Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its score is primarily driven by a balance of beneficial fiber and protein against its content of added sugar and saturated fat.
Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip receives a FoodScore of 50/100.
This bar provides 8.89g of fiber and 11.11g of protein per 100g.
The product contains 8.9g of added sugar and 6.67g of saturated fat per 100g.
As a NOVA class 3 processed snack, it differs from whole-food alternatives like raw almonds.
Consider this bar as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple.
Scores +0 points above the snack category average (50/100 across 55 foods).
Fiber
8.89g
32% of Daily Value
Protein
11.11g
22% of Daily Value
Added sugar
8.9g
18% of Daily Value
Sodium
156mg
7% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (8.9g)+11
Protein (11.1g)+7
Micronutrients (Potassium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (8.9g)-10
Saturated fat (6.7g)-7
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 50
Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip achieves a FoodScore of 50 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a mixed nutritional profile, balancing some beneficial components with areas for moderation. The bar receives bonuses for its fiber content, providing 8.89g per 100g, and its protein content of 11.11g per 100g, both contributing positively to satiety and digestive health. Additionally, the presence of potassium (555.56mg, 12% DV) and iron (3.78mg, 21% DV) adds a small micronutrient bonus. However, these benefits are offset by penalties. The bar contains 8.9g of added sugar per 100g, primarily from dates and the sugar in the semisweet chocolate chips, which contributes to a penalty. Its saturated fat content of 6.67g per 100g also incurs a penalty. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it receives a penalty for being a processed product, distinguishing it from less processed options like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, which serve as a whole-food baseline.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in larabar peanut butter chocolate chip actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This Larabar provides 8.89g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to digestive health and satiety. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management. The fiber primarily comes from the dates and peanuts, which are key ingredients in the bar. Including fiber-rich snacks can help meet daily recommended intake goals.
Contributes to Protein Intake
With 11.11g of protein per 100g, this bar can contribute to daily protein needs, supporting muscle maintenance and repair. The protein is largely derived from peanuts, a plant-based source. Protein also plays a role in satiety, helping to keep you feeling full between meals. This makes the bar a more substantial snack option compared to those primarily composed of simple carbohydrates.
Provides Essential Minerals
The Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip offers a notable amount of iron (3.78mg, 21% DV) and potassium (555.56mg, 12% DV) per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the body, while potassium is important for maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure. These minerals are naturally present in the dates and peanuts, offering some micronutrient support within the snack.
Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its score is primarily driven by a balance of beneficial fiber and protein against its content of added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip is typically consumed as a convenient snack, often on-the-go, between meals, or as a quick energy source. A common portion is one bar, which provides a balance of macronutrients.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of vegetables to increase overall nutrient density and fiber intake.
Consider half a bar as a smaller snack if you are managing calorie intake or if it's close to a meal.
Use as a pre-workout snack for sustained energy due to its carbohydrate and fat content.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain texture and prevent the chocolate chips from melting.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. Individuals with peanut allergies should avoid this product. While the bar does not contain artificial sweeteners or colors, it does contain 8.9g of added sugar per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, should be mindful of this when incorporating it into their diet. The semisweet chocolate chips also contribute to the sugar content. There are no other specific additives in the ingredient list that typically warrant significant caution for the general population.
Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip scores 50/100, indicating it's a decent option. It offers fiber and protein, but also contains added sugar and saturated fat. Its healthfulness depends on your overall dietary pattern and how frequently you consume it. It's not a whole food but can fit into a balanced diet in moderation.
How does Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip compare to a generic granola bar?
Compared to many generic granola bars, Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip often has a simpler ingredient list, relying on dates and peanuts. It typically provides more fiber and protein than some highly processed granola bars, which may contain more added sugars and artificial ingredients. However, its added sugar and saturated fat content should still be considered.
What is the source of sugar in this Larabar?
The sugar in Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip primarily comes from dates, which are a natural source of sugars, and from the sugar in the semisweet chocolate chips. The product contains 8.9g of added sugar per 100g, which is a combination of these sources.
How many Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip bars can I eat in a day?
Given its 50/100 FoodScore and its contribution of 8.9g added sugar and 6.67g saturated fat per 100g, it's advisable to consume this bar in moderation. One bar (approximately 45g) as an occasional snack is a reasonable portion. Daily intake should be balanced with other whole, unprocessed foods to meet nutritional needs without excessive intake of added sugars or saturated fats.
Can Larabar Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip be part of a weight loss diet?
While this Larabar provides fiber and protein, which can aid satiety, its calorie density (488.89 calories per 100g) and added sugar content mean portion control is key for weight loss. It can be included as an occasional snack, but whole, unprocessed foods are generally more beneficial for sustained weight management due to their higher nutrient density and lower calorie count per volume.