Understanding the Sweeteners in Built Bars
The question "do Built Bars have artificial sugar?" requires a closer look at their ingredient list, as not all non-nutritive sweeteners are the same. Instead of relying on synthetically produced artificial compounds like sucralose or aspartame, Built Bars use a blend of natural and sugar alcohol-based sweeteners to achieve their signature taste while keeping the overall sugar content low. This choice has implications for taste, digestion, and dietary compatibility, which are important for consumers to understand.
The Role of Erythritol and Glycerin
Built Bars contain erythritol, which is a sugar alcohol naturally found in some fruits. Unlike other sugar alcohols such as maltitol, erythritol is poorly metabolized by the body. It passes into the bloodstream and is excreted largely unchanged in the urine, giving it a near-zero calorie count and minimal impact on blood sugar levels. This characteristic makes erythritol a popular choice for keto-friendly and low-carb products. However, some sensitive individuals may experience mild digestive issues like bloating or gas if consumed in large quantities, a common side effect of many sugar alcohols. Glycerin is another ingredient used in the bars. It is a syrupy liquid that adds sweetness and helps retain moisture to improve the bar's texture and shelf life. While it does contribute a small amount of calories, it has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar.
Why Stevia Is Used in Built Bars
In addition to erythritol, many Built Bar flavors also incorporate stevia. Stevia is a non-caloric natural sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It is hundreds of times sweeter than sugar and is often used in combination with other sweeteners to provide a more balanced flavor profile without a metallic aftertaste. The use of stevia alongside erythritol allows Built to minimize added sugar while still delivering a sweet and satisfying product. This combination is crucial for achieving their low-sugar and low-net-carb nutritional profile.
The Truth About the Chocolate Coating
It is important to note that the high-quality dark chocolate coating used on Built Bars does contain a small amount of actual sugar. This is different from the sugar-free sweeteners used in the bar's filling. The company states that the combination of protein and fiber in the bar helps to slow the absorption of this sugar, resulting in a less significant blood sugar spike. So, while the bulk of the bar's sweetness comes from non-caloric or low-glycemic sweeteners, there is still a minimal amount of real sugar present.
Sweetener Comparison: Built Bars vs. Competitors
To better understand how Built Bars stack up, here is a comparison of their sweeteners against those used by other popular protein bar brands.
| Feature | Built Bars | RXBAR | Pure Protein Bars |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweeteners | Erythritol, Stevia, Glycerin | Dates | Maltitol, Sucralose |
| Sweetener Type | Natural, Sugar Alcohol | Whole Food | Artificial, Sugar Alcohol |
| Added Sugar | Low; primarily from the chocolate coating | None; sweetened by fruit | High; uses added sugar and artificial sweeteners |
| Potential Digestibility Issues | Possible minor issues for sensitive individuals | Low, as fruit is generally well-tolerated | Frequent complaints of gas and bloating due to maltitol |
Are the Sweeteners Truly “Artificial”?
The term “artificial sugar” typically refers to synthetic compounds like aspartame and sucralose, which Built Bars do not use. However, the definition can be ambiguous for some consumers. Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that is often produced through a fermentation process, which is different from a synthetic chemical synthesis. Some people may still consider it an “unnatural” or non-whole-food ingredient, but it is not a traditional artificial sweetener. Likewise, stevia is a plant-based, natural sweetener. Ultimately, Built Bars are sweetened differently than bars that rely on pure cane sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, and they deliberately avoid the synthetic high-intensity sweeteners found in many diet products.
How to Choose the Right Protein Bar for Your Needs
- Prioritize Whole Foods: If you want to avoid all processed ingredients, including sugar alcohols like erythritol, you should look for alternatives that use whole foods like dates, honey, or maple syrup for sweetness, like some RXBAR varieties.
- Consider Digestive Sensitivity: If you know you are sensitive to sugar alcohols, you may want to monitor your intake of Built Bars, as the erythritol could cause discomfort.
- Read the Label: Always check the ingredient list for the specific flavor you are purchasing, as formulations can vary between products (e.g., Built Puffs vs. standard bars). The presence of ingredients like glycerin or specific types of dextrose can also affect a bar's overall nutritional profile.
- Factor in Your Goals: For those on a ketogenic or low-sugar diet, Built Bars can be a convenient option due to their specific sweetener blend. However, for those seeking a more "natural" whole-food option, alternatives exist.
Conclusion
In summary, Built Bars do not contain artificial sugars such as sucralose or aspartame. Instead, they use a blend of erythritol (a sugar alcohol) and stevia (a plant-based natural sweetener) to achieve a low-sugar and low-net-carb profile. While this combination is generally well-tolerated and aligns with many dietary goals, individuals with digestive sensitivities should be mindful of the sugar alcohol content. By understanding the ingredients and your personal preferences, you can make an informed decision about whether Built Bars are the right choice for you.
For more details on their sweetener philosophy, you can visit the Built.com blog.
