Written by Andrew Lenau | ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
Fact checked by Tyler DiGiovanni, BSBM
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Protein bars can be an excellent solution for those looking for a nutritious option to tide them over between meals or for a portable snack to maintain muscle mass between workouts. They're particularly useful for traveling, as pre- or post-workout snacks, balancing blood sugar, or as a fast and easy breakfast.
They are shelf-stable and portable, making them easy to keep on hand in your pantry, desk, or bag for a quick snack on the go. However, it's important to be aware that while protein is essential for good health, not all protein bars are created equal.
Many protein bars may contain high sugar levels, artificial ingredients, and saturated fats. That's why checking ingredients, nutrition facts labels, and flavor profiles are essential when choosing a protein bar.
To make things easier, we analyzed and ate dozens of protein bars (30 to be specific), closely evaluating ingredients, nutrition facts labels, and flavor profiles.
After careful consideration and more than our fair share of protein bars, we rounded up our top choices to the 9 best protein bars below.
9 Best Protein Bars
- Overall Best: Vital Performance Protein Bar
- Best Tasting: ONE Protein Bars
- Best For Muscle Gain: No Cow Protein Bars
- Best Organic: Orgain Organic Protein Bars
- Best For Weight Loss: Zing Bars
- Best Natural: RXBAR
- Best Vegan: good! Snacks Protein Bars
- Best Low-Carb: think! Protein Bars
- Best For Fiber: ALOHA Protein Bars
SFS Pick
Vital Performance
Best Tasting
ONE
Muscle Gain
No Cow
1. Overall Best Protein Bar: Vital Performance Protein Bar
The Vital Performance protein bar is a high-quality option for individuals looking for a convenient and nutritious snack. We've eaten more protein bars than we can count and in our experience, this bar boasts a good balance of texture and taste, with a nice balance of flavors and crunchy bits.
One of the main highlights of this bar is its high protein-to-calorie ratio, with 20 grams of protein per bar, ten of which come from collagen. It contains complete proteins, which means that it provides the essential amino acids necessary for building muscle.
The ingredient list is relatively short and easy to understand, containing whole ingredients and minimal processing. Additionally, the bar is gluten-free, grass-fed & pasture-raised, and has no artificial sweeteners or added sugars, making it an excellent option for people with dietary restrictions.
It's also relatively low in lactose, making it an excellent pick for those with lactose intolerance, and since the bar contains collagen, it can be helpful for exercise recovery and bone and joint health.
Overall, the Vital Performance protein bar is an excellent option for those looking for a convenient and nutritious snack, especially for post-workout or as a quick breakfast on the go.
Pros
- Contains collagen
- Delicious flavors with less sugar
- Low-lactose
- Simple, easy-to-read ingredients
Cons
- Some people might not like the texture
Give more power to your bite! With 20g of protein (including 10g of collagen), our low-lactose Vital Performance™ Protein Bar is the convenient nutrition you need to power through, anytime of day....
2. Best Tasting Protein Bar: ONE Protein Bar
The ONE protein bars are an incredibly delicious option for those looking for a sweet treat without all the unnecessary calories. These bars offer a fantastic balance of chewy texture and taste, with flavors like birthday cake, maple glazed donut, lemon meringue pie, and pumpkin pie.
These bars will cure your sweet tooth and pack helpful macronutrients like protein. These bars are super flavorful and have 20 grams of protein, with only 210 calories per bar.
The ingredients list on the bars is short and easy to understand, with the main protein sources coming from whey protein and milk protein isolate. The bars are gluten-free, pack eight grams of fiber, and contain just one gram of sugar per bar.
The bars contain sucralose, but they are the last ingredient which means a minuscule amount by weight. The ONE protein bars make it so that you don't have to choose between flavor and nutrition.
Pros
- Made with one gram of sugar
- High in protein
- Fantastic taste
- A good amount of fiber
Cons
- Contains milk and soy
Don’t choose between flavor and nutrition with these delicious protein bars. Life’s too short for anything boring, tasteless, or chalky. Stressful day, Pre-workout snack. Grab your one protein bar...
3. Best Protein Bar For Muscle Gain: No Cow Protein Bar
This No Cow protein bar is high in dietary fiber and plant-based protein, perfect for individuals trying to gain muscle and improve digestive health. This bar sports a blend of pea and brown rice protein that packs in 21 grams of protein per serving without any dairy, making it on par with most traditional whey protein bars.
Since the bars are made without using whey protein, the bars are lactose-free. No Cow bars are low-net carb protein bars because they are low sugar and high in fiber, perfect for anyone on a keto diet.
These vegan protein bars are great for the active lifestyles of men and women. Our bars are certified gluten-free, GMO-free (Non-GMO Project verified), soy-free, refined sugar-free, and kosher.
The ingredient list is quite simple and easy to read. No Cow uses a unique blend of stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol to sweeten these delicious protein bars, making them tasty enough for dessert.
Pros
- Keto-friendly, plant-based, vegan protein
- Naturally sweetened
- 11 delicious flavors
- Great reviews
Cons
- Produced on equipment that processes soy, milk, wheat, egg, and peanuts
No cow. No bull. No whey. Our non dairy bars are made with a blend of brown rice and pea protein to create a complete amino acid profile. We do not use whey protein, meaning our bars are lactose free...
4. Best Organic Protein Bar: Orgain Organic Protein Bar
Finding a high-quality organic protein bar that tastes delicious can be a real challenge. This organic protein bar from Orgain is the real deal compared to other bars full of artificial sweeteners and ingredients.
These Orgain Organic Protein Bars provide 10 grams of plant-based protein at only 150 calories per bar. The protein blend in these bars contains organic pea protein and organic brown rice protein.
These organic bars serve clean, delicious nourishment whenever and wherever you need it. They come in great flavors such as crunchy peanut butter chocolate, S'mores, chocolate chip cookie dough, and chocolate mint.
We like that the bars contain minimal ingredients and have a clean list of whole foods. The bars are gluten-free, non-GMO, kosher, vegan, and USDA organic and are made without soy, dairy, or lactose ingredients.
These organic protein bars are the perfect snack and are an excellent option for individuals who struggle with dietary restrictions.
Pros
- All organic ingredients
- Plant-based
- Reasonable price
- Protein source that's easily digestible
Cons
- Only 10 grams of protein
Staying energized all day long just got easier with our delicious plant-based, Organic Protein Bars. With 10g of organic plant-based protein and only 150 calories per bar...
5. Best Protein Bar For Weight Loss: Zing Bar
While trying to lose weight, finding nutritionally dense snacks that fit within a calorie deficit can be challenging. The Zing Bar was designed by a team of registered dietitians based on nutrition science to deliver optimum energy in a great-tasting, high-protein bar.
These chewy bars are entirely plant-based and boast ten grams of protein and seven grams of dietary fiber. Perfect for a filling snack that only has 220 calories per protein bar.
Zing has a variety of flavors, so you don't have to compromise on the taste. Dark chocolate hazelnut and dark chocolate cherry are the most popular choices.
The dark chocolate cherry bar has a delicious blend of cherry tartness with full flavored dark chocolate and almond butter. We also like the fact that each bar is packed with heart-healthy fats and essential nutrients.
Every bar is gluten, wheat, and soy-free and made from wholesome ingredients and no artificial sweeteners. The bars are also non-GMO, vegan, and dairy free.
Zing Bars make for a delicious snack for individuals looking to stave off hunger while trying to lose weight.
Pros
- Celiac-friendly
- Plant-based protein
- Tasty flavors
- Real ingredients
Cons
- We wish the protein per bar were a bit higher
The perfect blend of coconut sweetness with the full-bodied flavor in cashew butter. Gluten-free, GMO-free, nutrition bar packed with 10 grams of plant-based protein, mixed with optimum ingredients...
6. Best Natural Protein Bar: RXBAR
The RX Protein Bars are a famous protein bar snack brand made with whole food ingredients such as nuts and dried fruits. They are marketed as a natural, whole-food alternative to traditional protein bars. They are known for their simple ingredient list, typically just egg whites, nuts, dates, and dried fruits, and for not having added sugar, gluten, soy, dairy, or artificial ingredients.
The RX snack bars are high in protein and fiber, which can help keep your stomach feeling full and satisfied. They also come in various flavors, such as chocolate sea salt, peanut butter chocolate, chocolate raspberry, and blueberry.
Each protein bar includes roughly 12 grams of protein and 4-5 grams of fiber. These bars are popular among people looking for a natural and healthy protein bar option and those looking for a high protein, low sugar snack.
Pros
- Super simple ingredients
- Variety of flavors
- Fantastic snack option
- Transparent label
Cons
- Some may not enjoy the taste of dates and high sugar content
RXBAR Protein Bars are made with real food ingredients - egg whites for protein, dates to bind, and nuts for texture. Contains 12g of protein, 5g fiber, and is gluten free...
7. Best Vegan Protein Bar: good! Snacks Protein Bar
The good! Snacks Protein Bars are an excellent choice for a convenient, on-the-go vegan snack that packs a nutritional punch. One thing that sets these bars apart from others is their commitment to creating bars that taste like candy but are a healthier alternative.
Not only do they taste great, but good! was able to sneak in 15 grams of plant-based protein, with 10 grams or less sugar in each bar. Their unique protein blend was designed to create a soft center, so you don't have to struggle to eat the protein bar.
Another great thing is they are gluten-free protein bars, non-GMO, soy and dairy free, certified kosher, and vegan-friendly. They also come in various flavors, such as cookie, peanut butter chocolate, Snickerdoodle, and blueberry, so you'll always enjoy the variety of flavors.
Pros
- Certified vegan
- A great snack or meal replacement
- Reasonably priced
- Low sugar, great taste
Cons
- Not for people who are allergic to peanuts
good! snacks went out to create the one protein bar unlike any other. One that people would truly enjoy and grab on the go. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a protein bar so good you’ll think it’s a candy bar...
8. Best Low-Carb/Keto Protein Bar: think! Protein Bar
think! Protein bars are a brand of low-carb/keto protein bars designed for people following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. These bars are formulated to be low in carbohydrates and sugar, with only four grams of net carbs, making them a great choice for those looking to maintain or achieve ketosis.
Each think! Protein Bar contains the proper nutrient ratio to help you maintain your keto lifestyle; moderate protein, low carbs, and high fats. It is even certified Keto by the Paleo Foundation.
To achieve this deliciously sweet treat, think! use keto-friendly sweeteners, erythritol, and stevia. These bars are GMO-free, gluten-free, and kosher, with no artificial colors or flavors.
Each think! Protein Bar blends delicious, crave-worthy flavors with the hunger-satiating protein you need to accomplish your health and fitness goals. So, whether you are on the go, need a snack halfway up the hiking trail, or crave a late-night snack, the think! Protein Bar is a great option.
Pros
- Keto certified
- Only 4 grams of net carbs
- No artificial colors or flavors
- Supports satiety
Cons
- Not vegan friendly
Contains the nutrients you need to help maintain your Keto lifestyle — moderate protein, low carb, low sugar and high fat. Our bar is Keto certified by the Paleo Foundation...
9. Best Protein Bar For Fiber: ALOHA Protein Bar
At ALOHA, they believe that plants are the ultimate source of nourishment and that real foods should be really convenient. ALOHA creates a delicious and convenient protein bar that is entirely vegan, is high in fiber, and utilizes a unique blend of brown rice protein and protein from pumpkin seeds instead of traditional whey.
Each ALOHA protein bar contains 14 grams of protein, 10 grams of fiber, only 5 grams of sugar, and absolutely nothing artificial. The ingredient list is quite transparent and easy to read.
Every bar is vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free snacks, kosher, soy-free, dairy-free, stevia-free, and Paleo Friendly. Some of ALOHA's most popular flavors include peanut butter chocolate chip, chocolate fudge brownie, and chocolate mine.
They also have seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice. The search for a healthy, satisfying, go-to snack high in fiber is over, as ALOHA Protein Bars can fill this role.
Pros
- USDA certified organic
- A perfect snack or meal to go
- High in fiber
- Contains plant-based protein
Cons
- Not an option if you have a peanut allergy
Made for a healthy lifestyle with 100% real whole food ingredients; organic brown rice protein, organic pumpkin seed protein, and nothing artificial...
What is a protein bar?
Protein bars are typically made with various ingredients such as protein powders, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and sweeteners. The most common types of protein used in protein bars are whey protein, soy protein, and casein protein.
Some bars also include other ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, fiber, and probiotics. Protein bars can be a convenient and portable source of protein, making it easy to consume protein on the go.
They come in various flavors and can be a convenient and portable source of protein. Many people use protein bars as a meal replacement, snack, or post-workout recovery aid.
They can also be helpful for people who have trouble getting enough protein in their diet, such as vegetarians and vegans. It's essential to read the label when buying protein bars, as some can be high in sugar, calories, and other unhealthy ingredients.
Choosing bars with a high protein-to-calorie ratio and minimal added sugar is best. Protein bars can be beneficial for people looking to build muscle or lose weight, as they provide a convenient way to increase protein intake and thus help muscle protein synthesis.
However, it's important to note that protein bars should not be the sole source of protein in a diet, and it's always best to get nutrients from whole foods.
Benefits of protein bars:
Protein bars can offer a convenient way to increase your protein intake as part of a well-rounded diet, particularly for those who are always on the go and need a quick protein source.
Some of the possible benefits that a protein bar can provide are:
1. Nutritional supplementation
Protein bars can provide various nutritional benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. They can be an excellent protein source for building and repairing muscle tissue.
Some protein bars also contain dietary fibers, which are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system, and regular bowel movements and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.1 Some protein bars are fortified with vitamins and minerals, providing additional benefits.
Some bars are low in sugar which can be beneficial for people with diabetes or blood sugar concerns, while others can be low in fat which can be helpful for people trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. However, it's important to note that the nutritional benefits can vary depending on the ingredients, nutritional values, and quality of the protein bars, and it's always best to check the label and compare the nutritional information between different brands before making a purchase.
2. Can help with muscle growth
Protein bars can help with muscle growth when consumed as part of a balanced diet that includes adequate amounts of protein and regular strength training exercises. Protein is an essential nutrient for building and repairing muscle tissue, and consuming enough protein is vital for muscle growth. 2
3. Convenient
Protein bars can be a convenient option for many people as they are portable and easy to take with you on the go. They are easy to grab and eat when you're short on time or don't have access to a meal, making them an excellent option for people who are always on the move.
They also can be a convenient option for people who frequently travel, as they can provide a quick source of protein without the need for refrigeration. The same goes for people with a busy lifestyle who find it challenging to prepare meals.
Additionally, protein bars come in a wide variety of flavors, so there is something to suit everyone's taste.3
4. Can help with weight loss/gain
Protein bars can be a valuable tool for weight loss and weight gain, depending on the specific nutritional content of the bar and how it fits into your overall dietary needs. For weight loss, protein bars that are low in calories and high in protein can be a helpful option as protein can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management by preventing overeating.4
Additionally, consuming a protein bar as a snack can help control hunger between meals and prevent overeating at mealtime. However, it's essential to pay attention to the bar's calorie, sugar, and fat content, as too much of these macronutrients can lead to weight gain instead.
On the other hand, protein bars that have high calories, high protein, and high-quality carbohydrates can be beneficial for weight gain. It's important to note that weight gain requires a calorie surplus, meaning you need to consume more calories than you burn.
Eating a protein bar as a meal replacement or a post-workout snack can help to increase your calorie intake and support weight gain.
5. Digestive Health
Some protein bars may improve digestive health, depending on the bar's specific ingredients and nutritional content. For example, protein bars containing dietary fibers can help maintain a healthy digestive system and regular bowel movements and help keep you feeling full and satisfied.5
Some protein bars contain probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help improve the balance of the gut microbiome and promote a healthy gut. Some bars also contain prebiotics, non-digestible carbohydrates that feed the good bacteria in the gut and help promote a healthy gut.
What to look for when buying protein bars:
When buying protein bars, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get a high-quality product that meets your nutritional needs.
1. Ingredients
When looking at the ingredient list of protein bars, it's essential to pay attention to the types of ingredients used. Ideally, you want to choose bars with a short list of ingredients you can recognize and pronounce.
These bars are more likely to provide you with the nutrients you need and are less likely to have added sugars, sugar alcohols, preservatives, or other artificial ingredients.
2. Protein Source
The protein source used in protein bars is essential when choosing a bar. Different types of protein have other properties and benefits, so it's crucial to pick a bar that uses a protein source that is appropriate for your needs.
Look for bars that use high-quality protein sources such as whey protein, whey protein isolate, soy protein, or pea protein.
3. Dietary Restrictions
Different people have different dietary restrictions, so choosing protein bars appropriate for your specific needs is essential. We recommend reading the ingredient lists and nutrition labels carefully to ensure that the protein bars you choose suit your dietary restrictions.
For example, if you are lactose intolerant, avoid whey protein bars, and opt for plant-based protein sources such as soy or pea.
If you have any specific dietary concerns, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
4. Flavors
The flavor is essential when choosing protein bars, as it can affect how much you enjoy eating them. Protein bars come in various flavors, such as peanut butter cup to banana chocolate walnut, so there is something to suit everyone's taste.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a flavor:
- Satisfaction: Choose a flavor that you know you will enjoy. If you don't like the taste of a protein bar, you are less likely to continue eating them.
- Variety: Consider trying different flavors to find one that you like. Some brands offer a variety pack which can be an excellent way to sample different flavors.
It's important to note that while the flavor is an essential factor, it should not be the only one to consider.
5. Nutritional Macros
When choosing protein bars, it's essential to consider the macronutrient content to ensure that the bar fits your dietary needs and goals. Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking at macros:
- Protein: Look for bars with a high protein-to-calorie ratio, ideally at least 10-15 grams per bar. Protein is vital for muscle growth and repair and can help keep you full and satisfied.
- Carbohydrates: Look for bars with low carbohydrate content, ideally less than 5 grams of carbohydrates per bar. If you're trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight, choose bars with fewer than 200 calories per bar.
- Fats: Look for bars that use healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, and nut butters. Avoid bars that use hydrogenated oils or trans fats. Palm oil and coconut oil are preferable to palm kernel oil. It's also important to look at the calorie content of the bar, as high-fat bars can be high in calories.
- Fiber: Look for bars with at least 3 grams of fiber per bar. Fiber is vital for maintaining healthy digestion.
- Calories: Check the bar's calorie content and ensure it fits your needs and goals.
It's important to note that protein bars should not be the sole source of macronutrients in a diet, and it's always best to get nutrients from whole foods. It's also important to note that macronutrient needs can vary depending on age, sex, activity level, and goals.
6. Price
Price is an essential factor to consider when choosing protein bars, as they vary widely in cost. It's important to note that the cheapest option may only sometimes be the best one, and it's crucial to balance the price with the ingredients, nutritional value, and your dietary needs.
Investing in high-quality protein bars could be more beneficial in the long run. You will typically see protein bar prices in the 2-5 dollar range.
7. Reviews
Reviews can be an important source of information when choosing protein bars. Reading reviews can give you a sense of what other people have experienced with a particular brand or type of protein bar, which can help you make a decision.
However, it's important to remember that different people have different tastes, dietary needs, and preferences, so something else may work better for you. It's always best to decide based on your needs and consider other factors such as ingredients, nutritional value, and price.
Protein Bar FAQs:
Which Protein bar is best?
Overall the Vital Performance Protein Bar is the best option on the market due to its premium ingredient list, reasonable price, delicious flavors, low lactose, and inclusion of 10 grams of collagen per bar.
Are protein bars actually good for you?
It really depends on the protein bar. Some protein bars can be high in calories, added sugars, and artificial ingredients, which can be detrimental to your health if consumed in excess.
On the other hand, protein bars made with whole food ingredients and minimal processing can provide a good source of protein and other essential nutrients.
Can you eat protein bars every day?
Eating a protein bar every day as part of a balanced diet is possible, but it's essential to consider the bar's nutritional content and how it fits into your overall dietary needs. Daily protein bars can provide an easy and convenient way to meet your protein needs.
It is worth noting that protein bars should not replace whole foods in a diet, and it's always best to get nutrients from various sources. Eating a variety of protein sources, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will provide you with a balance of essential nutrients, and it's important to have a balanced diet.
What are the pros and cons of protein bars?
Protein bars can be a convenient and portable source of protein, making it easy to consume protein on the go. They are great for people who are always on the move and can be an excellent option for people who are short on time.
They come in various flavors, making it easy to find one you like. However, it is essential to be mindful of the nutritional content, as some bars may contain high levels of calories, artificial sweeteners, and other unwanted ingredients.
Additionally, most protein bars can be expensive and may not be the best value for your budget. The ingredients, nutritional value, and protein quality can also vary significantly from brand to brand.
Summary: What are the Best Protein Bar Brands?
As a recap, here are our top 9 protein bars (after testing 30 of the most accessible protein bar brands):
- Overall Best Choice: Vital Performance Protein Bar
- Best Tasting: ONE Protein Bars
- Best For Muscle Gain: No Cow Protein Bars
- Best Organic: Orgain Organic Protein Bars
- Best For Weight Loss: Zing Bars
- Most Natural: RXBAR
- Best Vegan: good! Snacks Protein Bars
- Best Low-Carb: think! Protein Bars
- Best For Fiber: ALOHA Protein Bars
All in all, incorporating protein bars into a balanced diet can be a convenient way to boost your protein intake. However, it's crucial to be mindful of the nutritional content, as some bars may contain high levels of calories, artificial sweeteners, and other unwanted ingredients.
Our top-top choice is Vital Protein Bars due to their ingredients, taste and overall value for the money. Keep in mind, you should always review the label and consider your dietary restrictions, budget, and personal preferences to find the right option for you.
Give more power to your bite! With 20g of protein (including 10g of collagen), our low-lactose Vital Performance™ Protein Bar is the convenient nutrition you need to power through, anytime of day....
Want to explore more protein supplement options? Take a look at our article that highlights the Best Protein Powders or if you're lactose intolerant that make sure to have a look at the the Best Lactose-Free Protein Powders on the market.
References:
- Barber, Thomas M., et al. “The Health Benefits of Dietary Fibre.” Nutrients, vol. 12, no. 10, 21 Oct. 2020, p. 3209, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7589116/, 10.3390/nu12103209.
- Stokes, Tanner, et al. “Recent Perspectives Regarding the Role of Dietary Protein for the Promotion of Muscle Hypertrophy with Resistance Exercise Training.” Nutrients, vol. 10, no. 2, 7 Feb. 2018, p. 180, www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/10/2/180/pdf, 10.3390/nu10020180.
- Jovanov, Pavle, et al. “High-Protein Bar as a Meal Replacement in Elite Sports Nutrition: A Pilot Study.” Foods, vol. 10, no. 11, 29 Oct. 2021, p. 2628, 10.3390/foods10112628.
- Moon, Jaecheol, and Gwanpyo Koh. “Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss.” Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome, vol. 29, no. 3, 30 Sept. 2020, pp. 166–173, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7539343/, 10.7570/jomes20028.
- Slavin, Joanne. “Fiber and Prebiotics: Mechanisms and Health Benefits.” Nutrients, vol. 5, no. 4, 22 Apr. 2013, pp. 1417–1435, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705355/, 10.3390/nu5041417.
Andrew Lenau
Author