Taste Test: Exploring the Unique Flavors of Elements Dark Chocolate Bars

Today, Kevin and I will be trying some Elements dark chocolate bars, specifically the Sea Salt, Orange Crunch, and Raspberry flavors. These bars, priced at $5.29 each for 1.8 oz (50 g), were purchased from Good Foods Co-op. Let's dive into the details and see how these unique chocolates fare in terms of taste and texture.

Packaging and Presentation

The packaging of these bars stands out with a unique, paper-like material that feels premium. The bars are very thin and light, adding to their distinctiveness. Each bar is free from dairy, refined sugar, soy, gluten, lecithin, and any shortcuts, with only 3g of sugar per serving and 70% cacao, making them 100% clean.

Nutritional Information:

• 70 calories per serving (¼ of the bar)
• Ingredients: organic cacao butter, raw honey, cacao powder, turmeric powder, and sea salt (varies slightly for different flavors)

Taste and Texture Analysis: 1. Sea Salt:

• Texture: Unlike typical dense and snappy dark chocolate, this bar is loose and melty, almost like melted chocolate disks.
• Flavor: The dark chocolate isn't overly bitter, with a hint of sea salt adding a pleasant contrast. The texture is a bit gritty but not unpleasant.

2. Orange Crunch:

• Ingredients: Includes organic puffed quinoa for crunch, and orange essential oil for flavor.
• Texture: Similar to the Sea Salt bar but with added crunch from the quinoa.
• Flavor: The orange pairs well with the dark chocolate, reducing the bitterness and adding a refreshing citrus note. This was a preferred combination for its balanced taste.

3. Raspberry:

• Ingredients: Features organic beetroot powder and raspberry essential oil.
• Texture: Maintains the same loose texture, melting quickly on the tongue.
• Flavor: The raspberry adds a fruity sweetness, balancing the bitterness of the dark chocolate. This was the favorite flavor for its unique and enjoyable taste.

Overall Impressions: These bars cater to those who prioritize clean ingredients and dietary restrictions, such as dairy-free, gluten-free, and low sugar options. The texture is notably different from traditional chocolate, being much thinner and quicker to melt.

Final Thoughts:

• Favorite Flavor: Raspberry for its sweetness and balanced flavor.
• Runner-Up: Orange Crunch for its pleasant citrus notes and added texture.
• Least Favorite: Sea Salt, though still enjoyable, didn't stand out as much as the other flavors.

Price Consideration: The unique packaging likely contributes to the higher price point of $5.29. Reducing packaging costs could potentially make these bars more affordable.

Conclusion: If you're interested in clean, flavorful dark chocolate with unique textures, Elements dark chocolate bars are worth trying. Their distinct flavors and dietary-friendly ingredients make them a delightful treat for those with specific dietary needs.

If you've tried these bars, share your thoughts in the comments below. How did you find the texture and flavors? Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more taste tests!