Unreal Snacks has made a bold entrance into the snack category with their new Dark Chocolate Almonds, launching on March 18, 2025, after 13 years of focusing exclusively on candy products. The new offerings include Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds and Dark Chocolate Coconut Covered Almonds, packaged in convenient 4 oz bags and initially available at Whole Foods nationwide. The launch was a remarkable success, yielding the company’s highest direct-to-consumer sales day ever—exceeding their previous record by 54%. These premium coated nut products cater to health-conscious consumers, featuring Fair Trade certified dark chocolate and boasting certifications for gluten-free, vegan, and kosher diets.
The Perfect Balance of Simplicity and Indulgence
Unreal’s new chocolate-covered almonds represent a philosophy of less is more. Each bite features gently roasted California almonds with a light coating of Fair Trade dark chocolate—nothing more, nothing less. The company has deliberately avoided common industry practices like adding waxy coatings or dustings of cocoa powder that can leave a messy residue on fingers.
This minimalist approach creates a perfectly poppable snack that’s easy to share and enjoy on the go. Kevin McCarthy, Unreal CEO, explained the strategy behind the product: “We wanted to provide a different consumption opportunity for our core consumer.” This simple statement reveals the company’s focused approach to meeting customer needs.
The foodie-approved snacks deliver exactly what health-conscious consumers have been seeking—clean ingredients with minimal processing. While many competing products contain fillers, preservatives, or artificial flavors, Unreal’s ingredient list is refreshingly short: just almonds and dark chocolate. This transparency aligns perfectly with today’s consumer preferences for recognizable ingredients.
Nutritional Profile That Makes Snacking Smarter
Health-conscious snackers will appreciate the balanced nutritional profile of these chocolate-covered almonds. Each serving contains 150 calories, 13g total fat (17% DV), and 4g saturated fat (20% DV). The carbohydrate content is impressively low at just 10g total carbs (4% DV), while providing 3g of fiber (11% DV).
The moderate sugar content is noteworthy—only 5g total sugars per serving, all from added sugars, representing just 10% of the daily value. For those tracking protein intake, each serving delivers 4g of protein. This makes the snack substantially more filling than typical chocolate treats as the health benefits of dark chocolate are enhanced by the nutritional value of almonds.
Dark chocolate itself has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties and heart health support. The fiber content from both the almonds and the dark chocolate contributes to fullness, potentially helping with portion control. This attention to nutritional balance demonstrates Unreal’s understanding of their consumer’s desire for treats that satisfy both indulgence and wellness goals.
Meeting Consumer Demand for Ethical Snacking
Unreal’s newest offering aligns perfectly with current market trends toward ethical consumption. The global chocolate market size reached USD 125 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.3% from 2025 to 2034. This growth is partly driven by increasing demand for premium and artisanal chocolate products that prioritize quality ingredients.
Consumers are increasingly seeking out products that align with their values, particularly around sustainability and ethical sourcing. The Fair Trade certification on Unreal’s dark chocolate addresses this concern directly, assuring customers that farmers received fair compensation for their cacao. These healthy snacking trends reflect a broader shift in consumer behavior where purchasing decisions are increasingly influenced by ethical considerations.
The multiple certifications—gluten-free, vegan, and kosher—also cater to the growing segment of consumers with dietary restrictions or preferences. By accommodating these needs, Unreal has positioned their product to appeal to a diverse consumer base. This inclusivity is particularly important in the competitive snack market where catering to multiple dietary needs can significantly expand market reach.
Riding the Wave of Dark Chocolate Popularity
Dark chocolate has seen a significant rise in popularity in recent years, driven by both taste preferences and health considerations. Research has highlighted the potential benefits of dark chocolate’s flavanols, which may support cardiovascular health and provide antioxidant properties. Unreal’s strategic choice to use dark chocolate rather than milk chocolate aligns with this consumer interest in healthier options.
The clean ingredient profile also responds to the growing consumer demand for transparency. Modern shoppers are increasingly checking labels and choosing products with recognizable ingredients. By keeping their ingredient list minimal, Unreal makes this decision process simple for consumers.
The vegan dessert market has seen particular growth, with plant-based alternatives becoming mainstream rather than niche. Unreal’s vegan certification makes their chocolate-covered almonds accessible to this growing consumer segment. The kosher certification further broadens the appeal, making these snacks suitable for an even wider audience with specific dietary requirements.
Sustainable Snacking for Conscious Consumers
Sustainability has become a key purchasing factor for many consumers, and Unreal has responded to this demand. Beyond the Fair Trade certification for their chocolate, the company’s focus on simple ingredients inherently reduces the environmental impact associated with highly processed foods. This approach to sustainable dessert production represents an important industry shift.
The 4 oz bag size balances convenience with reduced packaging waste, compared to individually wrapped portions. As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their food choices, this consideration of packaging efficiency can become a competitive advantage. Packaging choices reflect a company’s overall commitment to sustainability beyond just ingredients.
By prioritizing ethical sourcing and sustainability, Unreal is positioning itself as a forward-thinking brand aligned with evolving consumer values. This approach not only addresses current market demands but also helps build brand loyalty among increasingly conscious consumers who want their snack choices to reflect their personal values.
A Sweet History Leading to Innovation
Unreal’s journey began in 2011 with a mission to reimagine candy. After a relaunch in 2014, the company established itself as a leader in lower-sugar candy alternatives. Under CEO Kevin McCarthy’s leadership, the brand has expanded its presence to 35,000 retail locations including major chains like Costco, Publix, and Whole Foods.
This new venture into snacks represents a natural evolution for the brand rather than a deviation from their core philosophy. The focus remains on simple ingredients and better-for-you options, now applied to a different category. The consistency in their approach helps maintain brand identity while exploring new market opportunities.
“We want to serve our superfans in the best way possible,” says McCarthy, highlighting the customer-focused approach driving their innovation. This philosophy has clearly resonated with consumers, as evidenced by the record-breaking launch day sales. The company’s understanding of global dessert preferences has allowed them to create products that balance indulgence with nutrition.
Looking ahead, Unreal plans to expand their offerings with different pack sizes to meet various consumption occasions. They’re also exploring food service opportunities to make their products available in more settings. Throughout this expansion, they remain committed to their founding principles of simple ingredients and sustainability, ensuring that growth doesn’t come at the expense of quality or values.
I’ve been watching Unreal’s journey since their early days, and this move into snacks feels like a perfect next step. If you’re looking to support ethical dessert businesses, these chocolate-covered almonds deserve a spot in your pantry. For those inspired by Unreal’s simple approach to treats, why not share your own dessert recipe that celebrates minimal, quality ingredients? The best foods often need the fewest components—a philosophy that Unreal has mastered with their latest delicious innovation.