NATURE VALLEY GRANOLA BARS, SWEET & SALTY NUT has a FoodScore of 7/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily driven by its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 7/100 (Avoid) due to significant added sugar and processing.
Contains 18g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a low score.
Classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), indicating extensive industrial processing.
Provides some fiber (2.9g/100g) and protein (5.7g/100g), but less than whole-food alternatives.
A single bar serving contains 228 calories, which can be a substantial snack portion.
Scores -34 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
2.91g
10% of Daily Value
Protein
5.71g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
18g
36% of Daily Value
Sodium
400mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.9g)+2
Protein (5.7g)+1
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (18g)-24
Saturated fat (7.1g)-8
Sodium (400mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 7
NATURE VALLEY GRANOLA BARS, SWEET & SALTY NUT receives a FoodScore of 7/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its high added sugar content, which stands at 18g per 100g, incurring a significant penalty of -24 points. The product also contains 7.1g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to an -8 point penalty. As an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4), it receives an additional -10 point penalty, reflecting its extensive industrial processing and formulation with ingredients like corn syrup and palm kernel oil. While it gains some bonus points for its fiber (2.9g/100g, +2 points) and protein (5.7g/100g, +1 point) content, these are insufficient to offset the substantial penalties. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this product offers a less favorable nutrient profile due to its higher sugar and saturated fat content.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in nature valley granola bars, sweet & salty nut actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Energy
This bar offers 457.14 calories per 100g, making it a calorie-dense option that can provide a quick energy boost. For individuals needing to replenish energy stores rapidly, such as after intense physical activity or during prolonged periods without access to meals, the caloric content can be beneficial. The combination of carbohydrates from whole grain oats and sugars, along with fats, contributes to its energy density.
Convenient Snack Option
NATURE VALLEY GRANOLA BARS are designed for portability and ease of consumption, making them a convenient choice for on-the-go snacking. Their individually wrapped format allows for easy storage and transport, fitting into busy schedules where preparing fresh snacks might not be feasible. This convenience can be valuable for managing hunger between meals when other options are unavailable.
Contains Some Fiber and Protein
While not a primary source, this product does provide 2.91g of fiber and 5.71g of protein per 100g. Fiber, primarily from whole grain oats, contributes to digestive health, and protein is essential for muscle maintenance and satiety. These nutrients, even in smaller amounts, can contribute to overall dietary intake, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
NATURE VALLEY GRANOLA BARS, SWEET & SALTY NUT has a FoodScore of 7/100 (Avoid). This low score is primarily driven by its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
NATURE VALLEY GRANOLA BARS are typically consumed as a quick snack between meals, often in the morning or afternoon. They are popular for their convenience and portability, making them suitable for busy individuals or as a grab-and-go option. A common pitfall is consuming them without considering their contribution to daily added sugar and calorie intake.
Consider pairing this bar with a source of whole fruit or a handful of unsalted nuts to enhance nutrient density and satiety.
Be mindful of the serving size; one bar provides 228 calories and 9g of added sugar, which can add up quickly if consumed multiple times a day.
Use this bar as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple, especially if you are monitoring your intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
For a more balanced snack, consider alternatives like a small apple with a tablespoon of peanut butter, which offers more fiber and less added sugar.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including cashews, peanuts, milk (whey), soy (soy lecithin), wheat, and barley. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The presence of corn syrup and fructose contributes significantly to the added sugar content, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels or those aiming to reduce their overall sugar intake. The use of palm kernel oil also contributes to the saturated fat content. While the product contains mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E) added to retain freshness, this is generally not a concern for most consumers.
Is NATURE VALLEY GRANOLA BARS, SWEET & SALTY NUT healthy?
With a FoodScore of 7/100, this product is categorized as 'Avoid'. Its nutritional profile is significantly impacted by its high added sugar content (18g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some fiber and protein, these do not outweigh the penalties from sugar and saturated fat.
How does NATURE VALLEY GRANOLA BARS compare to other snack bars?
Compared to a bar like an RXBar, which often features a shorter ingredient list and lower added sugar, the NATURE VALLEY bar has a higher degree of processing and more added sugars. For example, many RXBars use dates for sweetness rather than added sugars like corn syrup. Compared to a KIND bar, which often highlights whole nuts, this product also contains more refined ingredients and added sugars.
What is 'palm kernel oil' in the ingredient list?
Palm kernel oil is a type of vegetable fat derived from the kernel of the oil palm fruit. It is notable for its high saturated fat content, which contributes to the 7.14g of saturated fat per 100g in this product. Diets high in saturated fat are generally advised to be limited.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
A single bar is considered one serving, providing 228 calories. For many, this is a substantial snack. To manage calorie and added sugar intake, it's advisable to stick to one bar per snack occasion and consider it as part of your overall daily energy budget, especially if you are monitoring weight or blood sugar.
Can I eat this bar if I have nut allergies?
No, this product is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. The ingredient list explicitly states cashews, cashew butter, and peanut flour, indicating the presence of tree nuts and peanuts. It also contains soy and milk, which are common allergens.