The Primary Sweeteners in Built Bars
Built protein bars achieve their sweet taste without excessive sugar by using a careful combination of several sweetening agents. The most prominent of these are the sugar alcohol erythritol, the natural, non-caloric stevia, and glycerin, which also helps with texture and moisture retention. The specific combination can vary slightly between the traditional Built bars and the 'Puffs' variants, but these are the consistent core ingredients.
Erythritol: A Key Sugar Alcohol
Erythritol is a type of carbohydrate known as a sugar alcohol, and it is a fundamental part of the Built bar's flavor profile. It is made through the fermentation of corn and provides about 70% of the sweetness of table sugar but with virtually no calories. Unlike some other sugar alcohols like maltitol, erythritol is small enough to be absorbed into the bloodstream before it reaches the large intestine, meaning it is largely excreted in urine rather than fermented by gut bacteria. This mechanism typically makes it better tolerated digestively, though some individuals may still experience discomfort. Erythritol has a cooling sensation on the palate and does not raise blood sugar or insulin levels, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets. Recent research has raised some concerns about its potential long-term effects, particularly relating to cardiovascular health, which warrants further investigation.
Stevia: The Natural Plant-Based Option
Stevia is another important sweetener in the Built bar lineup, used to complement the taste of erythritol and achieve a more balanced sweetness. It is a plant-based sweetener derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Stevia is non-caloric and has a much higher sweetness intensity than sugar, meaning only a small amount is needed. Some people are sensitive to stevia's characteristic aftertaste, but combining it with other sweeteners like erythritol can help mask this and create a more palatable overall flavor. Stevia does not impact blood glucose levels, reinforcing the bar's low-sugar, keto-friendly credentials.
Glycerin's Role in Texture and Sweetness
Glycerin is a syrupy liquid that adds sweetness and contributes to the bar's soft, moist texture. Derived from soybeans, it also functions as a preservative by helping to retain moisture and increase the product's shelf life. Unlike erythritol, glycerin is metabolized by the body and adds a nominal amount to the calorie count. When combined with erythritol, it helps prevent crystallization, which is crucial for maintaining the bar's signature chewiness.
Beyond the Sweeteners: The Chocolate Coating
While the bar's nougat-like core is sweetened with the combination discussed above, the high-quality dark chocolate coating contains a small amount of actual sugar. Built Bar uses this high-quality chocolate for flavor rather than cheaper, carbohydrate-heavy compounds. For most individuals, the fiber and protein content in the bar significantly slow the absorption of this sugar, helping to prevent a noticeable blood sugar spike. This is a key reason many of the bars can remain low in net carbs despite containing some sugar.
Potential Digestive Impacts of Built Bar Sweeteners
As with any product containing sugar alcohols, some people may experience digestive side effects from Built bars. While erythritol is generally better tolerated than other sugar alcohols, it can still cause gas, bloating, and other digestive issues for sensitive individuals. Stevia is less associated with these issues, but the presence of multiple low-calorie sweeteners can affect gut flora in some people. Monitoring your body's reaction is the best way to determine your personal tolerance.
Comparing Sweeteners in Built Bars
| Feature | Erythritol | Stevia | Glycerin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Fermented corn | Stevia rebaudiana plant | Plant derivatives, e.g., soy |
| Calories | Nearly zero | Zero | Low, but not zero |
| Glycemic Impact | Zero (does not raise blood sugar) | Zero (does not raise blood sugar) | Raises blood sugar minimally |
| Primary Function | Low-calorie sweetness | Natural sweetness without calories | Sweetness, moisture, shelf life |
| Aftertaste | Slight cooling effect | Can have a distinct aftertaste | Slight sweetness |
| Digestive Impact | Well-tolerated, but can cause gas/bloating in sensitive individuals | Generally well-tolerated | Can cause mild digestive effects in high doses |
Conclusion: Understanding the Built Bar Sweetness Profile
In conclusion, Built protein bars are sweetened with a strategic blend of ingredients designed to deliver great taste with low sugar and calorie counts. By using the sugar alcohol erythritol, the plant-based stevia, and the moisturizing agent glycerin, they create a product that appeals to those following low-carb and low-sugar diets. While this combination is generally well-tolerated, individuals should be aware of the potential for minor digestive side effects from sugar alcohols. The use of a high-quality, sugar-containing dark chocolate coating is also managed effectively by the bar's fiber and protein content, helping to mitigate blood sugar spikes. The next time you enjoy a Built bar, you'll know precisely what gives it its irresistible flavor profile.
For additional information on erythritol's potential health impacts, consult reputable medical sources like the Cleveland Clinic: Popular Sugar Substitute May Harm Brain and Heart Health
