MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES receives a FoodScore of 14/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
This product has a FoodScore of 14/100, indicating it is best avoided for regular consumption.
A single serving contains 25.79g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to whole-food alternatives like almonds or fruit, this bar offers minimal protein or fiber.
Consider this item as an occasional treat rather than a staple snack.
Scores -27 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
2.63g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
25.79g
52% of Daily Value
Sodium
289.47mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (25.8g)-25
Saturated fat (4.0g)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 14
MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES scores 14 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is primarily driven by its nutritional profile, which includes a significant amount of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, this product contains 25.79g of added sugar, leading to a substantial penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list highlights multiple sources of sugar, including corn syrup, invert sugar, and sugar itself, along with marshmallow as a primary component. Additionally, the product contains 3.95g of saturated fat per 100g, resulting in a -1 point penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it incurs a -10 point penalty for being ultra-processed. The bar offers no fiber, protein, or significant micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or iron, which would typically contribute bonus points. In contrast, whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit provide protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients without the high levels of added sugar and processing found in this MARKET PANTRY product.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in market pantry crispy bars, s'mores actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Quick Energy Source
This product can offer a rapid source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content, primarily from sugars. With 368.42 calories per 100g, it can provide a quick caloric boost when immediate energy is needed, such as during prolonged physical activity or when a rapid glucose intake is desired. However, this energy comes with minimal accompanying nutrients like fiber or protein, which would typically help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Convenient and Portable Snack Option
MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES offers convenience and portability as a pre-packaged snack. Its individual bar format makes it easy to carry and consume on the go, requiring no preparation or refrigeration. This can be useful in situations where access to fresh, whole foods is limited, providing a readily available option for a quick bite. Its shelf-stable nature contributes to its practicality for travel or emergency stashes.
Satisfies a Sweet Craving
For individuals seeking to satisfy a sweet craving, this product delivers a familiar s'mores flavor profile. The combination of marshmallow, chocolate, and graham crunch is designed to appeal to taste preferences for sweet and indulgent treats. While not a nutritionally dense option, it can serve as an occasional indulgence to fulfill specific taste desires, potentially preventing overconsumption of other less desirable foods if used mindfully.
MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES receives a FoodScore of 14/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES are typically consumed as a ready-to-eat snack or dessert. They are often packed in lunchboxes or eaten between meals. A common pitfall is consuming multiple bars due to their small size, which can quickly increase intake of added sugars and calories.
Consider pairing this bar with a source of protein or fiber, such as a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit, to help moderate blood sugar response.
Practice mindful eating by savoring each bite and being aware of your hunger and fullness cues to avoid overconsumption.
Limit consumption to an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to manage intake of added sugars and ultra-processed ingredients.
If you enjoy the s'mores flavor, consider making a homemade version with whole-grain crackers, dark chocolate, and roasted marshmallows for better ingredient control.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including wheat, milk, and soy, as indicated by ingredients like wheat flour, whey powder, nonfat milk powder, and soy lecithin. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The high content of added sugars, specifically 25.79g per 100g, means that individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and account for its impact on their daily carbohydrate intake. The presence of BHT (preservative) is noted in the crisp rice, which some consumers may prefer to avoid. As an ultra-processed food, it contains a blend of ingredients that may not be suitable for those following a minimally processed diet.
MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES is not considered a healthy food choice for regular consumption, scoring 14/100 on FoodScore. This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (25.79g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. It offers minimal protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients.
How does MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES compare to other snack bars?
Compared to more nutrient-dense snack bars like an RXBar, which often feature whole food ingredients and higher protein/fiber, MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES contains significantly more added sugar and is ultra-processed. While it provides quick energy, it lacks the nutritional contributions of bars designed for satiety or nutrient delivery.
What is 'Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate' in the ingredient list?
Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate is a food additive used as an emulsifier, thickener, and leavening agent, often found in processed foods like marshmallows. In this product, it contributes to the texture and stability of the marshmallow component. While generally recognized as safe, it is an indicator of the product's ultra-processed nature.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size is 1 bar. Given its high added sugar content, sticking to this single serving portion is advisable if you choose to consume it. For most individuals, it is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their daily snack routine to manage sugar intake.
Can children eat MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES?
Children can consume MARKET PANTRY CRISPY BARS, S'MORES, but due to its high added sugar content, it should be offered in moderation as an occasional treat. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars for children. Providing more nutrient-dense snacks like fruit, vegetables, or whole-grain options is generally preferred for their development and overall health.