Does Hershey's unsweetened cocoa have caffeine? Unpacking the Stimulant Story

October 11, 2025 •

4 min read

According to The Hershey Company, one tablespoon of HERSHEY'S 100% Cacao Natural Unsweetened Cocoa contains approximately 8 mg of naturally occurring caffeine. This confirms that yes, Does Hershey's unsweetened cocoa have caffeine? it does, but in a relatively small amount compared to a standard cup of coffee. The stimulant profile of unsweetened cocoa also includes theobromine, offering a smoother energy boost without the jittery side effects of higher caffeine sources.

Quick Summary

Hershey's unsweetened cocoa contains a minimal amount of naturally occurring caffeine, around 8 mg per tablespoon. It also contains the milder stimulant theobromine, which provides a more balanced and sustained energy lift without the typical jitters. The caffeine content is lower than coffee, and the specific processing of cocoa powder can influence its final stimulant levels.

Key Points

Caffeine Content: Hershey's unsweetened cocoa contains a small amount of caffeine, approximately 8 mg per tablespoon.
Theobromine Effect: The primary stimulant in cocoa is theobromine, which provides a milder, more sustained energy boost and enhances mood without the jitters of high caffeine.
Nutritional Benefits: Unsweetened cocoa is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and iron, supporting heart health and cognitive function.
Natural vs. Dutch-Processed: Natural cocoa, like Hershey's, is more acidic and generally contains more caffeine than Dutch-processed cocoa, which is alkalized to reduce acidity.
Moderation is Key: While the caffeine content is low, sensitive individuals should consume cocoa in moderation and avoid it late in the day to prevent sleep disruption.
Healthier Alternative: It offers a more balanced and nutritious alternative to heavily sweetened chocolate products or high-caffeine beverages for a natural lift.

The Stimulant Profile of Cocoa Powder

While coffee is widely recognized as a source of caffeine, many people are unaware that chocolate products, including unsweetened cocoa powder, also contain naturally occurring stimulants. The stimulant properties of cocoa come from two primary compounds: caffeine and theobromine. It’s important to understand the difference between these two and how they work together to create a unique effect.

Caffeine and Theobromine: A Unique Partnership

Caffeine is a well-known central nervous system stimulant that promotes alertness and reduces drowsiness by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain. In higher concentrations, it can cause a rapid energy spike followed by a crash, and for sensitive individuals, side effects like jitters or anxiety.

On the other hand, theobromine is a milder stimulant that also comes from the cacao bean. Named after the cacao tree species Theobroma cacao, meaning "food of the gods," theobromine's effects are more gentle and sustained. It primarily acts as a vasodilator, increasing blood flow throughout the body, which can lead to a mood-enhancing and focus-improving effect without the typical nervous energy. The presence of healthy fats in cocoa also helps slow the absorption of caffeine, contributing to a more prolonged and balanced effect. In most cocoa, the concentration of theobromine is significantly higher than caffeine, making it the primary psychoactive compound.

Deconstructing Hershey's Unsweetened Cocoa

For those specifically interested in HERSHEY'S 100% Cacao Natural Unsweetened Cocoa, the company has officially confirmed its caffeine content. A single tablespoon (5 grams) contains approximately 8 mg of caffeine. This is a modest amount, especially when compared to a typical cup of coffee, which can contain anywhere from 70 to 120 mg.

Nutrition Breakdown of Hershey's Natural Unsweetened Cocoa

Beyond its stimulants, Hershey's unsweetened cocoa is also a source of important nutrients. A standard serving (1 tbsp) typically provides:

Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2g, which aids in healthy digestion and can help with satiety.
Antioxidants: Rich in flavonoids, which combat oxidative stress, support heart health, and reduce inflammation.
Minerals: Contains iron, magnesium, and potassium, which are vital for various bodily functions.
No Added Sugar: Being unsweetened, it contains 0g of sugar, making it a better option for blood sugar management compared to sweetened chocolate products.

Dutch-Processed vs. Natural Cocoa: A Key Difference

When comparing cocoa powders, it's crucial to understand the distinction between natural and Dutch-processed cocoa, as this can affect the caffeine content.

Natural Cocoa (like Hershey's): This is made from cacao beans that are roasted and ground, resulting in an acidic powder with a light, reddish-brown color. The natural acidity is what reacts with baking soda to help baked goods rise. This form retains more of its natural compounds, including caffeine.
Dutch-Processed (Alkalized) Cocoa: This cocoa is treated with an alkalizing agent to reduce its acidity. This process mellows the flavor and results in a darker color. High-heat processing may also reduce the caffeine content by a noticeable margin compared to natural cocoa. Some Dutch-processed varieties contain as little as 2-4mg of caffeine per tablespoon.

How to Use Unsweetened Cocoa in Your Diet

Unsweetened cocoa powder is a versatile ingredient that can be integrated into a healthy diet. Here are a few ideas:

Healthy Hot Chocolate: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder with hot water or milk (dairy or non-dairy) and sweeten with a natural alternative like stevia or a small amount of maple syrup for a healthy, antioxidant-rich beverage.
Smoothies: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to your morning smoothie for a rich, chocolatey flavor and a dose of nutrients.
Baking: In baking, unsweetened cocoa is used in brownies, cakes, and cookies. Remember to use baking soda to balance its acidity.
Energy Bars: Incorporate cocoa powder into homemade energy bars or balls for a natural, low-caffeine energy boost.

Considerations for Caffeine Sensitivity

For most healthy adults, the caffeine in a typical serving of unsweetened cocoa is negligible. However, individuals who are highly sensitive to caffeine should still be mindful of their intake, especially when consumed in larger quantities or late in the day. High doses of caffeine from any source can cause nervousness, sleeplessness, or a fast heartbeat. It's recommended to consume cocoa powder earlier in the day to avoid potential sleep disruption. If you have a pre-existing heart condition, anxiety, or are pregnant, it is wise to consult a healthcare provider about appropriate intake levels.

Comparing Stimulants: Cocoa vs. Other Beverages

To put the caffeine content of unsweetened cocoa in perspective, let's compare it to some common caffeinated beverages. The figures are approximate and can vary based on brand and preparation.


Product	Serving Size	Caffeine (mg)	Notes
Hershey's Unsweetened Cocoa	1 tablespoon (5g)	~8 mg	Contains significant theobromine for a smoother boost.
Brewed Coffee	8 oz cup	95-200 mg	Rapid energy spike and potential jitters.
Black Tea	8 oz cup	40-70 mg	Contains caffeine, but generally less than coffee.
Green Tea	8 oz cup	25-50 mg	Milder caffeine content and also contains antioxidants.
Dark Chocolate (70% Cacao)	1 oz serving	~24 mg	Higher caffeine due to more cocoa solids than milk chocolate.

Conclusion: A Nutritious Addition

In summary, does Hershey's unsweetened cocoa have caffeine? Yes, it does, but the amount is relatively small. The energy effect from cocoa is not driven by caffeine alone but also by the gentler, longer-lasting stimulant theobromine, alongside a healthy fat content that slows absorption. As part of a balanced diet, unsweetened cocoa is a nutritious addition, providing antioxidants, fiber, and important minerals without added sugar. For those seeking a mood-enhancing, energy-boosting treat without the harsh effects of high caffeine, unsweetened cocoa powder is an excellent choice. Mindful consumption, especially for sensitive individuals, allows you to enjoy its many benefits. For more information on the nutrient profile of cocoa, you can refer to authoritative sources such as the USDA's Food Data Central.

USDA Food Data Central

Frequently Asked Questions

Hershey's 100% Cacao Natural Unsweetened Cocoa contains approximately 8 mg of caffeine per 1 tablespoon serving.

Theobromine is a milder stimulant also found in cocoa. Unlike the rapid spike from caffeine, theobromine provides a gentler, longer-lasting energy boost by increasing blood flow, and it is present in higher concentrations than caffeine in cocoa powder.

Natural unsweetened cocoa generally has a higher caffeine content than Dutch-processed cocoa, which undergoes an alkalizing process that can reduce its caffeine levels.

Yes, in addition to caffeine, cocoa powder contains theobromine and other compounds that have mild stimulant effects on the nervous system.

Due to its relatively low caffeine content and the balancing effects of theobromine, unsweetened cocoa is often tolerated better than coffee. However, sensitive individuals should start with a small amount and monitor their reaction.

The small amount of caffeine in cocoa is less likely to disrupt sleep than a cup of coffee. However, for those very sensitive to stimulants, it is best to consume cocoa earlier in the day.

The caffeine content in a tablespoon of Hershey's unsweetened cocoa (~8mg) is significantly lower than a standard 8 oz cup of brewed coffee (~95-200mg).