NATURE VALLEY NAT VLY CRNCHY GRAN BARS DARK CHOC PNT BTR
NATURE VALLEY NAT VLY CRNCHY GRAN BARS DARK CHOC PNT BTR scores 20/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
This product received a FoodScore of 20/100, indicating it should be avoided as a regular dietary choice.
Each serving contains 20g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, this snack is an ultra-processed food with multiple industrial ingredients.
It provides 4.81g of fiber and 9.52g of protein per 100g, offering some nutritional components.
Consider whole-food alternatives like nuts or fruit for a more nutrient-dense snack.
Scores -21 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
4.81g
17% of Daily Value
Protein
9.52g
19% of Daily Value
Added sugar
20g
40% of Daily Value
Sodium
428.57mg
19% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.8g)+5
Protein (9.5g)+5
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (20g)-25
Saturated fat (3.6g)-1
Sodium (428.6mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 20
The NATURE VALLEY NAT VLY CRNCHY GRAN BARS DARK CHOC PNT BTR received a FoodScore of 20 out of 100. This score reflects several nutritional aspects, with significant penalties outweighing minor bonuses. The primary detractor is the high amount of added sugar, at 20g per 100g, which resulted in a substantial -25 penalty. The product's classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, further reduced its score by -10. Additionally, the presence of 3.57g of saturated fat and 428.57mg of sodium per 100g each incurred minor penalties of -1. The formulation includes ingredients like canola oil and soy lecithin, common in ultra-processed foods. While the product contains whole grain oats, the overall composition, including sugar as the second ingredient, positions it far from a whole-food snack. In contrast, whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit offer significantly lower added sugar and sodium, and are not ultra-processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in nature valley nat vly crnchy gran bars dark choc pnt btr actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Whole Grains
This product lists whole grain oats as its primary ingredient. Whole grains contribute dietary fiber and various micronutrients, which are beneficial for digestive health and can help manage blood sugar levels. While the overall product is ultra-processed, the inclusion of whole oats provides a base of complex carbohydrates, which can offer sustained energy compared to refined grains.
Contains Protein
With 9.52g of protein per 100g, these NATURE VALLEY bars contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for producing enzymes and hormones. While not a primary protein source, this amount can help with satiety, especially when consumed as part of a balanced snack or meal.
Provides Dietary Fiber
Each 100g serving delivers 4.81g of fiber, which is a positive contribution to daily fiber goals. Dietary fiber is important for maintaining digestive regularity and can play a role in heart health. The fiber content primarily comes from the whole grain oats and peanuts present in the bars.
NATURE VALLEY NAT VLY CRNCHY GRAN BARS DARK CHOC PNT BTR scores 20/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
NATURE VALLEY Crunchy Granola Bars are typically consumed as a quick snack, often on-the-go or as part of a packed lunch. A common portion is two bars, which is 42g. They are designed for convenience rather than as a primary meal component.
To improve the nutritional profile, pair one bar with a piece of fresh fruit like an apple or banana to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Consider consuming only one bar (half a serving) to moderate added sugar intake, especially if you are mindful of your daily sugar limits.
Use these bars as an occasional convenience food, rather than a daily staple, to prioritize less processed snack options.
For a more balanced snack, combine with a source of lean protein such as a small handful of unsalted nuts or a hard-boiled egg.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens including peanuts and soy lecithin, which are clearly declared on the ingredient list. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. Due to its high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and consider its impact on their daily carbohydrate and sugar intake. The ultra-processed nature of the bar, indicated by its NOVA 4 classification and multiple industrial ingredients, suggests it should not be a regular part of a diet focused on whole, minimally processed foods.
Is NATURE VALLEY Crunchy Granola Bars Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter healthy?
NATURE VALLEY Crunchy Granola Bars Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter received a FoodScore of 20/100, categorizing it as 'Avoid.' This is primarily due to its high added sugar content (20g per 100g) and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some fiber and protein, these benefits are offset by other nutritional factors.
How does NATURE VALLEY Crunchy Granola Bars compare to other snack bars?
Compared to some other snack bars like RXBAR, which often feature simpler ingredient lists and lower added sugar, NATURE VALLEY Crunchy Granola Bars have a higher degree of processing and more added sugar. However, compared to a candy bar, it offers more fiber and whole grains. It's important to check the nutrition facts of individual products for a direct comparison.
What is 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list, such as in this NATURE VALLEY bar, refers to flavorings derived from a natural source, like a fruit, vegetable, spice, or meat. However, these flavors are often highly processed in a lab and can contain many different chemical components, making them functionally similar to artificial flavors in terms of processing.
What is a recommended portion size for these bars?
The declared serving size is two bars (42g). This portion provides 20g of added sugar and 428.57mg of sodium per 100g, which translates to 8.4g of added sugar and 180mg of sodium per serving. If you are monitoring your intake of added sugar or sodium, you might consider consuming only one bar as a smaller portion.
Can these bars be part of a weight management plan?
Due to their calorie density (452.38 calories per 100g) and high added sugar content, these bars may not be the most optimal choice for a weight management plan if consumed regularly. While they can provide quick energy, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods with higher satiety and nutrient density is generally more beneficial for weight management.