BROOKSIDE FRUIT & NUT BARS, DARK CHOCOLATE, CHERRY WITH POMEGRANATE
BROOKSIDE FRUIT & NUT BARS, DARK CHOCOLATE, CHERRY WITH POMEGRANATE scores 30/100 (Poor) due to its significant amount of added sugar, which is the primary factor driving down its nutritional rating.
This BROOKSIDE bar has a FoodScore of 30/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 7.69g of fiber and 10.31g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A major concern is the 23.33g of added sugar per 100g, significantly impacting its health rating.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is ultra-processed, unlike plain sparkling water.
Consider this bar as an occasional snack rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -2 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
7.69g
27% of Daily Value
Protein
10.31g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
23.33g
47% of Daily Value
Sodium
141.03mg
6% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.7g)+10
Protein (10.3g)+6
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+6
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (23.3g)-25
Saturated fat (5.1g)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 30
The BROOKSIDE FRUIT & NUT BAR, DARK CHOCOLATE, CHERRY WITH POMEGRANATE receives a FoodScore of 30 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its high added sugar content, which stands at 23.33g per 100g, incurring a substantial penalty. The presence of high maltose corn syrup and sugar early in the ingredient list contributes to this. Additionally, the bar is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which further reduces its score. While it does contain beneficial components like 7.69g of fiber and 10.31g of protein per 100g, these positive contributions are outweighed by the penalties. The 5.13g of saturated fat also deducts points. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, which would score much higher due to their lack of added sugars and processing, this BROOKSIDE bar offers a less favorable nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in brookside fruit & nut bars, dark chocolate, cherry with pomegranate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This BROOKSIDE bar provides 7.69g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet supports regular bowel movements and can aid in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. While this bar contains fiber, it's important to consider the overall nutritional context.
Contains Protein for Satiety
With 10.31g of protein per 100g, this product can help contribute to satiety. Protein is a crucial macronutrient involved in muscle repair and growth, and it can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. The almonds and pumpkin seeds in the bar likely contribute to its protein content. For a snack, this amount of protein can be a useful component.
Provides Select Micronutrients
This bar offers some notable micronutrients, including 15% DV for iron, 17% DV for Vitamin C, and a high 142% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, while Vitamin C is an antioxidant important for immune function. Vitamin A plays a role in vision and immune health. These contributions can help fill gaps in a varied diet.
BROOKSIDE FRUIT & NUT BARS, DARK CHOCOLATE, CHERRY WITH POMEGRANATE scores 30/100 (Poor) due to its significant amount of added sugar, which is the primary factor driving down its nutritional rating.
How to eat it
Fruit and nut bars like BROOKSIDE are typically consumed as a convenient on-the-go snack or a quick energy boost. They are often eaten between meals or as a pre/post-workout option. While convenient, it's important to consider their nutritional density and portion size.
Pair this bar with a source of whole fruit or a small serving of plain yogurt to add more nutrients and dilute the sugar impact.
Consider consuming only half a bar if you're looking for a smaller snack, as the full serving size contributes significant calories and added sugar.
Use this bar as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and high added sugar content.
If seeking a more nutritionally dense snack, prioritize whole foods like a handful of plain nuts, fruit, or vegetables.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the allergen information for this BROOKSIDE product. It contains almonds, milk, and soy, which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of high maltose corn syrup and sugar contributes to a significant amount of added sugar, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. While the bar contains some beneficial ingredients like almonds and pumpkin seeds, its classification as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) suggests a formulation that may not be ideal for frequent consumption as part of a balanced diet. The ingredient soy lecithin is an emulsifier commonly found in processed foods.
Is BROOKSIDE FRUIT & NUT BAR, DARK CHOCOLATE, CHERRY WITH POMEGRANATE healthy?
This BROOKSIDE bar has a FoodScore of 30/100, which is considered 'Poor'. While it offers some fiber and protein, its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature significantly detract from its overall nutritional quality. It is best viewed as an occasional snack rather than a health-promoting food.
How does BROOKSIDE compare to other snack bars like KIND bars?
Compared to some KIND bars, which often emphasize whole ingredients and lower added sugar, the BROOKSIDE bar contains a notable amount of added sugar (23.33g per 100g). Both are typically ultra-processed, but specific SKUs can vary. Always check the nutrition label and ingredient list for direct comparison, focusing on added sugar, fiber, and protein.
What is high maltose corn syrup, and why is it in this bar?
High maltose corn syrup is a type of sweetener derived from corn starch, used to provide sweetness and texture. It is a form of added sugar, contributing to the bar's overall sugar content. Its inclusion, along with other sugars, helps create the desired flavor and consistency of the bar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size is 1 bar. However, given its FoodScore and added sugar content, consuming a full bar regularly may contribute excess sugars to your diet. For a smaller snack, consider consuming half a bar, especially if you are mindful of calorie or sugar intake.
Can this bar be part of a weight management plan?
Due to its calorie density (461.54 calories per 100g) and high added sugar, this bar may not be the most suitable choice for frequent consumption in a weight management plan. While it offers some protein and fiber, these benefits are offset by the sugar. Portion control and infrequent consumption are key if including it.