VITAL FARMS UNCURED BACON & CHEDDAR CHEESE BREAKFAST BAR WITH HASH BROWNS, UNCURED BACON & CHEDDAR CHEESE
VITAL FARMS UNCURED BACON & CHEDDAR CHEESE BREAKFAST BAR WITH HASH BROWNS scores 52/100 (Decent) due to its notable protein and fiber content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
This VITAL FARMS breakfast bar has a FoodScore of 52/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides a good source of protein with 11.76g per 100g, contributing positively to satiety.
A primary concern is the sodium content, at 623.53mg per 100g, which is relatively high.
Compared to generic dairy equivalents, this product offers more protein and fiber but also higher sodium.
Consider this bar as an occasional, convenient breakfast option rather than a daily staple.
Scores +19 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3.51g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
11.76g
24% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
623.53mg
27% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.5g)+3
Protein (11.8g)+7
Micronutrients (Calcium)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.7g)-3
Sodium (623.5mg)-2
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 52
The VITAL FARMS UNCURED BACON & CHEDDAR CHEESE BREAKFAST BAR WITH HASH BROWNS achieves a FoodScore of 52 out of 100, indicating a decent nutritional profile. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, the bar provides a notable 11.76g of protein per 100g, contributing significantly to its score. It also contains 3.51g of fiber per 100g, which is a beneficial addition. The presence of calcium, at 12% DV per 100g, further boosts its micronutrient score. However, the product faces penalties due to its saturated fat content of 4.71g per 100g and a relatively high sodium level of 623.53mg per 100g. The inclusion of uncured bacon and cheddar cheese contributes to both the protein and the saturated fat and sodium content. As a NOVA class 3 product, it is considered processed, incurring a penalty in the scoring system. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this VITAL FARMS bar offers more protein and fiber but also has a higher sodium and saturated fat content, reflecting its composite nature.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in vital farms uncured bacon & cheddar cheese breakfast bar with hash browns, uncured bacon & cheddar cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Satiety and Muscle Maintenance
This VITAL FARMS breakfast bar is a good source of protein, providing 11.76g per 100g. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, including muscle, and plays a role in enzyme and hormone production. Consuming adequate protein can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, which may be beneficial for managing appetite throughout the morning. The protein content comes from ingredients like eggs, ricotta cheese, and pork in the uncured bacon.
Contributes to Digestive Health
With 3.51g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for maintaining regular bowel movements and overall digestive health. It can also help stabilize blood sugar levels and contribute to feelings of fullness. While not a primary source, this amount of fiber is a positive addition to a convenient breakfast item, coming partly from the potato and other plant-based ingredients.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
The VITAL FARMS breakfast bar offers 12% DV of calcium per 100g, an important mineral for bone health and various bodily functions. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, nerve transmission, and muscle function. While other micronutrients like potassium and iron are present in smaller amounts, the calcium content is a notable contribution, primarily from the ricotta cheese and cheddar cheese.
VITAL FARMS UNCURED BACON & CHEDDAR CHEESE BREAKFAST BAR WITH HASH BROWNS scores 52/100 (Decent) due to its notable protein and fiber content, balanced against its sodium and saturated fat levels.
How to eat it
This VITAL FARMS breakfast bar is designed as a convenient, on-the-go meal option, typically consumed as a quick breakfast or snack. Its savory profile makes it a departure from traditional sweet breakfast bars. One bar constitutes a single serving.
To balance the meal, pair this bar with a serving of fresh fruit or a small side salad to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Be mindful of the sodium content; if consuming this bar, consider reducing sodium intake from other meals throughout the day.
This bar can serve as a quick breakfast on busy mornings, but for a more nutritionally complete meal, consider adding a source of whole grains like a slice of whole-wheat toast.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that this product contains milk and egg, which are common allergens. Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The sodium content, at 623.53mg per 100g, is relatively high, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product in moderation. While the product states "no nitrates or nitrites added except for that naturally occurring in celery powder" for the uncured bacon, it is still a processed meat component. The product is categorized as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food, which generally suggests a higher degree of industrial processing compared to whole, unprocessed foods.
Is VITAL FARMS UNCURED BACON & CHEDDAR CHEESE BREAKFAST BAR healthy?
This VITAL FARMS breakfast bar scores 52/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It offers a good amount of protein and fiber, which are beneficial for satiety and digestion. However, it is also relatively high in sodium and saturated fat, so it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does VITAL FARMS compare to other breakfast bars?
Compared to many sweet breakfast bars like a KIND Bar, this VITAL FARMS bar offers a savory profile with a higher protein content from eggs and cheese. It also contains less added sugar (0g). However, it typically has higher saturated fat and sodium levels than many plant-based or grain-focused bars, reflecting its dairy and meat ingredients.
What does 'uncured bacon - no nitrates or nitrites added' mean?
This label indicates that no synthetic nitrates or nitrites were added during the curing process. Instead, the bacon is cured using naturally occurring nitrates from ingredients like celery powder. While the source differs, the chemical compounds that act as preservatives are still present.
What is a recommended portion size for this breakfast bar?
The serving size for this product is one bar. Given its nutrient profile, particularly the sodium and saturated fat content, sticking to a single bar per serving is advisable. Integrating it with other whole foods like fruits or vegetables can help create a more balanced meal.
Can I eat this VITAL FARMS bar every day?
While this bar offers convenience and some beneficial nutrients like protein and fiber, its higher sodium and saturated fat content suggest it may be better suited as an occasional option rather than a daily staple. Varying your breakfast choices with whole, unprocessed foods is generally recommended for optimal nutrition.