Best Protein Bars: Our Top 20 Choices
Alright, gym buddies, listen up, we all love protein, in any shape or format, so it is mandatory to have an article about the best protein bars.
We all know the struggle of staying on top of your nutrition, especially when you don’t have time to cook every day for about 6 times. So what should a gym bro do?
That’s where protein bars come in to save the day! Protein bars are a very nice on-the-go snack to keep you fueled and feeling your best. But with countless options on the market, choosing the best protein bar can be overwhelming.
Fear not, bro, because this guide is here to break down the essentials and unveil the top contenders in the protein bar game.
What to Look for in a Protein Bar
Now, before we can crown our best protein bar, let’s discuss what characteristics make a protein bar to be top-notch.
Think of them as your portable protein punch. But before you grab the first bar you see, it’s crucial to pay attention to what’s actually packed inside.
Here’s what separates the champions from the losers:
Protein Content: This is the OG “king of everything” stat, bro. Aim for at least 10 grams of protein per bar to keep your muscles satisfied and support your training goals.
Sugar Content: Shugar daddies will hate me for this, but you have to look for bars with lower added sugars (ideally below 10 grams). Don’t forget to factor in sugar alcohols, which can have a laxative effect in high doses.
Ingredients List: This sounds rough but it’s actually an easy one. What you need to do is look for whole food ingredients like nuts, seeds, fruits, and whole grains. Also, you need to avoid those that have a lot of processed additives, artificial sweeteners, and unpronounceable ingredients.
Fiber: Long story short – you need fiber in order to have a well-balanced diet and a happy stomach. Look for bars with at least 3-5 grams of fiber.
Dietary Preferences: If you are a sensible one, don’t worry, you are not alone! There are many people with allergies but the good news is that you also have protein bars catering to various preferences. You can easily find some good ones that are vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and keto-friendly options.
Top 20 Best Protein Bars on the Market
Alright, enough talk, let’s get down to business! Here are 20 of the top protein bars currently dominating the market, along with their pros and cons to help you find your perfect match:
- RXBAR: This OG bar boasts a simple, whole-food ingredient list with 12 grams of protein and only 5 grams of sugar. Perfect for the minimalist who values clean ingredients and natural sweetness. Pros: Clean, transparent ingredients, a good source of protein and fiber. Cons: Can be a bit bland for some palates.
- KIND Protein Bars: Packed with nuts, seeds, and whole grains, KIND bars offer a satisfying crunch with around 12 grams of protein and varying sugar content depending on the flavor. Pros: Delicious and satisfying, a good source of various nutrients. Cons: Can be higher in sugar than some other options.
- GoMacro Bars: Certified vegan and packed with plant-based protein, GoMacro bars are a great option for those following a vegan lifestyle. They offer around 10 grams of protein and use whole food ingredients like dates and nuts. Pros: Vegan-friendly, a good source of fiber and healthy fats. Cons: Can be a bit on the chewy side.
- ONE Bar: With 20 grams of protein and only 1 gram of sugar, ONE bar packs a serious protein punch without sacrificing taste. They come in various delicious flavors, making them a popular choice for serious athletes and gym rats. Pros: High protein content, low sugar, great for post-workout recovery. Cons: Can be a bit chalky in texture for some.
- Perfect Bar: These refrigerated bars are made with real food ingredients and boast around 15 grams of protein and 5 grams of sugar. They offer a variety of unique flavor combinations and a satisfyingly chewy texture. Pros: Delicious and unique flavors, a good source of protein and fiber, uses real food ingredients. Cons: Requires refrigeration, may not be the most portable option.
- Built Bars: These bars are known for their impressive protein content (around 17 grams) and low sugar content (4 grams). They come in a variety of decadent flavors and are a great option for those seeking a more indulgent protein bar. Pros: High protein content, low sugar, delicious flavors. Cons: Can be a bit high in calories and fat.
- Quest Bars: A classic in the protein bar world, Quest bars offer 20 grams of protein and only 1 gram of net carbs, making them a popular choice for those following a keto diet. They come in various flavors and have a satisfyingly crunchy texture. Pros: High protein content, low carb, good for keto dieters. Cons: Can be a bit artificial-tasting for some.
- NuGo Dark Chocolate Sea Salt: This bar offers a delicious combination of protein and flavor, boasting 15 grams of protein and 7 grams of sugar. The dark chocolate and sea salt combination is a satisfying treat for any chocoholic. Pros: Great taste, good protein content, dark chocolate offers antioxidants. Cons: Can be a bit high in sugar for some.
- Lara Bars: Made with dates, nuts, and spices, Lara bars are a naturally sweet and satisfying option with around 2 grams of protein and 3-7 grams of sugar depending on the flavor. They are a great choice for those looking for a clean, minimally processed bar. Pros: All-natural ingredients, no added sugar, a good source of fiber. Cons: Lower protein content than some other options.
- Think! High Protein Bars: These bars offer a variety of flavors and textures, with around 10-15 grams of protein and varying sugar content depending on the option. They are a good choice for those looking for a fun and flavorful protein bar option. Pros: Variety of flavors and textures, good protein content for some options. Cons: Can be higher in sugar than some other bars.
- Aloha Protein Bars: These plant-based bars are made with ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dates, offering around 13 grams of protein and varying sugar content depending on the flavor. They are a great option for those following a vegan or gluten-free diet. Pros: Vegan and gluten-free, good source of protein and fiber, uses whole food ingredients. Cons: Can be a bit crumbly.
- Zing Bars: These bars are packed with protein and fiber, offering around 15 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. They come in various fruit and nut flavor combinations and are a good choice for those looking for a high-fiber protein bar. Pros: High protein and fiber content, a good source of various nutrients. Cons: Can be a bit dry and chalky in texture for some.
- Evo Hemp Bars: Made with hemp protein, these bars are a unique option for those looking for a plant-based protein source. They offer around 10 grams of protein and come in various delicious flavors. Pros: Plant-based protein source, a good source of healthy fats, unique flavor options. Cons: Lower protein content than some other bars.
- Orgain Organic Protein Bars: These bars are USDA-certified organic and offer around 15 grams of protein and varying sugar content depending on the flavor. They are a good choice for those looking for an organic protein bar option. Pros: Organic ingredients, good protein content, variety of flavors. Cons: Can be a bit higher in sugar than some other options.
- Garden of Life Fit Bar: Packed with protein, probiotics, and prebiotics, these bars offer around 20 grams of protein and support digestive health. They come in various flavors and are a good choice for those looking for a protein bar that promotes gut health. Pros: High protein content, added probiotics and prebiotics, supports digestive health. Cons: Can be a bit chalky in texture for some.
- Raw Rev Glo Bars: These raw, vegan, and gluten-free bars are made with sprouted nuts, seeds, and fruits, offering around 12 grams of protein and 4 grams of sugar. They are a great option for those looking for a bar packed with nutrients and made with raw ingredients. Pros: Raw, vegan, and gluten-free, good source of various nutrients, uses sprouted ingredients. Cons: Can be a bit expensive compared to other options.
- Paleo Pro Protein Bars: Made with ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, these bars are paleo-friendly and offer around 15 grams of protein and varying sugar content depending on the flavor. They are a good choice for those following a paleo diet. Pros: Paleo-friendly, good source of protein and healthy fats. Cons: Can be a bit high in sugar for some options.
- Primal Kitchen Bars: These bars are free from common allergens like soy, dairy, and gluten, and offer around 11 grams of protein and 7 grams of sugar. They come in various savory and sweet flavors and are a good choice for those with food sensitivities. Pros: Free from common allergens, unique savory and sweet flavors. Cons: Lower protein content than some other bars, can be a bit higher in sugar for some flavors.
- Bulletproof Collagen Protein Bars: These bars are packed with protein and collagen, offering around 10 grams of protein and 10 grams of collagen. They come in various flavors and are a good choice for those looking for a protein bar that supports joint health and gut health. Pros: High protein content, added collagen for joint and gut health.Cons: Can be a bit high in fat and calories, and has lower protein content than some other options.
- No Cow Plant-Based Protein Bars: These ones offer a delicious and satisfying plant-based protein option, boasting around 21 grams of protein and 5 grams of sugar. They come in various creamy and decadent flavors and are a good choice for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet. Pros: High protein content, vegan and dairy-free, delicious flavor options.Cons: Can be a bit high in calories and fat.
Remember: This list includes just a small selection of the many great protein bars available. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your taste buds and dietary needs.
Pro Tip: When choosing a protein bar, check the expiration date and storage requirements before purchasing. Some bars require refrigeration, while others have a longer shelf life at room temperature.
Considerations Before Buying Protein Bars
Before you stock up, consider these additional factors:
Taste: This is crucial! Choose a bar you genuinely enjoy to ensure you’ll actually eat it and avoid food waste.
Price: Protein bars can range in price. Determine your budget and find bars that fit your needs without breaking the bank.
Dietary Restrictions: Ensure the chosen bar caters to your dietary needs, whether it’s vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, or keto-friendly.
Overall Nutrition: While protein is essential, consider the bar’s overall nutritional profile. Look for a balanced blend of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and moderate sugar content.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right protein bar doesn’t have to be a problem like the one you have when choosing the protein powder for your protein shakes. By considering your individual needs, preferences, and the factors mentioned above, you can find a bar that fuels your body and supports your fitness goals.
Remember, protein bars are a convenient snack option, but ensure they remain part of a balanced diet and don’t replace whole-food meals.
You already know what to do now: go out there, crush your workouts, and fuel your day with delicious, protein-packed goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
They can be a healthy snack option, but it depends on the specific bar. Look for bars with high protein content, low sugar, whole food ingredients, and moderate fat content.
Protein can help you feel fuller for longer, which may aid in weight management. However, these are not a magic bullet for weight loss. They should be part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
While some protein bars can be high in protein and calories, they may not be a complete meal replacement. They often lack essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber that you would typically find in a well-balanced meal.
This list has highlighted various bars catering to different dietary needs. Be sure to check the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to ensure the bar aligns with your specific needs, whether it’s vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, or keto-friendly.
