Sweeteners in Outshine's No Sugar Added Bars
For those managing sugar intake, Outshine's No Sugar Added fruit bars seem like a straightforward option. However, reading the ingredients list reveals a blend of sweetening agents used to replace traditional sugar. Specifically, the key ingredients responsible for the sweet taste are sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and sorbitol.
Sucralose, often known by the brand name Splenda, is a zero-calorie artificial sweetener made by chemically modifying sucrose (table sugar). It is approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar and is not metabolized by the human body, so it passes through without contributing calories.
Acesulfame potassium, or Ace-K, is another zero-calorie artificial sweetener. It is about 200 times sweeter than sugar and is often used with other sweeteners like sucralose to mask potential aftertastes and create a balanced flavor. Ace-K is heat-stable, making it suitable for frozen products.
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in fruits but also produced commercially. It contains fewer calories than sugar and contributes sweetness and texture. However, Outshine's labels note that excessive consumption of sorbitol can have a laxative effect on some individuals.
Potential Health Considerations of Sugar-Free Sweeteners
While these sweeteners provide a sugar-free option, their long-term health implications are debated. Research on sucralose and acesulfame potassium has yielded varied results, particularly regarding their effects on gut microbiota, inflammation, and metabolic function, especially with high or chronic consumption. Some animal studies have also raised questions about potential links to cancer, though regulatory bodies often maintain their safety.
- Sucralose and the gut: Some research suggests sucralose can alter gut bacteria and potentially cause inflammation, though many studies are on animals.
- Acesulfame potassium and blood sugar: While considered safe for diabetics, some studies indicate Acesulfame potassium might affect insulin sensitivity in certain individuals, requiring more research.
- Sorbitol and digestion: The most common side effect is potential gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and diarrhea, for those sensitive to sugar alcohols.
Ingredient comparison: No Sugar Added Outshine Bar vs. Regular Outshine Bar
| Feature | No Sugar Added Bars | Regular Fruit Bars |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweeteners | Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, Sorbitol | Cane Sugar, Fruit Juices |
| Calorie Content | Lower (e.g., 25-45 calories for strawberry flavor) | Higher (e.g., 60-110 calories depending on flavor) |
| Added Sugars | 0g added sugar | Contains added sugar from cane sugar |
| Sweetness Origin | Artificial and sugar alcohol | Natural (from fruit and sugar) |
| Potential Digestibility Issues | Sorbitol can cause laxative effects in sensitive individuals | Generally no specific digestive warnings outside of overall sugar intake |
List of sugar-free sweetener options
For consumers looking to avoid artificial sweeteners, several alternatives exist, ranging from plant-derived options to natural sugar alcohols.
- Stevia: A zero-calorie, natural sweetener extracted from the stevia plant.
- Monk Fruit (Luo Han Guo): A zero-calorie natural sweetener derived from monk fruit.
- Erythritol: A sugar alcohol that is generally well-tolerated and doesn't raise blood sugar.
- Allulose: A rare sugar with minimal calories that isn't metabolized like regular sugar.
Conclusion
Outshine's sugar-free fruit bars achieve sweetness through a blend of sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and sorbitol. While these ingredients are approved by regulatory bodies, ongoing research and some consumer feedback highlight potential concerns, particularly regarding gut health and long-term metabolic effects. Consumers seeking alternatives can explore various natural and sugar-alcohol-based sweeteners. Always check the ingredients list and consider personal health goals. For detailed nutritional comparisons, consult resources from health and regulatory bodies like the FDA.
Key Takeaways
- Sucralose and Acesulfame Potassium are the primary sweeteners in sugar-free Outshine bars. They are calorie-free and intensely sweet.
- Sorbitol is also used and can cause digestive issues. This sugar alcohol contributes sweetness and texture but can have a laxative effect in large amounts.
- Ongoing health controversies exist for sucralose and acesulfame potassium. Research debates their impact on gut health and long-term metabolic function.
- Natural alternatives exist for those who prefer to avoid artificial ingredients. Sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit are available in other products.
- Ingredient and nutritional information can vary by flavor. Always check the specific packaging.
