Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 6/100 (Avoid). This score is primarily driven by its **high content of added sugar** and its classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE scores 6/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
This product contains 35.66g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
It is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to plain sparkling water, this bar offers minimal nutritional benefits.
Consider this bar an occasional treat due to its high added sugar and fat content.
Scores -26 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
1.89g
7% of Daily Value
Protein
7.55g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
35.66g
71% of Daily Value
Sodium
226.42mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (1.9g)+1
Protein (7.5g)+3
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (35.7g)-25
Saturated fat (8.5g)-10
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 6
Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 6 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This low score is largely due to its nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and fats, and its classification as an ultra-processed food. Per 100g, the product contains 35.66g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. The presence of ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and lactose as primary components contributes to this high sugar load. Additionally, the total fat content is 22.64g per 100g, with 8.49g being saturated fat, leading to a -10 point penalty. The use of palm oil and partially hydrogenated soybean oil also contributes to the concentrated ultra-processed fat penalty. As a NOVA class 4 food, it receives an additional -10 point penalty for being ultra-processed. While it gains a small bonus of +1 for its 1.89g of fiber and +3 for its 7.55g of protein, these are insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to a baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, this Mars Chocolate North America LLC product offers minimal micronutrients and a high caloric density from sugar and fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in mars chocolate north america yard bar chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Quick Energy Source
This chocolate bar can provide a rapid source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content, primarily from sugars. With 471.7 calories per 100g, it delivers a concentrated amount of energy quickly, which might be useful in situations requiring an immediate caloric boost. However, this energy comes with a significant amount of added sugar, which can lead to a rapid rise and fall in blood sugar levels.
Source of Protein and Fiber
Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE provides a modest amount of protein and fiber. Per 100g, it contains 7.55g of protein and 1.89g of fiber. While these amounts are not substantial enough to make it a primary source, they do offer a small contribution to daily intake. The protein content, likely from peanuts and skim milk, can contribute to satiety to a limited extent.
Contains Some Calcium and Iron
This product offers minor amounts of certain micronutrients. Per 100g, it provides 75.66mg of calcium (6% DV) and 0.68mg of iron (4% DV). While these percentages are low, they represent a small contribution to daily nutrient needs. These nutrients are likely derived from the milk chocolate and skim milk components of the bar.
Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE receives a FoodScore of 6/100 (Avoid). This score is primarily driven by its high content of added sugar and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE is typically consumed as a snack or dessert, often as a treat. It is designed for individual consumption and is not intended to be a primary meal component. Due to its high caloric density and sugar content, moderation is key.
Consider consuming only a portion of the bar at a time to manage calorie and sugar intake.
Pair this bar with a source of fiber and protein, such as an apple or a handful of nuts, to help slow sugar absorption.
Limit consumption to occasional treats rather than a regular part of your daily diet.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality and prevent melting.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies to milk, peanuts, soy, or eggs should avoid Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE, as these are declared allergens in the ingredient list. The product contains a high amount of added sugar (35.66g per 100g), which can be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes or prediabetes. The presence of partially hydrogenated soybean oil indicates a source of trans fats, although the label states 0g trans fat per 100g, small amounts can still be present. The classification as an ultra-processed food also suggests a nutrient profile that may not align with dietary guidelines for regular consumption.
Is Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE healthy?
Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE is not considered a healthy food for regular consumption. It scores 6/100 on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content (35.66g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some protein and fiber, these are minimal compared to its less beneficial components.
How does Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE compare to other chocolate bars?
Compared to many other standard chocolate bars like a Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar, Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE has a similar profile of high added sugar and saturated fat. Its inclusion of peanuts adds some protein and fiber, which might be slightly higher than a plain milk chocolate bar, but it remains an ultra-processed treat.
What is 'partially hydrogenated soybean oil' in the ingredient list?
Partially hydrogenated soybean oil is a type of fat that has undergone a process to make it more solid at room temperature. This process can create trans fats, which are generally considered detrimental to heart health. While the label states 0g trans fat, small amounts can still be present.
What is a reasonable portion size for this chocolate bar?
The serving size is 1 bar, but given its high caloric density (471.7 calories per 100g) and added sugar content, a smaller portion might be more appropriate for occasional indulgence. Consider sharing the bar or consuming only half to manage your intake of sugar and fat.
Can children eat Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE?
Children can consume Mars Chocolate North America YARD BAR CHOCOLATE in moderation as an occasional treat. However, due to its high added sugar content, it should not be a regular part of a child's diet. Excessive sugar intake in children can contribute to dental issues and an unbalanced diet.