Protein bars can play a role in a healthy diet and make a nutritious snack when people run short on time. However, so many protein bars are available that picking the right one can be difficult.
Below we take a look at the 10 best protein bars for 2023.
Best soft bar: Truwomen Trubar
- Price: $44.25 (12-count)
- Protein content: 12 g
- Calories: 190
- Flavors: Saltylicious Almond Love, Smother Fudger Peanut Butter, Oh Oh Cookie Dough, Daydreaming About Donuts, and Zamn Good Zesty Lemon
- Texture: soft and smooth
These soft-textured, high protein breakfast bars are available in counts of 12 and contain protein from whole grain rice and organic peas.
They are available in five dessert-inspired flavors to suit a variety of tastes.
People can enjoy them any time of the day, including pre- and post-workout, in between meals for an energy boost, or as an on-the-go snack.
Each 50-gram (g) bar contains:
- 190 calories
- 12 g protein
- 9 g fat
- 22 g carbohydrates
- 6 g sugar
- 43 milligrams (mg) calcium
- 3 mg iron
- 83 mg potassium
These protein bars are:
- vegan certified
- gluten-free certified
- kosher certified
Additionally, they contain no sugar alcohols, dairy, or soy and are non-GMO verified. They are also vegetarian-friendly and suitable for people following a keto diet.
The manufacturer claims they are made with ingredients such as cassava flour, almonds, cocoa powder, sea salt, and organic cane sugar.
Best plant-based: Aloha
- Price: $32.99 (12-count)
- Protein content: 14 g
- Calories: 240
- Flavors: Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Caramel Sea Salt, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Chocolate Mint, Vanilla Almond Crunch
- Texture: chewy
These organic plant-based protein bars are available in counts of 12 and contain protein from organic brown rice and organic pumpkin seeds.
They are available in six flavors. People can also purchase these bars in a variety pack.
Each 56-g bar contains:
- 240 calories
- 12 g fat
- 0.09 g sodium
- 24 g carbohydrates
- 10 g dietary fiber
- 5 g sugar
The manufacturer claims these protein bars are:
- gluten-free
- soy-free
- dairy-free
- stevia-free
- free of artificial flavors and additives
Additionally, they are suitable for people who follow a kosher diet.
The company carries the B Corp certification, and its products are non-GMO verified, USDA organic certified, and vegan certified.
The company claims that these protein bars contain organic ingredients such as organic coconuts, almonds, and chocolate.
Best for people on a low FODMAP diet: GoMacro
- Price: $34.09 (12-count)
- Protein content: 10 g
- Calories: 270
- Flavors: available in 17 flavors, including Sunflower Butter and Chocolate, Banana and Almond Butter, and Salted Caramel and Chocolate Chip
- Texture: chewy
These organic, vegan protein bars are available in counts of 12 and contain protein from organic sprouted brown rice. They also carry the approved FODMAP-friendly logo.
These protein bars are available in many flavors:
- Salted Caramel and Chocolate Chips
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
- Double Chocolate and Peanut Butter Chips
- Banana and Almond Butter
- Lemon and Lemon
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip
- Coconut and Almond Butter and Chocolate Chips
- Peanut Butter
- Blueberry and Cashew Butter
- Maple Sea Salt
- Mocha Chocolate Chip
- Dark Chocolate and Almonds
- Cashew Caramel
- Mint Chocolate Chip
- Sunflower Butter and Chocolate
Not all flavors are FODMAP-friendly. People should check the packaging of the flavor they wish to buy before purchasing.
Each 65-g bar contains:
- 270 calories
- 9 g fat
- 0.025 g sodium
- 38 g carbohydrates
- 3 g fiber
- 11 g sugar
- 10 g protein
These protein bars are:
- certified vegan
- certified gluten-free
- soy-free
All GoMacro bars are certified organic, vegan, and C.L.E.A.N. and contain no GMOs. They are also suitable for people following a kosher diet.
Best for weight watching: No Cow
- Price: $29.69 (12-count)
- Protein content: 22 g
- Calories: 190
- Flavors: Lemon Meringue Pie, Blueberry Cobbler, Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Cookies ‘N Cream, Maple, Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Chunky Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, S’mores
- Texture: chewy
These bars are available in counts of 12 and contain brown rice protein and pea protein.
They are low in calories and sugar, which may make them suitable for people who are watching their weight.
Additionally, their low net carb count, low sugar content, and high fiber content may be suitable for people following a keto diet.
The bars are available in 10 flavors.
The company claims that these bars are good as an additional source of protein for bodybuilding, a post-workout recovery snack, or a quick, nutritious on-the-go snack.
Each 60-g protein bar contains:
- 190 calories
- 4 g total fat
- 0.017 g sodium
- 25 g carbohydrates
- 15 g fiber
- 1 g sugar
- 22 g protein
The manufacturer claims that these protein bars are:
- keto-friendly
- kosher-friendly
- gluten-free
- dairy-free
- soy-free
No Cow protein bars also carry the gluten-free certification and are non-GMO verified.
Best for gluten-free diet: RXBAR
- Price: $11.29 (5-count)
- Protein content: 12 g
- Calories: 200
- Flavors: Chocolate Sea Salt, Blueberry, Coconut Chocolate, Mixed Berry, Mint Chocolate, Chocolate Raspberry, Banana Chocolate Walnut, Maple Sea Salt, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Coconut, Peanut Butter, and Vanilla Almond
- Texture: chewy
These gluten-free protein bars are available in counts of 5 and 12 and contain protein from egg whites. Each bar contains three egg whites, six almonds, four cashews, and two dates.
They are available in 13 flavors.
The company claims that people can enjoy these protein bars at breakfast or lunch or as a workout snack.
Each 52-g protein bar contains:
- 210 calories
- 8 g total fat
- 210 mg sodium
- 23 g carbohydrates
- 3 g fiber
- 18 g sugar
- 12 g protein
The manufacturer claims these protein bars are gluten-free, soy-free, and vegetarian-friendly. Additionally, they contain no artificial sweeteners or flavors.
Best for a keto diet: think!
- Price: $36.45 (12-count)
- Protein content: 10 g
- Calories: 180
- Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie, Chocolate Mousse Pie, Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Dough
- Texture: soft
These think! whey protein bars contain a moderate amount of protein, are low in carbs and sugar, and are high in fat, which makes them ideal for people who follow a keto diet. They are available in a 12-count box.
The company claims that these protein bars are suitable for daily use to curb hunger between meals.
Each 40-g bar contains:
- 10 g protein
- 2 g sugar
- 3 g fiber
- 180 calories
- 14 g fat
- 0.05 g cholesterol
- 95 mg sodium
- 14 g carbohydrates
These protein bars are:
- Paleo Foundation keto-certified
- gluten-free, according to the manufacturer
Additionally, the company claims that these protein bars contain no sucralose, saccharin, or aspartame.
Best for a meal replacement: Good!
- Price: $21.99 (12-count)
- Protein content: 15 g
- Calories: 220
- Flavors: Blueberry, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Lemon, Snickerdoodle, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Mint, Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter
- Texture: dense and soft
These protein bars are available in counts of 12 and derive their protein from fava beans and brown rice.
They are available in eight flavors. People can also purchase these bars in a variety box that contains 12 bars in 4 flavors: Lemon, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Cookie.
The company claims that these bars taste like candy. People can enjoy them as a meal replacement or as a nutritious snack between meals.
Each 60-g bar contains:
- 220 calories
- 6 g total fat
- 0.21 g sodium
- 30 g carbohydrates
- 12 g fiber
- 10 g total sugar, including 9 g added sugar
- 15 g protein
These protein bars are certified:
- vegan- and kosher-friendly
- gluten-free
- GMO-free
The manufacturer also claims that these protein bars are free from soy.
Best sugar-free protein bar: Legendary Foods
- Price: $26.99 (8-count)
- Protein content: 20 g
- Calories: 180
- Flavors: Blueberry, Birthday Cake, Cookies and Cream, Brown Sugar Cinnamon, Chocolate Cake, Hot Fudge Sundae
- Texture: soft and fluffy
These low carb cake-style protein bar alternatives are available in counts of 8 and derive their protein from whey protein isolate.
They are available in six flavors and are low in carbs and sugar, so they may be a suitable option for those who are watching their macros or following a keto diet.
A person can warm these bars in a microwave for 10–15 seconds or eat them right out of the wrapper.
The company states that people can enjoy these protein bars as a healthy high protein snack, an on-the-go meal, or any time they want to increase their protein intake.
Each 61-g bar contains:
- 180 calories
- 9 g fat
- 0.005 g cholesterol
- 0.36 g sodium
- 22 g carbohydrates
- 9 g fiber
- 0 g sugar
- 20 g protein
- 9 g erythritol
The manufacturer claims these protein bars are gluten-free and keto-friendly.
Best for clean nutrition: Orgain
- Price: $21.98 (12-count)
- Protein content: 10 g
- Calories: 150
- Flavors: Chocolate Brownie. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Chocolate Coconut
- Texture: chewy
These organic vegan protein bars are available in counts of 12 and derive their protein from organic brown rice, organic pea protein, and chia seeds.
They are available in three flavors.
Orgain claims that these protein bars are suitable for adults and children. and that it has hand-selected all ingredients for maximum nutrition.
Additionally, it claims that people can enjoy these bars as:
- a meal replacement
- a snack to curb cravings and hunger between meals
- an on-the-go breakfast or lunch
- a supplement to assist with lean muscle building
- a supplement to assist with muscle recovery
- a pre- or post-workout supplement
Each 40-g bar contains:
- 10 g protein
- 160 calories
- 2 g fiber
- 5 g fat
- 0.12 g sodium
- 19 g carbohydrates
- 6 g sugar
These protein bars are:
- certified USDA Organic
- gluten-free
- vegan-friendly
- GMO-free
- free from dairy, lactose, and soy
- kosher-friendly
- free from artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors
Best for improving blood sugar levels: Kind Protein Bar
- Price: $16.14 (12-count)
- Protein content: 12 g
- Calories: 240
- Flavors: Crunchy Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate Nut
- Texture: crunchy
These crunchy gluten-free protein bars are available in 12-packs in 2 flavors. People can enjoy them at any time of the day.
The manufacturer claims they have a low glycemic index, which can help manage blood sugar levels, and that they contain protein from soy protein isolate.
Each 50-g protein bar contains:
- 240 calories
- 17 g fat
- 0 g trans fat
- 0 mg cholesterol
- 0.125 g sodium
- 18 g carbohydrates
- 5 g fiber
- 8 g sugar
- 12 g protein
KIND protein bars contain no:
- GMOs
- trans fats
- artificial flavors, preservatives, sweeteners, or colors
Additionally, they are kosher.
Below is a comparison table of the protein bars in this article.
People can buy a wide variety of protein bars in stores and online. But knowing which ones to choose can be confusing.
People may wish to consider the following factors when choosing a protein bar:
Calories
The bar’s calorie content depends on how many grams of protein it contains. People may choose a bar with a certain calorie content depending on the purpose they want it to serve.
Most protein bars contain 150–400 calories and 10–20 g of protein, although some may contain around 30 g per serving.
Protein
People should look for protein bars with quality protein, such as whey, casein, soy, or pea protein, as one of the first ingredients.
Those looking for a protein bar for a snack between meals may wish to choose a bar containing about 10 g of protein. However, those who want to use protein bars as meal replacements or have higher protein needs may choose a bar containing 20 g or more.
Diet and protein
People should consider their current diet. If a person follows a vegan or vegetarian diet, looking at protein bars that cater to their needs is important. The same applies to gluten-free or keto diets.
Saturated fat
Many protein bars have a high saturated fat content. A diet high in saturated fat can increase a person’s low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, levels and
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans
Sugar
People should opt for a protein bar with less than 6–8 g of added sugar. Food labels list ingredients by quantity, so if sugar is one of the first few ingredients on the label, the bar likely contains too much sugar.
Many protein bars are high in added sugar and contain sweeteners such as high fructose corn syrup. Consuming too much fructose can
The World Health Organization (WHO)
Fiber
Fiber helps people feel full longer and is an important component of a protein bar, especially if a person is eating a bar as a snack or meal replacement. People should choose a protein bar with at least 3 g of fiber. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Daily Value for dietary fiber is 28 g.
Protein bars can be a convenient source of nutrition, especially for people with busy and active lifestyles. People can choose from protein bars that cater to various diets, such as vegan, keto, kosher, and gluten-free, so anyone can find a suitable protein bar to enhance their protein intake.
Protein bars may be beneficial as a pre- or post-workout snack to provide extra energy while a person works out or to aid muscle recovery afterward. Additionally, some gym-goers may prefer protein bars over protein shakes purely due to convenience.
Protein bars are easy to store in a gym bag, do not need refrigeration, and are lighter to carry around than protein shakes. Additionally, a sensitive stomach can take bites or eat part of a bar, fold down the wrapper, and save the rest for later.
Due to the high fiber content of many protein bars, people may wish to add them to their diet as part of a weight loss journey.
Protein bars may also benefit people who are craving sweets but want a low sugar alternative that will fill them up longer and is more nutritious.
Can kids eat protein bars?
As a
Children should get enough protein daily for their basic needs if they eat two servings of lean protein, such as lean beef, poultry, fish, yogurt, or meat alternatives. Therefore, additional protein supplements would likely be unnecessary and exceed their daily needs. This could
However, if a child’s diet does not include enough protein, eating protein bars should be OK as long as people give their children protein bars as only an occasional snack.
Below, we answer some frequently asked questions about protein bars.
Which protein bars have the highest protein?
Protein bars vary in protein content, and the nutrition label for each will list its protein content. Casein, whey, soy, and pea protein are
However, people should keep in mind that plant-based proteins are
Is it OK to eat protein bars every day?
Eating protein bars every day is OK, but there might be better options. Many protein bars are heavily processed and contain added sugars while providing few vitamins and minerals. Getting enough protein through foods such as meat, poultry, dairy, eggs, whole grains, beans, and soy is possible.
Are protein bars good for muscle mass?
Yes, research reports that protein supplementation can significantly enhance changes in muscle strength and size during resistance training.
Are protein shakes or protein bars healthier?
Protein shakes and bars vary in nutritional content. People should check the labels for more detailed information about the ingredients and choose the product that best suits their dietary needs.
However, some protein bars offer a better balance of macronutrients than protein shakes. Protein shakes usually contain less fat and fewer carbs than bars do. Therefore, a shake may leave a person feeling hungry after consuming it. Additionally,
Protein bars usually contain more fiber than protein shakes. Fiber not only aids digestion, improves bowel regularity, and keeps a person feeling full longer, but it can also aid in
Some protein bars contain added sugar, so if a person chooses a protein bar, they should opt for one that has a low sugar content.
Protein bars are a convenient and safe way to incorporate extra protein into the diet. They are multifunctional, and people can use them as an occasional meal replacement, a snack, or a weight loss aid.
Many protein bars are available to suit various requirements and dietary needs. People should consider these factors before purchasing.
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