Joybuy Insights

Buying chocolate sweets: how to choose without regretting it

Buying chocolate sweets seems simple, until you have to choose between chocolate bars, sharing bags, chocolates and unusual flavours. Eye-catching packaging tells you little about what’s inside. If you focus only on the brand, discount or pack size, you could end up with chocolate that doesn’t suit the occasion, your family’s allergies or the flavour you had in mind.

Common pitfalls when ordering chocolate online

1. A large pack isn’t always better value

A 367 or 800 gram bag might look tempting for a film night or party. However, check the price per 100 grams and see how much chocolate you’re actually getting. A filled variety, for example, also contains caramel, biscuit, nuts or a sugar coating. So don’t just compare the total pack size: look at the contents and number of portions too.

2. “Dark” or unusual chocolate doesn’t tell you everything about the flavour

For dark chocolate, the cocoa percentage is a useful point of comparison, but it won’t tell you exactly how bitter or sweet the bar tastes. A bar with 78% cocoa will generally contain less sugar than milk chocolate, but it may still contain milk. Always check the ingredients list and allergen information.

Marketing names can also suggest a broad range of flavours, whether it’s matcha, caramel or praline. Ultimately, it’s the balance of filling, chocolate and other ingredients that shapes the taste.

3. Allergen information and storage advice are often overlooked

Many chocolate products contain milk, soya, gluten or nuts. Some packaging also warns that the product may contain traces of other nuts. This is especially important when you’re buying chocolate to share, as not everyone can eat the same allergens.

Also check the best-before date, especially for imported products and chocolate with a short remaining shelf life. Store chocolate according to the label: usually in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Cocoa percentage and type of chocolate

Choose according to the occasion and your taste:

  • Milk chocolate: generally milder and sweeter, making it a good choice for a range of tastes.
  • Dark chocolate: often more intense in flavour. Check the cocoa percentage, such as 78% in Lindt Excellence.
  • Filled chocolate: may contain praline, caramel, nougat, fruit or a smooth cream.
  • Chocolate truffles and chocolates: usually made for savouring or giving as a gift.
  • Chocolate with biscuit or wafer: handy as an individual snack.

The cocoa percentage isn’t a quality mark in itself. Use it as an objective point of comparison alongside the sugar content, ingredients and flavour profile.

2. Weight, portions and packaging

For a family or party, individually wrapped portions are practical. According to the product information, Nestlé Mini Smarties contains 18 mini packs in a 259 gram bag. KitKat Mini Chunky consists of 15 individually wrapped mini bars in a 250 gram pack.

A larger sharing bag may be more convenient for a film night. Just check whether you can seal the pack securely after opening. This helps preserve the texture and flavour.

3. Ingredients, allergens and nutritional information

Before ordering, check:

  1. The first ingredients on the list. These are listed in descending order by quantity.
  2. Allergens, such as milk, soya, wheat, peanuts, hazelnuts and almonds.
  3. The sugar and saturated fat content per 100 grams.
  4. The portion size, which can sometimes be considerably smaller than the total pack.
  5. Storage advice and any available shelf-life information.

For example, M&M’s Peanut contains peanuts, milk and soya, and according to the product information may also contain other nuts. Lindt Excellence 78% cocoa contains milk and may contain hazelnuts, almonds, other nuts and soya. If you have an allergy, always check the current label on the packaging.

Our recommendations for different types of shopper

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Nestlé Mini Smarties - 259 g

Nestlé Mini Smarties - 259 g

Why it suits this shopper: The 259 gram bag contains 18 individual packs, making it practical for families and occasions when you’re sharing out portions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of mini packs makes the contents clearer than a large, unportioned bag. Do check the allergens: milk, wheat and barley are listed.

Key benefit & highlights

259 grams, 18 individual portions and a colourful milk chocolate variety.

Ideal for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Lindt Excellence 78% Cocoa 100g

Lindt Excellence 78% Cocoa 100g

Why it suits this shopper: This bar is a good choice if you’re looking for a distinct cocoa flavour in a compact pack rather than a sweet selection.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The minimum cocoa content of 78% is clearly stated. If you have allergies, check the milk and possible nut warnings beforehand.

Key benefit & highlights

100 grams, 78% cocoa and a short ingredients list of cocoa mass, cocoa butter, sugar and milk fat.

Ideal for: Chocolate gift buyers
AE Chocodate Dark Chocolate 90g

AE Chocodate Dark Chocolate 90g

Why it suits this shopper: Dates with almonds and dark chocolate give this product a different combination of ingredients, making it a good option if you’re looking for a chocolate gift with something extra.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that the chocolate contains 85% cocoa solids and clearly lists the almonds, milk and soya.

Key benefit & highlights

90 grams, dates with whole almonds, dark chocolate and individually shareable pieces, according to the product description.

Ideal for: Specific occasions & regular chocolate lovers
M&M's Peanut Chocolate Bites - 800 g

M&M's Peanut Chocolate Bites - 800 g

Why it suits this shopper: This large pack is made for parties, film nights and any occasion when you need chocolate to share.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The generous net weight makes it suitable for sharing between several people. Do watch out for peanuts, milk, soya and possible other nuts.

Key benefit & highlights

800 grams, peanuts in milk chocolate and a crunchy sugar shell, ideal for sharing.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the relevant European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying chocolate sweets

What’s handy for a party or film night?

Choose a pack with a higher net weight, such as an 800 gram pack of M&M’s Peanut Chocolate Bites, or a product with individual portions. To enjoy a range of flavours, you can combine milk chocolate, dark chocolate and filled chocolate. Check the allergens beforehand if several people will be sharing.

How long does chocolate keep?

Follow the best-before date on the packaging. Store chocolate in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and significant changes in temperature. Once opened, a securely sealed pack helps prevent moisture and loss of flavour. If a product has a short shelf life, it’s a good idea to check the date before ordering and when it arrives.

What should I look for when buying chocolate as a gift?

Choose packaging that looks presentable and check whether the product is individually wrapped. Chocolate truffles, pralines or Chocodate can make suitable gifts, but always check for nuts, milk and soya. An unusual flavour, such as matcha or dark chocolate with dates, is especially suitable when you know what the recipient likes.