Why is Peruvian Dark Chocolate classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The bar is labelled NOVA 4 because it contains ingredients that are not in their natural state, such as refined sugar and a soy‑derived emulsifier (E322). The only listed additive is the emulsifier, which is used to improve texture and stability, placing the product in the ultra‑processed category.

How does the sugar and saturated fat content in Peruvian Dark Chocolate affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 30 g of sugar per 100 g, the chocolate can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it unsuitable for strict diabetic control. The 25 g of saturated fat may raise LDL cholesterol, which can be problematic for hypertension or heart‑health‑focused diets.

Is the soy lecithin used as an emulsifier in this chocolate a concern for people with soy allergy?

Soy lecithin is derived from soybeans and is listed as an allergen; while it is highly refined and often tolerated by mildly sensitive individuals, people with a confirmed soy allergy should avoid the product or consult a healthcare professional.

Asda

Peruvian Dark Chocolate

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Peruvian Dark Chocolate is a vegan, 70 % cocoa bar marketed by Asda and certified by the Vegan Society, Rainforest Alliance and UTZ, placing it in the Sugary snacks and Chocolate products groups. It carries a Nutri‑Score of E and is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), reflecting the presence of added sugar, a soy‑derived emulsifier (E322) and refined cocoa butter. Nutritionally, the bar offers high fiber (11 g/100 g) and protein (9.2 g/100 g) but also high saturated fat (25 g) and sugar (30 g), resulting in a high energy density (574 kcal/100 g).

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

high

Salt

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal574 kcal

Fat42 g

Saturated Fat25 g

Carbohydrates35 g

Sugars30 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with average sweet snacks, this chocolate contains more fat (42 g vs 33 g), higher saturated fat (25 g vs 19 g) and more calories (574 kcal vs 519 kcal), but it is lower in sugar (30 g vs 40 g), contains less salt (0.01 g vs 0.42 g), and provides more fiber (11 g vs 6 g) and protein (9.2 g vs 7.1 g).

Ingredients

Cocoa Mass*, Sugar, Cocoa Butter*, Emulsifier (Soya Lecithins), Vanilla Extract. Cocoa solids 70% minimum. *Rainforest Alliance Certified. Find out more at ra.org Allergy Advice! for allergens, see ingredients in bold. May also contain traces of nuts and milk.

84%

35%

Unlock What Your Food Doesn't Tell You

Scan this and millions of other food products to discover hidden positive & negative points, scores percentage, additives, allergens, and deeper product insights with the free NutrScan app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Peruvian Dark Chocolate.

Asda