12 Healthiest Dark Chocolate Brands According to a Nutritionist in 2025
The search for the healthiest dark chocolate can be challenging, given the numerous options available. You may even wonder if dark chocolate can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
According to major medical organizations, dark chocolate can offer some benefits when eaten in small portions as part of a balanced diet. As the Cleveland Clinic explains, dark chocolate provides iron and zinc, and high-cacao varieties may support cardiovascular health thanks to their flavanol content when eaten in moderation.
But what makes a dark chocolate healthy? And what is the healthiest dark chocolate to choose when you want a treat?
This guide is here to answer these questions, highlighting 12 nutritionist-recommended dark chocolate options that meet balanced nutrition and ingredient quality standards in the healthy dark chocolate category. It will also highlight ethical products and provide some top tips on choosing a healthy dark chocolate bar at the store if none of the options on this list are available.
Jump to Section
- 12 Healthy Dark Chocolates To Eat
- What Is the Healthiest Dark Chocolate To Eat?
- How To Choose Healthy Dark Chocolate at the Store
- Healthy Dark Chocolate Recipes
- How We Created This Healthy Dark Chocolate Guide
12 Healthy Dark Chocolates To Eat
1. Pascha 85% Cacao Dark Chocolate Bar
When choosing the healthiest dark chocolate, many look for a choice that balances nutrition, taste and ethical sourcing. If that matches your criteria for finding the healthiest dark chocolate, you’ll want to opt for this 85% cacao bar from Pascha.
Made with just three components — organic cocoa mass, organic cane sugar and organic cocoa butter — it’s a straightforward, minimally processed bar made with organic ingredients. This ultra-dark chocolate has a smooth texture without emulsifiers.
Instead, the richness of this bar comes from the inclusion of a higher amount of cocoa butter compared to other healthy dark chocolate brands on the market, which creates a luxuriously dark melt-in-your-mouth experience.
This healthy dark chocolate bar contains 4 grams of organic cane sugar per 27-gram serving, making it a good choice for those seeking the healthiest dark chocolate with reduced sugar. For anyone concerned about even this small amount of sugar, a 100% cacao version is available with less than 1 gram of total sugar.
Made by a small, family-owned company focused on producing the healthiest dark chocolate available, this chocolate also uses single-origin beans certified by the Rainforest Alliance, which supports sustainable and ethically verified cacao sourcing. It’s even free from all major allergens, making it an inclusive treat for those with sensitivities to ingredients like nuts, dairy or gluten.
Pascha 85% Cacao Dark Chocolate Bar Nutritional Info (per 27-gram serving)
- Calories: 160
- Total Fat: 12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
- Total Sugar: 4 grams
- Added Sugar: 4 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 85%
2. Theo Pure 85% Dark Chocolate
Choosing the healthiest dark chocolate means opting for one with simple, high-quality ingredients and Theo delivers exactly that. Pure 85% Dark Chocolate from Theo is the unity between minimalism and rich, bold flavor. It’s also one of the healthiest dark chocolate bars if you want a product that is low in sugar but still delicious.
Made with cocoa beans sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo, this organic and fair-trade bar is designed for the true cocoa connoisseur. This bar has a unique flavor profile, with deep-roasted cocoa notes blended with subtle hints of brown spice and dried fruit.
It is lower in sugar than many mainstream bars, which often contain two to four times more sugar per serving. If you’re after one of the healthiest dark chocolate bars that maintains an ultra-low sweetness level without sacrificing indulgence, this could be the one for you.
What's more, every ingredient in Theo’s dark chocolate is organic, non-GMO and free from soy and gluten, resulting in a high-quality and clean chocolate experience. The Fair for Life certification also reflects the brand’s commitment to ethical sourcing, as it supports farmers and sustainable agriculture.
While the extra dark profile highlights its status as one of the healthiest dark chocolate bars, it’s also available in 70% dark chocolate for those who prefer their treats a little sweeter. However, this option isn't as healthy as the bars with a higher cocoa percentage.
Theo Pure 85% Dark Chocolate Nutritional Info (per 28-gram serving)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 13 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 4 grams
- Total Sugar: 4 grams
- Added Sugar: 4 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 85%
3. Taza 85% Dark Chocolate Super Dark
For those who like bold flavor and rustic texture, Taza’s Chocolate Mexicano Discs stand out as one of the healthiest dark chocolate options. Made from just two ingredients (organic cacao beans and organic cane sugar), these 85% cacao discs are stone-ground using a traditional Mexican method. This low-heat process helps retain more of cacao’s natural compounds, though the exact flavanol content depends on roasting and processing.
Because stone grinding retains more of the cacao solids, each serving contains about 9 grams of fiber and 6 grams of added sugar, offering a minimally processed chocolate with substantial fiber listed per serving. The flavor is intense, earthy and slightly fruity, ideal for those who enjoy dark chocolate in its purest form.
Taza’s chocolates are organic, Direct Trade Certified and non-GMO. Alongside the 85% Super Dark, the brand also offers 70% and flavored discs like orange, sea salt and guajillo chile. Try grating them over desserts or melting them into hot chocolate for an authentic, traditional experience.
Taza 85% Dark Chocolate Super Dark Nutritional Info (per 38-gram serving)
- Calories: 230
- Total Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 16 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 9 grams
- Total Sugar: 6 grams
- Added Sugar: 6 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 85%
4. Hu Kitchen Simple Dark Chocolate
Hu Kitchen takes a “clean eating” approach to making the healthiest dark chocolate, which is shown in its 70% cacao bar. Free from soy, dairy and gluten, this unconventional chocolate bar is sweetened with coconut sugar, which still counts as added sugar and provides similar calories to cane sugar.
The result? A chocolate bar that is rich, smooth and deeply satisfying to eat, with just the right amount of sweetness. On top of its simple recipe of organic fair-trade cacao, organic cocoa butter and unrefined coconut sugar, it also omits common additives found in commercial chocolate like thickeners and preservatives.
While a few squares of this chocolate bar are perfect when looking for a sweet, healthy snack, do note that 7 grams of added sugar per serving is higher than many 80% to 90% bars. Therefore, you might want to opt for one of the other bars on this list of the healthiest dark chocolate if you’d prefer a low-sugar option.
Hu Kitchen Simple Dark Chocolate Nutritional Info (per 30-gram serving)
- Calories: 190
- Total Fat: 14 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
- Total Sugar: 7 grams
- Added Sugar: 7 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 70%
5. Alter Eco 85% Cacao Classic Blackout
If you love to indulge in rich flavors and are wondering which dark chocolate is healthiest, Alter Eco’s 85% dark chocolate might be your best bet on this list of the healthiest dark chocolate brands.
This 85% Swiss-crafted dark chocolate highlights the flavors of malty Ecuadorian cacao without being overly bitter. Sourced from fair-trade farms and crafted using traditional Swiss techniques, this chocolate is as ethically considerate as it is delicious. This vegan-friendly, healthy dark chocolate also has just 4 grams of added sugar, and all its ingredients are certified organic as well as being Fair for Life certified.
You can also get a 90% Super Blackout bar as well as a 100% Total Blackout dark chocolate bar from Alter Eco, which are the healthiest choices if you enjoy an extremely rich dark chocolate experience. The 100% Total Blackout has no sugar at all.
Alter Eco 85% Cacao Classic Blackout Nutritional Info (per 30-gram serving)
- Calories: 190
- Total Fat: 17 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
- Total Sugar: 4 grams
- Added Sugar: 4 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 85%
6. Lily's Extra Dark Chocolate Style Bar
Lily’s has one of the healthiest dark chocolate options for those who want an indulgent treat without the added sugar. Sweetened with stevia and erythritol instead of added sugars, this 70% cocoa bar delivers a deeply rich and bold flavor while catering to low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
If you’re wondering how to start eating healthy without giving up sweets entirely, this chocolate can be a lower-sugar alternative for readers monitoring added sugars or net carbs. Sugar alcohols may cause mild digestive discomfort in some people when eaten in larger amounts.
A sea salt variety is available as well, with a very similar nutritional profile and a sweet-salty combination that many love. Interestingly, this chocolate bar also uses chicory root fiber. As WebMD explains, this ingredient offers prebiotic benefits and supports your digestive health.
One thing to note is that this healthy dark chocolate bar does include a blend of palm kernel and palm oils. Some consumers may want to avoid these due to the overproduction of palm oil, resulting in deforestation and habitat destruction in areas of Southeast Asia and South America. However, Lily's does state that all palm ingredients are 100% RSPO Mass Balance-certified.
Lily's Extra Dark Chocolate Style Bar Nutritional Info (per 29-gram serving)
- Calories: 130
- Total Fat: 12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 13 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 6 grams
- Total Sugar: 0 grams
- Added Sugar: 0 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 70%
7. Endangered Species 88% Cocoa Dark Chocolate
If you love your chocolate intensely dark, Endangered Species 88% Cocoa Dark Chocolate will probably be one of your favorite options on this list of the healthiest dark chocolates. Made with a high cocoa content, this bar has a deep, full-bodied taste with a velvety finish, thanks to the careful conching process that smooths out any bitterness.
Conching is done with a machine called a conche, and it involves mixing, kneading and heating chocolate for a prolonged period. This process breaks down the compounds of the chocolate, which results in a less harsh flavor and a smooth, velvety texture, as well as making sure all the cocoa butter is evenly distributed for a consistent mouthfeel.
While this process isn’t crucial in making the healthiest dark chocolate, it certainly helps to get that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love. With 3 grams of added sugar per serving, this is a strong pick for readers limiting added sugars. This brand also supports wildlife conservation efforts, with a portion of proceeds from this specific flavor going toward preserving jaguar habitats.
Endangered Species 88% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Nutritional Info (per 28-gram serving)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 13 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 4 grams
- Total Sugar: 3 grams
- Added Sugar: 3 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 88%
8. Hoja Verde 80% Pure Organic Dark Chocolate
When you want a chocolate bar with a unique flavor profile made using uncommon cacao beans, Hoja Verde’s 80% Pure Organic Dark Chocolate is a great choice. It brings the exquisite flavors of Ecuadorian cacao to the forefront, using the rare Nacional Arriba Fino De Aroma cacao beans known for their floral and fruity notes.
This healthy dark chocolate bar is made with just four organic ingredients (cacao mass, cacao liquor, cacao butter and sugar). It’s a top choice for those who want a minimal-ingredient, minimally processed chocolate.
Like most on this list of the healthiest dark chocolate, Hoja Verde bars contain less sugar than milk or flavored varieties. The result is a balanced taste that’s neither too bitter nor too sweet, though it lists less fiber than some higher-cacao bars.
Best of all, the brand’s dedication to fair trade practices ensures that the 400 cacao-growing families they work with receive a fair share of the profits.
Hoja Verde 80% Pure Organic Dark Chocolate Nutritional Info (per 25-gram serving)
- Calories: 151
- Total Fat: 11 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7 grams
- Sodium: 6 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0 grams
- Total Sugar: 5 grams
- Added Sugar: 5 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 80%
9. Lindt 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Excellence Bar
Those looking for a widely available option on this list of the healthiest dark chocolates will be pleased to learn that Lindt's 85% Cocoa Excellence Bar is a relatively good choice. Found in most grocery stores, this bar offers a smooth, rich profile with moderate sweetness.
Lindt's offering also contains minimal ingredients (chocolate, cocoa powder, cocoa butter and demerara sugar), and is relatively low in sugar. However, the added sugar content does creep slightly above 5 grams per 40-gram serving, with less than 5 grams per 40-gram serving being optimal.
Despite this, Lindt's bar remains one of the best choices among the healthiest dark chocolates for those looking for an affordable and easily accessible treat. If added sugar is of concern, stick to about 1 ounce, or 28 to 30 grams.
Lindt 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Excellence Bar Nutritional Info (per 30-gram serving)
- Calories: 170
- Total Fat: 14 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Sodium: 10 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 4 grams
- Total Sugar: 4 grams
- Added Sugar: 4 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 85%
10. Equal Exchange Organic Panama Extra Dark Chocolate 80%
If you’re looking to discover which dark chocolate is healthiest and you also want your chocolate bar to support small-scale farmers and ethical trade, Equal Exchange’s Organic Very Dark Chocolate is a great pick. Sourced from cooperatives in Panama, the Dominican Republic and Peru, this bar is a testament to sustainable and fair trade practices.
The smooth, well-balanced flavor profile of this chocolate showcases the richness of the high-quality cacao, making it a prime contender for the title of tastiest and healthiest dark chocolate.
With all Fairtrade ingredients — including organic raw cane sugar and vanilla beans — Equal Exchange makes sure every bite of its chocolate contributes to positive social impact. This 80% cocoa dark chocolate additionally stands out for being completely soy-free, gluten-free and vegan.
This bar does have a moderate amount of added sugar — 6 grams per 30-gram serving. However, because even the healthiest dark chocolate should be enjoyed as a treat, a few squares of this ethically sourced, premium-quality chocolate can still fit into a balanced diet.
There are also 88% and 92% cacao versions, with 3 and 2 grams of added sugar, respectively, but these may be too rich for some.
Organic Panama Extra Dark Chocolate 80% Nutritional Info (per 30-gram serving)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 5 grams
- Total Sugar: 6 grams
- Added Sugar: 6 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 80%
11. K'UL Pure Dark Chocolate
K’UL brings a luxurious smoothness and depth of flavor to your chocolate-eating experience with their pure dark chocolate. If you’re looking for the healthiest dark chocolate with tasting notes of berries like dark cherry and blackberry, this 80% single-origin dark chocolate from Ghana could be your top pick.
This healthy dark chocolate is made with only three ingredients — organic direct trade cocoa beans, cocoa butter and fair-trade cane sugar. It undergoes a 50-hour conching process that refines texture and mellows acidity without stripping natural compounds.
At 8 grams of added sugar per 40 grams, it exceeds the ideal target (<5g), but still remains within a low-sugar range for dark chocolate. Through its partnership with the ABOCFA cooperative in Ghana, K’UL also supports transparent, ethical cocoa farming.
K'UL Pure Dark Chocolate Nutritional Info (per 40-gram serving)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 16 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 9 grams
- Total Sugar: 8 grams
- Added Sugar: 8 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 80%
12. Ghirardelli Intense Dark 86% Cacao Dark Chocolate Bar
Another of the healthiest dark chocolate bars that's quite widely available, Ghirardelli's offering is rich and indulgent. Many say that the rich yet not bitter flavor profile makes just a few pieces satisfactory, supporting mindful portion control due to its intense flavor. The inclusion of vanilla extract also adds sweet and fragrant notes to each bite.
This bar contains milk fat, so it is not suitable for vegan readers or those avoiding dairy. It also includes soy lecithin, so if you avoid emulsifiers, consider another option.
Yet, if these ingredients aren't of concern, this is a top pick among the healthiest dark chocolate bars for those prioritizing both taste and affordability. Like with many types of Ghirardelli chocolate, you can buy the 86% variety in a bar and individually packaged squares, which are perfect if you want pre-portioned healthy dark chocolate.
Ghirardelli Intense Dark 86% Cacao Dark Chocolate Bar Nutritional Info (per 34-gram serving)
- Calories: 190
- Total Fat: 19 grams
- Saturated Fat: 11 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 4 grams
- Total Sugar: 4 grams
- Added Sugar: 4 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cacao Percentage: 86%
What Is the Healthiest Dark Chocolate To Eat?
When it comes to the healthiest dark chocolate, purity is key. The best, healthiest dark chocolate options are made with minimal ingredients; typically just containing cacao mass, cocoa butter and a natural sweetener.
Brands that focus on making the best dark chocolate for health keep their ingredient lists short and avoid unnecessary additives. They often have a more balanced nutritional profile than milk varieties as well.
Many bars rely on cocoa butter for a smooth texture. Cocoa butter is naturally high in stearic acid, a type of saturated fat that has a neutral effect on cholesterol, but portion control still matters due to calorie density.
Healthiest Dark Chocolate Bars
When answering the question: "What is the healthiest dark chocolate bar?", there are a few standout choices. One of the top contenders for the title of healthiest dark chocolate bar is Pascha 85% Cacao Dark Chocolate.
It stands out as one of the healthiest dark chocolate choices because it contains only three organic ingredients and no soy lecithin or artificial emulsifiers. Similarly, Theo's Pure 85% Dark Chocolate is another great option for those searching out the healthiest dark chocolate with its organic and Fairtrade cocoa, offering a rich cocoa flavor with very little sugar.
For those who want the best dark chocolate for health and prefer a rustic texture, Taza Chocolate Mexicano Discs are a good pick. Stone-ground cacao offers a distinctive texture and flavor, although nutrient retention varies by processing and roasting.
Endangered Species 88% cocoa dark chocolate has 3 grams of added sugar per serving, making it another contender on any list of the healthiest dark chocolate containing less added sugar. Plus, proceeds from sales go to helping endangered wildlife, making it one of the best chocolate bars for those who care about the environment and conservation.
Is It Healthy To Eat 90% Dark Chocolate Every Day?
While 90% cacao dark chocolate is one of the healthiest chocolates, it still needs to be consumed in moderation. Although it's lower in sugar than most chocolate, 90% dark chocolate generally still has 1 to 3 grams of added sugar per serving, with each serving also having 100 to 200 calories.
One to two small squares can fit into a balanced diet. Keep portions modest to manage calories and leave room for other nutrient-dense foods.
Despite this, 90% dark chocolate is undoubtedly one of the healthiest candy options, making it a top pick for when you want a treat. The rich flavor can help with portion control for many people.
How To Choose Healthy Dark Chocolate at the Store
Above all, it helps to understand what to prioritize and what to avoid when searching for the healthiest dark chocolate. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the best healthy dark chocolate:
1. Cacao Content
Generally, the higher the percentage of cacao, the more antioxidants such as flavanols and other beneficial plant compounds it contains. For the healthiest dark chocolate, aim for 70% cacao or higher. If you enjoy a more intense flavor, 80% or higher usually means less added sugar.
2. No Artificial Additives
The healthiest dark chocolate doesn’t rely on emulsifiers, thickeners or preservatives. If you prefer minimal ingredients, look for bars without emulsifiers or added oils. Some people also choose to avoid palm oil.
3. Fairtrade and Organic Certifications
Ethical sourcing supports sustainable farming and fair pay. Look for verified third-party certifications such as Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance or Direct Trade.
Healthy Dark Chocolate Recipes
Eating the healthiest dark chocolate as it comes is often the best option. However, it can also be paired with healthy fruits for a more complex flavor profile. Fruits add sweetness without the need for added sugar as well. We love dark chocolate with strawberries, cherries and even kiwi.
Coating the healthiest nuts (unsalted and dry-roasted varieties) in healthy dark chocolate is also a great idea, adding texture and healthy fats to your snack. We especially enjoy chocolate-covered almonds with a touch of sea salt to bring out the flavor of both ingredients.
The following recipes offer additional ways to use dark chocolate if you want a more interesting snack. However, many of these would not be considered healthy and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Dark Chocolate Recipe Ideas
- Chocolate Peppermint Bark
- Chocolate Almond Bark
- Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans
- Vegan Hot Chocolate
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Rods
- Dark Chocolate Truffles
- Marzipan Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate Chip Cookies
How We Created This Healthy Dark Chocolate Guide
At Cozymeal, we’re passionate about connecting our audience with valuable and well-researched culinary content, including guides to the healthiest products to eat. These guides cover a range of food types, including popular snacks, such as the healthiest pizza, healthiest beef jerky and, in this case, the healthiest dark chocolate.
To create this guide to healthy dark chocolate bars, we turned to our existing knowledge of what makes a dark chocolate healthy and what our team’s top picks are when shopping for healthy chocolate.
We then conducted in-depth research to confirm that our top picks are, in fact, healthy options and to discover even more healthy chocolate choices. Lastly, the content is reviewed by a nutritionist to ensure we are recommending only the healthiest dark chocolates.
We also ensure that each healthy dark chocolate choice meets the following set of criteria.
Our guide to the healthiest dark chocolate:
- Highlights bars with a cacao percentage of at least 70%, prioritizing those with over 80% cacao.
- Recommends products with low added sugar, ideally less than 5 grams per 40 grams.
- Prefers dark chocolates with about 250 calories or less per serving.
- Where possible, suggests dark chocolate bars that are ethically produced.
- Covers a range of price points and has chocolates available in grocery stores as well as those sold online or in niche stores.
Registered Nutritionist Review
Finally, this guide is reviewed by Jessica O'Shea, a Registered Nutritionist (ANutr) with the Association for Nutrition. She additionally has a BSc (Hons) in Food, Nutrition, and Wellbeing and an MSc in Human Nutrition.
These qualifications enable her to confirm that every chocolate bar we recommend ranks as one of the healthiest dark chocolates on the market.
Ultimately, selecting the healthiest dark chocolate comes down to prioritizing high cacao content, minimal sugar and ethically sourced ingredients. When shopping for the healthiest dark chocolate, all you need to do is choose a bar that aligns with your health and ethical values.
Whether you enjoy the ultra-dark intensity of an 85% cacao bar or the unique flavors of stone-ground chocolate, there are plenty of great options that deliver both nutrition and indulgence.
By simply checking labels for sourcing and production information, cacao percentage and other ingredients, you can enjoy your chocolate, knowing it's good for you and the planet — and you don’t have to ask “What is the healthiest dark chocolate?” ever again.
For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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