The MARATHON Chewy Peanut Butter Energy Bar scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and ultra-processed nature, despite notable protein and micronutrient contributions.
FoodScore: 44/100 (Poor), indicating a product that contributes minimally to a healthy dietary pattern.
Contains 25.45g protein per 100g, a significant protein source for an energy bar.
A major concern is the 19.09g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a high sugar load.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), indicating a formulation with many industrial ingredients.
Best consumed as an occasional snack for quick energy and protein, rather than a daily staple.
Scores +11 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
The MARATHON Chewy Peanut Butter Energy Bar receives a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, the bar provides a substantial 25.45g of protein per 100g, earning a +10 bonus, and 9.09g of fiber, contributing another +12. It also delivers a strong micronutrient profile, with significant amounts of calcium (63% DV), iron (63% DV), magnesium (61% DV), zinc (87% DV), Vitamin A (353% DV), Vitamin C (121% DV), and Vitamin B12 (454% DV), which collectively add +12 to its score. However, these benefits are largely offset by several penalties. The bar contains 19.09g of added sugar per 100g, leading to a significant -25 penalty. Ingredients like corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup are primary contributors to this sugar content. It also incurs a -4 penalty for its 5.45g of saturated fat and a -1 penalty for 436.36mg of sodium. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, results in a -10 penalty. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has less added sugar and fewer industrial ingredients, the MARATHON bar's nutrient density is compromised by its processing and sugar load.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in marathon chewy peanut butter energy bar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
This MARATHON bar is a good source of protein, providing 25.45g per 100g. Protein is essential for repairing and building muscle tissue, making this bar a suitable option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, especially after physical activity. The inclusion of soy protein isolate and milk protein concentrate contributes to its high protein content, which can help with satiety and muscle recovery. Consuming adequate protein is a key component of a balanced diet for active individuals.
Contributes to Bone Health and Energy Metabolism
The bar is fortified with several key micronutrients that support overall health. It provides 63% DV for calcium and 61% DV for magnesium per 100g, both crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Additionally, it offers 63% DV for iron and 87% DV for zinc, which play vital roles in energy metabolism and immune function, respectively. These added vitamins and minerals, such as tricalcium phosphate and ferrous fumarate, enhance the bar's nutritional profile beyond its macronutrient content.
Provides a Source of Dietary Fiber
With 9.09g of fiber per 100g, this MARATHON bar offers a notable amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to promote regularity and contribute to feelings of fullness. The presence of polydextrose, a type of soluble fiber, contributes to this amount. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet can also help manage blood sugar levels and support a healthy gut microbiome. This makes the bar a convenient option for boosting fiber intake on the go.
The MARATHON Chewy Peanut Butter Energy Bar scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature, despite notable protein and micronutrient contributions.
How to eat it
Energy bars like the MARATHON Chewy Peanut Butter Energy Bar are typically consumed as a quick snack or meal replacement, especially before or after exercise, or when on the go. The serving size is 1.94 ounces, which is a convenient single portion. Due to its energy density, it's important to consider it within your daily caloric needs.
Pair with a piece of fruit like an apple or banana to add whole food nutrients and increase overall fiber content.
Consider consuming half a bar if you need a smaller snack, as the full serving provides a significant calorie and sugar load.
Use as a pre- or post-workout snack to leverage its protein content for muscle recovery and carbohydrates for energy.
If you're looking for a less processed option, consider a handful of plain peanuts and a piece of fruit instead of an energy bar.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies should note that this product contains peanuts, soy, milk, and almonds, as listed in the ingredients. The presence of sucralose, an artificial sweetener, may be a concern for some individuals, particularly those with sensitivities to non-nutritive sweeteners or those aiming to avoid them. While generally recognized as safe, some people report digestive discomfort from artificial sweeteners. The bar's high added sugar content, including high fructose corn syrup, should be considered by individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes. Its ultra-processed nature means it contains several industrial ingredients that may not align with dietary preferences focused on whole, minimally processed foods.
Is MARATHON Chewy Peanut Butter Energy Bar healthy?
The MARATHON Chewy Peanut Butter Energy Bar has a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor). While it offers a good amount of protein and several micronutrients, its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature mean it contributes minimally to a healthy dietary pattern. It is best viewed as an occasional energy source rather than a daily 'healthy' food.
How does MARATHON compare to other energy bars?
Compared to some other energy bars, such as a KIND Bar, the MARATHON bar has a higher protein content (25.45g vs. typically 10-12g per 100g for KIND). However, it also contains more added sugar and is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), whereas many KIND bars are less processed. The choice depends on whether your priority is high protein or a less processed ingredient list.
What is polydextrose, and why is it in this bar?
Polydextrose is a soluble fiber often used as a bulking agent and to add fiber content to foods. In the MARATHON bar, it contributes to the 9.09g of fiber per 100g. It can help improve the texture of the bar and provide some digestive benefits associated with dietary fiber.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size is 1.94 ounces (approximately 55g). This provides about 210 calories, 14g of protein, and 10.5g of added sugar. For most individuals, consuming one bar as a snack is a reasonable portion, especially if you need a quick energy boost. However, if you are monitoring calorie or sugar intake, half a bar might be more appropriate.
Can this bar be eaten by someone with a nut allergy?
No, this MARATHON bar contains peanuts and almonds, and the ingredient list clearly states 'PEANUTS' and 'ALMONDS'. It is not suitable for individuals with peanut or tree nut allergies due to the presence of these allergens and potential cross-contamination risks.