POWER CRUNCH S'MORES PROTEIN ENERGY BARS score 21/100 (Avoid) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, high saturated fat content, and significant amount of added sugar.
FoodScore of 21/100 places this POWER CRUNCH bar in the 'Avoid' category.
Each 100g serving provides 32.5g of protein, a notable amount for a snack bar.
A primary concern is the 17.5g of saturated fat and 12.5g of added sugar per 100g.
This bar is a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, unlike whole-food alternatives such as nuts or fruit.
Consider this bar for occasional use when a high-protein, convenient option is needed.
Scores -20 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
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Sodium
300mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.5g)+2
Protein (32.5g)+10
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (12.5g)-15
Saturated fat (17.5g)-15
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Concentrated ultra-processed fat-3
Why it scores 21
The POWER CRUNCH S'MORES PROTEIN ENERGY BAR receives a FoodScore of 21 out of 100, primarily due to its composition as an ultra-processed NOVA 4 food. While it gains points for its substantial protein content (32.5g per 100g) and a small amount of fiber (2.5g), these are offset by significant penalties. The bar contains 17.5g of saturated fat per 100g, contributing to a substantial penalty. Additionally, the presence of 12.5g of added sugar, derived from ingredients like sugar and fructose, further reduces its score. The use of palm oil and palm kernel oil contributes to the saturated fat content. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, which are minimally processed and contain naturally occurring nutrients without added sugars or high levels of saturated fat, the POWER CRUNCH bar presents a less favorable nutritional profile. The protein blend, featuring hydrolyzed whey protein, is a key component driving the protein bonus.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in power crunch s'mores protein energy bars, s'mores actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
This bar provides a substantial 32.5g of protein per 100g, which is beneficial for muscle protein synthesis. The protein blend, including hydrolyzed whey protein, offers a readily available source of amino acids. Consuming adequate protein is important for individuals engaged in regular physical activity or those aiming to maintain muscle mass as they age. This makes the POWER CRUNCH bar a convenient option for a post-workout snack or a protein boost between meals.
Convenient Protein Source
For individuals with busy schedules, the POWER CRUNCH S'MORES PROTEIN ENERGY BAR offers a portable and accessible source of protein. When access to whole-food protein options is limited, a bar like this can help meet daily protein targets. Its shelf-stable nature makes it easy to carry in a gym bag or backpack, providing a quick nutritional supplement when other options are not available.
Provides Calcium
The bar contributes 175mg of calcium per 100g, accounting for 13% of the Daily Value. Calcium is an essential mineral crucial for bone health and various bodily functions. While not a primary source, this contribution can help supplement daily calcium intake, especially when combined with other calcium-rich foods in the diet. This can be a small benefit for those looking to increase their calcium consumption.
POWER CRUNCH S'MORES PROTEIN ENERGY BARS score 21/100 (Avoid) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, high saturated fat content, and significant amount of added sugar.
How to eat it
POWER CRUNCH S'MORES PROTEIN ENERGY BARS are typically consumed as a quick snack or a post-exercise recovery food. Given its nutritional profile, it is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. One bar constitutes a single serving.
Pair with a piece of fruit like an apple or banana to add dietary fiber and micronutrients that are less abundant in the bar.
Consider consuming only half a bar if you are looking for a smaller protein boost to manage intake of saturated fat and added sugar.
Use this bar as a convenient protein source only when whole-food options like nuts, seeds, or dairy are not readily available.
Hydrate with water alongside the bar to aid digestion and overall fluid balance.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. Individuals with allergies to milk, wheat, or soy should avoid this product, as these are declared allergens. The bar contains sucralose and stevia leaf extract, which are non-nutritive sweeteners. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort from these sweeteners. The presence of palm oil contributes to the high saturated fat content, which, when consumed in excess, can impact cardiovascular health. As an ultra-processed food, it contains various additives and refined ingredients that are not typically found in a whole-food diet.
Is POWER CRUNCH S'MORES PROTEIN ENERGY BAR healthy?
With a FoodScore of 21/100, this POWER CRUNCH bar is classified as 'Avoid.' While it offers a significant amount of protein (32.5g per 100g), it is also high in saturated fat (17.5g per 100g) and contains 12.5g of added sugar. Its ultra-processed nature means it should be consumed sparingly rather than as a regular part of a healthy diet.
How does POWER CRUNCH compare to other protein bars?
Compared to some other protein bars like RXBar, which often feature simpler ingredient lists and fewer added sugars, the POWER CRUNCH bar has a more complex ingredient profile and higher levels of saturated fat. While both offer protein, the POWER CRUNCH bar's ultra-processed classification and specific fat and sugar content differentiate it. For example, an RXBar might rely more on dates for sweetness, whereas this bar uses sugar, fructose, and artificial sweeteners.
What is PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND?
PROTO WHEY PROTEIN BLEND is a proprietary mix of proteins, including hydrolyzed whey protein, whey protein isolate, and milk protein isolate. Hydrolyzed whey protein is pre-digested, meaning the protein has been broken down into smaller peptides (di- and tripeptides), which may allow for faster absorption compared to intact proteins. This blend is the primary source of the bar's high protein content.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bar?
The declared serving size is one bar. However, given its high content of saturated fat and added sugar, considering half a bar as a portion might be a strategy for those monitoring these nutrients. For a quick protein boost, half a bar (approximately 27.5g) would still provide a notable amount of protein while reducing intake of less desirable components.
Can I eat this bar every day?
Due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high levels of saturated fat and added sugar, consuming this POWER CRUNCH bar daily is not recommended. It is best reserved for occasional use when a convenient, high-protein snack is needed and whole-food alternatives are unavailable. Prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods is generally advised for daily dietary intake.