Nutritional Breakdown of Arla Protein Chocolate Pudding
Arla's Protein Chocolate Pudding is a popular snack for those looking for a high-protein, low-fat treat. Understanding its carbohydrate content is key for anyone monitoring their intake. The nutritional information is typically provided per 100 grams, but it's often sold in 200-gram pots.
Per 100g Serving
- Energy: 327 kJ / 77 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6.6 g
- Of which sugars: 4.4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 1.5 g
Per 200g Pot
- Energy: 654 kJ / 154 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 13.2 g
- Of which sugars: 8.8 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 3 g
As you can see, a full 200g pot contains 13.2 grams of carbohydrates. This is a crucial number to consider if you plan to eat the entire serving, especially if you are on a very strict low-carb diet. It's important to read the labels carefully, as product formulations can vary slightly by region.
Carbohydrates and Sugar Profile
A common point of confusion comes from the product's marketing, which often states "no added sugar." While technically true, it contains naturally occurring sugars from milk (lactose) and uses sweeteners like erythritol and steviol glycosides to achieve its sweet taste without adding extra sugar.
- Naturally Occurring Sugars: The 4.4 grams of sugar per 100g come primarily from the lactose present in the milk.
- Sugar Alcohols: The sweetener erythritol is a sugar alcohol. For low-carb or keto diets, some count sugar alcohols differently. Erythritol is generally not metabolized by the body in the same way as sugar and has minimal impact on blood sugar, which is why it's often excluded from "net carb" calculations. However, it's still technically a carbohydrate.
- Steviol Glycosides: Derived from the stevia plant, this is a calorie-free, natural sweetener that does not contribute to the carbohydrate count.
Arla Pudding vs. Standard Chocolate Pudding
To put Arla's nutritional profile into context, here is a comparison with a typical standard chocolate pudding made with full-fat milk and added sugar.
| Nutrient | Arla Protein Pudding (per 100g) | Standard Chocolate Pudding (approx. per 100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 77 kcal | ~110-150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6.6 g | ~18-25 g |
| Sugars | 4.4 g | ~15-20 g |
| Protein | 10 g | ~3-4 g |
| Fat | 1.5 g | ~4-6 g |
This table highlights the significant reduction in carbohydrates and sugar in the Arla product, alongside its considerable protein boost. It also demonstrates how the use of sweeteners and milk protein changes the overall nutritional value, making it a more diet-friendly alternative for many.
Other Nutritional Highlights and Ingredients
Beyond its low carbohydrate and sugar content, Arla Protein Chocolate Pudding offers other benefits:
- High Protein Content: With 20g of protein per 200g pot, it's an excellent post-workout snack for muscle recovery or a filling dessert.
- Lactose-Free: Many versions are lactose-free, which is beneficial for those with lactose intolerance.
- Added Nutrients: Some varieties are fortified with vitamin D and magnesium, adding extra nutritional value.
The ingredient list typically includes:
- Milk and Milk Protein
- Sweeteners (Erythritol, Steviol Glycosides from Stevia)
- Fat-Reduced Cocoa Powder
- Stabilisers (Carrageenan, Guar Gum)
- Lactase Enzyme
- Natural Flavourings
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
In summary, Arla chocolate pudding contains approximately 6.6 grams of carbohydrates per 100g and 13.2 grams per 200g pot. It is a lower-carb, higher-protein alternative to traditional puddings, sweetened with sugar alcohols and stevia rather than added sugar. While not entirely carb-free, its thoughtful formulation makes it a viable option for those managing their carbohydrate intake, including some on low-carb diets. For more information on sugar alcohols and their effects, resources from organizations like the FDA can be helpful.
