusion of cane sugar leads to a deduction in its health score, as added sugars are often linked to various health issues when consumed in excess. The presence of cane sugar, listed separately from sugar, suggests a higher quantity of sweeteners in the product, which may raise concerns for those trying to minimize sugar intake. Additionally, soya lecithin, an additive used here as an emulsifier, is a point of contention. While it is commonly used in chocolate products to maintain texture and consistency, some may prefer products without such additives.

This chocolate bar finds itself in a position where it balances commendable organic and fair trade credentials with the presence of added sugars and additives. The 3 out of 5 green leaves rating reflects this balance, acknowledging the product’s efforts to provide a cleaner option while also recognizing areas where it does not fully align with the healthiest choices available. For consumers weighing the importance of organic ingredients against the desire to reduce added sugars and additives, Green & Black’s Organic Hazelnut & Currant chocolate is a compromise that offers some benefits while still leaving room for improvement.