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

The bar is labelled NOVA 4 because its formulation relies heavily on processed ingredients such as maltitol (E965), sucralose (E955), polydextrose (E1200), lecithins (E322), glycerol (E422), pectins (E440) and caramel colour (E150a). These additives serve as sweeteners, emulsifiers, stabilisers and colourants, which are characteristic of ultra‑processed foods.

How do the saturated fat and sodium levels in this protein bar affect cardiovascular health?

A 45 g serving provides about 4.4 g of saturated fat and 0.21 g of salt (approximately 0.08 g sodium). Both nutrients are above the low‑threshold recommendations for heart‑healthy diets, so regular consumption could contribute to elevated cholesterol or blood pressure; people with cardiovascular concerns should limit intake.

Is the maltitol used as a sweetener in this bar likely to cause digestive discomfort?

Maltitol is a sugar‑alcohol that is poorly absorbed in the gut; consuming large amounts can draw water into the intestine and ferment, leading to bloating, gas or laxative effects. The product label even warns that excessive consumption may cause laxative symptoms, so individuals sensitive to sugar‑alcohols should eat the bar sparingly.

ESN • 45 gram

PROTEIN BAR

Dietary Supplements

Product Insights

The PROTEIN BAR is a German‑made, no‑added‑sugar milk chocolate protein snack marketed for bodybuilding and on‑the‑go nutrition. It belongs to the protein‑rich food group, carries a Nutri‑Score that is not calculated for supplements and is classified as NOVA 4, indicating an ultra‑processed product with several food‑industry additives. The bar supplies 14 g of protein per 45 g serving while delivering moderate fat (8.8 g), low sugars (1.8 g) but a relatively high saturated fat content (4.4 g) and moderate salt (0.21 g), so it can support protein needs but should be eaten in moderation, especially by those monitoring saturated fat or sodium intake.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal400 kcal

Fat19.6 g

Carbohydrates33.3 g

Proteins31.1 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with typical protein bars, this product offers a higher protein density per gram but also contains more saturated fat and sodium, positioning it as a protein‑focused snack that should be consumed mindfully.

Ingredients

no added sugar milk chocolate with sweetener 33% (sweetener (maltitol), cocoa butter, whole milk powder, cocoa mass, emulsifier (lecithins (sunflower, rapeseed, soy)*), natural bourbon vanilla flavor), milk protein, caramel paste 11,5% (polydextrose, sweetener (maltitol), condensed milk , coconut fat, stabilizer (glycerol), cocoa butter, emulsifier (lecithins (sunflower)), salt, stabilizer (pectins), colour (plain caramel), natural flavoring), collagen peptides (bovine), humectant (glycerol), roasted peanut pieces 6,7%, polydextrose, peanut butter 2%, sunflower oil, flavoring, salt, sweetener (sucralose), *depends on availability, origin ingredients: eu/non-eu, may contain traces of nuts, advice: excessive consumption may cause laxative effects,

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.