WHOLE FOODS MARKET Low-Fat Fig Bars receive a FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid), primarily due to their **high added sugar content**.
FoodScore: 25/100 (Avoid) indicates this product is not a frequent choice.
Contains 27.5g of added sugar per 100g, a significant amount for a snack.
Provides 3.6g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily intake.
Classified as NOVA class 3 (processed), unlike whole-food alternatives.
Best consumed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
Scores -16 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
3.57g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
27.5g
55% of Daily Value
Sodium
303.93mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (27.5g)-25
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 25
WHOLE FOODS MARKET Low-Fat Fig Bars score 25 out of 100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely driven by the high amount of added sugar, which is 27.5g per 100g. This contributes a substantial -25 penalty to the overall score. Ingredients like grape juice concentrate and honey are sources of this added sugar. The product's classification as NOVA class 3 (processed) also incurs a -5 penalty, reflecting its departure from a whole-food state. On the positive side, the product receives a +3 bonus for its fiber content of 3.6g per 100g and a +2 bonus for its iron content of 2.57mg, which provides 14% of the Daily Value. However, these bonuses are outweighed by the penalties. Compared to a reference baseline of raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, these fig bars offer less protein and significantly more added sugar, making them a less nutrient-dense option for a regular snack.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in whole foods market, low-fat fig bars actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
These fig bars contain 3.6g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. While not exceptionally high, this amount of fiber is a positive aspect of the product, especially for a processed snack. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can also help with satiety.
Provides Iron
WHOLE FOODS MARKET Low-Fat Fig Bars offer 2.57mg of iron per 100g, which is 14% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, this contribution can help individuals meet their daily iron requirements, particularly when combined with other iron-rich foods throughout the day. It's a notable micronutrient presence in this snack.
Convenient Snack Option
For individuals seeking a quick and portable snack, these fig bars can be a convenient choice. Their individual packaging makes them easy to carry and consume on the go, fitting into busy lifestyles. While not a whole food, they can serve as a readily available option when fresh fruit or other less processed snacks are not accessible. This convenience factor can be beneficial for managing hunger between meals.
WHOLE FOODS MARKET Low-Fat Fig Bars receive a FoodScore of 25/100 (Avoid), primarily due to their high added sugar content.
How to eat it
Fig bars are typically consumed as a quick snack or a light breakfast item. They are often eaten on their own, providing a convenient and portable option for individuals with busy schedules. Due to their sweetness, they can also serve as a small dessert.
Pair with a source of protein like a handful of nuts or Greek yogurt to improve satiety and balance blood sugar.
Consider cutting a bar in half to manage portion size and reduce added sugar intake per serving.
Use as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack to keep added sugar within dietary guidelines.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for these fig bars is their high added sugar content, at 27.5g per 100g. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product sparingly and factor it into their daily carbohydrate and sugar limits. The ingredient list includes whole wheat flour and unbleached wheat flour, meaning this product contains gluten and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. While no major allergens like tree nuts or peanuts are explicitly listed as primary ingredients, cross-contamination is always a possibility in manufacturing facilities. The product is generally safe for most healthy adults in moderation.
WHOLE FOODS MARKET Low-Fat Fig Bars received a FoodScore of 25/100, placing them in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to their high added sugar content (27.5g per 100g) and their classification as a processed food. While they offer some fiber and iron, they are not considered a nutrient-dense food for regular consumption.
How does WHOLE FOODS MARKET Low-Fat Fig Bars compare to other snack bars?
Compared to many other snack bars on the market, such as a KIND Bar or RXBar, WHOLE FOODS MARKET Low-Fat Fig Bars may have a similar or higher amount of added sugar. For instance, some RXBars contain no added sugar, relying on dates for sweetness. These fig bars are also lower in protein than many protein-focused bars. Always check the added sugar and protein content when comparing snack bars.
What is the role of grape juice concentrate in these fig bars?
Grape juice concentrate is listed as an ingredient and serves as a source of added sugar in these fig bars. While it comes from fruit, when concentrated and added to products, it contributes to the overall added sugar count, which is a significant factor in the product's FoodScore.
What is a reasonable portion size for these fig bars?
The declared serving size is 1 bar. Given the added sugar content, consuming a single bar as an occasional snack is a reasonable approach. For individuals monitoring sugar intake, even half a bar might be a more appropriate portion to fit within daily dietary guidelines.
Can these fig bars be part of a weight management diet?
While these fig bars are labeled 'low-fat,' their calorie density (321.07 calories per 100g) and high added sugar content mean they should be consumed in moderation if you are managing your weight. Focus on pairing them with protein and fiber sources to enhance satiety and prevent overconsumption.