The PAYDAY Peanut Caramel Bar scores 22/100 (Avoid) due to its **high added sugar content** and status as an ultra-processed food.
This PAYDAY bar received a FoodScore of 22/100, indicating it should be avoided.
It contains 28.27g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
With 13.46g of protein per 100g, it offers more protein than many other sweet snacks.
Classified as NOVA 4, this product is an ultra-processed food.
Consider this as an occasional treat rather than a regular dietary component.
Scores +6 points above the sweet category average (16/100 across 71 foods).
Fiber
3.81g
14% of Daily Value
Protein
13.46g
27% of Daily Value
Added sugar
28.27g
57% of Daily Value
Sodium
230.77mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.8g)+4
Protein (13.5g)+9
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (28.3g)-25
Saturated fat (4.8g)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 22
The PAYDAY Peanut Caramel Bar received a FoodScore of 22 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is primarily driven by its high added sugar content, which stands at 28.27g per 100g, incurring a substantial penalty of 25 points. Additionally, the product's classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food contributes a 10-point penalty. The presence of 4.81g of saturated fat per 100g also results in a 3-point deduction. Ingredients like corn syrup and sugar are key contributors to the high sugar load. While the bar does receive some positive points for its protein content (13.46g per 100g, adding 9 points) and fiber (3.81g per 100g, adding 4 points), these bonuses are not sufficient to offset the significant penalties. Compared to a generic unbranded peanut caramel bar, the nutritional profile of this PAYDAY bar is similar, reflecting common formulations for this type of sweet snack.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in payday peanut caramel bar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This product provides 13.46g of protein per 100g, primarily from peanuts and soy protein. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and contributes to satiety. While not a primary protein source, it can contribute to daily protein intake when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Contains Dietary Fiber
The PAYDAY bar contains 3.81g of fiber per 100g, mainly from the peanuts. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a notable inclusion for a sweet snack, offering some benefit compared to products with no fiber.
Provides Quick Energy
With 461.54 calories per 100g and a significant amount of carbohydrates, this bar can offer a rapid energy boost. This can be useful for individuals needing quick fuel, such as before or after intense physical activity. However, due to its high added sugar, this energy source should be considered carefully for regular consumption.
The PAYDAY Peanut Caramel Bar scores 22/100 (Avoid) due to its high added sugar content and status as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
The PAYDAY Peanut Caramel Bar is typically consumed as a sweet snack or treat. Its convenient bar format makes it easy to eat on the go. Consumers often enjoy it as an indulgence between meals or as a dessert.
Consider pairing a smaller portion of this bar with a source of whole food fiber like an apple or a handful of berries to help moderate sugar absorption.
Due to its high calorie and sugar content, treat this bar as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack.
If you are monitoring your sugar intake, consider splitting a single bar into two portions to reduce the amount of added sugar consumed at once.
Store PAYDAY bars in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture and prevent melting of the caramel coating.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with peanut, milk, or egg allergies should avoid this product as these ingredients are explicitly listed. The presence of palm oil and carrageenan are points of consideration for some consumers. Palm oil is a source of saturated fat, and carrageenan is an emulsifier that some individuals choose to limit in their diet. Given the high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and account for its impact on their daily carbohydrate intake. The product is also an ultra-processed food, which generally means it has a complex formulation with multiple processing steps.
Based on its FoodScore of 22/100, the PAYDAY Peanut Caramel Bar is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is an ultra-processed food with a high amount of added sugar and saturated fat, which contribute to its low score. While it offers some protein and fiber, these benefits are outweighed by other nutritional factors.
How does PAYDAY compare to other candy bars?
Compared to many other candy bars in the sweet snack category, the PAYDAY bar's nutritional profile is typical. For example, a Snickers bar also contains significant added sugar and fat. However, PAYDAY does offer a notable amount of protein (13.46g per 100g), which can be higher than some competitors, primarily due to its peanut content.
What is corn syrup, and why is it in this bar?
Corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch, primarily composed of glucose. It is used in the PAYDAY bar to provide sweetness, contribute to the caramel texture, and act as a humectant to keep the product moist. It is a source of added sugar and contributes to the overall carbohydrate content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The serving size for the PAYDAY Peanut Caramel Bar is 1.85 ounces (approximately 52g). This portion contains a significant amount of calories and added sugar. For those monitoring intake, consuming half a bar might be a more moderate approach, especially if it's part of a larger meal or snack.
Can I eat this bar if I'm trying to lose weight?
While no single food prevents weight loss, the PAYDAY bar is calorie-dense (461.54 calories per 100g) and high in added sugar. Regular consumption could make it challenging to stay within a calorie deficit. If included, it should be a small, infrequent treat that fits into your overall daily calorie and sugar targets.