Sweetened granola or energy bars
Sweetened granola or energy bars are convenient, portable snacks made from a base of oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, bound together with sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or sugar. They originated in the health food movement of the late 20th century, particularly in the United States, as a quick, energy-dense food for active lifestyles.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
These bars are typically high in carbohydrates and fats, providing a quick energy boost, with a moderate amount of protein depending on the added nuts or protein sources. A standard bar offers key nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins from the grains, with a calorie range often between 200-300 kcal per serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 15 g |
| Sodium | 100 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Phosphorus | 80 mg |
| Zinc | 1.5 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.2 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.5 mg |
| Folate | 30 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.8 mg |
Per 1 bar (60 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, they represent the fusion of health-conscious eating with modern convenience, often marketed as a 'fuel' for hiking, sports, or busy workdays. Nutritionally, their unique aspect is the balance of quick-release sugars and slower-digesting oats and fats, designed to provide sustained energy.
