Does Original Style Fig Bars contain dairy or gluten?

No, the ingredient list does not contain milk, cheese, or butter. However, it is made with enriched wheat flour, so it is NOT gluten-free.

Is Original Style Fig Bars good for weight loss?

Probably not. They are high in sugar and calories relative to their size, which can lead to hunger spikes and overeating later in the day.

Where can I buy Original Style Fig Bars?

You can find them at most major grocery chains (Walmart, Kroger, Safeway) and online retailers like Amazon.

Is Original Style Fig Bars safe for kids?

Yes, they are generally safe for kids, but they are high in sugar. The 'Artificial Flavor' and 'Caramel Color' are FDA-approved, but moderation is recommended.

Is Original Style Fig Bars Vegan?

Is Original Style Fig Bars vegan? The answer is MAYBE. While these nostalgic treats lack obvious animal products like milk or eggs, they contain two controversial ingredients—palm oil and processed sugar—that strict vegans often avoid. This article breaks down exactly why these ingredients create ambiguity.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed snack fits a vegan diet, we have to look beyond the obvious. The ingredient list for Original Style Fig Bars is deceptively simple, but hidden within are items that require a closer look at their sourcing.

First, let's look at the base: Enriched Bleached Flour and Figs. These are plant-based staples. However, the sweetness comes from a cocktail of sugars including High Fructose Corn Syrup, Dextrose, and Corn Syrup. While sugar itself is a plant, the issue for vegans lies in the processing. In the United States, a significant portion of white sugar is processed using bone char (charred animal bones) to bleach it. Unless the company specifies "organic" or "unrefined" sugar, it is difficult to guarantee the sugar is vegan.

The most significant red flag is Palm Oil. Palm oil is technically plant-based, but its production is linked to massive deforestation and the destruction of habitats for endangered species like orangutans. Because of this ethical dilemma, many ethical vegans strictly avoid palm oil unless the brand has certified sustainable sourcing (RSPO). There is no indication of such certification on the packaging.

Finally, we have Natural and Artificial Flavor. The term "natural flavor" can be derived from both plant and animal sources. While fig is the obvious flavor profile, manufacturers rarely specify the origin of these extracts, leaving a small margin of doubt regarding strict vegan compliance.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

sugarpalm oil

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Original Style Fig Bars are best viewed as a treat rather than a health food. A single serving contains a significant amount of added sugar, primarily from High Fructose Corn Syrup and Corn Syrup. This contributes to a high glycemic load, which can spike blood sugar levels quickly.

Regarding fat content, the Palm Oil contributes to the total fat count. While not excessively high in saturated fat compared to butter, it is still a processed fat source. The calorie count is moderate for a snack bar, but the low protein and fiber content mean they won't keep you full for long. If you are monitoring your sugar intake or following a low-glycemic diet, these bars should be consumed sparingly.