Skip to content

How many calories are in 2 Hershey squares?

3 min read

According to the official nutritional information, a serving of two snack-sized Hershey's Milk Chocolate pieces contains 130 calories. This makes it a high-energy, fat-dense food, and understanding its caloric content can help with mindful snacking and dietary planning.

Quick Summary

This article details the precise calorie count for two Hershey's Milk Chocolate squares and breaks down the associated nutritional information. It also compares the caloric content of different types of chocolate and offers advice on mindful consumption.

Key Points

  • Calorie Count: Two snack-sized Hershey's Milk Chocolate squares contain 130 calories.

  • Nutritional Breakdown: A two-piece serving includes approximately 8g of total fat and 14g of sugars.

  • Energy Density: Due to its fat and sugar content, Hershey's milk chocolate is an energy-dense food.

  • Mindful Snacking: Portion control and intentional consumption are important for fitting chocolate into a healthy diet.

  • Chocolate Comparisons: Different types of chocolate, like dark and white, have varying caloric and nutritional profiles.

  • Dietary Balance: Chocolate is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a diet rich in more nutrient-dense foods.

In This Article

Official Calorie Count for 2 Hershey Squares

Based on official data from The Hershey Company, a serving of two snack-sized Hershey's Milk Chocolate squares contains 130 calories. This figure is also corroborated by independent nutritional databases. It is important to note that this applies to the standard milk chocolate variety and can vary slightly with different Hershey's products, such as those with almonds or other additions.

To put this into context, these 130 calories are broken down into several key nutritional components. For a serving of two pieces, the breakdown is typically:

  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 2g

This high fat and sugar content is what makes milk chocolate so energy-dense. The majority of the fat comes from cocoa butter, a natural component of cocoa beans.

Comparing Different Types of Chocolate

Not all chocolate is created equal when it comes to caloric content. Factors like cocoa percentage, added ingredients, and portion size all play a significant role. Hershey's milk chocolate, for instance, has a different nutritional profile than a high-cocoa dark chocolate bar or a rich white chocolate confection. The table below illustrates the approximate caloric differences based on a 100-gram serving for comparison.

Type of Chocolate Approximate Calories (per 100g) Key Differences
Hershey's Milk Chocolate ~535 kcal Higher sugar and lower cocoa content.
70–85% Dark Chocolate ~604 kcal Higher cocoa solids, less sugar, and more fiber and minerals.
White Chocolate ~539 kcal Contains cocoa butter but no cocoa solids; highest sugar content.

The Role of Calories in Dietary Choices

Understanding how many calories are in 2 Hershey squares can help individuals make informed decisions about their dietary intake. Calories are a measure of energy, and all foods, including treats like chocolate, contribute to our daily energy total. For those monitoring their intake for weight management, a small portion of chocolate can be part of a balanced diet, but it's important to account for its energy density.

Here are some key considerations:

  • Mindful Consumption: Savoring a small piece of chocolate can satisfy a craving without overindulging. Pairing it with a high-fiber snack like an apple can help with satiety.
  • Portion Control: Opting for snack-sized portions, like the two-piece serving, is a practical way to enjoy chocolate in moderation.
  • Macronutrient Balance: Remember that chocolate is high in fat and sugar but low in other essential nutrients. Balancing your diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein is crucial for overall health.

How to Track Your Intake Effectively

Managing your caloric intake doesn't have to be a chore. Using food tracking apps or simply keeping a food diary can provide valuable insight. When logging chocolate, be specific about the type and portion size. This prevents guesswork and ensures accuracy. The USDA FoodData Central is a reliable resource for nutritional information on a wide variety of foods.

Practical Tips for Balancing Indulgence

Finding a balance between healthy eating and enjoying treats is key to a sustainable diet. The occasional two Hershey squares can easily fit into most meal plans without derailing progress. Consider the following tips:

  • Schedule Your Treat: Instead of mindlessly snacking, plan when you will have your chocolate. This can help prevent impulsive consumption.
  • Hydrate First: Sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger. Drinking a glass of water before reaching for a treat can help clarify your true needs.
  • Explore Alternatives: If you find yourself frequently craving sweets, consider lower-calorie or more nutritious alternatives, such as a square of high-cocoa dark chocolate, which can offer more antioxidants and less sugar.

Conclusion

A two-square serving of Hershey's Milk Chocolate contains 130 calories, with a notable amount of fat and sugar. While this makes it an energy-dense treat, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet through mindful consumption and portion control. By understanding the nutritional breakdown and comparing it to other chocolate types, individuals can make informed choices that align with their overall health goals. For more in-depth nutritional guidance and tools, authoritative sources like the USDA and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics are excellent resources.

Visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for more information on mindful eating and healthy snack choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether 130 calories is 'a lot' depends on your total daily caloric needs. For a single snack, it is moderately high, especially given the sugar and fat content. However, in the context of a balanced diet, it can be a perfectly acceptable treat.

Hershey's Milk Chocolate has fewer calories per 100g than some higher-cocoa dark chocolates but is higher in sugar. White chocolate has a similar caloric density but lacks cocoa solids.

For those seeking lower sugar or higher cocoa options, Hershey's also offers a special dark chocolate variety. While still high in calories, it contains less sugar and offers some antioxidants.

Yes, you can. The key is moderation and portion control. A small, planned treat of two Hershey squares is unlikely to derail a diet, provided it fits within your daily calorie and macronutrient goals.

The serving size can vary by product. For a standard 1.55 oz bar, the nutritional information indicates a single serving, though this can be broken down further into squares. Snack-sized bars often specify 2 pieces as a serving.

While milk chocolate offers few health benefits, high-cocoa dark chocolate is known for containing antioxidants. These compounds may help reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure when consumed in moderation.

Yes, it can. Hershey's products with added ingredients like almonds or cookies will have different nutritional information. Always check the specific nutrition label for the most accurate calorie count.

References

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.