MADE GOOD CARAMEL CRISPY SQUARES BARS, CARAMEL CRISPY
MADE GOOD CARAMEL CRISPY SQUARES BARS receive a FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid), primarily due to their **high added sugar content**.
This product scores 25/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
A serving contains 22.27g of added sugar, a significant contributor to its low score.
It provides 61% DV of Vitamin C and 504% DV of Vitamin A per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), it differs substantially from whole-food snacks.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a daily dietary staple.
Scores -16 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
4.5g
16% of Daily Value
Protein
4.55g
9% of Daily Value
Added sugar
22.27g
45% of Daily Value
Sodium
364.09mg
16% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.5g)+5
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (22.3g)-25
Saturated fat (4.5g)-3
Sodium (364.1mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 25
MADE GOOD CARAMEL CRISPY SQUARES BARS received a FoodScore of 25 out of 100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the significant amount of added sugar, contributing 22.27 grams per 100 grams, which resulted in a substantial penalty of -25 points. Ingredients like invert cane syrup and cane sugar are listed early, indicating their prominence. Additionally, the product incurred a -3 point penalty for its 4.55 grams of saturated fat per 100 grams, and a minor -1 point penalty for its 364.09 mg of sodium. As a NOVA 3 classified food, it also received a -5 point penalty for being processed. On the positive side, it gained +5 points for its 4.5 grams of fiber and +4 points for its notable micronutrient content, specifically Vitamin A (504% DV) and Vitamin C (61% DV). However, these bonuses were not enough to offset the penalties, especially when compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, which naturally contain no added sugar and higher levels of beneficial nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in made good caramel crispy squares bars, caramel crispy actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Vitamins A and C
MADE GOOD CARAMEL CRISPY SQUARES BARS provide a notable amount of certain micronutrients. Per 100 grams, this product delivers 504% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A and 61% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C. These vitamins are essential for various bodily functions, including immune health and vision. While the product is processed, the inclusion of vegetable extracts contributes to these specific vitamin levels, offering a small nutritional benefit compared to snacks devoid of micronutrients.
Contains Dietary Fiber
This product offers 4.5 grams of dietary fiber per 100 grams, which contributes positively to its nutritional profile. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. The presence of inulin, a type of soluble fiber, is likely a key contributor to this fiber content. While not a primary source of fiber, it does offer more than many other snack bars in its category.
Convenient Snack Option
For individuals seeking a quick and portable snack, MADE GOOD CARAMEL CRISPY SQUARES BARS offer convenience. Their individual packaging makes them easy to transport and consume on the go, fitting into busy lifestyles. While not a nutrient-dense choice for regular consumption, their accessibility can be a factor for occasional use when other options are not readily available.
MADE GOOD CARAMEL CRISPY SQUARES BARS receive a FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid), primarily due to their high added sugar content.
How to eat it
These crispy squares are typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-eat snack. They are often packed in lunchboxes or eaten between meals. Given their nutritional profile, they are best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
Pair with a source of protein like plain Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts to enhance satiety and balance blood sugar.
Consider cutting a bar in half to manage portion size, especially for children, to reduce added sugar intake.
Use as a small, occasional dessert rather than a daily snack to limit overall consumption of processed foods.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain texture and freshness, ensuring the best eating experience.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with specific dietary concerns should review the ingredient list carefully. The product contains palm fruit oil, which is a source of saturated fat. While the product includes vegetable extracts, it is not a substitute for whole vegetables. Those sensitive to inulin, a type of fiber, might experience digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities. The product does not declare common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg on its primary ingredient list, but cross-contamination warnings are typically found on packaging and should be checked by individuals with severe allergies. Due to the added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels should consume this product with caution and in limited portions.
Based on its FoodScore of 25/100, MADE GOOD CARAMEL CRISPY SQUARES BARS are not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. The score reflects a high amount of added sugar and its classification as a processed food, despite some beneficial micronutrients and fiber.
How does MADE GOOD compare to other snack bars?
Compared to a whole-food snack like an apple with a handful of almonds, MADE GOOD CARAMEL CRISPY SQUARES BARS contain significantly more added sugar and are more processed. When compared to other snack bars in the category, such as a KIND bar, the nutritional profile can vary, but the added sugar content in this MADE GOOD product is a primary differentiator.
What is 'invert cane syrup'?
Invert cane syrup is a type of sugar syrup derived from cane sugar. It is a sweetener commonly used in processed foods to provide sweetness and moisture. Its presence early in the ingredient list indicates it is a significant component of the product's overall sugar content.
What is a reasonable portion size for these bars?
The serving size is one bar. However, given the added sugar content, consuming half a bar, especially for children, could be a more appropriate portion to manage sugar intake. For adults, one bar can be an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.
Are the vegetable extracts effective in providing nutrients?
The vegetable extracts (spinach, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, beets, shiitake mushrooms) contribute to the product's Vitamin A and C content. While they add some micronutrients, they are not a substitute for consuming whole, unprocessed vegetables as part of a balanced diet. The amount of actual vegetable matter is likely small.