FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoidsnackPOWERBAR· 1 POUCH

POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, LEMON

POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, LEMON receives a FoodScore of 18/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.

  • This product has a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it is an 'Avoid' choice.
  • Each 100g serving contains 42g of added sugar, contributing significantly to its low score.
  • It is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to whole-food alternatives like nuts and fruit, this product offers minimal nutritional density.
  • Consider this product for specific, immediate energy needs rather than daily snacking.
  • Scores -23 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
5g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
42g
84% of Daily Value
Sodium
50mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5g)+1
Micronutrients (Vitamin C)+2
What holds it back
Added sugar (42g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 18

The POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, LEMON scores 18 out of 100, largely driven by its nutritional profile dominated by added sugars and its classification as an ultra-processed food. A 100g serving contains 42g of added sugar, which incurs a significant penalty of -25 points. The ingredient list begins with a "DUAL SOURCE ENERGY BLEND" of sugar, glucose syrup from wheat, and invert sugar, indicating that sugars are the primary components. As a NOVA class 4 food, it receives an additional -10 point penalty for being ultra-processed. While it provides a small bonus of +1 for 5g of protein and +2 for 17% DV of Vitamin C per 100g, these contributions are minor compared to the penalties. In contrast, whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit offer a more balanced nutrient profile with fiber, healthy fats, and a wider range of micronutrients without the high added sugar content.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in powerbar performance energy blasts gel filled chews, lemon actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides Rapid Energy

This product is formulated to deliver quick energy through its high concentration of simple sugars like glucose syrup and invert sugar. For athletes or individuals engaged in prolonged physical activity, these easily digestible carbohydrates can provide an immediate fuel source. The compact and portable nature of the chews makes them convenient for on-the-go consumption during exercise when solid food might be impractical.

Source of Vitamin C

Each 100g serving of POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS contributes 17% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C. This micronutrient is an essential antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen synthesis. While not a primary source of vitamins, this contribution can help meet daily needs, especially when other dietary sources might be limited during intense physical activity.

Convenient for Specific Use Cases

The chews offer a highly convenient format for individuals needing a quick carbohydrate boost during endurance activities or when access to other food sources is limited. Their small size and gel-filled texture are designed for easy consumption without requiring water, making them suitable for situations where rapid nutrient delivery is prioritized over a comprehensive nutritional profile.

How to eat it

POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS are typically consumed by athletes or active individuals during prolonged exercise sessions to maintain energy levels. They are designed for quick ingestion and are often used as a mid-workout fuel source.

Consume one pouch during endurance activities lasting longer than 60 minutes to help sustain energy.
Pair with water to aid digestion and hydration, especially during physical exertion.
Consider using these chews as a pre-workout boost if you need readily available carbohydrates before intense exercise.
For general snacking, opt for whole-food alternatives like fruit or nuts to provide more fiber and micronutrients.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with sensitivities to specific ingredients should review the label carefully. The product contains glucose syrup from wheat, which may be a concern for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, although highly processed glucose syrups are often considered gluten-free. The presence of carrageenan and locust bean gum as thickeners may cause digestive discomfort in some sensitive individuals. Due to the high added sugar content, individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product with caution and consider its impact on their overall carbohydrate intake.

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Reader questions
Is POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS healthy?
This product scores 18/100, categorized as 'Avoid.' It is an ultra-processed food with 42g of added sugar per 100g, which significantly impacts its nutritional value. While it offers some Vitamin C and protein, it lacks fiber and a broad range of micronutrients found in less processed foods.
How does POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS compare to other energy chews?
Compared to other energy chews like GU Energy Chews, the nutritional profiles can be similar, often featuring high amounts of simple sugars for quick energy. The specific blend of sugars and minor micronutrient additions will vary. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts for direct comparisons, especially regarding added sugar and processing level.
What is 'DUAL SOURCE ENERGY BLEND'?
The 'DUAL SOURCE ENERGY BLEND' refers to the combination of sugar, glucose syrup from wheat, and invert sugar. This blend is designed to provide different types of carbohydrates that are absorbed at varying rates, aiming to offer a sustained energy release during physical activity.
How many chews should I eat in a day?
Given the high added sugar content, these chews are best reserved for specific occasions, such as during prolonged or intense physical activity. For general snacking, it's advisable to limit consumption and prioritize foods with a more balanced nutritional profile to avoid excessive sugar intake.
Can children eat these chews?
While not explicitly restricted for children, the high added sugar content means these chews are not recommended as a regular snack for kids. They are formulated for athletic performance and should be used sparingly, if at all, in a child's diet, which should prioritize whole, unprocessed foods.

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-headPOWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, LEMON vs. ANGIE'S, BOOM CHICKA POP, SEA SALT POPCORN, SEA SALT Head-to-headPOWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, LEMON vs. BARILLA, PASTA, ROTINI Head-to-headPOWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, LEMON vs. BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN, SPAGHETTI Head-to-headPOWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, LEMON vs. BARILLA, WHOLE WHEAT PASTA

Data & references