Milk Chocolate Coated Peanuts: Nutritional Information & Ingredients
Milk chocolate-coated peanuts offer a delightful balance of creamy sweetness and crunchy texture, making them a popular snack or treat for various occasions. These irresistible candies combine the rich taste of smooth milk chocolate with the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts, providing an indulgent yet somewhat nutritious option for those who crave something sweet. Below, we’ll break down the ingredients and nutritional values to give you a better understanding of this treat’s profile.
Ingredients:
- Milk Chocolate: Sugar, whole milk powder, cocoa butter, cocoa mass, soy lecithin (emulsifier), and natural flavor.
- Peanuts: Roasted peanuts (may contain salt or additional flavoring depending on brand).
- Additional Ingredients: May include stabilizers or preservatives, depending on the brand.
Nutritional Information (per 100g serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 519 kcal |
| Protein | 13.1 g |
| Fat | 33.5 g |
| Saturated Fats | 14.6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 49.7 g |
| Sugar | 37.59 g |
| Fiber | 4.7 g |
| Calcium | 104.0 mg |
| Iron | 1.31 mg |
| Magnesium | 96 mg |
| Phosphorus | 212.0 mg |
| Potassium | 502.0 mg |
| Sodium | 41.0 mg |
| Zinc | 2.6 mg |
| Copper | 0.544 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.945 mg |
| Selenium | 5.4 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Thiamin (Vitamin B1) | 0.116 mg |
| Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) | 0.174 mg |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 4.249 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Folate | 51.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.53 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 41.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 2.4 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information:
Milk chocolate-coated peanuts are made from two primary ingredients: peanuts and milk chocolate. As such, they contain the following allergens:
- Peanuts: Known to be a common allergen, peanuts may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Milk: Contains dairy and should be avoided by individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
- Soy: Often present as an emulsifier (soy lecithin) in the chocolate coating, making this product unsuitable for those with soy allergies.
Cross-contamination: Products containing peanuts and milk chocolate may also be processed in facilities that handle other allergens, such as tree nuts, gluten, and eggs. Always check the packaging for specific allergen warnings.
Dietary Preferences:
Milk chocolate-coated peanuts are typically not suitable for the following dietary preferences:
- Vegan: Since these candies contain milk chocolate, they are not vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Most variants are gluten-free, but it is always advisable to check the packaging to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients have been added.
- Low-Carb/Keto: With a high carbohydrate content (49.7 g per 100 g), these candies are not suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets.
- Vegetarian: These candies are vegetarian-friendly, as they do not contain animal-derived ingredients other than milk.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Insights:
While milk chocolate-coated peanuts are primarily a treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits due to their key ingredients.
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Protein: Peanuts are a good source of plant-based protein, contributing 13.1 grams of protein per 100 grams. This can support muscle repair and growth, making them a useful snack for individuals who are active or need to increase their protein intake.
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Fiber: With 4.7 grams of fiber, these candies provide a moderate source of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels, although the high sugar content in these treats may offset some of the benefits of fiber.
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Vitamins and Minerals: The peanuts in this snack provide essential minerals like magnesium (96 mg), phosphorus (212 mg), and potassium (502 mg), which are vital for bone health, nerve function, and maintaining proper electrolyte balance.
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Fat: With 33.5 grams of fat (14.6 grams of which are saturated), milk chocolate-coated peanuts are a calorie-dense snack. The majority of the fat comes from peanuts, which contain healthy unsaturated fats. However, the high levels of saturated fats from the milk chocolate should be consumed in moderation.
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Sugar: One of the downsides of milk chocolate-coated peanuts is their sugar content—37.59 grams per 100 grams. This can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar, making them a less ideal option for those trying to control blood glucose levels or following a low-sugar diet.
Advice:
Milk chocolate-coated peanuts can be enjoyed as an occasional treat or indulgence but should be consumed in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your calorie, sugar, and fat intake. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider mixing roasted peanuts with dark chocolate, which has less sugar and offers more antioxidants. Additionally, portion control is key—while they can provide energy and some nutrients, the high sugar and fat content can quickly add up.
Conclusion:
Milk chocolate-coated peanuts are a classic and beloved treat, offering a rich combination of flavors and textures. While they can be a satisfying snack, it’s important to enjoy them mindfully, considering both their nutritional content and allergen information. For those with dietary restrictions or health goals, exploring alternatives that align better with your nutritional needs could be a great way to enjoy the flavor of peanuts and chocolate in a more balanced way.
