Supplements
The 10 Best Cacao Nibs
What are the best cacao nibs?
Cacao nibs are small bits of dried cacao beans.
Also called cocoa nibs, these crumbled bites are referred to as nature’s chocolate chips, and it’s easy to see why with their delicious flavor and exciting health benefits.
Many people like eating cacao nibs because they are rich in antioxidants and contain lots of fiber for healthy digestion.
Cacao nibs also have healthy fats that improve mood and mental health.
If you’re a chocolate lover looking for a healthier snack you can feel good about, then cacao nibs are tough to beat.
Check out our full list of the best tasting cacao nibs available on the market today.
The Best Cacao Nibs Compared
Our supplement lists are created by researching the best-reviewed products from the most reputable companies and web sources.
Here’s a list of the 10 best cacao nibs:
In A Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick:
10. Zint – Cacao Nibs
Zint offers 100% non-alkalized cacao beans for powerful antioxidant properties to boost energy, mood, and cognition.
The recommended tbsp. serving size contains 45 calories, 4g of fat (2g saturated), and 2g of dietary fiber carbs.
There’s no cholesterol or sodium, making these cacao nibs a healthy choice for a pure chocolate snack that can be enjoyed straight out of the pouch or in baked recipes.
Zint also provides good value with 121 servings per bag of organic raw cacao beans. As the best organic cacao nibs, they are Fair Trade and USDA certified, harvested by hand in Peru.
These cacao nibs are gluten-free and vegan, with resveratrol and magnesium iron for ample anti-aging antioxidants.
These nibs have 20 times more antioxidants than blueberries, with the rich chocolate taste many people know and love.
Pros
- USDA certified organic.
- 121 servings of raw cacao beans.
- 45 calories and 2g of dietary fiber per serving.
- Anti-aging antioxidant superfood.
- Vegan cacao nibs for smoothies and desserts.
- Promotes youthful skin and healthy hair.
Cons
- Not as much iron or protein as some nibs.
9. Food To Live – Cacao Nibs
Food To Live builds on the natural sweetness of raw, organic cacao beans for a delicious addition to drinks and snacks.
These unsweetened nibs have a nice natural flavor that suits both sweet and savory recipes with a mildly energizing and invigorating effect thanks to the caffeine content.
As a popular replacement to sweet chocolate chips, these cacao nibs taste great in salads, desserts, baked goods, smoothies, and even stews.
Food To Live offers 64 servings per 4 lb. bag. 1 oz. of organic cacao nibs with 173 calories per serving.
These nutritious nibs offer 4g of protein, 26mg of calcium, and 1mg of iron.
Its best offering is magnesium, with 92mg for 22% of the recommended daily value.
Dietary fiber, antioxidants, and all the other nutrients make these cacao nibs a good choice for heart and digestive system health.
Pros
- Raw, organic cacao beans.
- USDA certified and non-GMO.
- Good source of iron and magnesium.
- Supports heart health and digestive function.
- Great for cooking and baking.
- Mildly energizing for healthy snacks.
Cons
- Higher calorie content – 173 calories per serving.
- 13g of fat and 15mg of sodium per serving.
8. OMG! Superfoods – Organic Cacao Nibs
OMG! organic cacao nibs are rich in fiber with 6g per serving for 21% of the daily value. A 3 tbsp. serving has 180 calories, 4g of protein, 26mg of calcium, and 1mg of iron.
These vegan nibs offer an energizing burst and a rich chocolate flavor, ideal for a crunchy, chocolatey snack or cooking ingredient.
There are no additives or sweeteners in this organic and kosher superfood.
The brand highlights its sustainable sourcing and packaging, with fully recyclable and reusable containers.
The cacao beans are naturally harvested in the Andes Mountains and offer high theobromine content for an energetic boost similar to caffeine, just without restlessness and other side effects.
These nibs are USDA certified and serve as a pure, natural source of flavor for oatmeal, cereal, smoothies, and desserts.
Pros
- Pure cacao beans from the Andes Mountains.
- 6g of fiber per serving.
- Contains protein, calcium, and iron.
- Theobromine gives you energy.
- Brand is committed to sustainable sourcing and recycling.
- USDA certified organic.
Cons
- Only 8 servings per container.
- 9g of saturated fat – 45% of daily value.
7. Wildly Organic – Fermented Cacao Nibs
Wildly Organic offers USDA certified cacao nibs that are naturally fermented in shaded banana leaves for 3-5 days.
This fermentation process unlocks exciting health benefits with a delicious chocolate flavor, including high antioxidants that protect against cell damage.
Every serving of this sugar-free superfood contains 6g of dietary fiber, 4g of protein, and 92mg of magnesium.
Wildly Organic says its chocolate nibs are great for making raw cacao butter or powder.
They taste similar to dark chocolate but without added sugar for an antioxidant-rich smoothie or dessert.
These nibs are vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and keto-friendly.
They are harvested, shelled, and husked without roasting to ensure the best freshness and pure nutrients with an energizing flavor.
Pros
- Sugar-free superfood with fermented raw cacao.
- Never roasted to lock in nutrients.
- High in antioxidants, protein, and magnesium.
- Suitable for making cacao powder and butter.
- Gluten-free and vegan.
- Crunchy taste for delicious toppings.
Cons
- 180 calories per serving.
- Just 16 servings per container.
6. Pure Natural Miracles – Cacao Nibs
If you want an intense, rich flavor from cacao nibs, Pure Natural Miracles are a great option.
As a premium Peruvian superfood, these raw unsweetened nibs are sugar-free and recommended cocoa beans for brewing.
They are USDA organic and filled with minerals and antioxidants for a healthier alternative to processed chocolate chips and baking chocolate.
The brand says these 100% dark chocolate chips are made naturally from premium Criollo cacao beans, hand-selected and sorted straight from the source.
A 1 oz. serving has 9g of dietary fiber for 36% of the daily value, plus 4g of protein.
130 calories per serving are significantly less than the average chocolate candy bar, and these Criollo cacao beans are proven mood enhancers providing jitter-free energy and stress relief.
Pros
- Criollo cacao beans enhance mood and energy.
- Used for stress relief and relaxation without caffeine crash.
- Rich flavor with minimal processing of raw cacao beans.
- 9g of dietary fiber – 36% of daily value.
- Contains protein, magnesium, iron, and calcium.
- Good for yogurt, cereal, ice cream, and smoothies.
Cons
- Contains 7g of saturated fat per serving.
- Flavor may be too rich for some.
5. Natierra – Cacao Nibs
Natierra delivers non-GMO, vegan cacao nibs with 9g of dietary fiber per 3 tbsp.
Each serving has 4g of protein, 1mg of iron, and 282mg of potassium, with approximately 9 servings in the 10 oz. bag.
These organic, plant-based cacao nibs are great for baking and are derived from the Criollo cacao bean native to Peru.
They are often used for cakes, cookies, oatmeal, granola, yogurt, smoothies, and ice cream toppings.
Natierra says its sustainable farming and production processes include roasting, cracking, and deshelling the rare and flavorful Criollo cacao beans.
Careful manufacturing ensures delicious and long-lasting cacao nibs for healthy snacking and baking.
These nutrient-dense nibs can help with energy, cell protection, overall mood, and physical health, with fewer calories than candy chocolate.
Pros
- 9g of dietary fiber per serving.
- Criollo cacao beans are extra flavorful.
- Contains protein, iron, and potassium.
- Careful roasting and cracking to protect flavor.
- Non-GMO and vegan.
- Great for drinks and baking.
Cons
- Product may contain sulfites.
- 150 calories and 8g of fat per serving.
- Only 9 servings per pouch.
4. Healthworks – Cacao Nibs
Healthworks makes USDA organic cacao nibs from Peru’s premium Criollo beans.
As an unsweetened chocolate substitute, this is a popular choice for those with keto and vegan lifestyles. It’s a good bulk buy too, with 151 servings per 1 lb. bag.
One teaspoon serving delivers a nice chocolate taste with only 19 calories, much less than some other brands, plus dietary fiber, magnesium, and potassium.
This non-GMO, antioxidant-rich alternative to processed chocolate chips is sourced from small, sustainable farms where quality is guaranteed.
Healthworks cacao nibs offer plant-based antioxidants and are low in carbohydrates and sugar for a healthy alternative to traditional baking chocolate.
The theobromine content offers safe and effective stimulation to help you stay energized throughout the day, similar to caffeine in coffee.
Pros
- Only 19 calories per serving.
- Bulk buy – 151 servings per bag.
- Good for cooking with smaller size than other nibs.
- Blends really well in smoothies.
- Contains theobromine to support energy levels.
- Brand is committed to sustainable farming.
Cons
- Less dietary fiber per serving than competitors.
- Flavor is milder than other cacao nibs.
3. Terrasoul Superfoods – Cacao Nibs
Terrasoul Superfoods makes nutrient-dense fermented cacao nibs with only 19 calories per teaspoon serving.
With no cholesterol or sodium, it’s a healthy way to get raw, rich chocolate on a keto or vegan diet.
These cacao nibs are USDA certified, non-GMO, and gluten-free, and their strong health benefits come from 100% Criollo beans, the most highly prized cacao beans in Peru.
The brand says it makes foods for optimum health, with a fresh and crunchy chocolate flavor providing a natural energy boost.
Most people add these cacao nibs to energy bites, baked goods, snack mixes, or smoothies, although you can have a spoonful on its own just to satisfy sweet chocolate cravings.
Terrasoul Superfoods tests for quality and processes cacao nibs at low temperatures to protect the nutrients and taste.
Pros
- 19 calories per serving.
- Made from pure Criollo beans.
- Crunchy texture for dessert toppings.
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, and USDA certified.
- Quality tested and made with low heat.
- No bitter aftertaste.
Cons
- May contain shell pieces.
- Smaller serving size, lower in dietary fiber.
2. Viva Naturals – Cacao Nibs
Viva Naturals has non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan cacao nibs perfect for cooking and baking.
A 2 tbsp. serving has only 70 calories with 3g of dietary fiber, 18mg of calcium, 154mg of potassium, and 1mg of iron.
There is no cholesterol or sodium, and these cacao nibs have 3g of protein and just 4g of fat. The impressive nutritional content of these nibs supports healthy snacking and cooking.
They are versatile for many kitchen recipes including cookies, granola bars, smoothies, and salads.
The brand says its bite-sized chunks of nature’s chocolates are harvested from the highest grade of Criollo cacao beans from Peru.
These beans are incredibly fragrant and flavorful without the bitterness often found in similar products.
The high amount of minerals, flavonoids, and fatty acids support overall health and wellbeing, plus powerful natural energy stimulation from theobromine.
Pros
- Organic, non-GMO cacao nibs for baking.
- 70 calories per serving with 3g of dietary fiber.
- Low fat content – 4g per serving.
- Theobromine supports energy levels.
- Made from Criollo beans for the best flavor.
- Doesn’t taste bitter.
Cons
- Doesn’t have as much dietary fiber as other cacao nibs.
- May contain peanuts, coconut, milk, or soy.
1. Navitas Organics – Raw Cacao Nibs
Navitas Organics has the best raw cacao nibs overall, offering a premium plant-based superfood.
These nutrient-dense nibs are Fair Trade certified and contain ample antioxidant flavanols that protect your body’s cells and overall immune function.
They are non-GMO, gluten-free, kosher, and vegan, with 8g of dietary fiber per serving for 28% of the recommended daily value.
A 3 tbsp. serving has 190 calories, so it’s much healthier than processed chocolate.
Navitas Organics says it’s committed to quality and uses the best cacao bean sources to ensure nutrient-rich nibs.
In addition to high fiber for digestive health, there’s also 84mg of magnesium per serving to support muscles, nerve function, and energy levels.
The brand recommends using raw cacao nibs to top, boost, and bake, especially with cookies, ice cream, smoothies, and trail mix.
Pros
- Dark chocolate aroma and taste.
- 8g of dietary fiber per serving.
- Non-GMO, vegan, and kosher.
- Magnesium helps muscles and nerves.
- Ideal for baking cookies and other desserts.
- Fair Trade certified.
Cons
- May have a slightly bitter aftertaste.
- Only 8 servings per container.
FAQs About Cacao Nibs
Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about cacao nibs:
Q: What Are Cacao Nibs?
Cacao nibs are a healthier alternative to processed chocolate chips and may be used for a variety of recipes.
As crumbled dried cacao beans from the cacao tree, these nibs are chocolatey flakes perfect for drinks and baked goods.
If you’re a chocolate lover looking for a healthier way to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings, cacao nibs are a great option. They are also rich in dietary fiber to support healthy digestion.
Q: Are Cacao Nibs Good for You?
One of the best things about cacao nibs is that they are good for you.
The best tasting cacao nibs with a rich chocolate flavor are much healthier than a chocolate candy bar or processed baking ingredients.
On average, Americans eat 6.5kg of chocolate a year, which comes with calories and fats.
Cacao nibs are a welcome alternative, offering the same great chocolate taste with way fewer calories and fat.
Not only are cacao nibs the better choice for calorie-conscious consumers, but they also have added health benefits thanks to natural nutrients.
Cacao nibs contain dietary fiber to help with digestion, plus magnesium, potassium, iron, and calcium.
If you want to take cacao nibs, just check the nutrition label as some brands have higher nutritional content than others.
Q: What Are the Side Effects of Cacao?
There are very few side effects to cacao, so long as you take it in safe amounts. Including a few servings of cacao nibs in a drink or dessert shouldn’t cause any adverse reactions.
However, just keep in mind that cacao nibs contain theobromine, a natural energy booster that may cause sleeplessness, nervousness, and increased urination when consumed excessively.
It’s similar to the side effects of too much caffeine.
If you are at all concerned about any side effects, always check with your doctor. Pregnant women should also consult a doctor before eating cacao nibs, just to be safe.
Q: Is Cacao a Superfood?
Cacao is a superfood with exciting antioxidant and anticancer properties.
Antioxidants prevent cell damage and help you stay healthy, while the magnesium content in cacao helps with muscle movements and energy/protein creation.
This delicious superfood also contains dietary fiber for healthy digestion, plus calcium and iron to support healthy bones and muscles.
Q: Are Cacao Nibs High in Caffeine?
Cacao nibs are not high in caffeine at all. Instead of caffeine, they contain theobromine, a natural compound that helps boost energy levels safely.
Cacao nibs make a great snack before or after a workout because they help maintain energy levels without all the possible side effects of caffeine.
Q: Is Cacao Hard to Digest?
Cacao nibs contain dietary fiber to help with digestion, and they are relatively easy to digest.
All the natural ingredients support healthy digestion for a snack that’s gentle on the stomach.
Cocoa powders, which are made at much higher temperatures than cacao nibs, may be harder to digest.
Q: How Much Cacao Should You Eat a Day?
The bet cacao nibs brand is safe to eat several times a day, so long as you don’t have more than 40g a day.
4-6 heaped teaspoons of raw cacao nibs is an acceptable amount. Most brands have small tsp. or tbsp. serving sizes so you can make sure you don’t overdo it.
Q: What Do Cacao Nibs Taste Like?
Cacao nibs have a natural chocolate flavor, just without the high calories and fats as processed candy and chocolate bars.
Most people say cacao nibs taste like dark chocolate with a slightly bitter flavor, but every brand may be slightly different.
Criollo cacao nibs have a less bitter aftertaste, so these are especially popular for those who like milk chocolate better than dark.
Q: Can I Just Eat Cacao Nibs?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to munching on processed chocolate chips, then cacao nibs are a good choice.
Cacao nibs are a good source of protein and fiber, and you can eat them raw straight from the pack.
They are perfectly safe to consume on their own, or you may use them for cooking and baking.
Q: Is It Ok to Eat Raw Cacao Nibs?
Raw cacao nibs are safe to eat, so long as you don’t have more than 40g in one day.
The raw form is actually full of nutrients like dietary fiber and magnesium, but you can also roast cacao nibs if you prefer.
The only exception to this is pregnant women, who should check with their doctor before eating cacao nibs due to the possible effects of antioxidants on fetal blood vessels.
Q: Do Cacao Nibs Go Bad?
Cacao nibs can last for up to two years with proper storage.
Keep them in a cool dry place like the pantry, and if there are any signs of rot or mold, throw them out.
If you notice a strange aroma, they may have gone bad.
Q: Do Cacao Nibs Need to Be Refrigerated?
Cacao nibs do not need to be refrigerated, so you can take them with you on the go.
However, they should be stored in a cool, dry place to protect the product quality and stop them from spoiling.
Always reseal the container too, so you can get the most use out of nutritious and flavorful cacao nibs.
Q: Is It Ok to Eat Cacao Every Day?
It is safe to eat cacao nibs every day. Cacao beans contain iron, protein, and dietary fiber, without sodium and sugars.
As the purest form of chocolate, cacao nibs are a healthier alternative to processed candy bars and are a great choice for a daily superfood.
You can incorporate cacao nibs into your daily diet, whether you are eating them straight from the bag as a snack, or using them to make ice cream sundaes, cookies, and other yummy desserts.
Q: How to Choose Cacao Nibs?
Deciding on which cacao nibs to try comes down to personal taste preference.
While some brands are higher in calories or dietary fiber than others, overall you can’t go wrong with any all-natural cacao nibs, especially compared to processed chocolate.
Look for Criollo cacao nibs for delicious, aromatic flavor without the bitter aftertaste.
Also, pay attention to the serving size so you can find a suitable amount of cacao nibs depending on your diet.
You may want to try a few brands to see which one tastes the best for your favorite drinks and desserts.
Summary
Cacao nibs are delicious and nutritious chocolate bites with plenty of health benefits.
The best cacao nibs are high in antioxidants that reduce cell damage to prevent cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
The high fiber content aids in digestion and anti-inflammatory compounds lower the risk of serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
You can have cacao nibs as a standalone snack, or replace chocolate chips in recipes for healthier desserts that still taste great.
Here’s a quick recap of the 10 best cacao nibs:
- Navitas Organics – Raw Cacao Nibs (Best Cacao Nibs Overall)
- Viva Naturals – Cacao Nibs (Best Cacao Nibs For Cooking)
- Terrasoul Superfoods – Cacao Nibs (Best Quality Cacao Nibs)
- Healthworks – Cacao Nibs (Best Criollo Bean Cacao Nibs)
- Natierra – Cacao Nibs (Best Roasted Cacao Nibs)
- Pure Natural Miracles – Cacao Nibs (Best Cacao Nibs For Flavor)
- Wildly Organic – Fermented Cacao Nibs (Best Fermented Cacao Nibs)
- OMG! Superfoods – Organic Cacao Nibs (Best Cacao Nibs For Fiber)
- Food To Live – Cacao Nibs (Best Unsweetened Cacao Nibs)
- Zint – Cacao Nibs (Best Organic Cacao Nibs)
