He dark chocolate which is most recommended by nutritionists but which is also distinguished by its slightly bitter taste, has carved out a privileged place in the diet of those looking for a food not only delicious, but also beneficial for health. With content of cocoa greater than 70%this type of chocolate is considered a superfood, thanks to its antioxidant properties and its benefits for the cardiovascular system. A very popular food around the world and also in Spain, where consumption reaches 5.5 kilograms per year per person, which reflects the great love we have for this sweet pleasure. However, not all dark chocolate is equal, and finding the healthiest and most affordable ones can be a challenge. So there is nothing like knowing what OCU recommendations for dark chocolate.
THE Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) carried out an exhaustive study in which 18 dark chocolate bars were analyzed available on the market. This study aimed to find the chocolate that best combines quality, health and price, focusing on products with a minimum cocoa content of 70%. The results of this analysis not only reveal the best options for consumers, but also highlight that some chocolates may be a much healthier choice than you think. The OCU study evaluated the the nutritional composition, the presence of contaminants and the taste of each of the tablets analyzed. The chocolates that received the highest scores are characterized by their high proportion of cocoa, responsible for the health benefits, and the absence of unnecessary additives. Additionally, price was also a key factor in the evaluation, looking for affordable options without compromising quality.
The benefits of consuming dark chocolate
Dark chocolate, especially that with a high cocoa content, offers multiple health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, mainly flavonoids, who helps protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation. It is also known to improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure, which benefits the heart. Another positive aspect is its ability to improve mood, since it contains compounds that promote the release of endorphins and serotonin, known as happiness hormones.
Additionally, dark chocolate is a good source of magnesium, iron and fiber, essential nutrients that contribute to the general well-being of the body. On the other hand, its low sugar content compared to other types of chocolate makes it a more suitable option for those looking to control their caloric intake without giving up the flavor or pleasure of eating a food that is always appetizing. However, not all chocolates on the market offer these benefits to the same extent, as the quality of cocoa and added ingredients can vary greatly.
The most recommended chocolates by the OCU
In his recent study, The OCU has highlighted three dark chocolates which stand out for their excellent value for money and its healthy characteristics. First there is the Alipende 75% Cocoa tablet, available in Ahorramás supermarkets at the price of 1.65 euros per 100 grams. This chocolate obtained a score of 81 out of 100, standing out for its balanced composition of cocoa mass, cocoa butter and cocoa powder, accompanied by a touch of sugar that does not erase its bitter flavor.
Second place went to El Corte Inglés Chocolate 72% Cocoawith a very competitive price of 0.89 euros per 100 grams and a score equal to the first rating of 81 out of 100. This tablet is appreciated not only for its excellent flavor, but also for the quality of its cocoa and the absence of contaminants, although it is noted that it could s improve in terms of nutritional information offered to the consumer.
Third, Conso 72% Cacao chocolate is available at 0.90 euros per 100 grams. and with a score of 80 out of 100. This chocolate stands out for its exceptional flavor and for maintaining a balance between essential ingredients, avoiding unnecessary additives. Like El Corte Inglés chocolate, it offers a very pleasant and safe tasting experience, although it also has some limitations in terms of the clarity of its nutritional labeling, according to the consumer organization.
In conclusion, OCU’s analysis shows that you don’t need to spend large sums of money to enjoy high-quality dark chocolate. and beneficial for health. The options put forward by the organization offer a perfect combination of taste, health and economy, making the pleasure of eating chocolate not only delicious, but also a wise choice for the well-being of our health. You no longer need to wonder where to find the best dark chocolate. Ahorramás stands out among all the options, although El Corte Inglés and Consum are not far behind.
