Protein Bars

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Protein Bars scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Processed Meats (Hydrolyzed Gelatin): Mechanically separated and reformed meats are UPF markers.
• Corn-Based Sweeteners (Corn Syrup): HFCS is a hallmark of ultra-processed foods.
• Emulsifiers (Glycerin, Soy Lecithin): Industrial emulsifiers indicate UPF.
• Natural Flavors (Natural Flavors, Vanilla Extract): Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.
• Processed Fruit Products (Cocoa Powder): Concentrates and extracts indicate significant processing.

Within Snack & Energy Bars, this product is more processed than about 65% of the 8,001 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Protein Bars' ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Stabilizers & GumsUPF marker

In this product: Carrageenan.

Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Sugar, Steviol Glycosides (Stevia Leaf Extract), Fructose.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Vegetable OilsProcessing indicator

In this product: Palm Kernel Oil, Canola Oil.

Natural oils are minimally processed, hydrogenated oils indicate UPF.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

MineralsProcessing indicator

In this product: Disodium Phosphate.

Added minerals often compensate for processing.