Meal Bar Chocolate Peanut Butter
by General Mills
A heavily processed protein bar with multiple sugars, seed oils, and synthetic additives despite fortification with vitamins. While it provides protein and fiber, the ultra-processed nature and inflammatory ingredients make it a mediocre choice for regular consumption.
- Roasted Peanuts – beneficial · Whole food protein and healthy fat source, though roasting may create some oxidation.
- Soy Protein – controversial · Processed protein concentrate that may contain phytoestrogens and anti-nutrients.
- Chicory Root Extract – beneficial · Natural prebiotic fiber source that supports gut health and provides sweetness.
- Soluble Corn Fiber – safe · Processed fiber that provides bulk and sweetness with minimal blood sugar impact.
- Whole Grain Oats – beneficial · Nutritious whole grain providing fiber, protein, and micronutrients.
- Vegetable Oil (Palm Kernel, Palm, Canola) – controversial · Mix of saturated and inflammatory omega-6 oils, with canola being particularly processed.
- Sugar – controversial · Refined sugar that spikes blood glucose and contributes to metabolic dysfunction.
- Soy Protein Isolate – controversial · Highly processed protein with potential hormonal effects and stripped of natural nutrients.
- Fructose – controversial · Concentrated fructose that bypasses glucose regulation and may contribute to fatty liver.
- Chocolate Flavored Drops – controversial · Processed chocolate substitute containing more palm oil and sugar rather than real cocoa.
- Soy Fiber – safe · Isolated fiber from soy that provides bulk but lacks the benefits of whole soy foods.
- Tapioca Syrup – controversial · Processed sweetener that raises blood sugar similarly to corn syrup.
- Whey Protein Concentrate – safe · High-quality complete protein from milk, though processed and may cause digestive issues in some.
- Vegetable Glycerin – safe · Humectant that retains moisture but provides calories and may affect blood sugar.
- Tapioca Starch – safe · Refined starch used as thickener with minimal nutritional value.
- Peanut Butter – beneficial · Whole food ingredient providing healthy fats and protein, though processed.
- Cocoa Powder – beneficial · Natural source of antioxidants and minerals, though processed.
- Partially Defatted Peanut Flour – safe · Processed peanut product that concentrates protein but removes beneficial fats.
- Dipotassium Phosphate – safe · Food additive used as pH regulator, generally recognized as safe.
- Salt – safe · Essential mineral used for taste and preservation.
- Water – safe · Essential ingredient for processing and texture.
- Soy Lecithin – safe · Emulsifier generally recognized as safe, though highly processed from soy.
- Peanut Oil – safe · Relatively stable oil high in monounsaturated fats, better than seed oils.
- Rice Starch – safe · Refined starch used as thickener with minimal nutritional impact.
- Natural Flavor – safe · Undefined flavoring agent that could contain multiple chemical compounds.
- Corn Syrup – controversial · High-glucose syrup that rapidly raises blood sugar and contributes to metabolic issues.
- Maltodextrin – controversial · Highly processed starch that spikes blood sugar higher than table sugar.
- Baking Soda – safe · Natural leavening agent with no health concerns.
- Oil of Rosemary – beneficial · Natural antioxidant preservative that prevents rancidity.
- Vitamins and Minerals – beneficial · Synthetic vitamins and minerals added for fortification, though whole food sources are preferable.
High protein content
Fiber from chicory root
Vitamin fortification
Natural preservative
Multiple seed oils
Four different sugar sources
Ultra-processed
Inflammatory ingredients
Hormone-disrupting soy proteins
About This Analysis
This health analysis for Meal Bar Chocolate Peanut Butter was performed by Truelabel, an AI-powered food scanner that grades products from A (excellent) to F (failing) based on ingredient quality. The analysis covers seed oil content, ultra-processed ingredients, preservatives, artificial colors, allergens, and potential health risks including cancer risk, hormonal disruption, and gut irritation scores.
Category: Snacks