Understanding Processed Foods: What is the Spectrum?
To understand if Built Bars are highly processed, it's crucial to first define the different levels of food processing. The Nova classification system is widely used and provides a clear framework:
- Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods (Group 1): Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and meats that are consumed raw or after simple processes like washing or grinding.
- Processed Culinary Ingredients (Group 2): Ingredients derived directly from Group 1 foods through pressing, milling, or refining, such as olive oil, maple syrup, and flour.
- Processed Foods (Group 3): Products made by combining Group 1 and Group 2 foods. Examples include simple breads, cheeses, and canned vegetables.
- Ultra-Processed Foods (Group 4): Industrial formulations with five or more ingredients, often containing food substances not commonly used in home cooking, such as flavors, colors, emulsifiers, and preservatives. This is where most commercial protein bars, including Built Bars, fall.
Built Bar Ingredients and Processing
Built Bars contain several ingredients that undergo intensive processing, defining their category as an ultra-processed product.
Protein Blend
The primary protein source in many Built Bars is a blend of whey protein isolate and partially hydrolyzed whey protein isolate. The 'isolate' designation indicates a high degree of processing to remove fat and lactose. 'Partially hydrolyzed' means the protein is broken down further using water and enzymes, a high-tech process designed for easier digestion. This is significantly more refined than a simple protein powder and is a hallmark of ultra-processed foods.
Sweeteners and Additives
To achieve their taste and texture without excess sugar, Built Bars rely on a combination of sweeteners and additives:
- Erythritol: A sugar alcohol produced via the fermentation of corn starch. While natural in origin, the final product is a highly processed ingredient that can cause digestive issues in some individuals.
- Maltodextrin: Often derived from corn, rice, or wheat, this processed carbohydrate acts as a texture agent and bulking ingredient. It can have a high glycemic index, despite being included for its functional properties. Some formulations use a "digestion-resistant" version, indicating further chemical modification.
- Soy Lecithin: A highly processed food additive derived from soybean oil, used as an emulsifier. It is so refined that it is functionally different from whole soy.
- Gelatin: An animal byproduct that undergoes significant processing to extract collagen from connective tissues.
Coating and Flavor
The dark chocolate coating is also a formulated product containing ingredients like cocoa butter, chocolate liquor, and natural flavors, which are added for sensory enhancement and stability. These components, particularly the emulsifiers and flavor compounds, contribute to the bar's ultra-processed classification.
Why Processing Level Matters
Highly processed foods are not inherently "bad," but their nutritional profile and impact on health differ from minimally processed ones. The high level of processing can strip ingredients of their natural nutrients and fiber, replacing them with functional additives.
- Bioavailability: While the protein isolate is easily digestible, the lack of whole food matrix means the bar doesn't provide the same array of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients found in less-processed snacks.
- Gut Health: The use of erythritol and maltodextrin can impact gut bacteria and lead to digestive discomfort for sensitive individuals.
- Blood Sugar: Although low in net carbs, the additives can still influence blood sugar levels in some cases, which is a concern for people monitoring their glucose.
Comparison: Built Bar vs. Minimally Processed Alternatives
| Feature | Built Bar (Highly Processed) | DIY Nut & Seed Bar (Minimally Processed) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Whey Protein Isolate, Maltodextrin, Erythritol | Whole Nuts, Seeds, Dried Fruit, Protein Powder |
| Processing Level | Ultra-processed (Group 4) | Combination of Group 1 and 2, resulting in a processed food (Group 3) |
| Sweeteners | Sugar alcohols (Erythritol), Stevia, Sugar | Natural sugars from dates or honey |
| Fats | Cocoa Butter, Milk Fat | Fats from whole nuts and seeds |
| Additives | Soy Lecithin, Glycerin, Artificial Flavors | None typically needed |
| Nutrient Density | High in protein, but lacks micronutrient variety | Rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals from whole sources |
| Texture | Marshmallow-like or nougaty | Chewy or crunchy, depending on ingredients |
The Takeaway: It Depends on Your Goals
Whether a highly processed Built Bar is a good choice depends on the individual's dietary needs and priorities. For someone needing a convenient, high-protein snack that is low in sugar and they don't have time for other options, it can fit their dietary plan. For those prioritizing whole foods, minimizing additives, and seeking a broader nutritional profile, a homemade or less-processed bar is a better choice. It's about weighing the convenience against the level of processing.
Ultimately, while Built Bars provide a convenient dose of protein, their formulation is unequivocally highly processed due to the refinement of their core ingredients and the inclusion of multiple food additives. Recognizing this can help consumers make more informed decisions about how these bars fit into a balanced, whole-food-centric diet.
