Energy bar

An energy bar is a supplemental food bar formulated with high-energy ingredients, including cereals and other nutrients. Designed for individuals needing a quick energy boost, these bars are ideal for those who might not have the time for a full meal. Notably, energy bars differ from energy drinks, the latter being beverages that primarily contain caffeine, while the former focuses on providing food-based energy.

Three Lärabar energy bars

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Chewy Granola Bar

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File:Three protein bars, two cut in half

History

Origins

The concept of an energy bar can be traced back to the American marketplace's Space Food Sticks. In the late 1960s, the Pillsbury Company introduced these as a way to leverage the growing fascination with the space program. The development of the Space Food Sticks can be credited to Robert Muller, notable for inventing the HACCP standards, which have since become an industry benchmark for ensuring food safety. Today, these bars are manufactured by Retrofuture Products, based in Port Washington, New York.

Distinction between Energy Bars and Energy Drinks

Though both energy bars and energy drinks are consumed for an energy boost, they function differently:

• Energy Bars: Primarily deliver physical energy derived from the food constituents, as quantified in terms of calories or joules.
• Energy Drinks: Aim to heighten mental energy by invigorating the central nervous system. This stimulation is often due to significant caffeine content or other stimulants. Moreover, many energy drinks also offer physical energy via sugars. An added component in both might be vitamins.

Nutritional Profile

The nutritional content of energy bars can vary based on the brand and purpose, but they generally derive their energy from three core components: fat, protein, and carbohydrates. A standard energy bar typically provides:

• 200–300 Cal (840–1,300 kJ)
• 3–9 g of fat
• 7–15 g of protein
• 20–40 g of carbohydrates

However, it's always advisable to check the nutrition label for precise content.

See Also

• Protein bar
• Energy gel
• Sports drink
• High energy biscuits
• Flapjack