4 1/2*  Stronger Cherry Flavor Would Have Been Better
INTRODUCTION<br />I would rate this higher except for the fairly weak cherry flavor. YOu can taste it, but you have to search. The texture is excellent, and it tastes good, if not great. It's neither overly sweet nor ruined by strange aftertastes.<br /><br />NUTRITIONAL VALUE: ASK AN EXPERT<br />I'm not a nutritionist, and it would be wise to analyze nutrition against your own physiology and need for this product, but here are a few lay observations. Total fat(4 grams) and carbohydrates(45 grams, including 18 grams of sugar from cane juice syrup and other sources) are basically comparable to many other similar products. These levels may be fine given how and when you use of the product (e.g., perhaps you practice "carbohydrate loading") Again, those who rely these for workout energy should seek the advise of a professional. You get a fairly good dose of nutrients with the added vitamins and minerals, although I don't know how absorbable they may be. Though probably not as healthy as fresh oats, rice, apples, raisins, soy beans, fruits, etc., this is probably better for you than several doughnuts or skipping a meal altogether.<br /><br />INGREDIENTS<br />Please see list above.<br />Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Vitamin E Acetate, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Pantothenic Acid (Calcium Pantothenate), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B1 (Thiamin Mononitrate), Folic Acid, Biotin, and Vitamin B12. Calcium Phosphate, Magnesium Carbonate, ZInc Glutonate, Iron (Ferrous Fumarate), Copper Gluconate.<br /><br />NUTRITIONAL ANALYSIS<br />Calories, 240; Calories from fat, 35; Total Fat, 4g; Saturated Fat, 0.5 g; Cholesterol, 0 g; Sodium, 80 mg; Total Carbohydrates, 45g; Fiber, 4g; Sugars 18g; Protein, 7g; Vitamin C and Vitamin E: 100% each; Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, and Pantothenic Acid: 50% each; Phosphorus, Magnesium, Zinc, and Copper: 15% each; Vitamin A, 0%.<br /><br />COMPARISON<br />The Clif "Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup" contains:<br />Calories 220, Fat Calories 20, Total Fat, 2.5grams; Sat. Fat, 0g; Cholesterol, 0; Sodium, 90mg, Potassium, 280mg; Total Carbs, 43g; Dietary Fiber, 5g; Sugars, 21g; Proteins, 8g.<br /><br />SUMMARY<br />From a flavor standpoint, this is fairly good. While you get none of the unpleasant aftertastes, off-flavors, or bland taste of similar products, the cherry flavor was not strong enough. However, I enjoyed the coating of rolled oats and rice crips-it's crunchy, yes, but not so firm that your jaw aches afterwards. It also doesn't leave you incredibly thirsy like some other nutritional snacks. For those who like apple pie, the apple crisp in this line tastes better.
Rating: 4 stars