MUSCLE MILK MINT COOKIE CRUNCH FLAVORED PROTEIN BARS, MINT COOKIE CRUNCH
MUSCLE MILK MINT COOKIE CRUNCH FLAVORED PROTEIN BARS score 43/100 (Poor) due to their **ultra-processed nature** and significant **added sugar** content, despite providing a notable amount of protein and fiber.
This MUSCLE MILK bar has a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 30.61g of protein and 10.2g of fiber per 100g.
A primary concern is the 12.89g of added sugar and its NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification.
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this bar contains significantly more added sugar and sodium.
Consider this bar as an occasional supplement rather than a regular meal replacement.
Scores +10 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
10.2g
36% of Daily Value
Protein
30.61g
61% of Daily Value
Added sugar
12.89g
26% of Daily Value
Sodium
387.76mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (10.2g)+12
Protein (30.6g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
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What holds it back
Added sugar (12.9g)-16
Saturated fat (6.1g)-6
Sodium (387.8mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 43
The MUSCLE MILK MINT COOKIE CRUNCH FLAVORED PROTEIN BAR receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score reflects a combination of beneficial nutrients and less favorable components. On the positive side, the bar earns points for its high protein content, providing 30.61g per 100g, and a substantial 10.2g of fiber. It also receives a small bonus for micronutrients like calcium (13% DV) and iron (16% DV). However, several factors significantly reduce its score. The presence of 12.89g of added sugar per 100g, primarily from ingredients like sugar and invert evaporated cane sugar, incurs a substantial penalty. The saturated fat content of 6.12g per 100g also contributes to a deduction. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food results in a significant penalty, indicating extensive industrial processing and the inclusion of many non-whole food ingredients. The sodium content of 387.76mg per 100g also leads to a minor penalty. While marketed as a protein bar, the overall nutritional balance, particularly the added sugar and processing, positions it below a generic dairy equivalent in terms of healthfulness.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in muscle milk mint cookie crunch flavored protein bars, mint cookie crunch 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, contributing 30.61g 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 an essential macronutrient that plays a crucial role in building and maintaining lean muscle mass, making this bar a convenient option for post-workout recovery or as a protein supplement.
Contributes to Daily Fiber Intake
With 10.2g of fiber per 100g, this bar can help individuals meet their daily fiber recommendations. The fiber comes from sources like soluble corn fiber and soluble vegetable fiber. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, promoting regularity, and contributing to feelings of fullness, which can be helpful for appetite management. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet is a key component of a balanced eating pattern.
Source of Essential Minerals
The MUSCLE MILK bar provides some essential minerals, notably 163.06mg of calcium (13% DV) and 2.94mg of iron (16% DV) per 100g. Calcium is vital for bone health and muscle function, while iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source of all micronutrients, these contributions can help supplement daily intake, especially for individuals who may have gaps in their diet.
MUSCLE MILK MINT COOKIE CRUNCH FLAVORED PROTEIN BARS score 43/100 (Poor) due to their ultra-processed nature and significant added sugar content, despite providing a notable amount of protein and fiber.
How to eat it
Protein bars like MUSCLE MILK MINT COOKIE CRUNCH are typically consumed as a convenient snack, a post-workout recovery aid, or an occasional meal replacement when whole foods are not readily available. The serving size is one bar, and it's important to consider the nutritional profile in the context of your overall daily intake.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add more whole food nutrients and increase satiety.
Consider consuming half a bar if you are looking for a smaller protein boost to manage calorie intake.
Use as an occasional emergency snack rather than a daily staple to limit intake of added sugars and ultra-processed ingredients.
Keep in mind that while convenient, whole food protein sources like Greek yogurt or lean meats generally offer a more complete nutrient profile.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies should note that this product contains milk and soy ingredients, including soy protein isolate and soy lecithin. The presence of maltitol syrup, a sugar alcohol, may cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea in some sensitive individuals if consumed in large quantities. The bar is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), meaning it contains ingredients like fractionated palm kernel oil and natural flavors, which are common in highly processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, the long-term health implications of diets high in ultra-processed foods are a subject of ongoing research. Consumers monitoring their added sugar intake should be aware of the 12.89g per 100g.
Is MUSCLE MILK MINT COOKIE CRUNCH FLAVORED PROTEIN BAR healthy?
This MUSCLE MILK bar scores 43/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional profile according to FoodScore. While it provides a good amount of protein (30.61g) and fiber (10.2g), it is also high in added sugar (12.89g) and classified as an ultra-processed food. It can fit into a diet as an occasional supplement, but it is not a primary source of balanced nutrition.
How does MUSCLE MILK MINT COOKIE CRUNCH compare to other protein bars?
Compared to a whole-food based bar like an RXBar, which typically has fewer ingredients and no added sugar, this MUSCLE MILK bar contains more processed ingredients and added sugar. While it offers a higher protein content than some competitors, its NOVA 4 classification and added sugar content differentiate it from less processed options in the protein bar category.
What is 'fractionated palm kernel oil' in the ingredient list?
Fractionated palm kernel oil is a type of fat derived from palm kernel oil that has been processed to separate its different fatty acid components. It is commonly used in processed foods for its texture and stability. This ingredient contributes to the saturated fat content of the bar, which is 6.12g per 100g.
How much of this bar should I eat daily?
The serving size is one bar. Given its 'Poor' FoodScore and high added sugar content, it is advisable to consume this bar in moderation, perhaps a few times a week at most, rather than daily. For regular protein intake, prioritizing whole food sources like lean meats, dairy, or legumes is generally recommended.
Does this bar contain artificial sweeteners?
This MUSCLE MILK bar contains stevia extract, which is a high-intensity sweetener derived from the stevia plant. While not an artificial sweetener, it is a non-nutritive sweetener used to provide sweetness without adding calories or sugar. It also contains maltitol syrup, a sugar alcohol.