The CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its moderate protein and fiber content are offset by a notable amount of added sugar.
CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip has a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
It provides 14.7g of protein and 7.4g of fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A significant concern is the 17.5g of added sugar per 100g.
As a NOVA 3 processed food, it differs from whole-food alternatives like nuts and fruit.
This bar can serve as a convenient snack when whole foods are not readily available.
Scores -4 points above the snack category average (51/100 across 54 foods).
Fiber
7.4g
26% of Daily Value
Protein
14.71g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
17.5g
35% of Daily Value
Sodium
191.18mg
8% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (7.4g)+9
Protein (14.7g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus)+6
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What holds it back
Added sugar (17.5g)-23
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 47
The CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip receives a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and areas for moderation. On the positive side, the bar earns points for its protein content, providing 14.7g per 100g, and its fiber content, with 7.4g per 100g. It also contributes to micronutrient intake, offering 18% DV for iron and 21% DV for magnesium per 100g. However, significant penalties are applied due to the added sugar content, which is 17.5g per 100g. The ingredient list prominently features brown rice syrup, tapioca syrup, and cane syrup as primary sweeteners. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food incurs a penalty. Compared to a baseline of whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, the CLIF BAR offers convenience but contains more added sugars and is less nutrient-dense overall.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in clif bar chocolate chip actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This CLIF BAR provides 14.7g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and repair, especially for individuals with active lifestyles. Protein is also known to enhance satiety, helping to feel full longer. Including a protein-rich snack can be beneficial for managing hunger between meals and supporting overall dietary protein goals, particularly when whole food protein sources are not accessible.
Contributes to Fiber Intake
With 7.4g of fiber per 100g, this bar contributes meaningfully to daily fiber recommendations. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. The presence of chicory fibre in the ingredient list indicates a source of soluble fiber, which can also support gut health. Incorporating fiber-rich foods into the diet is a key aspect of a balanced eating pattern.
Source of Essential Minerals
The CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip provides several essential minerals, including 18% DV for iron and 21% DV for magnesium per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the body, while magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including muscle and nerve function. These minerals are important for overall health and energy metabolism, making this bar a convenient way to contribute to their intake.
The CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its moderate protein and fiber content are offset by a notable amount of added sugar.
How to eat it
CLIF BARs are commonly consumed as a convenient on-the-go snack, often before or after physical activity, or as a quick meal replacement when time is limited. The typical portion is one bar.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of unsalted nuts to add whole-food nutrients and enhance satiety.
Consider consuming this bar as a pre- or post-workout snack to fuel activity or aid recovery.
Be mindful of the added sugar content; if consuming regularly, balance with other low-sugar options throughout the day.
For a more balanced snack, consider splitting the bar and combining it with a source of healthy fats like avocado or a small serving of plain yogurt.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies should note that this product contains soy and may contain traces of peanuts, tree nuts, milk, and wheat due to manufacturing processes. The presence of chicory fibre might cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas in some sensitive individuals, particularly those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), if consumed in large quantities. While not excessively high, the added sugar content (17.5g per 100g) should be considered by individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption. The use of natural flavours is common in processed foods and generally recognized as safe.
The CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip scores 47/100, which is in the 'Decent' category. It offers protein and fiber, but also contains a notable amount of added sugar. Its healthfulness depends on individual dietary needs and overall eating patterns. It can be a convenient option, but it is not a substitute for whole, unprocessed foods.
How does CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip compare to other snack bars?
Compared to some other snack bars like an RXBar, which often feature simpler ingredient lists and less added sugar, the CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip has a higher added sugar content (17.5g per 100g). However, it offers a comparable amount of protein (14.7g per 100g) and fiber (7.4g per 100g) to many bars in the category, making it a competitive option for those seeking a quick energy source.
What is brown rice syrup and why is it in CLIF BAR?
Brown rice syrup is a sweetener derived from rice. In the CLIF BAR, it serves as a source of carbohydrates and contributes to the bar's texture and flavor. It is one of several sugar sources in the ingredient list, contributing to the overall 17.5g of added sugar per 100g. While it is a less refined sugar than high-fructose corn syrup, it is still an added sugar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size is one bar. For most individuals, consuming one bar as a snack is a reasonable portion. However, if you are monitoring your calorie or sugar intake closely, you might consider consuming half a bar or pairing it with a lower-calorie, lower-sugar food to balance the nutritional impact.
Can CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip be part of a weight management diet?
Due to its calorie density (367.65 calories per 100g) and added sugar content, the CLIF BAR Chocolate Chip should be consumed in moderation if you are managing your weight. It can fit into a weight management diet as an occasional snack, especially if it replaces a less nutritious option, but it's important to account for its contribution to your daily caloric and sugar intake.