The Science Behind RXBAR's Egg White Protein
Many consumers see "egg whites" on the ingredient list of an RXBAR and wonder if they are consuming raw eggs. The answer is no, the eggs in RXBARs are not raw. They are processed through a series of steps that make them safe, stable, and suitable for the final product. The key is that RXBAR uses an egg white powder, not liquid egg whites directly from the shell. This powder is created through a meticulous industrial process designed for both safety and quality.
The Pasteurization Process for Egg Whites
The journey from farm egg to protein bar ingredient involves pasteurization. This is a critical step in food manufacturing that involves heating a substance to a specific temperature for a set amount of time to kill pathogenic bacteria, like Salmonella. RXBAR has confirmed that its liquid egg whites are pasteurized before being dried into powder. This heat treatment is sufficient to sanitize the egg whites and ensure they are safe to eat, though it does not fully "cook" them in the traditional sense of scrambling or baking.
The Transformation to a Powder
After pasteurization, the sanitized liquid egg whites undergo a spray-drying process. This method involves spraying the liquid egg whites into a heated chamber, which rapidly evaporates the water content and leaves behind a fine, dry powder. This powder is then used as the protein base in RXBARs. This process not only ensures food safety but also creates a product with a much longer shelf life than fresh eggs. In contrast, homemade versions of similar bars using liquid egg whites often have a very short shelf life and must be refrigerated.
Nutritional Benefits of Egg White Powder
The processing of egg whites into a powder retains their nutritional value. Egg white protein is known as a high-quality, complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids the human body needs. It is also low in fat and carbohydrates, making it an efficient protein source for athletes and those monitoring their weight. The powder format makes it easy to incorporate a consistent amount of this high-quality protein into every bar.
Comparison of RXBAR Egg White Process to Other Foods
| Feature | RXBAR Egg White Powder | Fresh Raw Egg White | Baked Egg White |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing | Pasteurized, then spray-dried into a powder. | Unprocessed and used in liquid form. | Heated to denature proteins and solidify. |
| Food Safety | High-heat pasteurization eliminates bacteria, making it safe. | Carries a risk of Salmonella contamination if not pasteurized. | Cooking to a safe temperature eliminates bacteria. |
| Shelf Stability | Extremely long shelf life due to dehydration. | Highly perishable and must be refrigerated. | Dependent on the recipe and storage conditions. |
| Texture in Product | Contributes to the chewy texture of the bar. | Not used directly in shelf-stable bars for safety reasons. | Produces a firm, solid texture when cooked. |
| Usage | Added as a protein powder to the bar mixture. | Used in culinary applications like omelets or raw in certain drinks. | Used in baking, cooking, and recipes requiring heat. |
Why RXBAR Uses Egg White Powder
RXBAR's use of egg white powder is a strategic decision that prioritizes food safety, product consistency, and shelf stability. By using a pasteurized powder, the company can create a product that is safe to store at room temperature for extended periods without relying on artificial preservatives. This contrasts sharply with homemade protein bar recipes that often require refrigeration because they use less-processed or unprocessed ingredients. The dried, powdered format also helps achieve the firm, chewy texture that is characteristic of an RXBAR.
The Role of the USDA in RXBAR's Egg Sourcing
As with all commercial egg products, the egg whites used by RXBAR are subject to strict regulations and inspection by the USDA. The pasteurization process is a standard requirement for commercially sold egg products in the United States to ensure they meet food safety standards. This oversight provides an additional layer of assurance to consumers that the egg white powder in their RXBAR is safe for consumption. The company openly states that their egg whites are inspected by the USDA and pasteurized.
Conclusion: Safe, Processed Eggs for Quality Protein
The question of whether the eggs in RXBARs are cooked is answered by understanding their processing. The egg whites are not raw but are pasteurized and dehydrated into a safe, stable powder before being combined with other ingredients. This process ensures the finished product is safe to eat and has a long shelf life without the need for preservatives. The commitment to using a high-quality, processed egg white powder is a foundational element of the RXBAR brand and a key reason it stands out in the protein bar market for its simple, real-food ingredient list.
