A Detailed Look at the Ingredients in Noshu Chocolate Mint Bar
Understanding what makes up the Noshu Low Carb Choc Mint Indulgence Bar provides insight into its low-sugar and low-carb design. The product is a multi-layered creation, with a focus on replacing traditional, refined sugars with a variety of natural sweeteners and fibers. The ingredients can be broken down into three main sections: the dark chocolate coating, the minty biscuit core, and the assortment of natural sweeteners.
The Reduced-Sugar Dark Chocolate Coating
This key component is formulated to deliver a rich chocolate flavor with a fraction of the sugar found in conventional chocolate bars. The ingredients include vegetable fat, Non-GMO Erythritol (a sugar alcohol with no impact on blood sugar), cocoa solids for flavor, and fibers like inulin, maltodextrin, polydextrose, and corn fiber. Milk solids, soy lecithin, natural flavors, and salt are also included to enhance texture and taste.
The Biscuit and Mint Layer
Beneath the chocolate coating is a layer providing texture and flavor. This includes polydextrose and vegetable fat, along with biscuit pieces made from wheat flour, canola oil, a small amount of sucrose, and malt extract. Non-GMO Xylitol and Sorbitol add sweetness, while milk solids and soy protein isolate contribute protein. Vegetable glycerine and modified starch help with moisture and texture, and natural mint extract (0.02%) provides the distinct mint flavor. Additional natural sweeteners like monk fruit extract and steviol glycosides are also present.
Understanding the Sweetener Blend
Noshu utilizes a combination of natural sweeteners to avoid refined sugar and maintain a low glycemic impact. This blend includes Erythritol, Xylitol, Monk Fruit Extract, and Steviol Glycosides (Stevia). Erythritol is well-tolerated and doesn't raise blood glucose, while Xylitol can have digestive side effects in large amounts and is toxic to pets. Monk fruit and Stevia are high-intensity, zero-calorie sweeteners. Prebiotic fibers like polydextrose and inulin also contribute sweetness and support gut health.
A comparative look at the ingredients
| Ingredient Category | Noshu Chocolate Mint Bar | Typical Sugar-Laden Mint Chocolate |
|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Natural blend of erythritol, xylitol, stevia, monk fruit | Refined sugar (sucrose), high-fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners |
| Chocolate Base | Reduced-sugar dark chocolate coating | Milk or dark chocolate with high sugar content |
| Bulk/Fiber | Polydextrose, corn fiber, inulin | Limited dietary fiber, depending on formulation |
| Mint Flavor | Natural mint extract | Natural or artificial mint flavor |
| Carbohydrates | Low net carbs (designed for keto) | High, driven by sugar content |
| Texture Add-Ins | Biscuit pieces | Often omitted or replaced with a cream filling |
Conclusion: A Modern Alternative to Candy
In conclusion, the Noshu Chocolate Mint Bar's ingredient list showcases a thoughtful approach to creating a low-sugar, low-carb treat. The combination of natural sweeteners, fibers, and other components allows it to mimic the taste and texture of traditional chocolate bars. While a good option for those managing sugar intake, it's important to be mindful of the sugar alcohols and potential allergens present.
Frequently Asked Questions
What gives the Noshu bar its sweetness without refined sugar?
The bar uses a combination of natural sweeteners, including non-GMO erythritol, xylitol, monk fruit extract, and steviol glycosides (stevia leaf extract).
Why do Noshu bars contain polydextrose?
Polydextrose is included as a soluble dietary fiber and bulking agent, providing volume and texture to the bar with fewer calories.
Are the Noshu Chocolate Mint Bars safe for pets?
No, the bar contains xylitol, which is highly toxic and dangerous for pets.
Is the Noshu bar gluten-free?
No, the Noshu Chocolate Mint Bar contains gluten from the wheat flour and malt extract used in the biscuit pieces.
Does the bar have a high fiber content?
Yes, due to ingredients like polydextrose, corn fiber, and inulin, the bar has a relatively high dietary fiber content.
What are the main allergens in the Noshu Chocolate Mint Bar?
The main allergens are milk, gluten, and soy. The product may also contain traces of peanuts, tree nuts, and sesame.
Can consuming Noshu bars cause digestive discomfort?
Consuming large quantities of products containing sugar alcohols like xylitol and sorbitol may lead to a laxative effect in some individuals.
