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.
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.
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.
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.
Choose according to the occasion and your taste:
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.
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.
Before ordering, check:
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.
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.
The number of mini packs makes the contents clearer than a large, unportioned bag. Do check the allergens: milk, wheat and barley are listed.
259 grams, 18 individual portions and a colourful milk chocolate variety.
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.
The minimum cocoa content of 78% is clearly stated. If you have allergies, check the milk and possible nut warnings beforehand.
100 grams, 78% cocoa and a short ingredients list of cocoa mass, cocoa butter, sugar and milk fat.
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.
The product information states that the chocolate contains 85% cocoa solids and clearly lists the almonds, milk and soya.
90 grams, dates with whole almonds, dark chocolate and individually shareable pieces, according to the product description.
Why it suits this shopper: This large pack is made for parties, film nights and any occasion when you need chocolate to share.
The generous net weight makes it suitable for sharing between several people. Do watch out for peanuts, milk, soya and possible other nuts.
800 grams, peanuts in milk chocolate and a crunchy sugar shell, ideal for sharing.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the relevant European safety regulations.
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.
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.
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.