CLIF KID CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC BAKED WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK BARS score 38/100 (Poor) due to a significant amount of added sugar, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
This CLIF KID bar scores 38/100 (Poor) on FoodScore.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Each 100g serving contains 23.33g of added sugar, a primary factor for its low score.
Compared to plain sparkling water, this bar provides calories and a range of micronutrients.
Consider this bar as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple.
Scores +6 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
CLIF KID CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC BAKED WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK BARS received a FoodScore of 38/100, which is considered Poor. The primary reason for this score is the high amount of added sugar, contributing 23.33g per 100g serving. This significantly impacts the overall nutritional profile, leading to a substantial penalty in the scoring system. The product is also categorized as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs an additional penalty. Despite these deductions, the bar does receive some positive points. It provides 8.31g of fiber per 100g, contributing a bonus. Furthermore, it is fortified with several micronutrients, including 43% DV for calcium, 28% DV for iron, 57% DV for zinc, 93% DV for Vitamin A, 65% DV for Vitamin C, and 70% DV for Vitamin B12, which collectively add to its score. Ingredients like organic tapioca syrup, organic cane syrup, and organic maple syrup are key contributors to the added sugar content. While the product highlights 'whole grain,' the overall formulation places it far from a minimally processed food like plain sparkling water, which serves as a baseline for comparison.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in clif kid chocolate chip organic baked whole grain energy snack bars, chocolate chip actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
This CLIF KID bar is fortified with several important vitamins and minerals, making it a convenient source of micronutrients. A 100g serving provides 43% of the Daily Value for calcium, 28% for iron, and 57% for zinc. It also offers significant amounts of Vitamin A (93% DV), Vitamin C (65% DV), and Vitamin B12 (70% DV). These nutrients play various roles in the body, such as supporting bone health, oxygen transport, immune function, and energy metabolism. For children who may have gaps in their diet, this can contribute to meeting daily nutrient needs.
Provides Dietary Fiber
Each 100g serving of this product contains 8.31g of dietary fiber. Fiber is an important component of a healthy diet, known for its role in supporting digestive health and promoting satiety. Adequate fiber intake can help regulate bowel movements and contribute to a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial in managing appetite. The organic oat blend, including organic rolled oats and organic oat fiber, contributes to this fiber content.
Quick Energy for Active Children
For active children, this bar can provide a quick source of energy due to its carbohydrate content, including both complex carbohydrates from oats and simple sugars. This can be useful for refueling after physical activity or as a snack to sustain energy levels between meals. The combination of carbohydrates and some protein (5.56g per 100g) can help provide sustained energy rather than a rapid sugar spike and crash, though the high added sugar content should be considered.
CLIF KID CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC BAKED WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK BARS score 38/100 (Poor) due to a significant amount of added sugar, classifying it as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
CLIF KID CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC BAKED WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK BARS are typically consumed as a convenient snack for children, often packed in lunchboxes or eaten on-the-go. A single bar is a common portion size. While marketed as an 'energy snack,' it's important to consider its nutritional profile in the context of a child's overall diet.
Pair with a source of healthy fats or protein, such as a handful of nuts or a glass of milk, to balance the macronutrient intake and potentially slow sugar absorption.
Consider this bar as an occasional treat or for specific situations requiring quick energy, such as after sports activities, rather than a daily snack.
To reduce overall added sugar intake, consider cutting a bar in half and pairing it with a piece of fruit like an apple or banana for additional fiber and nutrients.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains organic soy lecithin, which is derived from soy, an allergen. Individuals with soy allergies should avoid this product. The ingredient list also indicates the presence of organic dried cane syrup, organic tapioca syrup, and organic maple syrup, which are all forms of added sugar. The high added sugar content (23.33g per 100g) means this product should be consumed in moderation, especially for children, to prevent excessive sugar intake that can contribute to dental issues and an unbalanced diet. As an ultra-processed food, it may contain ingredients that some individuals prefer to limit in their diet.
Is CLIF KID CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC BAKED WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK BARS healthy?
This CLIF KID bar scores 38/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some beneficial micronutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamins A, C, and B12, its high added sugar content (23.33g per 100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food significantly lower its overall nutritional rating. It is best considered an occasional snack rather than a primary source of nutrition.
How does CLIF KID compare to other snack bars?
Compared to some other snack bars like RXBAR, which often feature simpler ingredient lists and lower added sugar, this CLIF KID bar has a higher added sugar content. However, it offers a wider range of fortified vitamins and minerals. When comparing to a generic granola bar, the 'organic' ingredients in CLIF KID may appeal to some consumers, but the nutritional impact of added sugars remains a key consideration across all bar types.
What is the role of 'organic tapioca syrup' in this bar?
Organic tapioca syrup is a sweetener derived from tapioca starch and is a significant contributor to the added sugar content in this CLIF KID bar. While it is an organic ingredient, nutritionally, it functions similarly to other added sugars, providing calories without substantial micronutrients. It helps bind the ingredients and contributes to the bar's texture and sweetness.
What is a recommended portion size for this snack bar?
The declared serving size for this product is 1 bar. Given its nutritional profile, particularly the added sugar content, consuming a single bar as an occasional snack is appropriate. For younger children or those with lower energy needs, half a bar might be a more suitable portion, especially if other sources of sugar are consumed throughout the day. Moderation is key.
Can this bar be part of a balanced diet for children?
Yes, this CLIF KID bar can be part of a balanced diet for children when consumed in moderation. It should be viewed as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple, due to its ultra-processed nature and high added sugar. Prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins for most snacks and meals will ensure a more nutrient-dense diet.