LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut scores 36/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its low score is primarily driven by the **high amount of added sugar** and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut has a FoodScore of 36/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
Each 100g serving contains 18.8g of added sugar, a significant contributor to its low score.
The bar provides 16.7g of protein and 6.2g of fiber per 100g, offering some beneficial nutrients.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs substantially from whole-food snack alternatives.
Consider this bar for occasional use rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -14 points above the snack category average (50/100 across 55 foods).
LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut receives a FoodScore of 36 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score reflects a combination of beneficial nutrients and significant nutritional drawbacks. On the positive side, the bar earns bonus points for its protein content, providing 16.7g per 100g, and its fiber content, with 6.2g per 100g. It also contributes some micronutrients, including 12% DV for calcium, iron, and magnesium. However, these benefits are largely overshadowed by several penalties. The most substantial penalty comes from its added sugar content, which is 18.8g per 100g. Additionally, the bar contains 5.2g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to a penalty. The presence of ingredients like brown rice syrup, cane sugar, and glucose syrup indicates multiple sources of added sugars. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food incurs a significant penalty, reflecting its extensive industrial processing and formulation with ingredients not typically used in home cooking, such as soy protein isolate and chicory fiber syrup. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this product contains a higher concentration of added sugars and processed ingredients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in luna chocolate dipped coconut actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This LUNA bar provides 16.7g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to satiety and muscle maintenance. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. The protein in this bar comes from a protein grain blend that includes soy protein isolate and roasted soybeans, offering a plant-based protein source. For individuals seeking to increase their protein intake, particularly after physical activity, this bar can serve as a convenient option.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 6.2g of fiber per 100g, this LUNA bar contributes to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. The fiber content is likely enhanced by ingredients such as rolled oats and chicory fiber syrup. Including fiber in snacks can help promote a feeling of fullness, which may assist with appetite management throughout the day.
Provides Select Micronutrients
The LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut bar offers modest amounts of certain micronutrients. Per 100g, it provides 12% DV for calcium, iron, and magnesium, and 6% DV for potassium. These minerals play various roles in the body, such as supporting bone health, oxygen transport, and muscle function. While not a primary source of these nutrients, it can contribute to overall intake, especially for individuals who may have gaps in their diet, offering a convenient way to obtain some essential minerals.
LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut scores 36/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its low score is primarily driven by the high amount of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut bars are typically consumed as a convenient snack, often on-the-go or as a quick energy source. They are commonly eaten as a mid-morning or afternoon snack, or sometimes after a workout. A typical portion is one bar.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair a LUNA bar with a whole food source of healthy fats or fresh produce, such as a handful of almonds or an apple.
Given its added sugar content, consider this bar as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.
If using as a post-workout snack, be mindful of other sugar sources in your diet to manage overall intake.
For a more balanced snack, consider splitting the bar and combining it with a protein-rich food like Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including soy and tree nuts (coconut). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The ingredient list also includes palm kernel oil and palm kernel solids, which are sources of saturated fat. While the bar contains fiber, the presence of chicory fiber syrup may cause digestive discomfort, such as gas or bloating, in some individuals sensitive to certain types of soluble fibers. The product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), indicating it contains ingredients and additives not typically found in home kitchens, such as soy protein isolate and vegetable glycerin. Consumers monitoring their intake of processed foods may wish to consume this product in moderation.
LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut scores 36/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides protein (16.7g/100g) and fiber (6.2g/100g), its high added sugar content (18.8g/100g) and classification as an ultra-processed food significantly lower its nutritional rating. It is not considered a healthy everyday snack.
How does LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut compare to other snack bars?
Compared to many other snack bars, LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut offers a notable amount of protein and fiber. However, it also contains a significant amount of added sugar and is an ultra-processed food. For example, a whole-food bar like an RXBar might have less processing and different sugar sources, while a candy bar would likely have higher added sugar and less protein/fiber.
What is 'chicory fiber syrup' in the ingredients?
Chicory fiber syrup is a soluble fiber derived from chicory root. It is often added to foods to boost their fiber content and can also act as a sweetener. While beneficial for fiber intake, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as gas or bloating, from consuming large amounts of chicory fiber.
How much of this bar should I eat in a day?
Given its FoodScore of 36/100 and its high added sugar content, it is recommended to consume LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut in moderation. A single bar is a typical serving size. For a balanced diet, prioritize whole, unprocessed foods and limit intake of ultra-processed snacks.
Does this bar contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list begins with a 'PROTEIN GRAIN BLEND' that includes rolled oats, which are a whole grain. However, the bar also contains other refined ingredients and added sugars. While it has some whole grain content, it is not solely a whole grain product.
Is LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut suitable for people with soy allergies?
No, LUNA Chocolate Dipped Coconut is not suitable for individuals with soy allergies. The ingredient list explicitly states 'SOY PROTEIN ISOLATE', 'ROASTED SOYBEANS', 'SOY FLOUR', and 'SOY LECITHIN', indicating multiple soy-derived ingredients. Always check the allergen statement on the packaging if you have food allergies.