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How many calories are in 2 squares of a Hershey bar?

3 min read

According to official nutrition information from The Hershey Company, a single serving of a standard milk chocolate bar is two squares, which contains 130 calories. This guide breaks down the precise calorie count and other key nutritional information for this popular candy, helping you make informed snacking choices.

Quick Summary

A two-square serving of a standard Hershey's milk chocolate bar typically contains 130 calories. The full nutritional profile includes fat, sugar, and protein content, helping you understand how this sweet treat contributes to your daily intake.

Key Points

  • 130 Calories: A standard 2-square serving of a Hershey's Milk Chocolate bar contains 130 calories.

  • Serving Size Standard: The official serving size for a standard bar is two rectangles, or squares, as per Hershey's nutrition labeling.

  • Macronutrient Breakdown: This serving includes 8g of fat and 14g of total sugars, along with 2g of protein.

  • Moderation is Key: While a delicious treat, two squares should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet to manage calorie and sugar intake.

  • Variations Exist: Different Hershey's products, like those with almonds or dark chocolate, will have varying calorie and nutrient counts.

  • Perspective on Energy: The calories from this snack can be put into context by considering the moderate exercise needed to expend them.

In This Article

Understanding the Calorie Count in a Hershey Bar

When you're keeping track of your daily intake, knowing the specifics of your favorite snacks is crucial. For many, a Hershey's milk chocolate bar is a classic indulgence. While the entire bar has a different calorie count, focusing on smaller portions, like two squares, provides a more manageable way to enjoy the treat responsibly. The Hershey Company standardizes its serving sizes, which helps in determining accurate nutritional values.

What Defines a "Square"?

The classic Hershey's bar is segmented into 12 distinct rectangles, or "pips." The official serving size is two of these rectangles, which equates to approximately one-sixth of a standard 1.55-ounce bar. This standardization is helpful because it removes the guesswork from estimating your consumption. While smaller or larger versions of the bar exist, the 1.55-ounce version is the most common for single-serve purchases.

Breaking Down the Nutrients in Two Squares

Beyond just the calories, it's important to consider the other nutritional components that make up this snack. A two-square serving is not just empty calories; it's a mix of fat, carbohydrates, and a small amount of protein. Understanding these components can help you balance your diet more effectively. For example, the fat content primarily comes from cocoa butter and milk fat, while the carbohydrates are mostly from sugar.

Nutritional Profile for 2 Squares of a Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar (approx. 26g serving):

  • Calories: 130
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 20mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: Less than 1g
  • Total Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 2g

How Different Hershey Products Compare

While the classic milk chocolate bar is a staple, Hershey offers many variations, each with a different nutritional profile. Comparing these can help you choose the best option for your dietary needs. The addition of ingredients like almonds or toffee bits, or the use of darker chocolate, can alter the calorie count, fat content, and sugar levels.

Product Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Total Sugars (g)
Hershey's Milk Chocolate 2 squares (~26g) 130 8 14
Hershey's Milk Chocolate with Almonds 2 squares (~27g) 140 9 13
Hershey's Special Dark 2 squares (~27g) 130 8 13
Hershey's Kisses Milk Chocolate 5 pieces (~24g) 120 7 13

The Role of Moderation in Snacking

Consuming treats like a Hershey's bar in moderation is a key component of a balanced diet. A small portion can satisfy a sweet craving without derailing your overall nutritional goals. It’s important to see these snacks as occasional indulgences rather than a regular part of your daily food intake. Pairing your treat with a healthy food, like an apple or some nuts, can help you feel more satisfied and reduce the likelihood of overconsumption.

The Calorie Burn Connection

For those who are active, it can be interesting to consider how much exercise is needed to burn off a small treat. While not a reason to avoid a snack, it puts the calorie content into perspective. For example, a 150-pound person might need to walk for about 25-30 minutes at a moderate pace to burn off 130 calories. The energy gained from the sugar can provide a quick boost, but it is quickly expended, highlighting the importance of sustained, whole-food energy sources for overall health.

Conclusion

So, how many calories are in 2 squares of a Hershey bar? The answer is 130 calories for a standard milk chocolate bar. While a small treat, this portion-controlled serving offers a satisfying way to enjoy chocolate without going overboard. By understanding the full nutritional profile and practicing moderation, you can enjoy your favorite chocolate bar as part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Remember to always check the specific packaging for the most accurate nutritional information, as ingredients and serving sizes can change over time. For more information on nutrition and healthy eating, visit Nutrition.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 'square' refers to one of the 12 individual rectangles that the standard 1.55 oz Hershey's Milk Chocolate bar is divided into. The official serving size is two of these rectangles, which contains 130 calories.

Yes, different types of Hershey's bars, such as milk chocolate with almonds, special dark, or fun-size versions, have different calorie counts. Always check the nutritional label for the specific product you are consuming to be certain.

Whether 130 calories is a 'lot' depends on your total daily calorie needs and dietary goals. For most people, it represents a small portion of their daily intake and can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

The primary sources of calories in a Hershey's milk chocolate bar are sugar and fat. Both ingredients contribute to the total calorie count, providing energy in different forms.

While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, milk chocolate can contain small amounts of calcium and iron. Its primary role is as a treat and it should not be considered a health food.

For the most accurate calorie information, you should always refer to the nutritional information label on the specific Hershey's product packaging. This is more reliable than general information found online, which may refer to different product sizes or variations.

Fun-size Hershey bars offer a smaller, pre-portioned serving, which can be helpful for calorie control. A single fun-size bar is approximately 65 calories, making it easier to manage a smaller indulgence.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

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