Ingredient

Belgian Unsweetened Chocolate Processed With Alkali

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use Dutch-processed cocoa for its deep, rich color and smoother, less acidic flavor …

What it is

This ingredient is unsweetened chocolate that has been treated with an alkali, a process also known as "Dutching." The alkali treatment darkens the color of the chocolate and mellows its flavor, making it less bitter. It is made from cocoa beans, which are fermented, dried, roasted, and ground into a paste called chocolate liquor.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use Dutch-processed cocoa for its deep, rich color and smoother, less acidic flavor in baked goods and confectionery. It is commonly found in cakes, cookies, brownies, and as a flavoring in ice cream and beverages.

Health notes

Belgian Unsweetened Chocolate Processed With Alkali is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. Cocoa and cocoa products contain flavanols, which are plant compounds that may have antioxidant properties. Research into the health effects of flavanols is ongoing, with some studies suggesting potential benefits for heart health, while others show mixed results. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated cocoa and cocoa products.

Allergen info

Chocolate is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Belgian Unsweetened Chocolate Processed With Alkali

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Kraft Heinz Foods Company Chocolate Pretzels & Cream Cheese Dip, Chocolate Crackers & Biscotti High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 308kcal 7Protein 14.0Fat 40.6Carbs Kraft Heinz Foods Company Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Cups, Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in added sugars — 36% DV per serving 261kcal 4.3Protein 15.2Fat 29.4Carbs Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Cup, Dark Chocolate Raspberry Kraft Heinz Foods Company Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Cup, Dark Chocolate Raspberry Pastry Shells & Fillings High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in added sugars — 36% DV per serving 261kcal 4.3Protein 15.2Fat 29.4Carbs John Kelly Foods, Inc. John Kelly Chocolates, Dark Chocolate Butterfly, Vanilla Butter Caramel, Roasted Almonds And Sea Salt, Vanilla Butter Caramel, Roasted Almonds And Sea Salt Chocolate High in saturated fat — 65% DV per serving 500kcal 5.9Protein 33.8Fat 55.9Carbs Oberto Sausage Company Trail Mix, Teriyaki Chicken Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 421kcal 21.1Protein 24.6Fat 31.6Carbs Oberto Sausage Company Trail Mix, Original Beef Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 474kcal 21.1Protein 33.3Fat 31.6Carbs Zingerman's Coffee Co. Chocolate Almond Egg Fudge Candy High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 400kcal 3.3Protein 15Fat 65Carbs
Sugar (7 products) Soy Lecithin (7 products) Salt (6 products) Water (5 products) Lactic Acid (4 products) Natural Vanilla Extract (4 products) Vanilla Extract (4 products) Natural Flavors (3 products) Sorbic Acid (3 products) Brown Sugar (3 products)

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.