FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsnackPOWER CRUNCH· 1.4 ONZ

POWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET

The POWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET has a FoodScore of 28/100 (Avoid). Its score is significantly impacted by its **high saturated fat content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • FoodScore: 28/100 (Avoid).
  • Contains 32.5g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
  • High in saturated fat (17.5g per 100g) and classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed).
  • Offers less fiber (2.5g) and more added sugar (10.5g) than whole-food alternatives.
  • Best consumed in moderation due to its nutrient profile.
  • Scores -13 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
10.5g
21% of Daily Value
Sodium
225mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (32.5g)+10
Micronutrients (Potassium, Calcium, Iron)+6
What holds it back
Added sugar (10.5g)-12
Saturated fat (17.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3

Why it scores 28

The POWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET receives a FoodScore of 28 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score reflects a combination of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the bar provides a substantial 32.5g of protein per 100g, contributing a significant +10 bonus. It also offers some micronutrients, with potassium (11% DV), calcium (21% DV), and iron (13% DV) adding a +6 bonus, and a small amount of fiber (2.5g) adding +2. However, these benefits are outweighed by several penalties. The bar contains 10.5g of added sugar per 100g, resulting in a -12 penalty. Its high saturated fat content of 17.5g per 100g incurs a substantial -15 penalty. Furthermore, its classification as NOVA 4 indicates it is an ultra-processed food, leading to a -10 penalty, with an additional -3 for concentrated ultra-processed fat, specifically from palm oil and palm kernel oil. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this bar provides a less favorable nutrient density due to its processing and higher levels of added sugar and saturated fat.

Health benefits

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

Supports Protein Intake

This POWER CRUNCH bar is a concentrated source of protein, providing 32.5g per 100g. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and can contribute to satiety. For individuals with higher protein needs, such as athletes or those looking to maintain muscle mass, this bar can help meet daily targets when other protein sources are not readily available. The protein blend includes hydrolyzed whey protein, which is designed for rapid absorption.

Convenient Snack Option

As a pre-packaged bar, this product offers portability and convenience, making it suitable for on-the-go consumption. It can serve as a quick snack when time is limited, or when access to refrigeration or cooking facilities is not possible. For individuals needing a rapid source of energy and protein between meals, its format is practical. However, its convenience should be balanced against its overall nutritional profile.

Source of Essential Minerals

The POWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR contributes to the intake of several essential minerals. It provides 21% DV for calcium, 11% DV for potassium, and 13% DV for iron per 100g. These minerals play roles in bone health, nerve function, and oxygen transport, respectively. While not a primary source, these contributions can supplement dietary intake, especially when other mineral-rich foods are less accessible.

How to eat it

Protein bars like the POWER CRUNCH RED VELVET are typically consumed as a quick snack or meal replacement, often before or after exercise, or as a convenient option when other foods are unavailable. A common portion is one bar.

Consider pairing with a piece of fruit or a handful of vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients that are less abundant in the bar.
Due to its high calorie and fat content, consider consuming only half a bar if you are looking for a lighter snack or managing calorie intake.
Use this bar as an occasional convenience food rather than a daily staple, prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods for regular meals and snacks.
If using for post-workout recovery, ensure adequate hydration alongside the bar to support nutrient absorption and overall recovery.
Things to keep in mind

This POWER CRUNCH bar contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. It is made with a PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND which includes milk protein, and also contains soy lecithin and wheat flour, indicating potential allergens for individuals with sensitivities to milk, soy, or wheat. The presence of palm oil and palm kernel oil contributes significantly to the saturated fat content. While it uses stevia leaf extract and monk fruit as sweeteners, it also contains fructose and sugar, contributing to its added sugar total. Individuals monitoring their intake of ultra-processed ingredients or those with specific dietary restrictions should review the ingredient list carefully.

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 PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET healthy?
With a FoodScore of 28/100, this POWER CRUNCH bar is classified as 'Avoid'. While it offers a high protein content (32.5g per 100g), it also contains significant amounts of saturated fat (17.5g per 100g) and is an ultra-processed food. It is not considered a primary source of balanced nutrition for regular consumption.
How does POWER CRUNCH compare to other protein bars?
Compared to bars like RXBar, which often feature simpler, whole-food ingredient lists, the POWER CRUNCH bar is more highly processed (NOVA 4). While it offers a comparable or higher protein content, it also typically contains more saturated fat and a more complex ingredient list with various oils and sweeteners. Its nutritional profile differs from bars prioritizing minimal ingredients.
What is 'PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND'?
The 'PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND' is a proprietary mix of proteins used in POWER CRUNCH bars. It includes hydrolyzed whey protein, whey protein isolate, and milk protein isolate. Hydrolyzed whey protein is pre-digested, meaning the protein chains are broken down into smaller peptides, which may facilitate faster absorption compared to intact proteins.
How much of this bar should I eat daily?
Given its FoodScore of 28/100 and its nutrient profile, the POWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR is best consumed in moderation and occasionally. For most individuals, incorporating it as a daily staple is not recommended due to its high saturated fat and ultra-processed nature. Consider it an infrequent convenience item rather than a regular part of your diet.
Does this bar contain artificial sweeteners?
The ingredient list for the POWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET, indicates the use of stevia leaf extract and monk fruit, which are natural non-nutritive sweeteners. It does not list artificial sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame. However, it also contains fructose and sugar, contributing to its overall sweetness and added sugar content.

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 PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET vs. ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT Head-to-headPOWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET vs. BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI Head-to-headPOWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET vs. BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN, SPAGHETTI Head-to-headPOWER CRUNCH PROTEIN ENERGY BAR, RED VELVET vs. BARILLA, WHOLE WHEAT PASTA

Data & references