The packaging says sugar-free — does that mean the bar is also low in calories or carbohydrates? — Glazed wafer bar with chocolate-nut butter SNAQ FABRIQ (20 g)

Sugar-free is not the same as calorie-free or carbohydrate-free. In this product, the sweet, glazed confectionery taste is built on a crisp wafer layer, a chocolate-peanut butter style filling, and a glaze. These ingredients typically contribute energy even when sugars are not added.

If you are counting energy or carbohydrates, the two numbers to check on the nutrition table are the energy value (kcal/kJ) and total carbohydrate. Sugar-free products often contain sweeteners, sometimes sugar alcohols, which are carbohydrates too. Some people find sugar alcohols — used in many sugar-free sweets — can cause bloating or digestive discomfort if eaten in larger amounts. For a 20 g bar, most people tolerate it well, but individual reactions vary.

For that reason, the product is best treated as a confectionery-style snack that just happens to omit sugars, not as a diet food. If you want to fit it into a specific eating plan, weigh it against your other meals: a small portion can be chosen between meals, with coffee, or as a dessert-style bite, but it does not replace the nutritional value of a balanced meal.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with chronic conditions or anyone on medication who is unsure about sweetener intake should consult a specialist before including this product in a regular diet.