A Closer Look at Outshine Ingredients
Outshine promotes its fruit bars as a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, but the ingredients vary significantly depending on the flavor. The core promise of 'real fruit' is true, though it's often in the form of purees or juice concentrates rather than whole fruit.
Real Fruit, Juice Concentrate, or Both?
Many standard Outshine flavors, like mango and strawberry, list fruit purees and fruit juice concentrates among their primary ingredients. While this is derived from real fruit, the concentration process removes much of the beneficial fiber and other nutrients present in whole fruit. The 'No Sugar Added' varieties are even further processed, relying on fruit juice concentrates and various additives.
The Impact of Added Sugars
For the standard fruit bars, the second or third ingredient is typically cane sugar. A single bar can contain a significant amount of sugar, with some flavors having as much as 12 to 17 grams of added sugar. Overconsumption of added sugars is linked to numerous health issues, including weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease. While cane sugar is less processed than high-fructose corn syrup, it remains an added sugar that should be consumed in moderation.
The Controversial "No Sugar Added" Option
Outshine also offers 'No Sugar Added' varieties, often sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners. Common ones include sucralose and acesulfame potassium. These ingredients are highly controversial, with some studies and consumer watchdog groups raising concerns about their potential health risks, including impacts on gut health and metabolism. For individuals sensitive to these additives, digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea can occur.
The Role of Gums and Thickeners
To achieve their texture and consistency, Outshine bars contain stabilizing agents such as guar gum and carob bean gum. These are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, but some people experience digestive discomfort when consuming them. The no-sugar-added versions may also contain other texturizers and ingredients like maltodextrin and polydextrose.
Outshine Fruit Bars vs. Whole Fruit
It is crucial to understand that an Outshine bar is not a nutritional equivalent to a piece of whole fruit. While the bars provide some vitamin C, they lack the high fiber and a broader range of nutrients found in unprocessed fruit. A whole apple, for example, would provide a more satiating and nutrient-dense snack with no added sugars.
Comparison Table: Outshine Bar vs. Whole Fruit
| Feature | Standard Outshine Fruit Bar | Whole Fruit (e.g., Apple) |
|---|---|---|
| Added Sugar | Yes (often 10-17g) | No |
| Processing | Highly processed (juice concentrates, gums) | Minimally processed (whole food) |
| Fiber Content | Low to none | High (approx. 4.4g for a medium apple) |
| Satiety | Low (lacks fiber and protein) | High (fiber-rich, fills you up) |
| Nutrient Density | Good source of Vitamin C, but less diverse | Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants |
| Additives | Contains guar gum, carob bean gum, etc. | None |
Are Outshine Fruit Bars Right for You?
When considering whether Outshine bars are good or bad, the answer lies in moderation and your specific health goals. For some, they offer a convenient, lower-calorie, and fat-free alternative to traditional ice cream, free from high-fructose corn syrup. They can be a refreshing treat on a hot day or a sweet indulgence that is less unhealthy than other options.
However, for those focused on minimizing added sugar intake, weight management, or who have sensitivities to gums or artificial sweeteners, Outshine bars may not be the best choice. The regular bars contain a notable amount of added sugar, while the sugar-free variants use controversial sweeteners. Opting for whole fruit or making homemade fruit popsicles with blended whole fruit would be a more nutritious alternative.
To help make an informed decision, it is wise to always read the ingredient list for the specific flavor you intend to purchase and consider how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.
Conclusion: The Good, the Bad, and the Verdict
Outshine fruit bars are not inherently good or bad; they exist on a spectrum. The 'good' lies in their use of real fruit, absence of high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors, and relatively low-calorie count compared to many desserts. The 'bad' stems from the concentrated nature of the fruit (reducing fiber), the often-high added sugar content in regular bars, and the controversial artificial sweeteners in the 'No Sugar Added' options. Ultimately, they can be a refreshing and satisfying occasional treat, but they are no substitute for whole, unprocessed fruit. The key is to consume them mindfully, understanding their nutritional limitations and how they impact your personal health goals. For a deeper dive into how processing affects food, consider exploring sources like the Environmental Working Group's food scoring system: EWG's Food Scores.
