FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsnackPOWER CRUNCH· 1 COOKIE

POWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, LEMON MERINGUE

The POWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR receives a FoodScore of 11/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and significant contributions from **added sugar** and **saturated fat**.

  • This POWER CRUNCH bar scores 11/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice according to FoodScore.
  • It provides a notable 32.5g of protein per 100g, which is a positive nutritional aspect.
  • The bar contains 17.5g of added sugar and 17.5g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to its low score.
  • As a NOVA class 4 food, it is ultra-processed, contrasting with whole-food alternatives.
  • Consider this bar for occasional use when a high-protein, convenient option is needed, rather than a daily staple.
  • Scores -30 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
2.5g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
32.5g
65% of Daily Value
Added sugar
17.5g
35% of Daily Value
Sodium
262.5mg
11% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (32.5g)+10
What holds it back
Added sugar (17.5g)-23
Saturated fat (17.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 11

The POWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR earns a FoodScore of 11/100, largely driven by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food. This category inherently incurs a significant penalty due to the extensive processing and common inclusion of ingredients like palm oil and sugar. While the bar does offer a substantial 32.5g of protein per 100g, contributing a bonus of +10, and a modest 2.5g of fiber adding +2, these benefits are outweighed by several nutritional drawbacks. A notable penalty of -23 is applied for the 17.5g of added sugar per 100g, which is a considerable amount. Furthermore, the 17.5g of saturated fat per 100g results in a -15 penalty. The presence of concentrated ultra-processed fat, likely from the various oils, adds another -3 penalty. Compared to whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this POWER CRUNCH bar contains significantly more added sugar and saturated fat, and lacks the diverse micronutrient profile found in less processed foods.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in power crunch lemon meringue protein energy bar, lemon meringue actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a High Protein Content

This POWER CRUNCH bar is formulated with a PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND, delivering 32.5g of protein per 100g. This amount can contribute significantly to daily protein needs, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety. For individuals seeking to increase their protein intake, particularly after physical activity or as a meal supplement, this bar offers a concentrated source. The inclusion of hydrolyzed whey protein may also contribute to faster absorption.

Convenient Source of Energy

With 550 calories per 100g, this bar provides a dense energy source that can be useful for individuals with high energy demands or those needing a quick caloric boost. Its portable format makes it a convenient option for on-the-go consumption when access to other food sources is limited. The combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates offers sustained energy release, making it suitable for certain active lifestyles.

Low in Certain Micronutrients

While not a primary source of micronutrients, this bar is noteworthy for its absence of certain vitamins and minerals. For example, it contains 0% DV for Vitamin D, B12, Folate, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, magnesium, and zinc. This means it will not contribute to these specific daily micronutrient requirements, allowing consumers to obtain these from other, more nutrient-dense foods without concern for overconsumption from this product.

How to eat it

POWER CRUNCH bars are typically consumed as a convenient snack or a post-workout recovery aid. Due to their high calorie and protein content, they are often eaten as a quick meal replacement when time is limited, or to manage hunger between meals. A single bar constitutes one serving.

Pair this bar with a piece of fruit or a handful of vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients that are less abundant in the bar.
Consider consuming only half a bar if your goal is a lighter snack, as a full serving provides significant calories and protein.
Use this bar as an occasional supplement to a balanced diet, rather than a daily staple, to manage intake of added sugars and saturated fats.
If using for post-workout, ensure adequate hydration alongside to support nutrient absorption and recovery.
Things to keep in mind

This POWER CRUNCH bar contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. Individuals with allergies to milk, wheat, or soy should note the presence of whey protein isolate, wheat flour, and soy lecithin. The inclusion of palm oil and palm kernel oil contributes to the high saturated fat content, which may be a concern for those monitoring cardiovascular health. While the bar uses stevia leaf extract and monk fruit as sweeteners, it also contains a significant amount of sugar and fructose, so individuals managing blood sugar levels should consume it with awareness. The NOVA class 4 classification indicates it is an ultra-processed food, which some dietary guidelines suggest limiting.

Swap suggestions
Very good
ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN, SPAGHETTI
Score85
Very good
BARILLA, WHOLE WHEAT PASTA
Score85
Very good
BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA
Score85
Very good
BEECH-NUT ORIGINAL CRISPEAS BAKED PEA PUFFS, ORIGINAL
Score85
Reader questions
Is POWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR healthy?
The POWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR has a FoodScore of 11/100, classifying it as an 'Avoid' food. While it offers a high protein content (32.5g per 100g), it is also high in added sugar (17.5g per 100g) and saturated fat (17.5g per 100g). Its ultra-processed nature means it is not considered a healthy staple for daily consumption.
How does POWER CRUNCH compare to other protein bars?
Compared to some other protein bars like RXBar, which often feature simpler, whole-food ingredients, the POWER CRUNCH bar is more ultra-processed (NOVA class 4) and contains a higher amount of added sugar and saturated fat. However, it typically provides a higher protein content per serving than many other snack bars. For example, a KIND bar might have less protein but also less added sugar and saturated fat.
What is 'PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND'?
The 'PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND' is a proprietary mix of proteins, specifically including micro peptides from high-DH hydrolyzed whey protein, whey protein isolate, and milk protein isolate. Hydrolyzed whey protein is partially broken down, which may allow for faster digestion and absorption compared to intact proteins. This blend is the primary source of the bar's high protein content.
How much of this bar should I eat?
The serving size for this POWER CRUNCH bar is one cookie. Given its high calorie density (550 calories per 100g) and significant amounts of added sugar and saturated fat, it is generally recommended to consume this product in moderation. For most individuals, one bar occasionally as a treat or a targeted protein boost is appropriate, rather than multiple servings daily.
Can I eat this bar if I am lactose intolerant?
This bar contains a 'PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND' which includes whey protein isolate and milk protein isolate. Both are derived from milk and contain lactose, though isolates typically have lower lactose levels than other dairy products. Individuals with severe lactose intolerance may still experience symptoms, so it is advisable to exercise caution or consult with a healthcare professional.
Does this bar contain artificial sweeteners?
The ingredient list for the POWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR includes Stevia Leaf Extract and Monk Fruit. These are natural, non-nutritive sweeteners. The bar does not list any commonly recognized artificial sweeteners such as sucralose, aspartame, or acesulfame potassium.

Explore more

CategoryAll snacks BrandAll Power Crunch SKUs Competitor · 85/100ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT Competitor · 85/100BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI Head-to-headPOWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, LEMON MERINGUE vs. ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT Head-to-headPOWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, LEMON MERINGUE vs. BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI Head-to-headPOWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, LEMON MERINGUE vs. BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN, SPAGHETTI Head-to-headPOWER CRUNCH LEMON MERINGUE PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, LEMON MERINGUE vs. BARILLA, WHOLE WHEAT PASTA

Data & references