Fans of a distinctly dark chocolate flavour
You want to compare varieties with different stated cocoa percentages, rather than relying on the word ‘dark’ alone. The percentage doesn’t guarantee a particular taste.
Who is this for?
Dutch team fans sharing a pack
You’re thinking about how much the pack contains and whether you want standard or extra-large sprinkles.
Label-conscious shoppers
You want to check the ingredients and allergens before sharing a pack. Dark chocolate sprinkles aren’t automatically free from milk or soya.
What should you look for when choosing?
Before the match, decide what matters most to you: the stated cocoa content, a pack to share or the information on the label. Then compare the specific varieties on that basis.
| What to consider | What to check when buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Stated cocoa content | Check the minimum percentage of cocoa solids on the pack; the word ‘dark’ alone doesn’t tell you the percentage. | I want to compare dark varieties with different cocoa contents for the match, without assuming that the percentage predicts a particular taste. This is the top priority for around 42% of consumers. |
| Pack size and sprinkles | Compare the net weight and check whether an XXL variety actually has the size of sprinkles you want. | If more people are sharing, I want to choose a suitable quantity or deliberately opt for larger sprinkles. This is the top priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Ingredients and allergens | Read the ingredients, allergens and any ‘may contain’ warnings on the current pack. | If I need to take an allergy or dietary requirement into account, I need to know what’s in this specific variety before sharing it. Checking the label comes first for around 25% of consumers. |
Common mistakes
-
Assuming ‘dark’ means a set cocoa percentage
According to product information from Albert Heijn and Jumbo, the dark varieties reviewed list minimum cocoa solids of 32%, 43% or 52%, depending on the product. That doesn’t automatically tell you how the flavour will taste to you.
Compare the percentage on the pack if it matters to your choice.
-
Choosing a dark variety without checking the allergens
The varieties reviewed mention ingredients including milk and soya, or carry a warning about the possible presence of milk. The product name is no substitute for allergen information.
Before use, check the current pack, including the ingredients and any ‘may contain’ statements.
-
Assuming XXL means a bigger pack
Jumbo lists its XXL Puur at 380 g, while ALDI lists Kiekeboe XXL at 550 g. So the term doesn’t refer to one set pack weight.
If you’re buying sprinkles for several people, check both the net weight and the description of the sprinkles.
-
Relying on a range you looked at earlier
A product page and the range at the shop where you do your food shopping may not show the same options at the same time.
Check which variety is available just before you head out and choose an alternative in advance if needed.
Brands compared
De Ruijter
For the De Ruijter dark varieties reviewed, Albert Heijn lists at least 32% cocoa solids for Chocoladehagel Puur, 43% for Royaal and 52% for Specials Intens Puur.
- The stated percentages make it easy to compare these varieties directly.
- If you have allergies, check the label on the variety you choose; the product information reviewed mentions milk and soya.
Venz
Jumbo lists Venz Puur Chocolade Hagelslag in a 400 g pack, with a minimum of 32% cocoa solids.
- The weight and stated minimum cocoa content give you specific points to compare.
- The allergen information reviewed mentions milk and soya; check the current pack before sharing.
AH
Albert Heijn lists a standard 400 g own-brand dark variety with at least 32% cocoa solids, as well as a separate 380 g XL variety with coloured chocolate shapes.
- The pack sizes and ingredients offer different options for your snack.
- The XL variety doesn’t have the same ingredients as the standard dark sprinkles; check the ingredients and allergens on each pack.
Jumbo
Jumbo lists Chocolade Hagel XXL Puur in a 380 g pack, with at least 32% cocoa solids.
- The extra-large sprinkles are a distinctive feature if that’s the size you’re looking for.
- The product information reviewed states ‘may contain milk’; check the packaging if you have an allergy.
Kiekeboe
ALDI Netherlands lists Kiekeboe Hagelslag Puur in a 600 g pack, as well as a separate 550 g XXL variety with extra-large sprinkles.
- The stated weights help you choose how much to share.
- Before use, read the full ingredients and allergen information on the pack.
Mister Choc
Lidl Netherlands lists Mister Choc Hagelslag Puur in a 600 g pack, with the product page reviewed indicating that it’s available to buy in store.
- The stated pack weight is useful if you’re looking for a larger pack.
- Check the ingredients and allergens on the label in store.
Dark chocolate sprinkles on Joybuy
These dark chocolate sprinkle options let you choose between a 200 g pack and two larger packs for watching the match. Compare a stated cocoa percentage only when it’s listed for that exact variety.
Image unavailable
De Ruijter Intense dark chocolate sprinkles, 200 g
A 200 g pack of dark chocolate sprinkles if you’d like to buy a smaller quantity.
To compare cocoa content and allergens, check the information on the packaging of this exact variety.
Image unavailable
g'woon dark chocolate sprinkles, 400 g
The 400 g pack is a good option when several people will be sharing.
If you have allergies, read the information on the current label.
Image unavailable
De Ruijter dark chocolate sprinkles, 390 g
A 390 g pack of dark chocolate sprinkles for anyone looking to share a larger pack.
If you’re choosing by cocoa content, check the percentage on this pack; don’t assume it’s the same as another De Ruijter variety. Read the allergen information before use too.
Frequently asked questions
Does ‘dark’ mean that all chocolate sprinkles have the same cocoa content?
No. Albert Heijn lists at least 52% cocoa solids for De Ruijter Specials Intens Puur and 43% for Royaal, while product information from Albert Heijn and Jumbo lists at least 32% for some standard dark varieties. The percentage describes the ingredients, not how intense everyone will find the flavour.
Are dark chocolate sprinkles automatically vegan or free from milk and soya?
No. The dark varieties reviewed mention ingredients including milk and soya, or carry a warning about the possible presence of milk. Check the ingredients and allergens on the pack you buy; according to the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, allergen information for prepacked products must appear on the label.
What pack size should I choose for watching the Dutch team together?
Choose a pack size based on how many people will be sharing and how much you’d like to have left over. The varieties reviewed range from 200 g to 600 g; ‘XXL’ alone doesn’t tell you how much is in the pack.
How should I store leftover chocolate sprinkles?
Follow the storage instructions on the packaging. The product information reviewed for De Ruijter, Venz, AH and Jumbo says to store in a cool, dry place; check the pack for any additional instructions.