MUSCLE MILK BIRTHDAY CAKE FLAVORED PROTEIN BARS, BIRTHDAY CAKE
The MUSCLE MILK BIRTHDAY CAKE FLAVORED PROTEIN BAR scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and contributions from added sugar and saturated fat.
This protein bar has a FoodScore of 44/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides a notable 30g of protein and 12g of fiber per 100g serving.
Key concerns include its NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification and 9.8g of added sugar per 100g.
Compared to generic dairy, this bar is significantly more processed and higher in added sugar.
Consider this bar as an occasional supplement rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores +11 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
12g
43% of Daily Value
Protein
30g
60% of Daily Value
Added sugar
9.8g
20% of Daily Value
Sodium
380mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (12g)+12
Protein (30g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (9.8g)-11
Saturated fat (8g)-10
Sodium (380mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
The MUSCLE MILK BIRTHDAY CAKE FLAVORED PROTEIN BAR receives a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is heavily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the bar offers substantial nutritional positives, including 30g of protein and 12g of fiber per 100g, these benefits are offset by other factors. The presence of 9.8g of added sugar and 8g of saturated fat per 100g also contributes to score deductions. Ingredients such as maltitol syrup and erythritol are present as sweeteners, alongside sugar. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically be less processed and contain less added sugar and saturated fat, this MUSCLE MILK bar presents a less favorable nutritional balance, despite its high protein content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in muscle milk birthday cake flavored protein bars, birthday cake actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
This MUSCLE MILK bar is formulated with a milk-derived protein blend, including whey protein isolate and milk protein isolate, providing 30g of protein per 100g. This high protein content is beneficial for individuals looking to support muscle repair and growth, especially after physical activity. Protein is essential for building and maintaining lean muscle mass, and this bar can contribute significantly to daily protein targets for active individuals.
Contributes to Daily Fiber Intake
With 12g of fiber per 100g, this bar offers a notable amount of dietary fiber, primarily from soluble vegetable fiber and soluble corn fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods can be a strategy to support overall gut health and manage appetite.
Source of Essential Minerals
The bar provides 12% DV for both calcium and iron per 100g serving. Calcium is crucial for bone health and various physiological functions, while iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, these contributions can help individuals meet their daily requirements for these important minerals, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
The MUSCLE MILK BIRTHDAY CAKE FLAVORED PROTEIN BAR scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and contributions from added sugar and saturated fat.
How to eat it
Protein bars like MUSCLE MILK are often consumed as a convenient snack or meal replacement, particularly by individuals seeking to increase their protein intake. They are commonly eaten post-workout or as a quick option when time is limited. One bar constitutes a single serving.
Pair this bar with a piece of fruit or a handful of unsalted nuts to add more whole food nutrients and diverse fiber sources.
Consider consuming only half a bar if your protein needs are lower or if you are looking to reduce the intake of added sugars and saturated fat.
Use this bar as an occasional supplement for protein, rather than a primary source of nutrition, to maintain a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods.
If using as a post-workout snack, ensure adequate hydration alongside to support nutrient absorption and recovery.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that may be a concern for some individuals. The presence of maltitol syrup and erythritol, which are sugar alcohols, can cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea in sensitive individuals when consumed in larger quantities. The ingredient list also includes fractionated palm kernel and palm oil, which contribute to the saturated fat content. Allergens declared on the label include milk, soy, and egg, which are important considerations for individuals with these specific allergies. As an ultra-processed food, it is generally recommended to consume such products in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
MUSCLE MILK BIRTHDAY CAKE FLAVORED PROTEIN BAR scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers a high protein content (30g) and a good amount of fiber (12g) per 100g, it is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) and contains 9.8g of added sugar and 8g of saturated fat. Its nutritional profile suggests it's best consumed in moderation rather than as a regular 'healthy' staple.
How does MUSCLE MILK compare to other protein bars?
Compared to a less processed bar like an RXBar, which typically features whole food ingredients and no added sugar, the MUSCLE MILK bar contains more processed ingredients, added sugars, and saturated fat. While both offer protein, the MUSCLE MILK bar's ultra-processed nature and specific ingredient profile, including soy protein isolate and maltitol syrup, differentiate it from bars emphasizing minimal processing.
What is 'soluble vegetable fiber' in this bar?
Soluble vegetable fiber is a type of dietary fiber added to foods to boost their fiber content. In this MUSCLE MILK bar, it contributes to the significant 12g of fiber per 100g. Soluble fiber can help with digestion and promote satiety, but it's important to note that it's an isolated fiber rather than fiber from whole food sources.
How many MUSCLE MILK protein bars can I eat in a day?
Given its FoodScore of 44/100 and its classification as an ultra-processed food, it's advisable to limit consumption of this MUSCLE MILK bar. For most individuals, one bar occasionally as a protein supplement is reasonable. Regular daily consumption may lead to excessive intake of added sugars and saturated fats, which are best consumed in moderation.
Does this bar contain artificial sweeteners?
Yes, the MUSCLE MILK BIRTHDAY CAKE FLAVORED PROTEIN BAR contains maltitol syrup and erythritol, both of which are sugar alcohols. These are used to provide sweetness with fewer calories than sugar. While not artificial sweeteners in the traditional sense (like sucralose or aspartame), they are non-nutritive sweeteners that can affect some individuals differently than sugar.