ORGAIN CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK O BAR, CHOCOLATE CHIP
The ORGAIN CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK O BAR scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its notable fiber content, balanced by penalties from added sugar and its processed nature.
This ORGAIN bar has a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the Decent category.
A significant strength is its fiber content, providing 19.39g per 100g.
The primary nutritional concern is the 11.1g of added sugar per 100g.
Compared to plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, this bar offers more calories and nutrients but also added sugars.
Consider this bar as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple due to its processed nature.
Scores +13 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
19.39g
69% of Daily Value
Protein
5.56g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
11.1g
22% of Daily Value
Sodium
236.11mg
10% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (19.4g)+12
Protein (5.6g)+1
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
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What holds it back
Added sugar (11.1g)-13
Saturated fat (4.2g)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 45
The ORGAIN CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK O BAR achieves a FoodScore of 45/100, categorized as Decent. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the bar receives a significant bonus for its high fiber content, with 19.39g per 100g, contributing +12 points. It also gains a small bonus for its protein (5.56g) and iron (2.22mg, 12% DV). However, several factors reduce its overall score. The presence of added sugar, at 11.1g per 100g, incurs a substantial penalty of -13 points. Additionally, the saturated fat content of 4.17g per 100g results in a -2 point penalty. As a NOVA class 3 product, it is considered processed, leading to a -5 point penalty. Ingredients like organic cane sugar and organic chocolate chips contribute to the added sugar content. While it provides more nutrients than the baseline of plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, it also introduces calories, added sugars, and fats.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in orgain chocolate chip organic whole grain energy snack o bar, chocolate chip actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This ORGAIN bar is an excellent source of fiber, providing 19.39g per 100g. This substantial amount of dietary fiber, primarily from organic whole grain oats and organic tapioca fiber, is beneficial for digestive health. Adequate fiber intake helps to maintain bowel regularity and can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich foods like this bar can help individuals meet their daily recommended fiber intake, which is often lacking in typical American diets.
Provides Sustained Energy
With organic whole grain oats as its primary ingredient, this bar offers complex carbohydrates that provide a sustained release of energy. Unlike simple sugars that lead to quick spikes and crashes, the whole grains help to maintain more stable blood sugar levels. This can be particularly useful for individuals needing a steady energy source between meals or before physical activity, helping to prevent feelings of fatigue.
Source of Iron
The ORGAIN bar contributes to iron intake, providing 2.22mg per 100g, which is 12% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy metabolism. While not a primary source, this contribution can help individuals, especially those with higher iron needs or those at risk of deficiency, to meet their daily requirements as part of a varied diet.
The ORGAIN CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK O BAR scores 45/100 (Decent) due to its notable fiber content, balanced by penalties from added sugar and its processed nature.
How to eat it
Energy bars like the ORGAIN CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK O BAR are typically consumed as a convenient snack or a quick meal replacement when on the go. They are often chosen for their portability and perceived nutritional value, especially before or after exercise, or as a mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Pair this bar with a source of healthy fats like a small handful of nuts or a slice of avocado to enhance satiety and further balance blood sugar.
Consider consuming only half a bar if you are looking for a lighter snack, as a full bar provides 361 calories per 100g.
Use this bar as a pre-workout snack about 30-60 minutes before exercise to fuel your activity with its whole grain carbohydrates.
Instead of a sugary dessert, try this bar as a moderated sweet treat due to its chocolate chips and added sugar content.
Things to keep in mind
This ORGAIN bar contains organic erythritol, a sugar alcohol that can cause digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea in some individuals, especially when consumed in large quantities. Those with sensitive digestive systems, like individuals with IBS, should monitor their intake. The product also contains organic sunflower oil and organic sunflower lecithin, which are generally well-tolerated but contribute to the overall fat content. While the bar is made with organic ingredients, it is still classified as a processed food (NOVA class 3). Consumers with allergies should note the presence of oats, which may be cross-contaminated with gluten if not certified gluten-free, although the label states 'organic whole grain oats'.
Is ORGAIN CHOCOLATE CHIP ORGANIC WHOLE GRAIN ENERGY SNACK O BAR healthy?
This ORGAIN bar has a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating it's a decent option. It provides a good amount of fiber and some iron, but also contains added sugar and saturated fat. Its healthfulness depends on your overall dietary pattern and how frequently you consume it.
How does ORGAIN compare to other energy bars like KIND bars?
Compared to some KIND bars, the ORGAIN bar offers a similar convenience factor. This specific ORGAIN bar has a very high fiber content (19.39g/100g) which is a significant benefit. However, it also contains 11.1g of added sugar per 100g, which might be higher or lower than specific KIND bar varieties, so checking individual labels is always recommended.
What is organic tapioca fiber, and is it good for me?
Organic tapioca fiber is a soluble dietary fiber derived from the tapioca plant. It contributes to the bar's high fiber content, which supports digestive health and can help with satiety. Soluble fibers are generally considered beneficial for their role in gut health and blood sugar management.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The serving size is 1 bar. However, if you are mindful of calorie intake or are pairing it with other foods, consider consuming half a bar (approximately 180 calories) as a smaller snack. Adjust based on your individual energy needs and activity level.
Can this bar be eaten by children?
While the ORGAIN bar contains whole grains and fiber, its added sugar content (11.1g/100g) and the presence of erythritol should be considered for children. It's best offered in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and parents should monitor for any potential digestive sensitivities to erythritol.