THE SANE VIEW
Given the rate at which we’re devouring them, it seems many of us believe (or hope!) energy bars are good for us. Sales have risen by a chunky 40 per cent in the past year, according to research group Kantar Worldpanel. In the UK, we now munch through more than 20 million energy bars and balls a year. But the big questions are what exactly is in them and why do we find them so appealing? Energy snacks generally fall into two categories, which often overlap.
Energy balls and bars (sometimes known as sports bars) are marketed as a convenient way to refuel before, during or after intensive exercise. They may be filled with nuts, seeds and fruit and are often fortified with vitamins and minerals. Some brands also contain added protein.
Protein bars have a high ratio of protein to carbohydrates and are aimed at athletes or people doing weight or strength training. Proteins consist of amino acids, the building blocks for our body’s cells. The theory is that, after a tough workout, the protein in these bars will help build muscle, add bulk and improve performance. The source of the protein varies. Food manufacturers often use whey (a by-product of cheese making) or casein (which comes from milk curds) but sometimes blend these with cheaper, lower-quality forms of protein derived from soya beans. Some protein bars are targeted at people trying to lose weight, on the basis that protein-rich foods tend to make you feel fuller for longer than those high in carbohydrates or fat.