POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, ORANGE
POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, ORANGE scores 18/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
This POWERBAR product received a FoodScore of 18/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
It contains 43.17g of added sugar per 100g, a significant contributor to its low score.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, lacking whole food components.
Compared to a whole-food baseline like almonds and fruit, it offers minimal fiber and micronutrients.
Best used for specific, immediate energy needs during prolonged physical activity rather than a daily snack.
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
43.17g
86% 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 (43.2g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 18
POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, ORANGE receives a FoodScore of 18/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. The primary factor driving this low score is the substantial amount of added sugar, at 43.17g per 100g, 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 predominant components. This product is also classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed, resulting in a -10 point penalty. While it does receive minor bonuses for its protein content (5g per 100g, +1 point) and the presence of Vitamin C (17% DV, +2 points), these are insufficient to offset the penalties. In comparison to whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, this POWERBAR product provides negligible fiber and a limited range of micronutrients, making it a less nutrient-dense choice for general snacking.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in powerbar performance energy blasts gel filled chews, orange actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides Rapid Energy for Endurance Activities
This product is formulated to deliver a quick source of energy, which can be beneficial during prolonged or intense physical activity. The 'DUAL SOURCE ENERGY BLEND' of various sugars, including glucose syrup from wheat and invert sugar, is designed for rapid absorption. This can help maintain blood glucose levels and prevent fatigue when engaging in endurance sports or activities that deplete glycogen stores. It is not intended as a general snack but rather for specific athletic fueling needs.
Contains a Small Amount of Protein
Each 100g serving of POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS provides 5g of protein. While not a high-protein food, this contribution can play a minor role in muscle recovery and repair after exercise. The protein source, gelatin, is an incomplete protein but still contributes to the overall amino acid pool. For individuals with specific protein targets during or after workouts, this small amount can supplement other protein sources.
Source of Vitamin C
This product contains 17% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C per 100g. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient known for its role as an antioxidant and in supporting immune function. While the amount provided is not exceptionally high, it contributes to daily intake, which can be beneficial, especially for athletes who may experience increased oxidative stress. This micronutrient addition offers a minor nutritional advantage over products with no vitamin fortification.
POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS GEL FILLED CHEWS, ORANGE scores 18/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS are typically consumed by athletes or individuals engaged in endurance activities for quick energy. They are designed for on-the-go fueling during workouts or races, not as a daily snack. A common portion is one pouch, providing concentrated sugars.
Consume these chews during prolonged exercise (over 60 minutes) to help maintain energy levels, rather than before or after.
Pair with water to aid digestion and hydration, as the concentrated sugars can be intense without fluid.
Consider using only half a pouch at a time for shorter activities to moderate sugar intake.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals with diabetes or those monitoring blood sugar levels should exercise caution due to the high added sugar content (43.17g per 100g), which can lead to rapid spikes in blood glucose. The ingredient list includes gelatin, making this product unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans. The presence of carrageenan and locust gum as stabilizers may be a concern for some individuals with sensitive digestive systems, as these additives have been linked to gastrointestinal discomfort in some research, though typically at higher doses than found here. Consumers with allergies to wheat should note the 'glucose syrup from wheat' ingredient, which may contain trace amounts of gluten.
Based on its FoodScore of 18/100, POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS is categorized as 'Avoid' for regular consumption. Its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature mean it offers limited nutritional benefits compared to whole foods. It is specifically formulated for rapid energy during intense exercise, not as a general health food.
How does POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS compare to other energy chews?
Compared to other energy chews like GU Energy Chews, POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS shares a similar profile of being high in rapidly digestible sugars for athletic fueling. Most products in this category prioritize quick energy over broad nutritional density. Always check the specific added sugar and ingredient list for any brand to compare.
What is 'DUAL SOURCE ENERGY BLEND' in POWERBAR chews?
The 'DUAL SOURCE ENERGY BLEND' in POWERBAR chews refers to a combination of different sugars, specifically sugar, glucose syrup from wheat, and invert sugar. This blend is designed to provide both glucose and fructose, which can be absorbed through different pathways in the body, potentially allowing for faster and more sustained energy delivery during exercise.
How many POWERBAR chews can I eat in a day?
Due to the high added sugar content, it is advisable to limit consumption of POWERBAR PERFORMANCE ENERGY BLASTS. For most individuals, these chews are best reserved for during prolonged or intense physical activity when immediate energy is needed. They are not recommended for daily snacking or multiple servings per day outside of specific athletic contexts.
Can I use these chews if I'm not an athlete?
While anyone can consume these chews, they are specifically formulated for athletes needing quick energy. For non-athletes, the high added sugar content makes them a less optimal choice for general snacking compared to whole fruits or other nutrient-dense options. They offer minimal fiber or a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals for everyday nutritional needs.