FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentsnackKIND· 1 BAR

KIND NUTS & SPICES BAR, MAPLE GLAZED PECAN & SEA SALT

The KIND NUTS & SPICES BAR, MAPLE GLAZED PECAN & SEA SALT scores 57/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its score is primarily driven by a good fiber and protein content, balanced against its classification as an ultra-processed food with some added sugar.

  • This KIND bar scores 57/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
  • It provides a notable 12.5g of fiber and 15g of protein per 100g.
  • A key concern is its NOVA class 4 designation, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw nuts, it contains 8.75g of added sugar.
  • This bar can serve as a convenient snack, but moderation is advised due to its processing.
  • Scores +16 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
12.5g
45% of Daily Value
Protein
15g
30% of Daily Value
Added sugar
8.75g
18% of Daily Value
Sodium
350mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (12.5g)+12
Protein (15g)+10
Micronutrients (Potassium, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus)+10
What holds it back
Added sugar (8.8g)-10
Saturated fat (3.8g)-1
Sodium (350mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 57

The KIND NUTS & SPICES BAR achieves a FoodScore of 57 out of 100, largely due to its nutrient profile. It receives significant bonuses for its fiber content (12.5g per 100g) and protein content (15g per 100g), contributing +12 and +10 points respectively. Additionally, the presence of several micronutrients such as potassium (10% DV), calcium (12% DV), iron (15% DV), and magnesium (36% DV) adds another 10 points. However, the score is tempered by several penalties. The bar contains 8.75g of added sugar, resulting in a -10 point deduction. Its saturated fat content of 3.75g incurs a minor -1 penalty, and its sodium level of 350mg also leads to a -1 deduction. A significant penalty of -10 points is applied because it is classified as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed. Furthermore, the presence of soy lecithin and other ingredients contributing to concentrated ultra-processed fat results in an additional -3 penalty. While it offers more fiber and protein than many conventional snack bars, it falls short of the nutritional completeness of whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in kind nuts & spices bar, maple glazed pecan & sea salt actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Digestive Health

This KIND bar is a good source of fiber, providing 12.5g per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a snack. The chicory root fiber listed in the ingredients contributes to this, acting as a soluble fiber. Adequate fiber intake is important for maintaining regular bowel movements and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich snacks can help individuals meet their daily recommended fiber intake, which is often lacking in typical American diets.

Contributes to Satiety

With 15g of protein per 100g, this bar can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety. The combination of protein and fiber from the mixed nuts (almonds, peanuts, pecans) and chicory root fiber can help manage appetite between meals. This makes it a potentially useful snack for individuals looking to control hunger, especially when compared to snacks primarily composed of refined carbohydrates that may lead to quicker hunger return.

Source of Essential Minerals

The KIND bar provides several essential minerals, including magnesium (36% DV), iron (15% DV), calcium (12% DV), and potassium (10% DV) per 100g. These minerals are crucial for various bodily functions, such as bone health, energy production, and nerve function. The mixed nuts are a natural source of many of these micronutrients, making this bar a convenient way to supplement mineral intake, particularly for those with dietary gaps.

How to eat it

KIND bars are typically consumed as a convenient on-the-go snack or a quick energy boost between meals. They are often eaten directly from the wrapper, making them a popular choice for busy individuals. A common portion is one bar, which provides a moderate amount of calories and nutrients.

Pair this bar with a piece of fruit like an apple or a banana to add more whole food nutrients and increase overall fiber intake.
Consider consuming half a bar as a smaller snack if you are not very active or if you are trying to manage your calorie intake, as a full bar is 525 calories per 100g.
Use this bar as a post-workout snack to help replenish energy and provide protein for muscle recovery, especially if a full meal is not immediately available.
Be mindful of the added sugar content when incorporating this into your daily diet, and balance it with other low-sugar whole foods.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with nut allergies (almonds, peanuts, pecans) must avoid this product, as it contains multiple tree nuts and peanuts. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin, which is a common allergen for individuals with soy sensitivities. While the amount of added sugar (8.75g per 100g) is moderate compared to some other snack bars, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should account for this in their daily intake. The chicory root fiber can cause digestive discomfort like gas or bloating in some sensitive individuals, especially when consumed in larger quantities.

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Reader questions
Is KIND NUTS & SPICES BAR, MAPLE GLAZED PECAN & SEA SALT healthy?
This KIND bar scores 57/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers a good amount of protein (15g) and fiber (12.5g) per 100g, which are beneficial. However, it is classified as an ultra-processed food and contains 8.75g of added sugar, so it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does KIND NUTS & SPICES BAR compare to other snack bars?
Compared to some other snack bars like a Clif Bar, this KIND bar generally has less added sugar and more healthy fats from nuts. However, compared to a whole-food bar like an RXBar, which often uses dates for sweetness and fewer processed ingredients, the KIND bar contains more processed components like non GMO glucose and soy lecithin. Its nutritional profile makes it a reasonable option within the snack bar category.
What is chicory root fiber and why is it in this bar?
Chicory root fiber is a soluble fiber often used in food products to boost fiber content and sometimes to provide a slightly sweet taste. In this bar, it contributes significantly to the 12.5g of fiber per 100g, which supports digestive health. It can also act as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size is one bar. A single bar provides 210 calories, 6g protein, and 5g fiber. For most individuals, one bar is a reasonable portion for a snack. If you are less active or consuming other calorie-dense foods, consider sharing a bar or opting for half a bar to manage calorie intake.
Does this bar contain artificial sweeteners?
No, the ingredient list for the KIND NUTS & SPICES BAR, MAPLE GLAZED PECAN & SEA SALT does not list any artificial sweeteners. The sweetness primarily comes from honey, non GMO glucose, and maple syrup, which are all forms of sugar. Natural maple flavor is also used.
Is this bar suitable for people with celiac disease?
While the ingredient list does not explicitly contain gluten-containing grains, the product packaging or manufacturer's website should be checked for a 'gluten-free' certification. Without such a certification, cross-contamination during processing is a possibility, making it potentially unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

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