Lärabar was created by Denver native Lara Merriken, who was looking to make a "very healthy product that tasted delicious".[2][3] According to the General Mills website, Merriken's inspiration for the snack occurred during a hiking trip in 2000 through the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.[4] As she was running down the mountain, she was inspired to create a food bar that was made out of only fruits, nuts and spices.[5] The umlaut on the ä is decorative.[6][7]
The bars were first introduced for sale in the United States on April 14, 2003. The original flavors were Cherry Pie, Apple Pie, Cashew Cookie, Banana Bread, and Chocolate Coconut Chew.[8]
In 2008, General Mills acquired the original producer of Lärabar, Humm Foods.[9] The product line has been expanded to more than 30 varieties, including high-protein bars and bars for children.[10]
An April 2007 review in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette praised Lärabar, writing "The bar is moist and chewy, tart and tasty. None of the medicinal tastes of other protein bars."[12] The bar's "authentic" taste and use as a breakfast meal have also been complimented.[13]
Recalls
In January 2009, General Mills voluntarily recalled Peanut Butter Cookie flavor Lärabar for fear of salmonella contamination. No illnesses were reported.[14][15]
^Davis, Joyzelle (June 10, 2008). "General Mills to buy local Larabar maker". Rocky Mountain News. Archived from the original on February 1, 2013. Retrieved March 21, 2017.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
