New in the Market: Gnu Bars

by Jo-Ann Heslin, MA, RD, CDN on November 16, 2011 · 0 comments

We love to try new foods. Some are great. Some don’t measure up and some become staples in our kitchen. See what you think.

Gnu Bars are advertised as rich in flavor and fiber, an accurate description. Each bar provides 12 grams of fiber, close to half the amount needed daily by women and one third of the daily requirement for men. The fiber come from a mixture of grains — oats, whole wheat flour, wheat bran, kamut, flax, and millet. Many of the flavors also contain psyllium and chicory root inulin. Both are soluble (gummy) fibers that come from plants. The combination results in the high fiber value for each bar.

Because they are high in fiber, with much of it coming from soluble fiber, these bars would be useful for weight control to help maintain a feeling of fullness, to promote bowel regularity, and to promote heart health.

The flavors are very distinct. Banana Walnut is just that – it taste like a crunchy banana. Cinnamon Raisin and Peanut Butter both have a mild pleasant flavor. Chocolate Brownie tastes like a rich brownie, whereas Orange Cranberry and Lemon Ginger have vibrant, distinct flavors. Espresso Chip smelled and tasted like a good cup of coffee. Most bars on the market do not deliver such rich flavors.

Each bar is 1.6 ounces with 130 to 140 calories depending on the flavor. Gnu bars are kosher (OU) certified and vegan.

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