Kashi edges out other cereal bars

McClatchy Newspapers (MCT) - Starting the day with a healthful bowl of fresh fruit and whole grain cereal isn't always an option during some seasons. What you want are shelf-stable, storm-proof products that offer nutrition even when the power goes out.

Kellogg's strawberry Nutri-Grain Bars ($3.59, 8-count 10.4 ounce box) contain 8 grams of whole-grain oats and wheat. They're attractive and uniform, with tender pastry generously filled with real fruit. On the other hand, they contain red dye No. 40. Each 37-gram bar has 130 calories, 3 fat grams, 2 grams each of fiber and protein, 12 grams sugar and 105 milligrams of sodium.

Nature's Choice ($3.39, 6-count 7.8 ounce box) offers 8 grams of whole grains (oats, barley, rice) per 37-gram bar with no additives, preservatives or wheat. The filling gets its color from strawberries and red cabbage, not dyes. The bars are a little homely, but flavor is what counts. Alas, the pastry is dry and the fruit filling scant. There are 150 calories, 2 fat grams, 85 milligrams sodium, 12 grams sugar and 2 grams each fiber and protein per bar.

Kashi's TLC ($2.49, 6-count 7.2 ounces) out-grains the competition with 11 grams of whole grains per 35-gram bar. Pastry is golden brown, all-natural and made with seven grains, including organic oats. The filling, made from strawberry puree, concentrated fruit juices and molasses, and has true berry tang. Each TLC (stands for tender little cereal bar) contains 3 fat grams, 125 milligrams sodium, 3 fiber grams and 2 of protein. Less gooey than Nutri-Grain but fruitier than Nature's Choice, it's the lowest of the 3 in calories (110) and sugar (9 grams), but is amply sweet.

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(Ellen Kanner writes biweekly about vegetarian concerns. Reach her at ekanner(AT)MiamiHerald.com)

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© 2008, The Miami Herald.