A recent study by the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) about chocolate nougats available in Spanish supermarkets has set off alarm bells among Christmas shoppers. From the 45 tablets analyzed — which include crunchy chocolate nougats, milk, dark chocolate and Dubai-style varieties— only two have exceeded the nutritionally approved according to the criteria established by the specialized consumer organization.
Nutritional analysis and composition
The OCU pointed out that many of the nougats examined present high sugar and fat levelssignificantly higher than recommended for frequent consumption. According to the report, the average sugar content in these tablets, it is around the 45%while fats represent approximately 30% of the product.
Beyond the numbers, the chemical composition reveals practices that they subtract the quality: in many cases, the cocoa butter by vegetable fats cheaper, like sunflower oil either palm fatwhich affects both the nutritional profile and the authentic chocolate experience.
The role of additives
In addition to the nutritional profileanother factor which penalizes most nougats is the presence of additives as emulsifiers (E322, E471 or E476)used to homogenize and improve the texture of the product, but from a health point of view are not recommended if consumed regularly.
Study results: little approved
From the 45 references studiedjust one small minority achieved scores that can be considered acceptable from a nutritional point of view. Only two products have exceeded the quality threshold marked by the OCU, becoming the only clear recommendations within the group analyzed.
Most nougats stay away from this brand due to their profile excessively sweet And treatedwhat does it do to them not recommended even if occasional indulgencedepending on the organization itself.
Options with a better nutritional profile
Although most of hanging chocolate nougatsthe report highlights that those who have higher percentage of cocoa – like those of dark chocolate— tend to have a slightly less harmful profile, with less sugar And less poor quality fats.
Furthermore, the OCU emphasizes that, if the objective is to achieve a more balanced dessert From a nutritional point of view, it may be better to opt for classic almond nougats (like those of Alicante either Jijona) which are not part of this specific analysis of chocolate.
Consumer advice
- Check the labeling: Check the ingredient list to avoid unnecessary additives and excess added sugars.
- Compare by cocoa percentage: Higher content is generally associated with fewer ultra-processed ingredients.
- Choose traditional alternatives: Classic almond nougats tend to offer a better nutritional balance.
- Occasional consumption: Due to its high caloric content, even the best nougat should be consumed in moderation.
In a context where the Christmas product prices are also on the rise, with the traditional nougat up significantly compared to previous years – this OCU analysis offers precious keys when deciding what to bring to the table this holiday season.
In short, although many chocolate products typical of these dates are a pleasure for the palatefrom a nutritional health perspective few meet minimum acceptable standardsaccording to the OCU. Know this data can help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions.
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