Health score
62 / 100
Verdict: moderate
The TruBar PB & Jelly protein bar earns a moderate score of 62/100. While it is an excellent source of plant-based protein, it contains processed fillers and saturated fats.
Key takeaways
- Provides 24g of plant-based protein per 100g.
- Contains 6g of saturated fat per 100g from palm oil.
- Uses a pea and brown rice protein blend.
- Includes tapioca fiber as a primary bulking agent.
- Not suitable for those with severe peanut allergies.
Expert analysis
Our read on this product
With 24g of protein per 100g, this bar is highly effective for muscle maintenance, leveraging a solid pea and brown rice blend. However, the inclusion of RSPO palm oil and tapioca fiber indicates a reliance on processed additives to achieve desired textures. The 14g of sugar per 100g is moderate but warrants caution for those tracking glycemic impact. Its 62/100 health score reflects a balance of high-quality plant protein offset by caloric density and saturated fat concerns.
Best for
This bar is best suited for active individuals and athletes needing a portable, plant-based protein boost post-workout or during busy days.
Approach with care
Individuals with peanut allergies must avoid this product, and those monitoring saturated fat intake for heart health should consume it in moderation.
Ingredient breakdown
Good ingredients
Neutral ingredients
Ingredients to watch
Tapioca fiber and cassava blend
Used as a prebiotic fiber source to provide texture and structure to the bar while managing glycemic impact. While generally well-tolerated, it is a highly processed starch derivative that acts as a bulking agent.
Plant-fueled protein blend
A combination of brown rice and pea protein designed to provide a complete amino acid profile for muscle maintenance. This plant-based source is generally heart-healthy and free of dairy-related inflammation.
Peanuts
Provides healthy fats, protein, and essential micronutrients. While nutrient-dense, they are a common allergen and high in caloric density.
RSPO palm oil
Used for texture and stability, this is a saturated fat source. Sourced via RSPO standards to minimize deforestation, though saturated fats should be limited for cardiovascular health.
Medium chain triglycerides
Derived from fats like coconut oil, these are used for quick energy availability. They are often included in keto-friendly products but provide dense caloric energy.
Nutrition facts
Values shown per 100g
Energy
380 kcal
Protein
24g
Carbs
48g
Fat
16g
Fiber
12g
Sugar
14g
Sodium
250mg
Saturated fat
6g
Fiber
12g
Health goal fit
| Goal | Grade | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mood Effect | C | While the protein helps with satiety, the sugar content may lead to energy fluctuations that impact mood stability. |
| Muscle Gain | A | The 24g of complete plant protein per 100g makes this an effective choice for supporting muscle synthesis. |
| Weight Loss | C | At 380 kcal per 100g, this bar is energy-dense and may hinder weight loss if not portion-controlled. |
| Flu Recovery | D | It provides energy but lacks the high-density vitamins and antioxidants necessary for supporting immune function during viral illness. |
| Fever Recovery | D | It lacks the hydration and essential electrolytes needed to support the body during acute fever recovery. |
| Pcos Management | C | The moderate sugar and saturated fat content may not be ideal for those managing insulin sensitivity and inflammation. |
| Diabetes Management | C | With 14g of sugar and processed fibers, blood sugar response may be higher than whole-food alternatives. |
Myth busters
It is a high-protein snack
With 24g of protein per 100g, it is a significant source of plant-based amino acids.
Contains only natural ingredients
It contains highly processed tapioca fiber and RSPO palm oil to ensure texture and shelf stability.
Good for heart health due to being plant-based
It contains 6g of saturated fat per 100g from palm oil, which should be limited for cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Is the TruBar PB & Jelly bar actually healthy?
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It is a moderate choice. It offers good protein content but contains processed ingredients like palm oil and tapioca fiber, which should be consumed in moderation.
What is the main concern with this ingredient list?
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The primary concerns are the inclusion of saturated fat from RSPO palm oil and the use of highly processed starch derivatives like tapioca fiber as bulking agents.
Does this bar contain real peanuts?
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Yes, peanuts are a key ingredient, providing healthy fats and additional protein, though they also make the bar high in caloric density.
Is this bar suitable for a keto diet?
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While it contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) often found in keto foods, the 48g of carbs per 100g makes it less ideal for strict ketogenic protocols.
Are there better alternatives for post-workout protein?
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Yes, alternatives using whole-food sources with lower sugar and no processed palm oil may offer better nutritional value for those avoiding additives.