FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidbeverageBARKTHINS· 1.4 ONZ

BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL

BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL receives a FoodScore of 2/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high content of added sugar** and **saturated fat**.

  • This BARKTHINS product scores 2/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
  • It contains 21g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • With 17.5g of saturated fat per 100g, this product is high in fats that should be limited.
  • Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food, unlike a plain sparkling water baseline.
  • Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary component.
  • Scores -30 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
21g
42% of Daily Value
Sodium
238mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (21g)-25
Saturated fat (17.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 2

BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL scores 2 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely driven by its nutritional profile, which includes significant amounts of components that dietary guidelines recommend limiting. A primary factor is the 21g of added sugar per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty in the FoodScore calculation. Additionally, the product contains 17.5g of saturated fat per 100g, another component that contributes negatively to the overall score. The presence of soy lecithin as an emulsifier and other refined ingredients classifies this product as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which further reduces its score. While it offers minor bonuses for 2.5g of fiber and 5g of protein, along with 25% DV for iron, these are outweighed by the penalties from added sugar and saturated fat. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, which would score highly due to their minimal processing and lack of added sugars or fats, this BARKTHINS product presents a stark contrast in nutritional density.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in barkthins bark thins, dark chocolate, peppermint, pretzel, peppermint, pretzel actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

This product provides 4.5mg of iron per 100g, which is 25% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and various metabolic processes. While not a primary source of iron, consuming a serving can contribute to your daily intake, especially for individuals who may need to increase their iron consumption. It is important to consider the overall nutritional context when relying on this product for micronutrients.

Provides a Small Amount of Fiber

BARKTHINS contains 2.5g of fiber per 100g. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can contribute to feelings of fullness. While this amount is not substantial enough to be considered a 'good source' of fiber, it does offer a minor contribution compared to many other snack foods that contain little to no fiber. Including fiber in the diet is generally beneficial for maintaining regular bowel movements and supporting gut health.

Offers a Minor Protein Contribution

With 5g of protein per 100g, this product provides a small amount of this macronutrient. Protein is vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. While not a significant protein source, this amount can contribute to your daily protein intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. It is important to balance such snacks with other protein-rich foods to meet daily requirements.

How to eat it

BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL is typically consumed as a sweet snack or dessert. Common portion sizes are often larger than a single serving, which can lead to higher intakes of added sugar and saturated fat. It is best enjoyed in moderation.

To manage added sugar intake, consider pairing a small portion of BARKTHINS with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts.
Portion out a single serving (1.4 ONZ) into a small dish to avoid overconsumption directly from the bag.
Consider this product as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to align with dietary guidelines.
For a more balanced snack, swap BARKTHINS for a piece of dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content and no added inclusions.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains several common allergens, including wheat, soy, and may contain traces of milk, peanuts, and tree nuts due to manufacturing processes. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid it due to the wheat flour in the pretzels. Those with soy allergies should also be cautious due to the presence of soy lecithin. The high content of added sugar (21g per 100g) means individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product sparingly and account for its carbohydrate impact. The saturated fat content (17.5g per 100g) is also a consideration for individuals monitoring cardiovascular health.

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Reader questions
Is BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL healthy?
BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL receives a FoodScore of 2/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. Its nutritional profile is characterized by high amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, which are components recommended to be limited in a balanced diet. While it offers some iron and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by its less favorable aspects.
How does BARKTHINS compare to other chocolate snacks?
Compared to many other chocolate-based snacks, BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL shares a similar profile of being high in added sugar and saturated fat. For example, a standard Hershey's Milk Chocolate bar also contains significant amounts of these components. Products with higher cocoa content and fewer added ingredients might offer a more favorable nutritional profile, though they would still be considered treats.
What is 'soy lecithin' and is it a concern?
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used to help blend ingredients and improve texture. For most people, it is generally recognized as safe. However, individuals with soy allergies should be aware of its presence, as it is a common allergen. It is not typically a concern for those without specific sensitivities.
What is a reasonable portion size for BARKTHINS?
The declared serving size for BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL is 1.4 ONZ. Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of added sugar and saturated fat. Consuming larger portions frequently would lead to a higher intake of these components, which is not aligned with dietary recommendations for regular consumption.
Can BARKTHINS be part of a balanced diet?
BARKTHINS BARK THINS, DARK CHOCOLATE, PEPPERMINT, PRETZEL can be included in a balanced diet, but it should be viewed as an occasional indulgence due to its FoodScore of 2/100. It is best consumed in small, controlled portions and balanced with nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Regular consumption of foods high in added sugar and saturated fat is not recommended.

Explore more

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Data & references