The BEAR NAKED REAL NUT ENERGY BARS, MAPLE NUT, scored 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
This product received a FoodScore of 42/100, indicating a Poor nutritional rating.
A serving provides 7g of fiber and 14g of protein, contributing positively to satiety.
The primary nutritional concern is the 14.74g of added sugar per 100g.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs significantly from whole-food alternatives.
Consider this bar as an occasional snack rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores +1 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
7g
25% of Daily Value
Protein
14g
28% of Daily Value
Added sugar
14.74g
29% of Daily Value
Sodium
201.75mg
9% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7g)+9
Protein (14g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (14.7g)-19
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 42
The BEAR NAKED REAL NUT ENERGY BARS, MAPLE NUT, received a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, categorized as 'Poor.' This score reflects a combination of nutritional contributions and drawbacks. On the positive side, the product earns points for its protein content, providing 14g per 100g, and its fiber content, with 7g per 100g. It also receives a small bonus for iron, contributing 11% of the Daily Value. However, significant penalties are applied due to the added sugar content, which stands at 14.74g per 100g. Ingredients like honey, brown rice syrup, and maple syrup contribute to this total. Additionally, its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food incurs a penalty, indicating a formulation that goes beyond simple processing. When compared to whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, this bar contains more added sugars and is less nutrient-dense overall, despite its protein and fiber contributions.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bear naked real nut energy bars, maple nut actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 7g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to digestive health and satiety. Fiber, particularly from whole grains like whole grain oats and whole flaxseed, helps regulate bowel movements and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in portion control. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet is important for overall gastrointestinal function.
Contribution to Protein Intake
With 14g of protein per 100g, these bars can contribute to daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for producing enzymes and hormones. The protein in this bar comes from sources such as almond butter, cashews, soybeans, natural peanut butter, peanuts, pecans, almonds, and isolated soy protein, offering a blend of plant-based proteins that can support satiety.
Convenient Energy Source
For individuals needing a quick source of energy, these bars offer a convenient option. The combination of carbohydrates from whole grain oats and sugars, along with fats from nuts, provides a calorically dense snack. This can be useful for those with high energy demands or when access to more balanced meals is limited, offering a portable solution for sustained energy.
The BEAR NAKED REAL NUT ENERGY BARS, MAPLE NUT, scored 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
BEAR NAKED REAL NUT ENERGY BARS are typically consumed as a quick snack or a convenient on-the-go breakfast item. One bar is a common portion size. While convenient, it's important to consider its nutritional profile in the context of your overall daily intake.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a serving of plain yogurt to add more vitamins, minerals, and reduce the overall glycemic impact of the snack.
Consider consuming this bar before or after physical activity when a quick energy boost and some protein are beneficial.
Due to the added sugar content, moderate intake and consider it an occasional snack rather than a daily staple to manage sugar consumption.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies to tree nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans), peanuts, or soy should avoid this product, as these are prominent ingredients. The product contains soy lecithin, a common emulsifier. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit consumption of ultra-processed foods. The added sugar content, at 14.74g per 100g, should be noted by individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption in their diet. There are no specific warnings regarding caffeine or other stimulants, but the caloric density should be considered for portion control.
Is BEAR NAKED REAL NUT ENERGY BARS, MAPLE NUT healthy?
This product received a FoodScore of 42/100 (Poor). While it provides fiber (7g) and protein (14g) per 100g, its high added sugar content (14.74g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food contribute to a lower nutritional score. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and alongside more whole foods.
How does BEAR NAKED REAL NUT ENERGY BARS compare to other snack bars?
Compared to a bar like RXBar, which often features a shorter ingredient list primarily based on dates, nuts, and egg whites, BEAR NAKED REAL NUT ENERGY BARS contains more added sugars and is classified as ultra-processed. However, it offers a comparable amount of protein and fiber. Its nutritional profile is generally more favorable than many candy bars but less so than minimally processed whole-food snacks.
What is 'isolated soy protein' in the ingredient list?
Isolated soy protein is a highly refined form of soy protein, where most of the fat and carbohydrates have been removed. It is used in this bar to boost the protein content. While a source of plant-based protein, its isolated nature contributes to the product's classification as an ultra-processed food.
What is a recommended portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size is 1 bar. Adhering to this portion size is recommended to manage calorie and added sugar intake. Consuming multiple bars in one sitting would significantly increase your intake of calories and added sugars, potentially exceeding daily recommendations.
Can I eat this bar if I have a nut allergy?
No, this product is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. The ingredient list explicitly includes almond butter, cashews, natural peanut butter, peanuts, pecans, and almonds. It also contains soy. Always check the ingredient list and allergen warnings if you have any food allergies.