The MUSCLE MILK PROTEIN BAR, MINT COOKIE CRUNCH scores 43/100 (Poor) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and notable **added sugar content**, despite providing a significant amount of protein.
This MUSCLE MILK bar has a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a Poor nutritional rating.
It provides a substantial 30.61g of protein and 10.2g of fiber per 100g serving.
A key concern is the 12.89g of added sugar and its NOVA 4 classification as ultra-processed.
Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this bar contains more protein and fiber but also higher added sugar and sodium.
Consider this bar for occasional use as a protein 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
−
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 PROTEIN BAR, MINT COOKIE CRUNCH receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. While the bar offers a notable 30.61g of protein and 10.2g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score, these benefits are offset by other nutritional factors. The presence of 12.89g of added sugar from ingredients like sugar and invert evaporated cane sugar leads to a substantial penalty. Additionally, the 6.12g of saturated fat and 387.76mg of sodium per 100g also contribute to score deductions. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this bar typically contains higher protein and fiber, but also significantly more added sugars and sodium, reflecting its formulation as a specialized protein product rather than a whole food.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in muscle milk protein bar, 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, providing 30.61g of protein per 100g. This high protein content can be beneficial for individuals looking to support muscle repair and growth, especially after physical activity. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, and consuming adequate amounts can help maintain lean body mass.
Contributes to Daily Fiber Intake
With 10.2g of fiber per 100g, this bar contributes significantly to daily fiber recommendations. The fiber comes from sources like soluble corn fiber and soluble vegetable fiber. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to promote regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet can also contribute to feelings of fullness.
Source of Essential Minerals
The MUSCLE MILK bar provides some essential minerals, including 13% DV for calcium and 16% DV for iron per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and muscle function, while iron plays a vital role in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source of all micronutrients, these contributions can help supplement daily intake, especially for individuals with higher needs.
The MUSCLE MILK PROTEIN BAR, MINT COOKIE CRUNCH scores 43/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and notable added sugar content, despite providing a significant amount of protein.
How to eat it
Protein bars like MUSCLE MILK PROTEIN BAR, MINT COOKIE CRUNCH are commonly consumed as a convenient snack or a post-workout recovery aid. They are designed for on-the-go consumption and can help bridge gaps between meals or provide a quick source of protein when whole food options are unavailable.
Consider this bar as an occasional protein boost rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and added sugars.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of unsalted nuts to add whole food nutrients and increase overall satiety.
If using for post-workout recovery, ensure adequate hydration alongside the bar to support nutrient absorption and muscle repair.
Be mindful of the serving size; consuming multiple bars can quickly lead to an excess intake of added sugars and saturated fat.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains a milk-derived protein blend and soy protein isolate, making it unsuitable for individuals with milk or soy allergies. The ingredient list also includes maltitol syrup, a sugar alcohol that can cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea in some sensitive individuals when consumed in larger quantities. Its NOVA 4 classification indicates it is an ultra-processed food, which generally suggests a higher content of added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium, and a lower content of whole food ingredients. Consumers managing blood sugar levels should note the presence of sugar and maltitol syrup.
Is MUSCLE MILK PROTEIN BAR, MINT COOKIE CRUNCH healthy?
This MUSCLE MILK bar scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it offers a high amount of protein (30.61g/100g) and fiber (10.2g/100g), it is also an ultra-processed food with 12.89g of added sugar and 6.12g of saturated fat per 100g. Its nutritional profile suggests it is not a consistently healthy choice for daily consumption.
How does MUSCLE MILK PROTEIN BAR, MINT COOKIE CRUNCH compare to an RXBar?
Compared to an RXBar, which typically features a shorter ingredient list of whole foods like dates, nuts, and egg whites, this MUSCLE MILK bar is more highly processed (NOVA 4). While both provide protein, the MUSCLE MILK bar contains more added sugar and a longer list of formulated ingredients, whereas RXBars generally contain no added sugars.
What is 'maltitol syrup' in this bar?
Maltitol syrup is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener. It provides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar but can have a laxative effect if consumed in large amounts. It is often used in 'sugar-free' or 'reduced sugar' products, but it still impacts blood sugar levels, though typically less than regular sugar.
What is a reasonable portion size for this protein bar?
The serving size for this product is one bar. Given its nutritional profile, consuming one bar as an occasional snack or post-workout supplement is appropriate. Regular or multiple daily servings could lead to excessive intake of added sugars and saturated fat.
Can this bar be used as a meal replacement?
While high in protein and fiber, this bar lacks the comprehensive nutrient profile of a balanced meal, particularly in terms of diverse micronutrients and whole food components. It is better suited as a supplemental snack rather than a regular meal replacement. For a meal, prioritize whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.