VEGA, SPORT ENERGY BAR, APPLE CHERRY, APPLE CHERRY
The VEGA SPORT ENERGY BAR, APPLE CHERRY scores 33/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high added sugar content**.
This VEGA bar received a FoodScore of 33/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
A significant concern is the 28g of added sugar per 100g serving.
It provides 6g of fiber and 8g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), it contains more processed ingredients than whole-food alternatives.
Consider this bar for occasional use rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -8 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
6g
21% of Daily Value
Protein
8g
16% of Daily Value
Added sugar
28g
56% of Daily Value
Sodium
60mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (6g)+7
Protein (8g)+4
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (28g)-25
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 33
The VEGA SPORT ENERGY BAR, APPLE CHERRY received a FoodScore of 33 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its high amount of added sugar, which stands at 28g per 100g serving, incurring a significant penalty of -25 points. Ingredients like organic agave syrup and organic coconut palm sugar contribute to this sugar load. As a NOVA 3 classified product, indicating it is processed, it also received a -5 point penalty. On the positive side, the bar gained +7 points for its 6g of fiber and +4 points for its 8g of protein per 100g. It also received a minor bonus of +2 points for its Vitamin A content (22% DV). When compared to whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, this VEGA bar contains a considerably higher amount of added sugar and is more processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in vega, sport energy bar, apple cherry, apple cherry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This VEGA bar provides 6g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake goals. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While this bar contains fiber, it's important to consider the overall nutritional context, especially the added sugar content, when incorporating it into a balanced diet.
Contributes to Protein Intake
With 8g of protein per 100g, this product can help support muscle maintenance and repair. Protein is a crucial macronutrient for various bodily functions. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, especially around physical activity, this bar offers a convenient option, though it should be balanced with other nutrient-dense protein sources.
Convenient Energy Source
This bar offers a quick source of calories and carbohydrates, making it suitable for situations where immediate energy is needed, such as before or during prolonged physical activity. The combination of sugars from organic dates, organic agave syrup, and dried fruits provides readily available fuel. However, for general snacking, whole-food options might offer a more balanced nutrient profile.
The VEGA SPORT ENERGY BAR, APPLE CHERRY scores 33/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its high added sugar content.
How to eat it
Energy bars like the VEGA SPORT ENERGY BAR are typically consumed as a quick snack or before/during exercise. They are designed for convenience and to provide a rapid energy boost. A common pitfall is consuming them as a regular snack when less active, leading to excess calorie and added sugar intake.
Consider consuming this bar before or during extended workouts to fuel activity, rather than as an everyday snack.
Pair with a source of healthy fats or additional protein, such as a handful of nuts or a small serving of plain Greek yogurt, to moderate the glycemic response.
If using as a recovery snack, combine with a balanced meal to ensure a broader spectrum of nutrients.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while convenient, the calorie density means it can easily contribute to excess intake if not accounted for.
Things to keep in mind
Individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes, should be aware of the 28g of added sugar per 100g in this bar. The ingredient list includes organic agave syrup and organic coconut palm sugar, both of which are forms of added sugar. The product also contains almonds, so individuals with tree nut allergies should avoid it. While the ingredients like sunflower oil and sunflower lecithin are generally recognized as safe, the overall processed nature (NOVA 3) suggests it's best consumed in moderation as part of a varied diet.
Is the VEGA SPORT ENERGY BAR, APPLE CHERRY healthy?
The VEGA SPORT ENERGY BAR, APPLE CHERRY has a FoodScore of 33/100, which is considered 'Poor'. While it offers some fiber (6g) and protein (8g) per 100g, its nutritional profile is significantly impacted by the high amount of added sugar (28g per 100g). It is best considered an occasional energy source rather than a staple for general health.
How does this VEGA bar compare to other energy bars like RXBar?
Compared to some other energy bars like RXBar, which often feature simpler ingredient lists and rely more on fruit for sweetness, this VEGA bar contains multiple sources of added sugar such as organic agave syrup and organic coconut palm sugar. While both provide quick energy, the specific sugar content and processing level can differ. Always check the nutrition facts panel for specific comparisons.
What is sacha inchi oil, and why is it in this bar?
Sacha inchi oil, listed as VEGA SAVISEED OIL, is derived from the seeds of the sacha inchi plant. It is included in this bar as a source of fat. While it contains some beneficial fatty acids, its contribution to the overall nutritional profile should be considered alongside the primary macronutrients like carbohydrates and added sugars.
How much of this bar can I eat daily?
Given its 400 calories and 28g of added sugar per 100g, this bar is quite energy-dense. For most individuals, consuming a full 100g serving daily would contribute significantly to daily calorie and added sugar limits. It's generally recommended to consume such bars in moderation, especially if you are not engaging in intense physical activity that requires a rapid energy boost.
Does this bar contain any artificial ingredients?
Based on the ingredient list provided, the VEGA SPORT ENERGY BAR, APPLE CHERRY does not appear to contain artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. The ingredients are primarily derived from plant sources, including organic dates, almond flour, and dried fruits. The 'natural almond extract' is a flavor component, but it is not an artificial additive.