The Kashi US BEAR NAKED BARS FRUIT & NUT receives a FoodScore of 27 out of 100, primarily driven by its significant amount of added sugar and its ultra-processed nature. With 23.63g of added sugar per 100g, this product incurs a substantial penalty. The presence of ingredients like dried cane syrup, brown rice syrup, and invert cane syrup contributes to this high sugar load. Furthermore, its NOVA class 4 designation as an ultra-processed food results in an additional penalty. While the bar does offer some beneficial components, such as 6.8g of fiber and 8g of protein per 100g, which earn bonus points, these are outweighed by the penalties. The 5.8g of saturated fat also contributes to a minor penalty. When compared to a reference baseline of whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, the Kashi US bar is considerably less nutrient-dense and contains a higher concentration of added sugars and processed ingredients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in kashi us bear naked bars fruit & nut 7.05oz actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Dietary Fiber
This Kashi US bar contains 6.8g of fiber per 100g, primarily from rolled oats and other whole grains. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While this amount is a positive attribute, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile of the bar.
Source of Plant-Based Protein
With 8g of protein per 100g, this bar contributes to daily protein intake, which is essential for muscle maintenance and repair. The protein comes from sources like roasted almonds, peanuts, and soy protein isolate. This can be beneficial for individuals looking for a quick protein source, especially when other options are not readily available.
Contains Essential Minerals
The Kashi US BEAR NAKED BARS FRUIT & NUT provides several essential minerals, including 13% DV for iron and 16% DV for magnesium per 100g. These minerals play roles in energy metabolism and bone health. While not a primary source, these contributions can supplement a balanced diet, particularly from the nuts and dried fruits present.
Kashi US BEAR NAKED BARS FRUIT & NUT scores 27/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Snack bars like Kashi US BEAR NAKED BARS are typically consumed as a convenient, on-the-go snack. They are often eaten between meals or as a quick energy source. Given its nutritional profile, mindful portioning is recommended.
Pair with a source of fresh fruit or vegetables to increase overall nutrient intake and add more fiber.
Consider consuming only half a bar if you are looking for a smaller snack to manage added sugar intake.
Use this bar as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple to limit consumption of ultra-processed foods.
If seeking a more nutrient-dense option, consider alternatives like a handful of nuts and a piece of fruit.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including almonds, peanuts, milk, soy, and wheat, as declared on the label. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The high added sugar content, at 23.63g per 100g, is a consideration for those monitoring their sugar intake, such as individuals with diabetes or those aiming to reduce overall sugar consumption. The presence of palm kernel and palm oil contributes to the saturated fat content and the ultra-processed nature of the bar. While generally recognized as safe, ingredients like soy lecithin and xanthan gum are common food additives found in many processed foods.
Is Kashi US BEAR NAKED BARS FRUIT & NUT a healthy snack?
This bar scores 27/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice according to FoodScore. While it provides some fiber and protein, its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food mean it is not considered a healthy everyday snack option.
How does Kashi US BEAR NAKED BARS compare to other snack bars?
Compared to some other snack bars like RXBar, which often have fewer ingredients and less added sugar, the Kashi US bar has a higher added sugar load and more processed components. It is more comparable to other multi-ingredient, sweetened snack bars in the market.
What is 'dried cane syrup' in this bar?
Dried cane syrup is a form of sugar derived from sugarcane. It is chemically similar to table sugar and is considered an added sugar in the nutritional profile of this product, contributing to the overall sweetness and calorie content.
How much of this bar can I eat daily?
Given its FoodScore of 27/100 and high added sugar content, it is advisable to consume this bar in moderation. For most individuals, incorporating it as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack aligns better with dietary guidelines for limiting added sugars.
Does this bar contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list includes 'rolled oats' and 'whole grain brown rice crisp,' indicating the presence of whole grains. These contribute to the fiber content of the bar. However, the overall nutritional impact is still influenced by other ingredients like added sugars and fats.