Cocoa Spread
Also known as: cocoa cream
Cocoa spreads contain beneficial cocoa flavanols associated with cardiovascular benefits, but commercial formulations are typically high in added sugar and sometimes saturated/palm-fat-rich, contributing significantly to free-sugar intake. WHO advises limiting free sugars to under 10% of daily energy.
What it is
Sweetened spread containing cocoa solids/cocoa butter, often combined with sugar, vegetable oils, milk solids and emulsifiers (e.g., chocolate hazelnut spread).
Spread/topping; flavor and energy source.
Why it's flagged
- high added sugar
- saturated/palm fat content in many products
- calorically dense
What regulators actually say
"Regular consumption of flavonoid-containing foods, particularly cocoa which is rich in a sub-class of flavonoids known as flavanols, has been shown ... to demonstrate improvements in endothelial and platelet function, as well as blood pressure."
"Adults and children reduce their daily intake of free sugars to less than 10% of their total energy intake."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Composite food product; ingredients individually GRAS
European Union — EFSA
Authorized food product; subject to nutrition labelling
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