Nutrition Frequently Asked Questions
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A.
Many people don't realize that cocoa and therefore chocolate products deliver many naturally occurring compounds similar to other foods in a healthy, plant-based diet. Some of these beneficial compounds are minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium and copper. Much of the current research is focused on another group of compounds called flavanols.
- Because of their molecular structure, many compounds in the flavanol family can act as antioxidants. Antioxidants can have a variety of beneficial effects in the body.
- The cocoa bean contains natural flavanol antioxidants, similar to those found in green tea, red wine and blueberries.
- Cocoa and dark chocolate are among the most concentrated sources of flavanol antioxidants.
- Short-term, preliminary studies have suggested that consumption of products containing cocoa and chocolate may provide cardiovascular benefits. So, while more research, including longer term studies, is needed, the preliminary evidence about the flavanols in chocolate is promising.
To learn more about flavanols in cocoa and chocolate, antioxidants, and other chocolate research, visit our Chocolate Products Information web page.
A.
The small amount of caffeine present in chocolate occurs naturally in the cocoa bean, unlike the caffeine in soft drinks which is added during the manufacturing process.
Here are some comparisons that may be helpful:
| Coffee |
8 fl. oz. |
65-120 mg |
| Cola-type soft drinks |
12 oz. |
30-55 mg |
| Milk Chocolate |
1 oz. |
5-10 mg |
| Dark Chocolate |
1.4 oz. |
7-50 mg |
The amounts of caffeine in specific HERSHEY'S chocolate products are listed on the Chocolate Products Caffeine page.
A.
Hershey produces a number of sugar free products that may be useful in a diet for people living with diabetes. Visit HERSHEY'S Sugar Free to learn more about our sugar free products.
