Small Changes: Granola Bars

I remember in the 80s when granola bars seemed to burst onto the scene. Granola itself had been around for forever, the bars though? A pocket size snack that was "good for you," at least that's the way it was supposed to be.

We've evolved from healthy granola bars with grains, fruits, and nuts into cereal bars with everything in them. 

Take a look at these:

One might assume that since it's Special K and only 90 calories that it's good for you. That isn't the case at all. Look at those ingredients! Some are horrifying. But that's not the worst that I found on my quick trip to the store.

 

 These Fiber One Chewy for Kids bars are disgusting. It's no wonder we're raising a generation of sick, lazy, fat kids. Most of these ingredients are chemicals. "Strawberry flavored fruit bits" - No thank you.

On the same shelf I found these:

 Still not ideal, but a lot better. At least you know what these ingredients are. And red beet powder as a dye? Why can't conventional manufacturers use that? 

My favorite "granola" bars are Glenny's Fruit & Nut Bars. I don't eat them very often, but I do keep one in my purse in case I'm hungry and am face to face with bad choices.

Remember: just because they sell it in the store doesn't mean you should eat it.