The QUAKER GRANOLA BAR receives a FoodScore of 21/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its **high added sugar content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 21/100 (Avoid) due to significant added sugar and processing.
Contains 17.5g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to a major score penalty.
Provides 4.2g of fiber per 100g, a positive nutrient contribution.
Classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Compared to whole-food snacks, this bar offers less nutrient density.
Scores -20 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
4.21g
15% of Daily Value
Protein
4.17g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
17.5g
35% of Daily Value
Sodium
332.92mg
14% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.2g)+4
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (17.5g)-23
Saturated fat (4.2g)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 21
The QUAKER GRANOLA BAR earned a FoodScore of 21 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its significant added sugar content, which stands at 17.5g per 100g, resulting in a substantial penalty of 23 points. The presence of multiple sugar sources such as brown sugar, corn syrup, and invert sugar contributes to this high amount. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurs an additional 10-point penalty. While the bar does contain whole grain rolled oats, the overall formulation includes numerous processed ingredients like soybean oil and corn syrup solids. On the positive side, it receives a bonus of 4 points for its fiber content (4.2g per 100g) and 2 points for calcium (332.92mg per 100g). However, these benefits are outweighed by the penalties. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, the QUAKER bar offers a less favorable nutritional profile due to its higher sugar and processing level.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in quaker granola bar actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This QUAKER GRANOLA BAR provides 4.2g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet may also support feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for managing appetite. While this bar offers some fiber, it's important to consider the overall nutritional context.
Contains Calcium
The product contains 332.92mg of calcium per 100g, providing 26% of the Daily Value. Calcium is an essential mineral crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission. For individuals looking to increase their calcium intake, this bar can contribute to meeting daily requirements, though it should be balanced with other calcium-rich, less processed foods.
Convenient Snack Option
The QUAKER GRANOLA BAR offers a convenient and portable snack option for busy individuals. Its individual packaging makes it easy to carry and consume on the go, fitting into routines where time for meal preparation is limited. While convenience is a benefit, it's advisable to pair it with other nutrient-dense foods to create a more balanced snack.
The QUAKER GRANOLA BAR receives a FoodScore of 21/100 (Avoid). Its low score is primarily driven by its high added sugar content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Granola bars like this QUAKER product are typically consumed as a quick snack between meals or as part of a light breakfast. They are often chosen for their portability and perceived energy boost. A common portion is one bar, but it's important to consider the overall nutritional impact when integrating it into your daily diet.
Pair with a source of protein and healthy fats, such as a handful of nuts or a serving of plain yogurt, to enhance satiety and balance blood sugar.
Consider this bar as an occasional snack rather than a daily staple due to its added sugar content.
If using for breakfast, combine with a piece of fruit and a glass of milk or a plant-based alternative to create a more nutritionally complete meal.
Portion control is key; stick to one bar per serving to manage intake of added sugars and calories.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that some individuals may wish to monitor. The ingredient list includes soybean oil and palm kernel oil, which are sources of saturated fat and commonly found in ultra-processed foods. Individuals with allergies should note that the product contains milk, soy, and wheat. While the bar does not contain artificial sweeteners, its high added sugar content (17.5g per 100g) could be a concern for individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes. The presence of glycerin and sorbitol may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals if consumed in large quantities, though these are typically present in smaller amounts.
The QUAKER Granola Bar has a FoodScore of 21/100, indicating it is not a primary choice for a healthy diet. Its score is significantly impacted by 17.5g of added sugar per 100g and its classification as an ultra-processed food. While it offers some fiber and calcium, these benefits are outweighed by other nutritional factors.
How does QUAKER Granola Bar compare to other snack bars?
Compared to whole-food based bars like RXBar, the QUAKER Granola Bar contains more added sugar and is more highly processed. While it may offer similar convenience, the nutritional density and ingredient quality differ. For a more nutrient-dense option, consider bars with fewer ingredients and lower added sugar content.
What is 'brown rice crisp' in the ingredient list?
Brown rice crisp, as listed in the ingredients, is a processed component made from whole grain brown rice flour, sugar, and salt. It contributes to the texture of the bar but also adds to the overall sugar content. Its inclusion is typical of ultra-processed snack products.
What is a reasonable portion size for this granola bar?
A reasonable portion size is typically one bar, as indicated by the serving size. Consuming more than one bar would significantly increase your intake of added sugars and calories. For a more balanced snack, consider pairing one bar with a source of protein or fresh fruit.
Can I eat this granola bar every day?
Due to its FoodScore of 21/100 and high added sugar content, consuming this QUAKER Granola Bar daily is not recommended as a primary snack choice. It is best reserved for occasional consumption or as a convenient option when more nutrient-dense foods are unavailable. Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods for daily intake.