5 Plant-Based Chocolate You Need To Try in 2024

Chocolate is one of the most well-loved confectionaries across the globe. According to Innova Market Insights Survey 2023, nearly two-thirds of the global population have purchased some form of chocolate in the past year. Additionally, a trend that has been making waves is plant-based chocolate.

As people become more aware of veganism and the benefits of adopting a plant-based lifestyle, it’s not surprising to see an uptick in demand for dairy-free alternatives. In this article, we will explore plant-based chocolate and the top 5 that you need to try in 2024.

What is Plant-Based Chocolate?

Plant-based chocolate is defined as chocolate that derives from plant sources. Technically speaking, chocolate is plant-based as it comes from a cacao tree. Cacao bean comes from the cacao tree and it is what chocolate is, in its raw form.

However, it is common to find a variety of chocolate or chocolate bars that are not vegan. This is due to an animal product such as dairy or honey being added to the manufacturing process.

See also: 5 Best Plant Based Protein Powder of 2024

Is plant-based chocolate the same as vegan chocolate?

Plant-based chocolate and vegan chocolate are often used interchangeably. However, there can be some differences in terms of ingredients.

Some plant-based chocolate may incorporate honey in their list of ingredients. Honey is not vegan-friendly because of the fact that it is made by living bees. Fortunately, most plant-based chocolates are vegan and do not contain any animal products [1].

Key Features to Look for

When choosing the perfect plant-based chocolate for you, it all comes down to individual taste and preference. However, there are still some key features that you can look out for, such as:

Whether it is gluten-free

If you have gluten intolerance of sensitivity, you want to ensure that the chocolate you are picking, is free from any gluten. It is best to read the label carefully and look out for any certifications that will certify its gluten-free status.

Ingredient list

Before rushing to grab it off the shelf and place it in your basket, always ensure that you are checking the ingredient list. Carefully read through the list of ingredients on the packaging, making sure that there are no traces of daily milk, whey, casein, or other dairy alternatives [2].

You don’t want to be consuming animal-based products by accident!

Top 5 Plant-Based Chocolate

If you are looking for delicious vegan chocolate or plant-based chocolate, but are unsure of what is the best to get, worry not. Our team has compiled 5 of the best plant-based chocolate you can try!

Note: The order of the chocolates is random and not ranked according to the best.

1. Taza Chocolate Organic 87% Dark Chocolate Bar

Taza Chocolate’s dark chocolate bars are made with all-natural, non-GMO ingredients. The chocolate bars are stone ground so that it is less processed for a bold and intense flavor. What is great about this is that it is not just vegan, it is also certified gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. This chocolate is great for just about anyone to have.

Chocolate Type: Dark Chocolate

Flavor: Cacao Nib Crunch, Coconut Besos, Seriously Dark or Toffee, Almond and Sea Salt

Allergens: Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Soy-free

Price: US$5.99/bar

Ratings: 3.7/5

2. Larabar Banana Chocolate Chip Bar

Larabar’s banana and chocolate chip bar is a fruit and nut bar, made with just four ingredients. It is made with dates, almonds, bananas, and chocolate chips, all of which are 100% real ingredients and no artificial sweeteners. This makes it a healthy office snack or an everyday snack.

Chocolate type: Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips

Flavor: Banana Chocolate Chip, Almond Butter Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Brownie, Coconut Chocolate Chip or Mint Chocolate Chip

Allergens: Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Kosher

Price: US$26/16 ct

Ratings: 4.5/5

3. Taza Chocolate Organic 95% Dark Chocolate Amaze Bar

This is yet another one of Taza Chocolate’s products. It is almost the same as the 87% chocolate bar previously mentioned. However, the difference is in the percentage of cacao. This is a higher percentage at 95%, meaning that it is much bolder and bitter in flavor compared to a lower percentage. If you love chocolate with an intense flavor profile, this may be the one for you.

Chocolate Type: Dark Chocolate

Flavor: Wicked Dark

Allergens: Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Soy-free

Price: US$5.99/bar

Ratings: 4.4/5

4. HERSHEY’S Plant Based Oat Chocolate, Almond and Sea Salt Candy Bar

Hershey’s is a popular chocolate brand that most people would probably recognize. Hershey has come up with a plant-based option for those who are vegan but still want to enjoy a sweet treat. Made with smooth cocoa powder, oats, crunchy almonds, and sea salt, it is an amazing bar worth trying.

Chocolate type: Milk Chocolate

Flavor: Chocolate, Almond and Sea Salt

Allergens: Kosher, contains soy and almonds

Price: US$2.49/bar

Ratings: 4.6/5

5. Larabar Double Chocolate Truffle

Larabar’s double chocolate truffle is made with 6 ingredients that are 100% real. It is made with dates, cashews, semisweet chocolate, chocolate, cocoa powder, and sea salt. A simple and healthy snack, it’s guaranteed to not make you feel guilty after consuming.

Chocolate type: Semi-sweet chocolate

Flavor: Double Chocolate Peanut Butter

Allergens: Gluten Free, Dairy-free, Kosher

Price: US$20/ 8 ct

Ratings: 4.6/5

A Special Mention

Schmilk Dairy-Free Vegan Chocolate Bars

There is also another brand of chocolate that we feel is worthy of a special mention. Been around since 2012, they are the world’s first vegan milk chocolate bars, handcrafted to taste especially creamy and smooth. Some of these bars contain traces of tree nuts, almonds or soy.

If you plan to buy one of these chocolates, do ensure that you are checking the allergen information carefully.

Why Choose Plant-Based Chocolate?

There are many reasons why you can choose to go for plant-based chocolate options. The first is if you are a vegan and follow specific dietary requirements. You could also opt for plant-based option due to:

• Allergies or sensitivities: If you are sensitive to gluten or lactose intolerance, this would make a suitable choice.
• Health benefits: Plant-based chocolate is often made with non-GMO and organic ingredients, making it a healthier treat.
• Environmental benefits: Plant-based chocolate reduces the demand for animal products. It is a cruelty-free and sustainable option.

Conclusion

And so, if you are interested in trying out vegan chocolate for the first time, do consider getting one of these chocolates from the list. There are a ton of good reviews supporting the quality of the product. They are also relatively affordable, catering to people of most budgets. Besides, having a small little treat never hurts anyone!