Why is CHOCOLATEY CHUNKS COOKIE DOUGH PROTEIN BAR classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The bar is made from isolated milk and whey proteins, soluble corn fiber, cashew butter and several refined sweeteners, which undergo multiple industrial steps such as protein isolation, fiber solubilisation and flavouring. These processes, together with the inclusion of additives like erythritol (E968), steviol glycosides (stevia, E960), sunflower lecithin and natural flavourings, place it in the NOVA 4 category for ultra‑processed foods.

How does the sugar and salt content in this protein bar affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With only 3.3 g of sugar per 100 g, the bar is low‑sugar and therefore less likely to cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, which is beneficial for diabetics. Its salt level is also low at 0.58 g per 100 g, making it suitable for those monitoring sodium intake to control blood pressure.

Based on the ingredients, is this protein bar suitable for strict diets like vegan, keto, halal, or gluten‑free?

The bar is not vegan because it contains milk protein isolate and whey protein isolate, and it is not keto‑friendly due to its high carbohydrate content (22 g carbs per 100 g). It is gluten‑free, as no gluten ingredients are listed, and it may be acceptable for halal diets if the dairy and meat‑derived additives meet halal standards, though certification is not indicated.

Kirkland Signature • 20 x 2.12 oz

Protein Bar Variety Pack - Chocolate Brownie & Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Dietary Supplements

Product Insights

The CHOCOLATEY CHUNKS COOKIE DOUGH PROTEIN BAR from Kirkland Signature is a gluten‑free, no‑artificial‑flavor high‑protein snack that contains milk and cashews. Per 100 g it delivers 35 g protein, 22 g carbohydrates (only 3.3 g sugars), 11.7 g fat (4.2 g saturated) and 0.58 g salt, offering low sugar and salt but a moderate fat load and high fiber (16.7 g). It is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and includes additives such as erythritol, stevia, sunflower lecithin and natural flavors, which may be a concern for some consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal367 kcal

Iron2.1 mg

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average protein bar (per 100 g), this bar contains markedly less sugar (3.3 g vs 8.5 g) and salt (0.58 g vs 5.6 g), but considerably more fat (11.7 g vs 6.9 g), saturated fat (4.2 g vs 2.6 g), carbohydrates (36.7 g vs 24.2 g) and fiber (16.7 g vs 6.4 g), while providing slightly less protein (35 g vs 41.3 g) and higher calories (367 kcal vs 316 kcal).

Ingredients

Protein blend (milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate), soluble corn fiber, cashew butter, isomalto-oligosaccharides (vegetable source), unsweetened chocolate, erythritol, water, cocoa butter, cocoa powder (processed with alkali), natural flavors, sea salt, sunflower lecithin, steviol glycosides (stevia). CONTAINS: Milk and Cashews.

84%

35%

Unlock What Your Food Doesn't Tell You

Scan this and millions of other food products to discover hidden positive & negative points, scores percentage, additives, allergens, and deeper product insights with the free NutrScan app.