The Sweeteners in Outshine Fruit Bars
Outshine has built its brand around providing a more wholesome alternative to traditional frozen confections. A key part of this strategy is their explicit rejection of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) across their product lines. Instead, the company utilizes a variety of other sweeteners to achieve its desired taste and texture profile. The choice of sweetener depends on whether you are buying a classic, full-sugar fruit bar or one from their 'No Sugar Added' collection.
For most of their classic, full-flavored frozen fruit bars, the primary added sweetener is cane sugar. For example, the ingredients for a Strawberry, Lime, and Raspberry variety pack clearly list 'Cane Sugar' after the fruit component. This ingredient, sourced from sugar cane, provides a straightforward sweetness that many consumers prefer over corn-derived alternatives. It is important to note that while cane sugar is not high fructose corn syrup, it is still an added sugar that contributes to the product's overall caloric and sugar content.
Outshine's 'No Sugar Added' line, on the other hand, relies on non-nutritive and nutritive sweeteners. For instance, the 'No Sugar Added Strawberry, Tangerine & Raspberry' bars contain ingredients like sorbitol, maltodextrins, glycerin, and sucralose. Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that can have a laxative effect if consumed in excess, while sucralose is a high-intensity artificial sweetener. These ingredients allow Outshine to create a sweet-tasting product with fewer calories and less overall sugar for consumers watching their intake.
Cane Sugar vs. High Fructose Corn Syrup: An Explainer
For many years, high fructose corn syrup has received a negative reputation, leading many manufacturers like Outshine to emphasize its absence from their products. But what exactly is the difference, and does it matter for your health?
High fructose corn syrup is derived from corn starch, which is processed to convert some of its glucose into fructose. The most common types, HFCS 42 and HFCS 55, have fructose contents of 42% and 55% respectively, with the remainder being mostly glucose. In comparison, regular table sugar (sucrose) is a disaccharide made of a 50/50 mix of glucose and fructose that is bound together.
The Digestion and Metabolic Differences
While some research has highlighted potential differences in how the body processes HFCS and sucrose, the overall metabolic effects of excessive intake are very similar. The digestive system can easily break the bond in sucrose, making the resulting free glucose and fructose molecules metabolically similar to those found in HFCS. Both can contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased triglycerides when overconsumed,.
One minor difference some studies point to is the potential for HFCS to increase levels of C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation. However, the consensus among many health experts is that the total amount of added sugar consumed, regardless of its source (cane sugar or HFCS), is the most significant factor for long-term health concerns,.
Why Outshine Highlights its Use of Cane Sugar
Outshine's marketing decision to use cane sugar and emphasize the absence of HFCS aligns with consumer preferences for simpler, more 'natural' ingredients. For many, 'cane sugar' sounds more wholesome and less processed than 'high fructose corn syrup,' even if the health differences are not as stark as popularly believed. This positioning helps Outshine differentiate its fruit bars from competitor products that might rely on cheaper, corn-based sweeteners.
Understanding the Ingredient Label
Reading the ingredient label is the best way to verify the sweeteners used in any frozen fruit bar. When examining an Outshine product, you will see a simple and pronounceable list of ingredients. For instance, on a classic bar, you will find fruit puree, water, and 'Cane Sugar' listed, often alongside lemon juice concentrate and natural colors. In contrast, a competing brand might list 'High Fructose Corn Syrup' near the top of the ingredients list. This transparency gives consumers full control over their dietary choices.
Decoding Outshine's No Sugar Added Line
Outshine's 'No Sugar Added' bars are designed for those seeking a lower-calorie, lower-sugar option. Instead of cane sugar, they employ alternative sweeteners to maintain a sweet flavor profile.
Common Ingredients in No Sugar Added Bars:
- Sorbitol: A sugar alcohol found in some fruits. Can have a laxative effect in larger quantities.
- Maltodextrins: A starch-derived carbohydrate that adds body and minimal sweetness.
- Sucralose: An artificial sweetener that provides significant sweetness without adding calories.
- Glycerin: A sugar alcohol that helps maintain a smooth texture.
This variety of sweeteners means the taste and texture of the 'No Sugar Added' bars differ from the classic cane sugar versions. Consumers with sensitivities to sugar alcohols should be mindful of the sorbitol content.
Comparison of Outshine Varieties and HFCS Products
| Feature | Classic Outshine Fruit Bar | Outshine 'No Sugar Added' Bar | Typical HFCS Popsicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweetener | Cane Sugar | Sorbitol, Sucralose | High Fructose Corn Syrup |
| Calories (per bar) | ~60-70 | ~25 | Varies, often similar or higher |
| Added Sugars (per bar) | 14-16g, | 0g Added Sugar | Varies, can be high |
| Target Audience | General market, natural sweetness preferred | Health-conscious, low-calorie, diabetic-friendly | Cost-conscious, traditional snack market |
| Key Ingredients | Real fruit, cane sugar | Real fruit, alternative sweeteners | Water, corn syrup, HFCS, artificial colors |
Conclusion: Making a Mindful Choice
In conclusion, Outshine fruit bars do not contain high fructose corn syrup, adhering to their brand promise of using simpler ingredients. The choice of sweetener depends on the specific product line: classic bars use cane sugar, while 'No Sugar Added' varieties use a blend of sugar alcohols and non-nutritive sweeteners,. While this distinction aligns with consumer preferences for more 'natural' options, it's essential to remember that excessive consumption of any added sugar, whether from cane sugar or HFCS, poses potential health risks,. By understanding the ingredient differences, consumers can make an informed choice that best fits their dietary needs and health goals.
For more information on Outshine's products and their commitment to simple ingredients, you can visit the official Outshine website.
A Quick Look at Outshine's Commitment to Quality
- Real Fruit Focus: Outshine bars are famously made with real fruit or fruit juice, ensuring a vibrant and authentic taste.
- No Artificial Additives: Beyond avoiding HFCS, the company also steers clear of artificial colors and flavors, relying on natural sources for its vibrant hues.
- Gluten-Free and Fat-Free: Most Outshine fruit bars are gluten-free and fat-free, making them suitable for many dietary needs.
- Transparency: The company is transparent about its ingredients, making it easy for consumers to check labels for themselves.
