Made-with-Bananas 'Performance Candy'

It’s no secret that bananas are a good snack for active types. A new banana-based bar has hit the market that’s made of 100% “ripened Ecuadorian bananas.” Indeed, the ingredient list on the Banana Bar from Clandestino lists a single line-item: Fresh Bananas.

The company calls its bars “surfing performance candy,” and in its graphics and branding surf culture dominates. But we found them highly edible even when not near an ocean. The 1-ounce bars are equal to one medium-size banana, and they come packaged in a slim cardboard box.

The “bananas with a shelf-life” retail for $1.30 each, and their soft, chewy texture is great for eating fast like an energy gel. There is no sugar added and no preservatives.

The taste is totally addictive — I had to discipline myself to only eat one at a time. At around 100 calories each, the banana bars will not serve as a replacement for a PowerBar or Clif bar, but they are about the same calorie count as most gels. Nutrition specs are similar to a gel, too, but the potassium count is roughly six times higher.

Offered in original (plain) banana, or banana covered with milk or dark chocolate, you will for sure find yourself wanting to eat them like the candy they are touted to be. Anyone needing a quick pick-me-up or calorie replacement will enjoy these natural snacks. Distribution is limited mainly to retail stores in California at this time, but check here on the website for availability.

—T.C. Worley