POWER CRUNCH CHOCOLATE LAVA HIGH PROTEIN SNACK BARS, CHOCOLATE LAVA
The POWER CRUNCH CHOCOLATE LAVA HIGH PROTEIN SNACK BAR scores 19/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high levels of added sugar and saturated fat**, classifying it as ultra-processed.
FoodScore: 19/100 (Avoid) due to high added sugar and saturated fat.
Provides 31.19g protein per 100g, a notable amount for a snack bar.
Contains 15.6g added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to penalties.
This bar is a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, unlike plain sparkling water.
Consider as an occasional snack rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -13 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
3.1g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
31.19g
62% of Daily Value
Added sugar
15.6g
31% of Daily Value
Sodium
280.94mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.1g)+3
Protein (31.2g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (15.6g)-20
Saturated fat (15.6g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 19
The POWER CRUNCH CHOCOLATE LAVA HIGH PROTEIN SNACK BAR receives a FoodScore of 19 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its significant penalties for added sugar and saturated fat. With 15.6g of added sugar per 100g, the product incurs a substantial penalty, aligning with dietary guidelines to limit intake of added sugars. Similarly, the 15.59g of saturated fat per 100g also contributes negatively to the score. The presence of palm oil and palm kernel oil in the ingredient list contributes to this saturated fat content. As a NOVA class 4 food, it is categorized as ultra-processed, which further reduces its score. While the bar does offer a notable 31.19g of protein per 100g and 3.1g of fiber, earning some bonus points, these are outweighed by the penalties. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, which would score highly due to the absence of added sugars, fats, and processing, this bar presents a very different nutritional profile.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in power crunch chocolate lava high protein snack bars, chocolate lava actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Protein Intake
This POWER CRUNCH bar provides a substantial 31.19g of protein per 100g, which can be beneficial for individuals looking to increase their daily protein consumption. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and satiety. The protein blend includes hydrolyzed whey protein, whey protein isolate, and milk protein isolate, offering a diverse source of amino acids. For those with higher protein needs, such as athletes or individuals managing weight, this bar can contribute meaningfully to meeting those targets when consumed in moderation.
Source of Iron and Calcium
The bar contributes 12% of the Daily Value for both iron and calcium per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while calcium is vital for bone health and various bodily functions. While not a primary source, these micronutrients can add to daily intake, especially for individuals who may struggle to meet their needs through other dietary sources. It's important to consider the overall nutritional profile when relying on processed foods for micronutrient contributions.
Convenient Snack Option
For individuals with busy schedules or limited access to fresh food, this bar offers a convenient and portable snack option. Its high protein content can help manage hunger between meals. While its ultra-processed nature means it shouldn't be a dietary staple, it can serve as a quick source of energy and protein in specific situations, such as after a workout or when traveling, where whole food options are not readily available. Portion control is key when incorporating such items into a balanced diet.
The POWER CRUNCH CHOCOLATE LAVA HIGH PROTEIN SNACK BAR scores 19/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high levels of added sugar and saturated fat, classifying it as ultra-processed.
How to eat it
POWER CRUNCH bars are typically consumed as a quick snack or meal replacement, often by individuals seeking to boost protein intake. They are convenient for on-the-go consumption, fitting into busy routines where preparing fresh food is not feasible. A common portion is one bar.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add fiber and micronutrients, balancing the bar's nutritional profile.
Consider consuming half a bar to reduce intake of added sugar and saturated fat, especially if not engaging in intense physical activity.
Use as an occasional post-workout snack to aid muscle recovery, rather than a daily dietary component.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain texture and prevent melting, especially due to the palm oil content.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with allergies to milk, soy, or wheat should avoid this product, as these common allergens are present in the ingredient list. The bar contains fructose and stevia leaf extract, which are sweeteners. While stevia is a non-nutritive sweetener, the overall added sugar content is high (15.6g per 100g), which individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, should note. The presence of palm oil and palm kernel oil contributes to the high saturated fat content, which may be a concern for those managing cardiovascular health. The product is ultra-processed (NOVA class 4), indicating a formulation with multiple industrial ingredients and minimal whole food components.
Is POWER CRUNCH CHOCOLATE LAVA HIGH PROTEIN SNACK BAR healthy?
Based on its FoodScore of 19/100, this POWER CRUNCH bar is categorized as 'Avoid.' While it offers a significant amount of protein (31.19g per 100g), it also contains high levels of added sugar (15.6g per 100g) and saturated fat (15.59g per 100g). Its ultra-processed nature also contributes to its lower score, suggesting it is not a primary choice for a healthy diet.
How does POWER CRUNCH compare to other protein bars?
Compared to some whole-food-based protein bars like RXBar, which often feature simpler ingredient lists and lower added sugar, POWER CRUNCH bars contain more processed ingredients and higher levels of added sugar and saturated fat. While POWER CRUNCH offers a high protein content, consumers should evaluate the overall nutritional profile, including the type and amount of fats and sugars, when comparing to other brands in the protein bar category.
What is 'PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND'?
The 'PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND' in POWER CRUNCH bars is a mix of different whey protein forms, including micro peptides from high-DH hydrolyzed whey protein, whey protein isolate, and milk protein isolate. This blend is designed to provide a comprehensive amino acid profile for muscle support. Hydrolyzed whey protein is partially broken down, which may aid in digestion and absorption for some individuals.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size is 1 cookie. Given the high calorie (546.88 per 100g), added sugar, and saturated fat content, consuming a full bar regularly may contribute significantly to daily intake of these nutrients. For many, consuming half a bar might be a more appropriate portion to manage calorie and sugar intake, especially if it's not replacing a full meal or fueling intense activity.
Can this bar be used for weight loss?
While the high protein content in POWER CRUNCH bars can contribute to satiety, which is beneficial for weight management, the overall calorie density, high added sugar, and saturated fat content mean it should be consumed with caution for weight loss. Focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and managing overall calorie intake are generally more effective strategies for sustainable weight loss. This bar is best used as an occasional supplement rather than a regular part of a weight loss diet.