BIMBO MULTIGRAIN OAT BARS, STRAWBERRY & CRANBERRIES scores 26/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is the **high amount of added sugar** and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 26/100 (Avoid) due to significant added sugar and processing.
Provides 6.19g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to daily intake.
Contains 15.34g of added sugar per 100g, a primary nutritional concern.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), unlike whole-food snacks such as nuts or fruit.
Best consumed as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -15 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
6.19g
22% of Daily Value
Protein
6.25g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
15.34g
31% of Daily Value
Sodium
171.88mg
7% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (6.2g)+7
Protein (6.3g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+12
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (15.3g)-20
Saturated fat (9.4g)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 26
BIMBO MULTIGRAIN OAT BARS, STRAWBERRY & CRANBERRIES received a FoodScore of 26 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by its high added sugar content of 15.3 grams per 100g, which incurred a significant penalty of 20 points. The product also contains 9.4 grams of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a 12-point penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), it received an additional 10-point penalty, with a further 3 points deducted for its concentrated ultra-processed fat. On the positive side, the product gained 7 points for its 6.2 grams of fiber per 100g and 2 points for its 6.3 grams of protein. Micronutrient fortification, including iron (62% DV), zinc (106% DV), Vitamin A (104% DV), Vitamin B12 (78% DV), and folate (31% DV), added 12 points. However, these bonuses were not enough to offset the penalties from added sugar, saturated fat, and processing. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, BIMBO oat bars offer a less nutrient-dense profile with a higher degree of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in bimbo multigrain oat bars, strawberry & cranberries actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fiber
These BIMBO oat bars provide 6.19g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain bowel regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet may also support satiety. While this product contains fiber, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile when evaluating its contribution to a balanced diet.
Fortified with Micronutrients
The product is fortified with several micronutrients, including iron (62% DV), zinc (106% DV), and Vitamin A (104% DV) per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, while zinc plays a role in immune function and wound healing. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune health. These added vitamins and minerals can help address potential dietary gaps, though a varied diet of whole foods remains the primary source for these nutrients.
Convenient Snack Option
BIMBO MULTIGRAIN OAT BARS offer a convenient and portable snack option for individuals with busy lifestyles. When access to fresh, whole foods is limited, a pre-packaged bar can provide a quick source of energy. While convenient, it is beneficial to pair such snacks with whole food items when possible to enhance the overall nutritional value of the meal or snack occasion.
BIMBO MULTIGRAIN OAT BARS, STRAWBERRY & CRANBERRIES scores 26/100 (Avoid). The primary factor for this low score is the high amount of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
BIMBO MULTIGRAIN OAT BARS are typically consumed as a quick, on-the-go snack or a component of breakfast. A common portion is two bars. Given the added sugar content, it's important to be mindful of how often these bars are consumed and what they are paired with.
Pair with a source of lean protein like a hard-boiled egg or Greek yogurt to improve satiety and balance blood sugar.
Consider consuming only one bar instead of two to reduce the intake of added sugars and calories.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple, prioritizing whole fruits, vegetables, and nuts for regular snacking.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. The presence of high fructose corn syrup and other forms of sugar contributes significantly to the added sugar content. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consider this. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin, which is a common allergen for individuals with soy sensitivities. Furthermore, the product contains wheat, egg, and barley, which are common allergens. As an ultra-processed food, it contains various additives, including artificial flavors and colors like annatto, which some individuals may prefer to limit in their diet. The use of palm and fractionated palm oil contributes to the saturated fat content, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a heart-healthy diet.
Is BIMBO MULTIGRAIN OAT BARS, STRAWBERRY & CRANBERRIES a healthy snack?
With a FoodScore of 26/100, these bars are categorized as 'Avoid.' While they offer some fiber and fortified micronutrients, the high added sugar content (15.34g per 100g) and ultra-processed nature are significant nutritional drawbacks. It's best considered an occasional item rather than a regular healthy snack.
How does BIMBO MULTIGRAIN OAT BARS compare to other snack bars?
Compared to whole-food based bars like an RXBar, which often feature minimal ingredients and no added sugar, BIMBO MULTIGRAIN OAT BARS contain significantly more added sugar and are classified as ultra-processed. While it offers some fiber, its overall nutritional profile is less favorable than options made primarily from nuts, seeds, and fruit.
What is the role of 'high fructose corn syrup' in these bars?
High fructose corn syrup is a caloric sweetener used to provide sweetness and texture to the bars. It contributes directly to the product's high added sugar content, which is a primary reason for its low FoodScore. Limiting intake of foods with high fructose corn syrup is generally recommended for a balanced diet.
What is a reasonable portion size for these oat bars?
The declared serving size is two bars. However, to manage added sugar intake, consuming just one bar at a time could be a more moderate approach. Pairing it with a source of protein or healthy fats can help improve satiety and mitigate the impact of the sugar.
Are these bars suitable for someone looking for a 'whole grain' snack?
While the ingredient list includes 'wheat flour,' 'oat flakes,' 'oatmeal,' 'barley flour,' and 'rye flour,' the product also contains a significant amount of sugar and is ultra-processed. For a truly 'whole grain' snack, options like plain oatmeal with fruit or whole-grain crackers with avocado would offer a more nutrient-dense profile with less processing and added sugar.