Nature Valley

The Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Fruit & Nut Bars earn a disappointing green leaf rating of 1/5 on our scale. This low rating is primarily due to the product’s significant use of harmful ingredients and its non-organic, GMO status.

The bars feature a long list of ingredients, many of which are concerning. Among the most notable are the added sugars, which include sugar and fructose. Even more alarming is the presence of corn syrup, a particularly harmful added sugar. The bars also contain questionable additives such as natural flavor and soy lecithin. These additives are often used to enhance taste and extend shelf life, but their potential health effects make them a concern.

In addition to these additives, the bars contain canola oil. Despite its widespread use, canola oil is a harmful oil due to its high omega-6 fatty acid content, which can contribute to inflammation when consumed in excess. The use of such oil is a clear detriment to the product’s overall healthiness.

The bars are neither organic nor non-GMO. Organic foods are generally healthier as they are free from synthetic additives and pesticides, and non-GMO foods avoid genetically modified organisms that can have unknown health effects. The lack of these certifications on the Nature Valley bars is a significant strike against them.

The Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Cherry Fruit & Nut Bars, despite their enticing name, are a poor choice for those seeking clean, healthy food options. The bars are laden with harmful ingredients, including added sugars, questionable additives, and harmful oils. Furthermore, the lack of organic and non-GMO certifications further diminishes their appeal. The bars earn a green leaf rating of just 1/5, the lowest possible score. We strongly advise against choosing this product.