Understanding Erythritol in Built Bars
Many consumers are scrutinizing the ingredients in their favorite protein bars, and Built Bar is no exception. A common question revolves around their use of erythritol, a sugar alcohol. The short answer is yes, erythritol is a key sweetener in many Built Bar flavors. The company utilizes a specific combination of erythritol and other sweeteners to produce a low-sugar, low-calorie product that retains a pleasant texture and taste.
Why Built Bar Uses Erythritol
The primary reason for using erythritol is to reduce the bar's overall sugar and calorie content. As a sugar alcohol, erythritol is minimally absorbed by the body, meaning it has virtually zero calories and doesn't cause a spike in blood sugar or insulin levels. This makes it an attractive ingredient for keto-friendly products and for people with diabetes. Built Bar often pairs erythritol with glycerin and sometimes stevia to achieve the desired level of sweetness and help maintain the bar's unique, soft texture.
The Impact of Erythritol on Digestion
While erythritol is generally well-tolerated, especially when compared to other sugar alcohols like maltitol, it can still cause digestive issues for some individuals, particularly in large amounts. The reason for its high tolerance is that it is a small molecule that is mostly absorbed into the bloodstream and then excreted in urine, rather than remaining in the intestines to be fermented by gut bacteria.
For most people, this means fewer side effects like gas and bloating. However, sensitivity varies widely, and some may still experience discomfort. Other sugar alcohols, by contrast, are fermented by intestinal bacteria and are more likely to cause distress.
Built Bar's Sweetener Profile and Texture
Built Bars' unique texture—soft, chewy, and light—is a direct result of their sweetener blend. The combination of erythritol and glycerin creates a sweet, syrupy liquid that resists crystallization, keeping the bar moist and chewy for a longer shelf life. This differs significantly from many competing brands that use other sugar alcohols, resulting in a drier or grittier product. The careful balance of these ingredients allows Built Bar to create a candy-like experience without the high sugar content.
A Comparison: Built Bar vs. Other Protein Bars
| Feature | Built Bar (with Erythritol) | Traditional Protein Bar (High Sugar) | Whole Food Protein Bar (Dates/Nuts) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweetener | Erythritol, Glycerin, Stevia | High Fructose Corn Syrup, Sugar, Sucrose | Dates, Maple Syrup, Honey |
| Sugar Content | Very low (typically 4g or less) | High (often 15g+) | Moderate to high (natural sugars) |
| Digestive Impact | Generally well-tolerated, but can cause minor distress in sensitive individuals | Can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes | Generally well-tolerated, high in fiber |
| Texture | Soft, marshmallow-like, and chewy | Often dense, grainy, or chalky | Chewy and dense from nuts and fruit |
| Keto-Friendliness | Yes (low net carbs) | No | May be suitable, but sugar content needs to be checked |
The Role of Stevia and Dark Chocolate
In addition to erythritol and glycerin, some Built Bar flavors also incorporate stevia for added sweetness without additional calories. The chocolate coating, which is a key component of the bar's flavor, is another aspect of the sweetener profile. Built Bar uses a high-quality dark chocolate that contains some sugar, but the company claims this sugar is absorbed more slowly due to the bar's high protein and fiber content, preventing significant blood sugar spikes.
Other Notable Ingredients
It's also important to note that Built Bars contain other ingredients like gelatin, which is a non-vegetarian animal protein used to stabilize the bar's unique texture. For those with dietary restrictions or allergies, checking the specific flavor's ingredient list is always recommended. Some flavors contain nuts and dairy, while others do not.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
To answer the question, "Is erythritol in Built Bars?", the answer is definitively yes for many of their products. This ingredient is central to their strategy of providing a low-sugar protein bar with a desirable texture and taste. For those on a keto diet or simply looking to reduce sugar intake, this can be a significant benefit. However, individuals with sensitivities to sugar alcohols should be mindful, as digestive tolerance can vary. Ultimately, understanding the full ingredient list empowers you to make the best dietary choices for your needs, factoring in taste preferences, nutritional goals, and digestive comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sweeteners are used in Built Bars besides erythritol?
Some Built Bar flavors use a combination of erythritol, glycerin, and stevia to achieve their desired taste profile.
Are Built Bars keto-friendly?
Yes, many Built Bars are considered keto-friendly due to their use of low-calorie sweeteners like erythritol, which results in a low net carb count.
Why does Built Bar use erythritol over other sugar alcohols?
Erythritol is better tolerated by the digestive system than many other sugar alcohols because it's mostly absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted in urine, rather than fermenting in the intestines.
Do all Built Bars contain erythritol?
While many popular varieties do, it is always best to check the specific ingredient list for each flavor, as some formulations may differ.
Can erythritol cause digestive issues?
While generally better tolerated, erythritol can still cause digestive issues like bloating or gas in some sensitive individuals, especially in higher amounts.
Is erythritol a natural sweetener?
Erythritol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol found in fruits like pears and grapes, though it is often industrially produced for commercial use.
Are Built Bars vegan?
No, Built Bars are not vegan as they contain whey protein isolate and gelatin, both of which are animal-derived.
