Comparison of labeling parameters and composition nutritional protein bars

Abstract

The use of sports supplements associated with regular physical activity comes in many forms, among them protein supplements in bars. Experimental studies with analytical supplements have not found the quantitative compliance of its main macronutrients in relation to nutritional information, the composition, the amount of nutrients on the labels, in addition to breaches of existing laws. In this approach, the aim of this study was to evaluate under the experimental analytical perspective and nutritional supplements labeling type protein bars. The methodological standards followed international standards AOAC (2000) and analysis of labeling six protein bar type supplements being 3 national and 3 international brands, purchased in specialty stores in the city of Belém do Pará. The data were classified and compared with current legislation. The results show various quantitative inadequacies ranging from 63 to 84.9% for protein, are below the recommended by law (10 g per serving), the highest value of 5.14 g. The high lipid content and carbohydrates, resulting in higher energy, for all brands analyzed. Disagreements also observed for the labeling data, as regards the mandatory information on labels, all brands had several inadequacies, such as non-legibility of thelot indication, expiry date, storage mode, as the intens. "Contains gluten" or "does not contain" gluten, difficulty understanding the text, the presence of forbidden images on the packaging, language, among others. In short this research shows that quantitatively these products do not fit the pattern of protein foods required by law. As for labeling information provided disagree and insufficient, besides the notorious breaches of established legal norms.