Introduction
That familiar craving hits. The one that whispers promises of rich, chocolatey-hazelnut goodness. Yes, we’re talking about Nutella. That iconic spread has graced breakfast tables and dessert creations for decades. However, the modern health-conscious consumer is often met with a conflicting desire: a longing for that taste, coupled with a growing awareness of the ingredients lurking within. Sugar, palm oil, and other processed components give many pause. Is it possible to indulge in the magic of chocolate and hazelnut without compromising on health and well-being?
The answer, thankfully, is a resounding “yes,” especially when you explore the aisles of Whole Foods Market. This guide will take you on a delicious journey through the world of Nutella alternatives available at Whole Foods, providing you with the knowledge to make informed choices that satisfy your sweet tooth and support your health goals. We’ll delve into the ingredients of several popular options, compare their taste profiles, and consider their nutritional value, all in the quest for the perfect healthy chocolate hazelnut experience.
The Concerns Around Traditional Nutella
Before diving into the world of alternatives, let’s briefly address the elephants in the jar: the ingredients of conventional Nutella. A quick glance at the label reveals a list that may raise concerns for some.
The primary ingredient, perhaps unsurprisingly, is sugar. While a touch of sweetness can be delightful, excessive sugar consumption has been linked to a range of health issues, including weight gain, increased risk of type two diabetes, and inflammation.
Next on the list is palm oil, an ingredient that has garnered significant attention due to both health and environmental concerns. The production of palm oil is often associated with deforestation and habitat loss, particularly in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, some studies suggest that palm oil may contribute to elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, which is considered “bad” cholesterol.
Rounding out the list are hazelnuts, cocoa, skim milk powder, soy lecithin (an emulsifier), and vanillin (an artificial flavor). While hazelnuts and cocoa are generally considered healthy, the processed nature of skim milk powder and the presence of artificial flavorings can be a deterrent for those seeking a more natural and wholesome option.
These concerns don’t necessarily mean Nutella is “bad,” but they do provide a compelling reason to explore alternatives that align with a healthier lifestyle and more sustainable values.
Discovering Delicious Alternatives at Whole Foods Market
Fortunately, Whole Foods Market offers a diverse selection of spreads that capture the essence of the chocolate hazelnut flavor profile, often with cleaner ingredients and a focus on nutritional benefits. Let’s explore some noteworthy options, keeping in mind that availability may vary depending on your location.
Justin’s Chocolate Hazelnut Butter Blend
Justin’s is a well-known brand recognized for its commitment to quality and delicious flavor combinations. Their Chocolate Hazelnut Butter Blend is a popular choice for those seeking a healthier alternative to Nutella.
Ingredients: Dry Roasted Hazelnuts, Sugar, Palm Oil, Cocoa Powder, Dry Roasted Almonds, Contains two percent or less of Cocoa Butter, Sunflower Lecithin, Natural Flavor, Salt, Vanilla Extract.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving – check the label for exact values) Generally lower in sugar than Nutella and contains a good source of healthy fats from hazelnuts and almonds.
Taste and Texture: Creamy, rich, and intensely chocolatey with a distinct hazelnut flavor. The addition of almonds provides a subtle textural complexity.
Pros: Made with high-quality ingredients, gluten-free, and offers a satisfying flavor profile.
Cons: Contains palm oil (although Justin’s states they use sustainably sourced palm oil), and the sugar content may still be a concern for some.
Price Point: Typically in the mid-range compared to other specialty nut butters.
Location: Usually found in the nut butter section of Whole Foods.
Thirty-Six-Five by Whole Foods Market Hazelnut Butter
Whole Foods’ own brand, Thirty-Six-Five, offers a more straightforward and versatile option with their Hazelnut Butter. While it’s not specifically a chocolate hazelnut spread, it provides an excellent base for creating your own healthier version.
Ingredients: Dry Roasted Hazelnuts.
Nutritional Information: High in healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Contains no added sugar or salt.
Taste and Texture: Pure hazelnut flavor with a slightly dry, yet smooth texture.
Pros: Simple, clean ingredients, highly versatile for various uses, and a good source of nutrients.
Cons: Requires you to add your own cocoa powder and sweetener to create a chocolate hazelnut spread.
Price Point: Usually one of the more affordable hazelnut butter options.
Location: Typically found in the nut butter section of Whole Foods.
To transform this into a chocolate hazelnut delight, simply blend in unsweetened cocoa powder (start with a tablespoon and adjust to taste) and a touch of maple syrup, honey, or your preferred natural sweetener. This allows you to control the level of sweetness and avoid refined sugars.
Artisana Organics Hazelnut Cacao Butter
For those seeking an organic and raw option, Artisana Organics Hazelnut Cacao Butter is a compelling choice.
Ingredients: Organic Raw Hazelnuts, Organic Raw Cacao.
Nutritional Information: Rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and minerals.
Taste and Texture: A unique combination of nutty, chocolatey, and slightly bitter notes. The texture is creamy and decadent.
Pros: Certified organic, raw, and made with minimal ingredients. A great option for those following a raw food diet.
Cons: The flavor may be too intense or bitter for some palates. The price point is typically higher.
Price Point: One of the more expensive options due to the organic and raw ingredients.
Location: Often found in the refrigerated section or the specialty nut butter section.
Nocciolata Organic Hazelnut Spread with Cocoa
Nocciolata offers an organic take on the classic hazelnut and cocoa combination, often praised for its taste and ingredient quality.
Ingredients: Cane Sugar, Hazelnuts, Sunflower Oil, Skim Milk Powder, Cocoa Powder, Cocoa Butter, Sunflower Lecithin, Vanilla Extract.
Nutritional Information: While organic, still contains sugar. Check the label for specific nutritional values.
Taste and Texture: Creamy, smooth, and intensely flavored, balancing the hazelnut and cocoa notes beautifully.
Pros: Organic ingredients, good flavor, and widely available.
Cons: Still contains added sugar, though often less than traditional Nutella. Contains sunflower oil.
Price Point: Mid-range, typically.
Location: Usually found in the specialty foods or nut butter section.
Pyure Organic Hazelnut Spread
For those carefully watching their sugar intake, Pyure’s Organic Hazelnut Spread is a good contender, using a stevia-based sweetener.
Ingredients: Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Erythritol, Organic Inulin, Organic Hazelnuts, Organic Rice Flour, Organic Cocoa Powder, Organic Sunflower Lecithin, Salt, Organic Stevia Leaf Extract, Organic Vanilla Extract, Organic Rosemary Extract.
Nutritional Information: Significantly lower in sugar than most alternatives, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Taste and Texture: Smooth and creamy, with a noticeable sweetness derived from stevia. Some may detect a slight aftertaste from the sweetener.
Pros: Organic, very low in sugar, and suitable for ketogenic diets.
Cons: The stevia aftertaste may not appeal to everyone.
Price Point: Often similar to other organic spreads.
Location: Usually found in the health food or specialty spread section.
A Taste Test Perspective
While ingredient lists and nutritional information are valuable, the ultimate test is, of course, the taste! If possible, conduct your own informal taste test with a few of the options listed above. This allows you to determine which spread best aligns with your personal preferences.
In a recent (hypothetical!) taste test, participants were asked to compare several of these Whole Foods Nutella alternatives to the original Nutella. The results were intriguing. Justin’s Chocolate Hazelnut Butter Blend was often praised for its rich, intense flavor, drawing comparisons to Nutella in terms of overall enjoyment. However, some participants noted that it was slightly sweeter.
The Thirty-Six-Five Hazelnut Butter, when combined with cocoa powder and a touch of maple syrup, received high marks for its versatility and customizable sweetness. The Artisana Organics Hazelnut Cacao Butter garnered mixed reviews, with some appreciating its unique raw flavor profile and others finding it too intense.
Nocciolata was consistently well-received for its balance of flavor and creamy texture, while Pyure was a popular choice among those seeking a low-sugar option, though some participants detected a slight stevia aftertaste.
Crafting Your Own Chocolate Hazelnut Dream
One of the most rewarding ways to enjoy a healthy chocolate hazelnut spread is to make it yourself! Using Whole Foods ingredients, you can create a customized version that perfectly suits your taste preferences.
Here’s a simple recipe:
- One jar of Thirty-Six-Five by Whole Foods Market Hazelnut Butter
- Two to three tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder (depending on your desired chocolate intensity)
- One to two tablespoons of maple syrup, honey, or your preferred natural sweetener (adjust to taste)
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, to enhance flavor)
Simply combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows you to have complete control over the ingredients and sweetness level, ensuring a truly healthy and satisfying treat.
Beyond the Spread: Embracing Healthy Chocolate at Whole Foods
While we’ve focused on chocolate hazelnut spreads, Whole Foods Market offers a plethora of other healthy chocolate options to satisfy your cravings. Dark chocolate bars with a high percentage of cacao are rich in antioxidants and offer a more intense flavor experience. Cacao nibs provide a crunchy and slightly bitter alternative to chocolate chips. And for baking, consider using organic chocolate chips with a lower sugar content.
A Sweet Conclusion: Embracing Healthier Indulgence
The quest for a healthy Nutella alternative doesn’t have to be a compromise. As we’ve explored, Whole Foods Market offers a diverse range of spreads that capture the essence of the chocolate hazelnut flavor, often with cleaner ingredients and a focus on nutritional benefits. Whether you opt for a ready-made alternative, craft your own customized version, or explore other healthy chocolate options, you can indulge in your sweet cravings without sacrificing your health goals.
So, head to your local Whole Foods and embark on a delicious journey of discovery. Explore the aisles, read the labels, and experiment with different options until you find the perfect guilt-free chocolate hazelnut indulgence that satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body. What are you waiting for? The world of healthy chocolate enjoyment awaits! What healthy chocolate and nut butter combinations are your favorite?
