Exploring 'Are that's it bars clean?': A Deep Dive into Simple Snacking

October 26, 2025 •

5 min read

According to a 2022 survey, nearly half of consumers consider themselves 'clean eaters,' prioritizing foods with simple, natural ingredients. This trend has put the spotlight on snack products that claim simplicity, leading many to ask: are that's it bars clean? This article examines the ingredients, nutritional information, and consumer perception to provide a comprehensive answer.

Quick Summary

An in-depth analysis of That's It fruit bars confirms they align with 'clean eating' principles due to minimal, real fruit ingredients and no added sugar or preservatives. The bars offer a high-fiber, convenient snack option, though their concentrated natural sugar and lack of protein should be considered in the context of a balanced diet.

Key Points

Unprocessed Ingredients: That's it bars are made from two whole fruits, aligning with the definition of clean eating focused on minimal processing.
No Added Sugar: The bars contain only the natural sugar present in the fruit, with zero grams of added sugar.
Nutritional Value: Each bar provides fiber and a quick source of carbohydrates but lacks the protein and healthy fats necessary for a fully balanced snack.
Consider Moderation: While 'clean,' the concentrated natural sugar means the bars should be enjoyed in moderation and paired with a protein source for sustained energy.
Allergen Safety: Produced in an allergen-free facility, the bars are a safe choice for those avoiding common allergens.
Convenient and Shelf-Stable: The bars offer a portable, mess-free, and shelf-stable way to consume real fruit on the go.

What Does 'Clean' Eating Actually Mean?

Before we can answer the question, "Are that's it bars clean?," we must first define what 'clean eating' entails. The term lacks an official, scientific definition but generally refers to a dietary approach focusing on consuming foods as close to their natural state as possible. It emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while limiting or avoiding highly processed items with artificial ingredients, added sugars, preservatives, and chemicals. A key aspect is prioritizing foods with simple, recognizable ingredient lists.

Unpacking the Ingredients: Are That's It Bars Clean?

That's it bars are celebrated for their remarkably simple and transparent ingredient list. Most of their classic fruit bars contain only two ingredients: fruit and fruit. For example, the Apple + Mango bar contains just apples and mangoes. This minimalist approach directly aligns with the core philosophy of clean eating.

Simple, Recognizable Ingredients: The company prides itself on using real, whole fruits pressed into a bar, with no concentrates, purees, or added sugars. This makes their ingredient lists some of the shortest and cleanest on the market, a stark contrast to many other snack bars filled with a long list of additives, flavors, and binders.
Free from Common Allergens: That's it bars are also certified free from the top 12 food allergens, including nuts, dairy, and soy. They are also vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and Non-GMO Project Verified. This makes them a safe and clean option for individuals with various dietary restrictions and preferences.

The Nutrition Profile: Beyond Just 'Clean'

While the clean ingredient list is a major plus, it's essential to look at the overall nutritional profile of a That's it bar. A typical 1.2 oz bar contains about 100 calories, 3-5 grams of fiber, and 23-24 grams of sugar.

The Sugar Conversation: Natural vs. Added

One of the most debated aspects of fruit bars is the sugar content. The 23+ grams of sugar in a That's it bar is a significant amount for a single snack. However, the crucial distinction is that it is all natural fruit sugar, not added sugar.

High Fiber Content: The natural fruit is left intact during processing, which means the fiber is retained. Fiber helps regulate the body's absorption of the fruit's sugar, preventing the rapid spike in blood sugar that occurs with processed sugary snacks. This is why they are often considered diabetic-friendly due to their low glycemic index.
Not a Complete Snack: It's important to recognize that these bars lack protein and fat. A balanced snack includes carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to provide sustained energy and satiety. Eating a That's it bar alone may cause a temporary energy boost, but pairing it with a source of protein like a handful of nuts or a cheese stick is recommended for a more balanced snack.

That's It Bars vs. Typical Snack Bars

To illustrate the difference in 'cleanliness,' let's compare a That's it bar with a typical, highly processed snack bar.


Feature	That's it Bar	Typical Processed Snack Bar
Ingredients	2 whole fruits (e.g., Apple + Blueberry)	Long list of ingredients including corn syrup, added sugar, artificial flavors, and preservatives
Added Sugar	0g	Often a primary ingredient, contributing significant added sugar
Processing Level	Minimal. Fruit is pressed and dried.	High. Ingredients are chemically modified and combined.
Nutritional Profile	Primarily carbohydrates and fiber, low protein/fat.	May contain some protein but often has a higher fat and much higher added sugar content.
Allergens	Free from top 12 allergens.	Varies widely; often contains dairy, soy, or nuts.

Pros and Cons of That's It Bars

Based on their ingredient profile and nutritional content, here is a quick summary of the pros and cons of incorporating That's it bars into your diet.

Pros:

Exceptional Ingredient Purity: With just two real fruit ingredients, they are one of the cleanest, most transparent snack bars available.
No Added Sugar: This is a major advantage for those monitoring sugar intake and avoiding empty calories.
High in Fiber: The fruit's natural fiber content supports digestive health and helps manage blood sugar levels.
Allergen-Friendly: Their allergen-free production facility makes them a safe option for many with food sensitivities.
Convenient and Portable: With a long shelf life and no need for refrigeration, they are an easy on-the-go snack.

Cons:

High Natural Sugar: The concentrated fruit sugar can still be a concern for those on strict low-sugar diets, and moderation is key.
Lacks Protein and Healthy Fats: For a truly balanced snack that provides sustained energy, they should be paired with a source of protein.
Price Point: Some consumers find the bars pricey compared to other snack options.

How to Include That's It Bars in a Healthy Diet

To make the most of That's it bars, consider these tips for integration into a balanced eating plan:

As a Pre-Workout Fuel: The simple carbohydrates from the fruit can provide a quick, natural energy boost before exercise.
Part of a Balanced Snack: Pair a bar with a handful of nuts, seeds, or a high-protein yogurt to add healthy fats and protein, promoting satiety.
For Kids' Lunchboxes: They can be a great alternative to traditional sugary fruit snacks, offering a real fruit serving in a convenient format.
In Moderation: While clean, the concentrated sugar means they shouldn't replace whole fruits. Aim for a variety of whole, fresh fruits throughout the day.

Conclusion

So, are that's it bars clean? Based on the widely accepted principles of clean eating—minimal processing, simple ingredients, and no artificial additives or added sugars—the answer is a resounding yes. They are a prime example of a "clean" packaged snack. However, it's crucial to understand their nutritional context. The high concentration of natural sugar means they are best consumed in moderation and are most effective as part of a balanced snack rather than a standalone option. For those seeking a convenient, whole-food alternative to highly processed bars, That's it bars are an excellent choice.

Key Takeaways

Ingredient Purity: That's it bars are made with only 1-2 real fruit ingredients, containing no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial additives.
Clean Eating Standard: The simple, transparent ingredient list makes them an exemplar of a 'clean' packaged snack, adhering to the principle of minimal processing.
Nutritional Context: While the sugar is natural, it is concentrated, so the bars should be consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Complement with Protein: To create a more satiating and balanced snack, consider pairing a That's it bar with a protein source like nuts or yogurt.
Dietary Friendly: With certifications like vegan, gluten-free, and kosher, they are suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

In the context of That's it bars, 'clean' refers to the company's commitment to using minimal, whole-food ingredients (just fruit), with no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.

The sugar in That's it bars is all-natural, coming directly from the fruit itself. It is not added sugar, and the retained fiber helps mitigate blood sugar spikes. However, since the sugar is concentrated, it's best to consume the bars in moderation, especially if you have blood sugar concerns.

No, That's it bars are not a complete meal replacement. While they provide carbohydrates and fiber, they are low in protein and fat. For a more balanced and satisfying snack, it's recommended to pair a bar with a source of protein like nuts or a hard-boiled egg.

That's it bars can be part of a weight management plan due to their low calorie count (around 100 calories) and fiber content, which can help with satiety. However, as with any food, moderation is key, and they should be included in a balanced diet.

Most of That's it's product line, including their standard fruit bars, adheres to the clean eating philosophy with simple ingredients. Some specialty products, like probiotic bars or chocolate-dipped bites, may have additional ingredients, so it's always best to check the label.

Yes, That's it fruit bars are a popular and safe snack for children, providing real fruit in a convenient format. They are a healthier alternative to traditional sugary fruit snacks that often contain added corn syrup and artificial flavors.

Not all That's it bars are certified organic, though they are considered very clean and use simple ingredients. Some products within their line may be organic, so it's best to check individual packaging. They are, however, all Non-GMO Project Verified.