What Are Good To Go Bars?
Good To Go is a brand of snack bars, primarily known for their soft-baked, keto-certified products. They are marketed as convenient, wholesome snacks for people following ketogenic or low-carb lifestyles. The bars are made with real ingredients, such as almond flour and nuts, and are certified gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO. It is important to note the distinction between 'GOOD TO GO' and 'G2G' (Good2Go) Protein Bars, which are a different refrigerated product line with a higher protein content and a focus on different macros. This article will focus on the baked, keto-friendly GOOD TO GO bars.
The Nutritional Breakdown
A typical Good To Go soft-baked bar offers a macronutrient profile designed to align with keto dietary principles.
- Low Net Carbs: With only 3-4 grams of net carbs per bar, they are an excellent option for those tracking their carb intake carefully. This is achieved by using almond flour instead of grain-based flours and incorporating fiber.
- High Healthy Fats: The bars contain 12-14 grams of healthy plant-based fats, primarily from nuts and sunflower oil. This high-fat content provides sustained energy, a cornerstone of the ketogenic diet.
- Low Sugar: Each bar contains only 1-2 grams of sugar and zero artificial sweeteners in some variations. Some recipes use natural sweeteners like agave syrup and erythritol to keep sugar content minimal.
- Moderate Protein: At 5-6 grams of plant-based protein per bar, Good To Go offers a decent protein boost, although not as high as dedicated protein bars.
- High Fiber: With up to 8 grams of fiber per bar, they aid digestion and help promote feelings of fullness. Some of this fiber comes from sources like tapioca fiber or inulin.
The Pros and Cons
Like any packaged food, Good To Go bars have both advantages and drawbacks that determine their overall healthiness for an individual.
The Pros:
- Keto and Low-Carb Friendly: The low net carb and high fat content make them a suitable snack for those following ketogenic diets.
- Dietary Allergen Friendly: They are certified gluten-free, grain-free, vegan, and peanut-free (though some may contain other tree nuts), which is beneficial for many individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
- High Fiber Content: The significant fiber content promotes digestive health and contributes to satiety, helping to manage appetite.
- Made with Real Ingredients: The ingredient list includes whole foods like almonds, cashews, and real fruits, providing better nutritional value than highly processed alternatives.
- Convenience: As a portable, shelf-stable snack, they are an easy solution for busy individuals or for staving off hunger on the go.
The Cons:
- Processed Snack: Despite using real ingredients, they are still a processed snack and not a substitute for whole, unprocessed foods.
- Potential Digestive Issues: Ingredients like tapioca fiber or erythritol can cause bloating and digestive discomfort in some people, particularly those not used to a high-fiber intake.
- Lower Protein: The protein content is lower compared to many traditional protein bars, which may not satisfy athletes or those seeking significant protein intake.
- Energy Density: Some bars are calorie-dense, and relying on them too often without adjusting other intake could lead to weight gain for some.
Comparison with Other Popular Bars
To understand if Good To Go bars are healthy for your needs, compare them with other common snack bar types.
| Feature | Good To Go (Keto/Low-Sugar) | RXBAR (Whole Food) | Clif Bar (Energy/High-Carb) | G2G Bar (Refrigerated) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredients | Almond flour, nuts, tapioca fiber, organic sweeteners | Egg whites, dates, nuts | Rolled oats, brown rice syrup, nuts | Nut butters, honey, whey protein, oats |
| Macronutrient Focus | High Fat, Low Net Carb | Balanced with natural sweetness | High Carb, Moderate Protein | High Protein, Balanced macros |
| Sugar Content | 1-5g per bar, low added sugar | Higher natural sugar from dates | Higher sugar for quick energy | Naturally sweetened with honey |
| Protein Content | 5-6g (plant-based) | ~12g (egg white) | ~10g (plant-based) | ~18g (whey) |
| Best For | Keto dieters, low-sugar snack seekers | Those prioritizing simple, whole-food ingredients | Athletes needing quick-release energy | People needing a fresh, high-protein snack |
| Shelf Stability | Long-term | Long-term | Long-term | Requires refrigeration |
Healthy Alternatives to Good To Go Bars
For those who find Good To Go bars a little too processed or who prefer other options, several alternatives exist:
- Whole Food Snacks: A handful of mixed nuts, a piece of fruit, or Greek yogurt offers a similar nutrient profile with less processing.
- DIY Bars: Making your own protein or energy bars at home provides complete control over ingredients, allowing for customization of macros and minimizing additives.
- Other Brands: Consider brands like RXBAR for a focus on whole foods, or G2G (if refrigeration is not an issue) for a higher protein option.
How to Decide if Good To Go Bars Are Right for You
The healthiness of any snack bar depends on your individual health goals. Consider the following:
- Your Diet: If you are strictly following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, the low net carb count of Good To Go bars is a significant advantage.
- Your Goals: For those needing a quick, convenient, low-sugar snack that also provides healthy fats and fiber, these bars can be a great option. However, if your primary goal is high protein intake, other bars are better.
- Ingredient Sensitivity: If you have sensitivities to ingredients like sugar alcohols or certain types of fiber, be mindful of how your body reacts.
- Frequency of Consumption: Occasional consumption of a processed bar is fine for most people. For daily snacking, opting for whole food alternatives may be a more balanced approach.
Conclusion: Are good to go bars healthy?
Ultimately, the question, 'are good to go bars healthy?' does not have a simple yes or no answer; it depends on the context of your diet. For individuals on a keto or low-carb diet, they represent a high-quality, convenient option with desirable macros, low sugar, and real ingredients. Their certifications (keto, vegan, gluten-free) are strong selling points. However, they are still a processed food, and alternatives exist for those who prefer whole, unprocessed snacks or need a higher protein content. As with any food, moderation and consideration of your overall diet are key to determining if they are a healthy choice for you. For further information on choosing healthy snacks, the Cleveland Clinic offers useful guidelines on evaluating snack bars based on ingredients and nutritional information.
