LARABAR THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, COCONUT PINEAPPLE CAKE
LARABAR THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, COCONUT PINEAPPLE CAKE scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its high saturated fat content, despite containing no added sugar.
This LARABAR product scores 44/100 (Poor) on the FoodScore scale.
A notable strength is 0g of added sugar per 100g.
The primary concern is 11.11g of saturated fat per 100g.
It is classified as NOVA class 3 (processed), unlike whole-food alternatives.
Consider this bar for occasional use rather than a daily staple.
Scores +3 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
11.11g
40% of Daily Value
Protein
4.44g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
22mg
1% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (11.1g)+12
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (11.1g)-15
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 44
LARABAR THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, COCONUT PINEAPPLE CAKE receives a FoodScore of 44/100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, it earns a significant bonus of +12 points for its high fiber content, providing 11.11g per 100g, which is a substantial amount. It also gains +2 points for its Vitamin C content, contributing 15% of the Daily Value. However, these benefits are largely offset by penalties. The most significant deduction comes from its saturated fat content, with 11.11g per 100g, resulting in a -15 point penalty. This amount is considerable for a snack bar. Additionally, as a NOVA class 3 product, it incurs a -5 point penalty for being processed. While the product contains no added sugar, relying on natural sugars from dates and dried pineapple, the overall nutritional profile, particularly the saturated fat from dried coconut and nuts, prevents it from achieving a higher score. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a fruit pairing, this bar offers convenience but with a higher saturated fat load.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in larabar the original fruit & nut food bar, coconut pineapple cake actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Good Source of Dietary Fiber
This LARABAR provides 11.11g of fiber per 100g, which is a significant contribution to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. The fiber in this bar comes from its fruit and nut base, including dates and almonds, offering a blend of soluble and insoluble fibers that support gut function.
Naturally Sweetened with No Added Sugar
One of the key benefits of this product is that it contains 0g of added sugar. The sweetness comes entirely from naturally occurring sugars in the fruits, specifically dates and dried pineapple. This can be a beneficial choice for individuals looking to reduce their intake of added sugars, aligning with dietary guidelines that recommend limiting these.
Provides Some Micronutrients
While not a powerhouse of micronutrients, this LARABAR does offer some essential vitamins and minerals. It provides 15% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g, which is an antioxidant important for immune function. It also contributes 9% of the Daily Value for iron and 3% for calcium, supporting various bodily processes.
LARABAR THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, COCONUT PINEAPPLE CAKE scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its high saturated fat content, despite containing no added sugar.
How to eat it
Snack bars like this LARABAR are commonly consumed as a convenient on-the-go snack, a quick breakfast component, or a post-workout bite. A typical serving is one bar. While convenient, it's important to consider its nutritional profile within your overall daily intake.
To enhance satiety and balance the macros, pair this bar with a source of lean protein like plain Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg.
Given its calorie density, consider consuming half a bar as a smaller snack if you are managing calorie intake.
Use this bar as an occasional convenience food rather than a daily staple, especially if you are monitoring your saturated fat intake.
For a more balanced snack, combine with a fresh fruit or vegetable to increase micronutrient diversity and water content.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with tree nut allergies (almonds, cashews, coconut) should avoid this product as it contains these ingredients. The ingredient list is relatively simple, without many common food additives. However, the high saturated fat content from dried coconut and nuts is a consideration for those monitoring their cardiovascular health. While there are no artificial sweeteners or colors, the concentration of dried fruits means it is still a source of natural sugars, which should be considered in the context of overall sugar intake, particularly for individuals managing blood sugar levels. There are no specific interactions or populations that need to be uniquely cautious beyond general dietary considerations and declared allergens.
Is LARABAR THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, COCONUT PINEAPPLE CAKE healthy?
This LARABAR product scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it contains no added sugar and provides a good amount of fiber, its relatively high saturated fat content and classification as a processed food contribute to a lower score. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
How does LARABAR compare to other snack bars?
Compared to many other snack bars, this LARABAR stands out for its lack of added sugar and a relatively short ingredient list. However, bars like RXBar also emphasize minimal ingredients and no added sugar, often with a higher protein content. Other brands like KIND bars may offer more diverse nut and seed profiles but often contain added sugars.
What is the source of the high saturated fat in this bar?
The primary source of saturated fat in this LARABAR is the dried coconut. Coconut is naturally high in saturated fat. While nuts like almonds and cashews contain healthy fats, the significant amount of dried coconut contributes substantially to the 11.11g of saturated fat per 100g.
Can I eat this bar every day?
While this bar offers some nutritional benefits like fiber and no added sugar, its 422.22 calories and 11.11g saturated fat per 100g suggest it may not be ideal for daily consumption, especially if you are monitoring your saturated fat intake. Consider it as an occasional snack or a convenient option when whole foods are not available.
Is this LARABAR suitable for people with gluten sensitivities?
The ingredient list for this LARABAR does not include any gluten-containing ingredients such as wheat, barley, or rye. However, individuals with severe gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should always check the product packaging for specific gluten-free certifications to ensure there is no cross-contamination risk during manufacturing.