Do Outshine Fruit Bars Have High Fructose Corn Syrup?
Outshine fruit bars are made without high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), a commitment the company highlights. The sweeteners used vary depending on the product line. Standard Outshine bars typically use cane sugar, while the 'No Sugar Added' versions employ fruit juice concentrates, sugar alcohols, and artificial sweeteners. This aligns with consumer demand for fewer processed ingredients and cleaner labels.
The Role of Sweeteners in Outshine Products
Outshine's regular bars contain cane sugar, a common sweetener. Their no-sugar-added bars use sugar alcohols such as sorbitol and artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium to reduce calories and impact on blood sugar. Consumers should check the ingredients list, as excessive consumption of sugar alcohols can cause digestive issues.
Comparison of Outshine Fruit Bar Types
| Feature | Standard Fruit Bars | No Sugar Added Fruit Bars |
|---|---|---|
| High Fructose Corn Syrup | Absent | Absent |
| Primary Sweetener | Cane Sugar | Sorbitol, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium |
| Sweetness Source | Real fruit purée and juice concentrate, plus added cane sugar | Real fruit purée and juice concentrate, plus sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners |
| Calorie Count | Typically 60–110 calories per bar | Lower calorie count (e.g., 25 calories per pop in a variety pack) |
| Best For... | A treat with simple, real ingredients and added cane sugar. | Those monitoring sugar intake or seeking a lower-calorie option. |
What is High Fructose Corn Syrup and Why Do People Avoid It?
High fructose corn syrup is a sweetener derived from corn starch. Many people avoid HFCS due to potential health concerns, including links to obesity, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, and inflammation. While its health effects compared to table sugar are debated, many consumers prefer to limit all added sugars.
The Bottom Line on Outshine's Ingredients
Outshine avoids HFCS and emphasizes using real fruit or juice. This aligns with consumer desire for healthier options and transparent labeling. While HFCS is absent, checking labels for other sweeteners, especially in the 'No Sugar Added' varieties, remains important.
Tips for Navigating Labels and Avoiding HFCS
- Read the ingredients: HFCS must be listed by name.
- Look for claims: Packaging may state "no high fructose corn syrup".
- Recognize other sugars: Be aware of other added sugars like cane sugar, dextrose, and corn syrup.
- Choose whole foods: Fresh fruit is naturally free of added sweeteners.
- Check Added Sugars: The Nutrition Facts label shows the amount of added sugars.
Conclusion
Outshine fruit bars do not contain high fructose corn syrup. They are a viable option for those avoiding HFCS, using cane sugar or alternative sweeteners depending on the bar type. Checking ingredient lists for all sweeteners is advised for informed choices. Their use of real fruit and avoidance of certain additives contribute to their appeal as a refreshing snack.
Authoritative Outbound Link
For more information on understanding food labels, including how to identify added sugars and other ingredients, refer to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's official guide: {Link: FDA https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-facts-label/how-understand-and-use-nutrition-facts-label}.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Outshine bars contain no high fructose corn syrup? Yes, Outshine fruit bars, including both standard and no-sugar-added varieties, are made without high fructose corn syrup.
What is used to sweeten Outshine fruit bars instead of high fructose corn syrup? Standard Outshine fruit bars use cane sugar, while the 'No Sugar Added' versions contain sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium.
Are Outshine fruit bars considered healthy despite having sugar? Outshine bars can be part of a healthy diet in moderation, especially as a replacement for more processed, higher-sugar frozen desserts.
How can I verify that my Outshine bar doesn't have high fructose corn syrup? Check the ingredients list on the product packaging. Outshine is transparent with its labeling and explicitly lists the sweeteners used in each variety.
Is the "No Sugar Added" version of Outshine fruit bars better for you? It depends on your dietary goals. While lower in calories and added sugar, these varieties use sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners, which some people may prefer to avoid or are sensitive to.
Do Outshine fruit bars have artificial colors or flavors? According to the brand's labeling, Outshine frozen fruit pops contain no artificial colors or flavors.
Can Outshine fruit bars cause any side effects? For individuals with sensitivity to sugar alcohols like sorbitol, the 'No Sugar Added' varieties may cause a laxative effect if consumed in excess.
Is cane sugar a healthier alternative to high fructose corn syrup? From a metabolic perspective, excessive intake of any added sugar, including cane sugar, is a concern. The primary benefit of avoiding HFCS is aligning with a consumer preference for less processed ingredients.
Are all frozen fruit bars free of high fructose corn syrup? No, many other brands of frozen treats may contain high fructose corn syrup. It's essential to read the ingredients label on any frozen bar to verify its contents.
What are some other options for frozen treats without high fructose corn syrup? Other alternatives include making homemade fruit pops with 100% fruit juice, or choosing frozen yogurt or sorbet brands that specify they use natural sweeteners.
