Key findings
- 1Many mainstream granola bars use syrup binders, added sugar and emulsifiers; check the label
- 2Larabars (dates + nuts + fruit) are among the simplest bars
- 3Trail mix (nuts, dried fruit, seeds) is a far less processed alternative to packaged bars
- 4In our analysis, granola bars average a Processing Score of 8.6, which is Level 4
Why is Granola Bars ultra-processed on average?
The granola bar manufacturing process involves binding grains and additions with syrup-based coatings (corn syrup, sugar, honey, maltodextrin), then adding preservatives (BHT, TBHQ) and texture agents (soy lecithin, glycerin). Many bars are essentially candy bars with oats. The chocolate or yogurt coatings use fractionated palm kernel oil and artificial flavors. Simple bars (dates pressed with nuts) prove the category doesn't require this complexity. In our analysis, granola bars average a Processing Score of 8.6, which is Level 4.
How 1,813 granola bars products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Granola Bars brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a granola bars label
- 1
Simple bars list dates, nuts, and maybe cocoa, a handful of whole food ingredients
- 2
Corn syrup, rice syrup, and maltodextrin are industrial sweetener-binders
- 3
Yogurt and chocolate coatings are typically palm oil-based confections
- 4
BHT and TBHQ are synthetic preservatives; indicators of ultra-processing
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Frequently asked questions
Are Nature Valley bars ultra-processed?
It depends on the bar. Check the label for syrup binders, added sugars, emulsifiers such as soy lecithin, and preservatives. Each product page shows its own score.
What are the least processed snack bars?
Larabars (dates, nuts), RXBARs (egg whites, dates, nuts), and similar whole-food bars with a handful of ingredients are the least processed. Look for bars where you can identify every ingredient.