Does CLEAN Bar contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains dairy in the form of whey protein and milk powder. It does not contain wheat ingredients, but the oats are not certified gluten-free, so cross-contamination is possible.

Is CLEAN Bar good for weight loss?

It can be, due to the high fiber content from chicory root which promotes fullness. However, it is calorie-dense (over 200 calories) and contains added sugar, so portion control is essential.

Where can I buy CLEAN Bar?

CLEAN Bars are widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and CVS, as well as online through Amazon and the manufacturer's website.

Is CLEAN Bar safe for kids?

It is generally safe for children as a snack, but parents should monitor the sugar intake. It does not contain caffeine or major allergens beyond soy and milk.

Is CLEAN Bar Vegan? A Food Scientist's Deep Dive

No, the standard CLEAN Bar is not vegan. While it features plant-based ingredients like soy protein and flax seeds, it contains two distinct dairy-derived ingredients that make it unsuitable for a strict vegan diet. Let's break down exactly why this bar fails the vegan test and what you should look for instead.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look beyond the marketing claims and straight at the label. The CLEAN Bar is a mixed bag of plant-based staples and animal-derived additives. Here is the detailed analysis of the key components:

The base of the bar relies on Soy Protein Isolate and Whole Grain Brown Rice Flour. These are excellent plant-based protein and carbohydrate sources. Additionally, Flax Seed provides a solid boost of Omega-3 fatty acids, which is a definite plus for heart health. However, the trouble starts with the protein crisp that isn't soy.

The primary non-vegan culprits are Whey Protein Concentrate and Whole Milk Powder. Whey is a liquid byproduct of cheese manufacturing; it is strictly derived from cow's milk. Similarly, Whole Milk Powder is dehydrated dairy. Even though the bar uses a 'Dark Chocolate Confectionery Coating,' the inclusion of milk powder renders it non-vegan. It is important to note that while Soy Lecithin sounds like a soy product, it is often processed using hexane, though most vegans accept it as it contains no animal products.

There is also a hidden concern for strict vegans regarding the Oats. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they are frequently processed in facilities that also handle wheat. Unless the packaging explicitly states it is certified gluten-free, there is a high risk of cross-contamination with gluten, which some vegans avoid due to dietary restrictions or ethical sourcing concerns.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

milkwhey

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, the CLEAN Bar is designed as a satiety product. The inclusion of Chicory Root Fiber (often marketed as inulin) is significant here. It is a prebiotic fiber that aids digestion and helps you feel full longer, which can be beneficial for weight management.

Regarding macronutrients, the bar is quite calorie-dense, typically hovering around 200-220 calories per serving. The fat content comes largely from Canola Oil and Sunflower Oil. While these are plant oils, they are highly processed. The sugar content is moderate, sweetened by Agave Syrup and added Sugar. For an active individual needing a post-workout refuel, the protein count is respectable. However, for someone simply looking for a low-calorie snack, the sugar and fat density might be a drawback.