What's Inside a That's it. Fruit Bar?
That's it. fruit bars are primarily known for their minimalist ingredient list. Most of their original fruit bars are made with just two types of fruit, for example, apples and cherries or apples and mangoes. The company prides itself on using 100% natural, whole fruit with no added sugars, purees, concentrates, or preservatives. This simplicity is a major selling point for health-conscious consumers and parents looking for cleaner snack options for their children.
Beyond their basic formula, the bars are also free from many common allergens, including nuts (with the exception of coconut in some products), dairy, and soy. Their non-GMO, vegan, and Kosher certifications further appeal to a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions.
The Health Benefits of That's it. Bars
- A Convenient Fruit Source: For those struggling to meet their daily fruit intake, a That's it. bar offers a portable and mess-free way to get the equivalent of two fruit servings.
- Rich in Dietary Fiber: With 3 to 4 grams of fiber per bar, these snacks contribute to healthy digestion and can help provide a feeling of fullness, though less so than whole fruit.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: Made from whole fruit, the bars retain many of the vitamins and antioxidants found in fresh produce.
- No Added Sugar: This is a crucial distinction from many other processed fruit snacks and candies that are loaded with corn syrup and other sweeteners.
The Drawbacks and Nutritional Nuances
Despite their clean ingredient list, That's it. bars are not a perfect substitute for fresh, whole fruit. The main nutritional considerations include:
- Concentrated Natural Sugar: When fruit is dried and pressed, the water is removed, concentrating the natural fruit sugars (fructose). A single bar can contain anywhere from 17 to 23 grams of sugar, depending on the flavor, which is a significant amount. While this is natural sugar, it can still cause a spike in blood sugar, especially when consumed alone.
- Lack of Protein and Healthy Fats: Unlike a balanced snack, these bars contain very little protein (around 1g) and no healthy fats. Protein and fats are essential for slowing down sugar absorption and promoting long-lasting satiety. Without them, you may feel hungry again soon after eating the bar.
- Lower Satiety: The lack of water and the chewy texture mean that the bars are less filling than eating the equivalent amount of fresh fruit. This can make it easier to overconsume calories without feeling satisfied.
- Not a Low-Calorie Food: While typically around 100 calories, this is not considered a "low-calorie" snack. For individuals on a very restrictive diet, these calories could add up quickly if not factored in properly.
Comparison: That's it. Bar vs. Other Snacks
To understand where That's it. bars fit in your diet, it's helpful to compare them to both the ideal (fresh fruit) and the typical (sugary fruit snack). Below is a comparison table outlining the key differences.
| Feature | That's it. Fruit Bar | Fresh Fruit (e.g., Apple) | Sugary Fruit Snack (e.g., Fruit Roll-Up) | Protein Bar (e.g., RXBAR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | 100% whole fruit | 100% whole fruit | Corn syrup, sugar, fruit concentrates | Nuts, dates, egg whites, natural flavors |
| Added Sugar | 0g | 0g | High | 0g (Relies on dates) |
| Natural Sugar | Concentrated | Natural, less concentrated | Concentrated + added | Concentrated (from dates) |
| Fiber | High (3-4g) | High | Minimal | High (e.g., 4g) |
| Protein | Low (~1g) | Low | Low | High (e.g., 12g) |
| Healthy Fats | None | None | None | High (from nuts) |
| Satiety | Moderate | High | Low | High |
How to Incorporate That's it. Bars into a Healthy Diet
For most people, That's it. fruit bars can be a part of a healthy diet, but the key is how and when you consume them. Registered dietitians often recommend pairing them with a source of protein and/or healthy fats to create a more balanced and satisfying snack.
Here are some ideas:
- Pair with Protein: Enjoy a That's it. bar with a handful of nuts, a small container of Greek yogurt, or a cheese stick. This combination helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and increases satiety.
- Timing Your Snack: A fruit bar can be an effective source of quick energy before a high-intensity workout. The concentrated natural sugars provide a rapid carbohydrate boost to fuel your activity.
- Mind Your Portion Size: Be mindful of the natural sugar content, especially if you are diabetic or watching your sugar intake. Treating the bar as a dessert rather than a full snack can be a good strategy.
- Emergency Snack: Because they are shelf-stable for an extended period, they are an excellent option for long trips, camping, or keeping in a purse or gym bag for times when fresh fruit isn't available.
Conclusion: Are That's It. Fruit Bars Actually Healthy?
When asking are that's it fruit bars actually healthy?, the short answer is yes, but with context. They are a much healthier choice than traditional processed fruit snacks due to their simple, whole-fruit ingredients and complete absence of added sugars. They are a great, convenient source of fruit and fiber, and they are suitable for those with various allergies.
However, they are not a perfect replacement for whole, fresh fruit and should not be relied upon as a complete, balanced snack. Their concentrated natural sugar and lack of protein and healthy fats mean they should be paired with other foods for optimal nutrition and satiety. For a healthy individual enjoying a balanced diet, they are a fantastic on-the-go option. But for those managing blood sugar or seeking a more substantial snack, conscious pairing is key to making the most of their benefits without the drawbacks.
Eating a variety of fruits is a key part of a healthy diet according to the USDA.
