In 1990, Gary Erickson was running a bakery specializing in calzones and gourmet cookies. During a long bike ride, he decided that he could make a better energy bar. After many recipe adjustments, the first Clif Bar was marketed in 1992. As of 2010, there are 16 year-round flavors of Clif Bars. Cranberry Orange Nut Bread, Iced Gingerbread and Spiced Pumpkin Pie are seasonal flavors of Clif Bars. Luna Bars, Mojo Bars and Builder’s Bars are other Clif Bar product lines. The company uses organic, all-natural ingredients to make Clif Bars.
Sweeteners
Energy bars are used to fuel workouts and replace energy stores. The glycemic index measures how quickly blood glucose levels rise after a food is eaten. The primary ingredient in Clif Bars is brown rice syrup, which has a lower glycemic index than simple sugars, allowing a slower rise in blood glucose levels. In addition to providing energy, brown rice syrup, cane juice and molasses powder add sweetness and texture to Clif Bars.
Protein
The Clif Bar line uses a protein blend in all flavors. Soybeans, soy protein, soy flour, rice flour and barley malt compose the protein blend. Depending on the flavor of the bar, almonds, peanuts, pecans and walnuts are added. Almond butter and soy butter provide additional protein in some Clif Bar varieties.
Grains
Rolled oats and a grain blend are in all Clif Bar Flavors. The grain blend includes inulin, flaxseed, oat bran and psyllium. The grains are a source of fiber, which helps regulate blood glucose levels.
Dried Fruits, Flavors
There are more than 16 distinctive flavors of Clif Bars that use the same basic ingredients. The added fruits, flavors and spices provide unique taste. Most Clif Bars contain dates. Other dried fruits in Clif Bars include apricots, blueberries, cranberries and raisins. Cinnamon, cocoa and natural flavors are used in some Clif Bar varieties.