The MARATHON ENERGY BAR, CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its high protein and micronutrient content are notable, though these benefits are balanced by its classification as an ultra-processed food with significant added sugar.
This MARATHON bar has a FoodScore of 50/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
It provides a substantial 25g of protein and 15.86g of fiber per 100g serving.
A primary concern is the 14.35g of added sugar and its NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification.
Compared to plain sparkling water, this bar offers significant calories and macronutrients.
Consider this bar for specific energy needs rather than a regular snack due to its nutrient density.
Scores +18 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
The MARATHON ENERGY BAR, CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE achieves a FoodScore of 50 out of 100, positioning it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and less favorable components. On the positive side, the bar receives significant bonuses for its high protein content, providing 25g per 100g, and its impressive fiber contribution of 15.86g. It also scores well for micronutrients, delivering over 100% DV for calcium, zinc, and vitamin B12, along with strong contributions of iron, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. However, several factors reduce its overall score. A substantial penalty is applied due to 14.35g of added sugar, which is a notable amount. The presence of 5.68g of saturated fat also contributes to a penalty. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4ultra-processed food incurs a significant deduction. Ingredients like corn syrup and polydextrose contribute to both the added sugar and processing level. Compared to a baseline of plain sparkling water, which provides no calories or macronutrients, this MARATHON bar offers a concentrated source of energy and nutrients, but also comes with higher levels of added sugar and fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in marathon energy bar, crunch dark chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This MARATHON bar is a high-protein option, providing 25g of protein per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, making this bar potentially useful for individuals with increased protein needs, such as athletes or those engaged in regular physical activity. The protein content can also contribute to a feeling of fullness, which may help manage appetite between meals. Including a significant amount of protein can be beneficial for maintaining lean body mass.
Contributes to Daily Fiber Intake
With 15.86g of fiber per 100g, this MARATHON bar offers a substantial amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to promote regular bowel movements and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Adequate fiber intake is also associated with better blood sugar control and can contribute to satiety. The chicory fiber (inulin) listed in the ingredients is a type of soluble fiber known for its prebiotic properties.
Source of Key Micronutrients
The MARATHON ENERGY BAR provides several important micronutrients. It is an excellent source of calcium (105% DV), zinc (108% DV), and vitamin B12 (567% DV) per 100g. It also contributes significantly to daily iron (79% DV), magnesium (75% DV), vitamin A (440% DV), and vitamin C (151% DV) needs. These nutrients play vital roles in various bodily functions, including bone health, immune function, energy metabolism, and antioxidant defense. The fortification or inclusion of ingredients rich in these vitamins and minerals enhances the bar's nutritional density.
The MARATHON ENERGY BAR, CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its high protein and micronutrient content are notable, though these benefits are balanced by its classification as an ultra-processed food with significant added sugar.
How to eat it
Energy bars like the MARATHON CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE are typically consumed as a convenient snack or meal replacement, often before or after physical activity. They are designed to provide a quick source of energy and nutrients on the go. A common portion is one bar.
Pair this bar with a source of whole fruit or vegetables to add more whole food nutrients and increase overall fiber content.
Consider consuming half a bar if your energy needs are lower, as the full serving is calorie-dense.
Use this bar as a post-workout recovery snack to help replenish energy stores and support muscle repair, especially given its high protein content.
If you are looking for a less processed option, consider a handful of nuts and a piece of fruit as an alternative to this bar.
Things to keep in mind
This MARATHON ENERGY BAR contains several common allergens, including soy, milk, and peanuts, as declared on the ingredient list. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The bar is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which means it contains ingredients typically not found in home kitchens, such as polydextrose and various forms of sugar and oils. While not inherently harmful, a diet high in ultra-processed foods may be associated with certain health considerations. The presence of glycerin and polydextrose can sometimes cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals if consumed in large quantities. For those monitoring added sugar intake, the 14.35g per 100g serving is a factor to consider in the context of daily dietary guidelines.
Is MARATHON ENERGY BAR, CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE healthy?
The MARATHON ENERGY BAR, CRUNCH DARK CHOCOLATE has a FoodScore of 50/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers significant protein and fiber, along with several important micronutrients. However, it is also an ultra-processed food with notable amounts of added sugar and saturated fat. Its healthfulness depends on individual dietary needs and overall eating patterns.
How does MARATHON compare to other energy bars?
Compared to some other energy bars like a KIND Bar, the MARATHON bar offers a higher protein content (25g vs. typically 6-12g). However, it also contains a higher level of added sugar and is classified as ultra-processed, whereas some other brands may emphasize whole ingredients. The nutritional profile varies significantly across the energy bar category, so comparing specific nutrient values is key.
What is polydextrose in this bar?
Polydextrose is a synthetic polymer of glucose used as a food ingredient. In this MARATHON bar, it functions as a bulking agent and a source of dietary fiber. It contributes to the bar's fiber content but is also an indicator of its ultra-processed nature.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size for the MARATHON ENERGY BAR is 1.56 ounces (approximately 44g). This provides about 150 calories, 11g protein, and 7g fiber per bar. For most individuals, one bar is a reasonable portion when used as a snack or to fuel activity, considering its calorie and nutrient density.
Can this bar be eaten daily?
While the MARATHON ENERGY BAR provides beneficial nutrients, its classification as an ultra-processed food with added sugar suggests it may not be ideal for daily consumption as a primary food source. Incorporating a variety of whole, minimally processed foods into your diet is generally recommended. Consider it for specific occasions when a convenient, nutrient-dense option is needed.