Product HUB

Categories

Compare products

Top products

Home

Hot beverages

Cocoa

Cocoa — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Cocoa photo

Listonic Team

September 5, 2024

Cocoa powder, derived from cocoa beans, is celebrated for its rich flavor and antioxidant properties. Explore how to choose high-quality cocoa, its health benefits, including heart health improvement, and diverse ways to incorporate it into baking and hot drinks.

Nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of cocoa, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 228 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs58 g21.09%
Fiber33 g117.86%
Sugars2 g4%
Glycemic Index20 -
Protein20 g40%
Sodium21 mg0.91%
Total Fat14 17.95%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes cocoa stand out:

33 g

✅ High Fiber Content

20 g

🧀 Good Protein Content

Key takeaways

🛒
Opt for unsweetened, pure cocoa powder for baking and drinks. Natural cocoa has no added sugars.
😋
Cocoa powder is made by grinding cocoa beans and removing the cocoa butter.
📦
Store cocoa powder in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It can be kept for up to two years if stored properly.

Health benefits

Learn how cocoa, rich in antioxidants, can boost your mood and heart health, contributing to a balanced lifestyle.
  • Rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
  • Supports heart health by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure due to its flavonoid content.
  • Enhances mood by stimulating the production of endorphins and serotonin.
  • Contains essential minerals such as magnesium, iron, and potassium, which support overall health and well-being.

Health risks

Learn about the possible health risks and concerns associated with cocoa.
  • Potential for caffeine-related side effects such as increased heart rate, insomnia, or anxiety, particularly when consumed in large quantities.
  • Risk of allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to cocoa, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
  • High calorie content in sweetened cocoa products, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently.
  • Presence of heavy metals in some cocoa products, which can pose health risks with excessive consumption.
Conversion widget image

Add cocoa to your digital grocery list!

How to choose cocoa

High-quality cocoa powder should have a rich, deep chocolate color and a fine, silky texture. It should not clump together. Smell the cocoa to ensure it has a strong, chocolatey aroma, which is a sign of its freshness and quality.

Avoid cocoa that smells musty or looks faded, as it likely won't deliver the robust chocolate flavor needed for baking. Good cocoa powder is crucial for creating rich, flavorful chocolate desserts.

How to choose cocoa

How to store cocoa

Cocoa powder should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. A pantry or cupboard away from heat and light helps maintain its flavor. Properly stored cocoa can last up to two years.

Exposure to moisture can cause cocoa powder to clump and spoil. Avoid storing it near the stove or in humid environments. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to keep out air and moisture, preserving its rich, chocolatey taste.

✅ Extra Tip

For additional protection against moisture, consider placing a small silica gel packet in the container with cocoa powder to absorb any excess humidity and prevent clumping.

How long does it last?

Cocoa powder can last for 2-3 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Proper storage helps maintain its quality and flavor.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover cocoa powder can be used in a variety of delicious and creative ways. In the kitchen, it’s a key ingredient in baking cakes, brownies, cookies, and hot chocolate. Cocoa powder can also be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or homemade granola for a chocolatey twist.

Beyond cooking, cocoa powder has some interesting non-culinary uses. It can be used in DIY beauty treatments; for instance, mixing cocoa powder with honey and yogurt creates a nourishing face mask that can help improve skin texture. Cocoa powder can also be used as a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a rich brown color. Additionally, cocoa powder can be added to homemade candles or soaps for a delightful chocolate scent. Some people even use cocoa powder as a natural bronzer in homemade makeup recipes, thanks to its rich color.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

How cocoa supports specific health conditions

Cocoa is rich in flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that support heart health by improving circulation and reducing blood pressure. Its antioxidants also promote brain function by improving cognitive function and memory. Cocoa contains magnesium, which supports muscle health and helps reduce muscle cramps. Additionally, cocoa’s mood-boosting compounds, such as serotonin, can support mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It also contains fiber, promoting digestive health.

Discover products from other categories