Core Ingredients for Flavor and Texture
No sugar added Outshine fruit bars use a base of real fruit, water, and various additives to create the desired texture and sweetness. The "real fruit" typically refers to purees or juice concentrates. These forms retain some fruit flavor but generally lack the fiber of whole fruit.
Sweeteners and Other Additives
To achieve sweetness without added sugar, these bars utilize alternative sources including sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners.
- Sorbitol: This sugar alcohol is a primary sweetener across all no sugar added Outshine bars. The packaging notes that consuming too much may have a laxative effect.
- Artificial Sweeteners: Sucralose and acesulfame potassium, calorie-free artificial sweeteners, provide intense sweetness. While FDA-approved, some consumers prefer to avoid artificial ingredients.
- Maltodextrin: Maltodextrin acts as a filler and stabilizer and contributes an "insignificant amount of total sugars".
To ensure a smooth, ice-pop consistency, various thickeners and stabilizers are included. Guar gum and carob bean gum are natural gums that prevent large ice crystals, resulting in a smoother texture. Glycerin and polydextrose also add body and texture. For preservation and visual appeal, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is added for nutritional value, while citric acid acts as a preservative and flavor enhancer. Natural colors from sources like beet juice and beta carotene provide vibrant hues, and "natural flavor" indicates other flavoring compounds are used.
Comparison of Key Ingredients in No Sugar Added Flavors
The specific fruit sources and natural colors can vary slightly between flavors. Details for the strawberry, tangerine, and raspberry flavors can be found on {Link: HEB website https://www.heb.com/product-detail/outshine-no-sugar-added-frozen-fruit-bars-strawberry-tangerine-raspberry/482246} and {Link: Outshine website https://www.icecream.com/us/en/brands/outshine/products/no-sugar-added-strawberry-tangerine-raspberry-fruit-pops-variety-pack}.
Potential Concerns and Benefits
No sugar added Outshine bars offer a low-calorie, fat-free option high in Vitamin C. However, they contain artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which some people prefer to avoid. Sugar alcohols such as sorbitol can also cause digestive discomfort for sensitive individuals. A simpler alternative could involve making popsicles from blended whole fruit.
Conclusion
No sugar added Outshine fruit bars use a combination of fruit puree and juice concentrates, sugar alcohols, and artificial sweeteners to deliver a sweet, low-calorie dessert. While fat-free and a good source of Vitamin C, they are a processed treat rather than one based purely on whole fruit sweetness. They can be a suitable option for those managing sugar intake, but alternatives exist for those seeking a less processed snack. For detailed nutritional information, the official Outshine website is a valuable resource.
