There's a protein bar out there for every need and every taste preference. (Emily Roethle)
Protein is having its moment, and for good reason. With its role in muscle growth, bone density and hormonal health, it's no surprise that protein bars have become the ultimate grab-and-go snack for busy days.
But how do you pick the best protein bar? And how much of this powerhouse nutrient do you need? Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all recommendation. Protein needs vary based on factors like your age, gender, activity level and body composition — aka how much muscle you have. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends consuming 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. However, research suggests that most adults need far more than the recommended amount, especially if you're over the age of 65.
While dietitians and nutrition experts agree that most protein should come from a balanced, whole food-based diet, many also acknowledge the convenience of protein bars as a supplemental source. "A protein bar a day is a good way to help meet your nutrition goals, especially as a post-workout recovery routine," explains Maj. Kelly Kaim, MS, RD, LD, of the U.S. Army.
However, she cautions against relying solely on protein bars. "They should not serve as your only source of protein," she says. "It's important to consider the critical micronutrients and vitamins that you're taking in through real food protein sources, like iron, calcium, vitamin D and zinc."
Selecting the best protein bar is kind of like picking the best pair of yoga pants — yes, you'll want to do your research ahead of time and pay attention to the materials (or, in this case, ingredients), but, ultimately, you'll probably have to try a few before you find the right fit. As with any supplement, it's also a good idea to chat with a health professional to evaluate your diet, lifestyle and any specific nutritional requirements if you want to ensure your choice supports your goals.
According to Brittany Werner, MS, RDN and director of coaching at Working Against Gravity, the primary consideration when choosing a protein bar should be how much protein it delivers. "Aim for bars with at least 15 grams of protein per serving. Athletes or those who need a larger amount of protein should aim for bars with at least 20 grams."
Werner also suggests paying attention to added sugar, keeping it below 7 grams per bar, and sticking to a calorie range appropriate for your goals. "Lastly, look for ingredients you recognize," she adds. "Many bars are made with oats, nuts and dried fruits as their main ingredients." She advises avoiding overly processed additives, such as artificial sweeteners and excess fillers.
Choosing the best protein bar from the hundreds on the market can seem impossible. So how did we do it? I reached out to six sports nutrition professionals in my network to better understand exactly what to look for in a bar. Using their advice, my marathon-training friend and I then sampled 20 of the most popular protein bars to discover which ones hit the right marks in terms of taste, texture and nutrition. Continue reading for our picks of the best protein bars to buy in 2025.
A note on supplements
The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
Update, Apr. 25, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability and added a handy specs chart below. Our number one pick for the best protein bars remains unchanged.
Protein per serving: 14 grams | Protein source: Brown rice protein, pumpkin seed protein | Nutritional info: 220 calories, 26 grams carbohydrates, 10 grams fiber, 4 grams sugar | Added sugars: 3 grams
ALOHA's Chocolate Fudge Brownie earns top marks, thanks to its winning trifecta of flavor, texture and nutrition.
Unlike many chocolate protein bars that fall short, with chalky textures or artificial sweetness, this plant-based bar offers a rich, satisfying chocolate flavor without being overly sweet or leaving an unpleasant aftertaste. Its soft, chewy texture strikes the perfect balance — neither dense nor gummy — and the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate coating feels like an indulgent dessert.
Taste and texture aside, ALOHA shines with its quality formulation and robust nutrition profile. Made with organic ingredients, the bar is free from stevia, sugar alcohols, soy, dairy and gluten, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. Each bar delivers 14 grams of plant-based protein and a whopping 10 grams of fiber to support digestion and satiety.
It's no surprise this bar is a top seller on Amazon, boasting nearly 19,000 reviews, with an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star average. One reviewer raves, "Love the ALOHA bars! I have tried so many plant-based (and regular) protein bars, and these are the best." Another adds, "Excellent product!! Terrific nutritional properties… easy to carry the bars along with you! Highly recommend!! Very pleased with the price & the outstanding customer service, too!"
Looking for more variety? The bar is also available in a handful of other dessert-inspired flavors, including Vanilla Almond Crunch, Chocolate Caramel Pecan and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough — a must for any cookie dough fan.
While these bars are pricier than some competitors, the combination of quality ingredients and impressive nutrition stats make them a standout option, particularly as a post-workout snack.
Protein per serving: 20 grams | Protein source: Milk protein blend (calcium caseinate, whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate) | Nutritional info: 200 calories, 20 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams fiber, 1 gram sugar | Added sugars: 0 grams
If you want a protein bar that truly tastes like a candy bar — but without the sugar crash — our best-tasting choice, Barebells Cookies & Cream, is the one. Its soft, nougat-like center, reminiscent of creamy cookie dough, is perfectly paired with a crunchy chocolate coating. The bar delivers the classic cookies and cream experience, crispy chunks and all, making it a standout in the flavor department — call me impressed! And reviewers agree — "Best protein bar I’ve had," said one, "I have searched everywhere for a protein bar that tastes good and still has decent macros, and this has both!" raves another.
Barebells Cookies & Cream packs 20 grams of protein from a blend of whey and casein, offering a satisfying post-workout option or a filling afternoon snack. Despite its rich, dessertlike taste, the bar contains no added sugar, relying on sugar alcohols to achieve its sweetness. While a slight sugar alcohol taste is detectable, it’s far less pronounced than in other bars we tested. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, note that sugar alcohols can sometimes cause digestive issues, so it may not be the best fit for everyone. Still, for sheer flavor, this bar is hard to beat.
Protein per serving: 12 grams | Protein source: Whey protein isolate, grass-fed milk protein isolate | Nutritional info: 180 calories, 15 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams fiber, 3 grams sugar | Added sugars: 2 grams
With a unique blend of ingredients specifically chosen to support cognitive function — something we didn't see in other protein bars — Mosh's Blueberry Almond Crunch Bar stands out as the best for brain health. It features Cognizin® Citicoline, a clinically studied ingredient that may help improve focus, attention and memory. It also includes lion's mane, ashwagandha, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B12 and D — all of which may support brain and mood health.
In terms of protein, the bar offers 12 grams sourced from whey and grass-fed milk protein isolates. But it's the taste that truly won me over. I typically go for a chocolate-forward protein bar, so I was caught off guard by how much I loved the flavor of these bars. It tastes like a blueberry muffin with just the right balance of nutty and fruity. The almond pieces and dried blueberries add a crunchy texture to the otherwise soft bar, and best of all, it leaves no lingering aftertaste.
With over 2,500 Amazon reviews and an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars, these bars are a popular choice among buyers. Customers love the flavor and many report noticeable boosts in energy and focus after consumption. However, some consider the bars to be a little pricey, given their size.
That said, these bars aren't suitable for everyone. If you have nut or dairy allergies, you'll need to consider other options. Additionally, if you take regular medications, it's important to consult your health care provider, as ashwagandha can interact with certain prescriptions.
Protein per serving: 15 grams | Protein source: Whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate | Nutritional info: 150 calories, 16 grams carbohydrates, 5 grams fiber, 5 grams sugar | Added sugars: 4 grams
Promix's Chocolate Chip Protein Puff Bar is our best crunchy pick, thanks to its unique take on texture and flavor, delivering the nostalgic feel of a Rice Krispie treat with a protein-packed twist. Though the bar doesn't actually contain rice, its whey-based protein puffs replicate the light, crispy texture perfectly — a welcome alternative to dense, chewy protein bars. While some reviewers found the texture slightly dry, I thought it struck a sticky-yet-crispy balance that added to its appeal.
The chocolate chip flavor has a pleasant, creamy milk chocolate taste reminiscent of cereal-soaked milk. And while it does have a slight protein powder aftertaste, it's far less noticeable than in many other protein bars.
Don't let their smaller size deceive you. These square-shaped bars still pack 15 grams of filling, whey-based protein and just 4 grams of added sugar.
Promix also stands out for its commitment to quality, with all ingredients and products tested by independent labs and 94% of its ingredients sourced from North America.
Protein per serving: 10 grams | Protein source: Pea protein | Nutritional info: 190 calories, 24 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams fiber, 9 grams sugar, 80 milligrams caffeine | Added sugars: 9 grams
What if your protein bar doubled as your morning coffee? That's exactly what you get with Verb's Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Caffeinated Protein Bar — a multitasking marvel that fuels your muscles while keeping you energized. Each bar contains 80 milligrams of caffeine, slightly less than the 95 milligrams found in a standard cup of coffee. The caffeine is sourced from organic green tea, providing a smooth energy boost without the jitters.
The bar doesn't stop at caffeine — it also delivers 10 grams of pea protein in a vegan-friendly, candy-bar-like package. With crunchy peanut chunks and a firm, satisfying texture, it provides the satisfying combo of peanut butter and chocolate — with zero aftertaste. Plus, its straightforward ingredient list stands out in a crowded field of highly processed options.
These bars are also a great option if you need to avoid gluten. "Great taste and Gluten Free!" enthuses a 5-star Amazon reviewer, adding, "These even taste better than some of the regular energy bars I've had that do contain gluten. If you're stuck eating gluten-free, then you definitely need to give these a shot, you won’t be sorry!"
Admittedly, it's not the lowest-sugar choice, with 9 grams of added sugar, but for the flavor, function and energy boost it delivers, Verb’s caffeinated bar is a winner.
Protein per serving: 14 grams | Protein source: Rice protein, pea protein | Nutritional info: 180 calories, 11 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams fiber, 1 gram sugar | Added sugars: 0 grams
Looking to boost your fiber intake? Huel's Chocolate Fudge Brownie Protein Bars should be at the top of your list. These 100% plant-based vegan bars deliver a rich, dessertlike taste, while boasting an impressive nutrient profile. With 14 grams of protein from rice and pea sources and 7 grams of fiber per bar, they can help keep you satisfied for longer while also supporting gut health.
Amazon reviewers love the taste, too, with one saying, "The 'Chocolate Fudge Brownie' is delicious!!! Hands down incredible. It tastes like eating a brownie. I also tried popping one in the refrigerator, and when cold, they taste like a dessert bar." However, some find the price a bit steep. The same reviewer noted, "I'm removing 1 star from my review because the price is crazy compared to competitive products."
Despite their decadent flavor, these bars contain zero added sugar. Their sweetness is derived from sugar alcohols, which may be a downside for those with sensitive digestive systems. However, for those who can tolerate them, the bars offer a dessert-worthy experience that’s hard to beat.
In addition to their high protein and fiber content, Huel's bars provide a bonus boost with 27 added vitamins and minerals. Key nutrients like vitamin B12 help fight fatigue, while iron supports energy production — making these bars especially beneficial for vegans, who may struggle to get enough of these nutrients through diet alone.
For another fiber-rich option, try the Dark Chocolate & Raspberry flavor, which offers the same nutritional benefits with a fruity twist.
Protein per serving: 8 grams | Protein source: Pea protein | Nutritional info: 230 calories, 30 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fiber, 15 grams sugar | Added sugars: 0 grams
Send's Lemon Cherry Bars easily snag the best whole foods-based option, by virtue of a refreshingly short ingredient list. Every ingredient is recognizable — no head-scratching or Google searches required — including natural sweeteners like dates and cherries. And, while it features unexpected ingredients like spinach, you don't taste the leafy green. Send Bars also include nutrient powerhouses like hemp hearts and chia seeds, as well as third-party tested adaptogens, including cordyceps and reishi, which may help support immune health and physical performance, although more research is needed.
As Lindsay Malone, RD and nutrition instructor at Case Western University, explains, "I recommend bars made with whole foods. Research shows that whole foods — think single-ingredient items at the grocery store — are better for health. I find that whole food-based bars are often tolerated better, with fewer digestive side effects." True to this insight, our tester reported no digestive issues and felt satisfied for hours after enjoying the bar.
While the flavor is more subtle than the others we tested, the bright, tart zing of lemon adds a refreshing twist. As one Amazon reviewer puts it, "These bars are the perfect blend of zingy lemon and tart cherry, packed with real, wholesome ingredients. They're delicious, energizing, and ideal for a quick, healthy snack on the go!"
However, not all flavors are created equal — our tester tried the Peanut Cacao Crunch variety and found the spinach flavor more noticeable, which they didn't recommend.
Protein per serving: 10 grams | Protein source: Whey protein crisps | Nutritional info: 180 calories, 27 grams carbohydrates, 10 grams fiber, 2 grams sugar | Added sugars: 0
Could this be your gut's new best friend? Our top pick for gut health —Supergut's Healthy Prebiotic Bar — is a snack that's both filling and functional. Its secret weapon? Resistant starch. Sourced from green bananas, oats and potatoes, resistant starch is a prebiotic fiber that's (you guessed it) resistant to digestion and has been linked with numerous benefits for gut health, blood sugar management and chronic disease prevention.
While green bananas and potatoes might sound like unusual ingredients for a protein bar, they blend in seamlessly, leaving no trace of flavor. Instead, you're treated to a strawberry-forward taste with a hint of nuttiness, complemented by the satisfying crunch of whey protein crisps.
Fans agree, with one Amazon reviewer raving, "These bars are not only a tasty treat but also a fantastic meal replacement option that fits perfectly into my busy lifestyle. One of the standout features is their high fiber and protein content, which keeps me feeling full and satisfied throughout the day."
The bar contains no added sugar, though it does rely on maltitol, a sugar alcohol, for its yogurt coating's sweetness. This may cause temporary stomach discomfort for those with sensitive digestive systems (as it did for me), but for others, it could be just the thing your taste buds — and gut —have been looking for.
Protein per serving: 20 grams | Protein source: Milk protein, whey protein, casein, soy protein | Nutritional info: 200 calories, 16 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams fiber, 2 grams sugar | Added sugars: 1 gram
For building muscle, Pure Protein's Lemon Cake Protein Bar is a top contender, delivering 20 grams of protein per bar — the highest among the options we tested. Protein is essential for muscle growth, helping with tissue repair and synthesis after exercise. Research suggests that consuming 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily is ideal for adults engaged in resistance training. With its impressive protein content and minimal added sugar, this bar offers a convenient and tasty way to hit your goals.
Pure Protein's Lemon Cake Bar is one of the more traditional protein bars on our list, delivering a chewy consistency and dessertlike lemon taste, with a slight chalky undertone. That said, most people appreciate the flavor. "Tastes like a treat instead of a protein bar!" said one 5-star Amazon reviewer.
If lemon isn't your flavor of choice, reviewers also recommend the Chocolate Peanut Butter and Chewy Chocolate Chip varieties, which offer the same muscle-building benefits. Just keep in mind that, depending on the person, whey protein can cause minor digestive issues such as gas or bloating.
Protein per serving: 14 grams | Protein source: Whey protein, peanuts | Nutritional info: 260 calories, 21 grams carbohydrates, 2 grams fiber, 16 sugar | Added sugars: 3 grams
Our best-for-recovery winner — Honey Stinger's Peanut Sunflower Seed Nut + Seed Bar — is your new MVP. With a spot-on 2:1 ratio of carbs to protein, it delivers exactly what your body needs to refuel and rebuild after a workout — all from minimally processed, wholesome ingredients.
The flavor of the Nut + Seed Bar was a hit with our tester, who loved its savory and nutty profile, complemented by just the right amount of sweetness. Featuring a gooey nut butter core, caramel coating and a crunchy outer layer of peanuts and sunflower seeds, the bar feels indulgent while staying functional. That said, it can get a little messy, so it's not the most convenient option for on-the-go snacking — unless you don't mind cleaning up a few stray sunflower seeds!
One Amazon reviewer writes, "The Nut + Seed bars are a great addition to Honey Stinger's array of products! The bars are tasty, satisfying, and great to eat after a workout (easy on the stomach) or as a mid-afternoon snack. All the ingredients are things I've heard of, which is appealing in a high-protein bar like this. The flavor was good, not too sweet. My only small complaint is that the sunflower seeds are a little messy. Will definitely buy again!"
Protein bars aren't one-size-fits-all — the best option depends on your dietary needs, fitness goals and taste preferences. Here's a breakdown of the most common types you'll find at the grocery store, gym or online:
High-protein bars: These pack over 15 grams of protein per serving, making them ideal for keeping you full and supporting muscle growth and recovery.
Low-carb bars: Designed for those watching their carbohydrate intake, these bars have fewer carbs relative to their overall calories and protein content.
Vegan or plant-based bars: Perfect for avoiding animal products, these bars contain plant-based ingredients, including protein sources like soy, pea, hemp or rice. Some products are certified vegan, meaning that they're also cruelty-free.
Meal replacement bars: With higher calories and protein content, these bars are designed to be a balanced meal substitute, offering a good mix of carbs, protein and fats, to keep you satiated.
Keto-friendly bars: Tailored for keto diets, these bars are low in carbs and typically high in healthy fats from oils, butter or nut butter. They're also often free of added sugars.
Natural or whole food bars: These bars skip heavily processed ingredients, relying on whole food-based ingredients, like fruits, nuts and seeds, for a less heavily processed snack.
Whey protein bars: Made with protein sourced from dairy, whey bars are an excellent choice for those without dairy sensitivities or allergies who want fast-digesting protein.
Fiber-rich bars: These bars contain at least 5 grams of fiber per serving, to support digestive health.
Not every protein bar is worth the calories — or the price tag. To ensure you're getting the most out of your snack, it's essential to focus on what matters: protein source, nutrition and taste. Here's how to make a more informed purchase:
The type of protein in your bar matters, as it affects digestibility, nutritional value and suitability for dietary restrictions. Common sources include:
Whey protein: A dairy-derived, complete protein that provides all nine essential amino acids. However, those with dairy sensitivities should steer clear.
Plant proteins: Found in vegan and vegetarian bars, protein sourced from pea, rice, soy and hemp are good alternatives. Some plant-based proteins, like soy and pea, are complete, while others need to be combined to provide all nine essential amino acids.
Make sure the bar offers enough protein to meet your needs. Dietitian Aimee Dyess, MS, RDN, CDCES and supervisor of coaching services at Teladoc Health, recommends looking for at least 10 grams of protein per 100 calories, noting, "Protein helps build and keep muscle and helps you feel full."
Protein bars can function as a snack or meal replacement, the biggest difference is the nutrition content. Meal replacement bars are higher in calories and should contain a healthy balance of carbs, protein and fat. If you want to build muscle, opt for a bar with a higher protein content.
"Not all protein bars are created equally. The protein bars I recommend the most contain minimal added sugar, artificial sweeteners, saturated fat and unnecessary additives or preservatives," shared Lisa Moskovitz, RD, founder of NY Nutrition Group. In general, bars with shorter ingredient lists tend to contain fewer artificial additives.
As Kaim points out, "The taste has to be something that someone actually enjoys eating, as food should be enjoyable." From light and crunchy to dense and chewy, pick a bar that suits your palate, for a more enjoyable experience.
The ideal calorie content of a protein bar depends on how you plan to use it. If you're looking for a quick snack, aim for bars with 150-250 calories, to provide enough energy without overloading your daily intake. For meal replacements, opt for bars with 250-450 calories and ensure they have a balanced mix of nutrients to keep you satisfied.
Keep in mind that some people need more calories than others, and the numbers above might not be what works best for you.
Added sugars
When looking at sugar content, you'll want to pay close attention to the amount of added sugar. While a little sweetness is perfectly fine, excessive added sugar intake can cause your blood sugar levels to spike and then crash, leaving you groggy and grumpy. To avoid this, choose bars with no more than 10 grams — and ideally less than 5 grams — of added sugar per serving.
"Choose a bar with at least 3 to 5 grams of fiber," advises Dyess. "Dietary fiber may help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It also helps with digestion and keeps you feeling fuller longer."
Always read ingredient lists carefully if you have allergies or dietary preferences. Look for potential allergens like milk, wheat, peanuts and sesame. If you're vegan or vegetarian, look for bars with plant-based proteins and avoid bars with added collagen.
Protein bars vary in price, so assess the value based on ingredient quality, protein content and your budget. A higher price tag doesn't always mean better quality, so choose wisely.
Our review process involved plenty of post-workout snacking and rigorous testing! To start, I consulted my network of sports nutrition professionals and athletic colleagues to gather expert advice on what to prioritize in a protein bar. Taste, naturally, was a significant factor they emphasized.
Over a few weeks, my marathon-training friend and I sampled nearly 20 protein bars, evaluating each for flavor, aftertaste, texture, nutritional value, protein source, digestion and price-to-value ratio. We also considered various flavor options and sifted through customer reviews to round out our insights.
The result? A comprehensive guide to the best protein bars that balance taste, nutrition and value.
Getting enough protein is important if you're trying to lose weight. As Werner notes, "Adding protein to your diet is a great way to curb hunger, reduce overall daily calories and support the growth of lean mass." While they shouldn't be the primary source of protein in your diet, protein bars offer a convenient and portion-controlled way to boost your protein intake — just make sure to choose an option that fits within your daily calorie goal.
"Protein bars in the 200-250 calorie range can be a snack between meals that helps prevent you from getting overly hungry and overeating later," explains Heidi McIndoo, MS, RD, LDN. These lower-calorie options can also serve as a nutrient-rich alternative to candy bars, especially during a mid-afternoon energy slump.
Protein bars can be a convenient way to help meet increased protein needs when you're trying to build muscle.
As Werner explains, "Protein is essential for muscle growth, as it is the main player in protein synthesis. Protein synthesis is a metabolic process of building muscle mass. In other words, if you want your body to build muscle, your protein synthesis has to exceed protein breakdown, which occurs during exercise."
To maximize muscle growth, it's best to distribute protein intake throughout the day, focusing on timing. "We recommend eating protein as soon as you can after a workout," Werner adds. "Although resistance exercise increases muscle building, it can contribute to even greater gains in muscle mass when paired with adequate amounts of protein consumption."
Can protein bars replace a meal?
While protein bars can occasionally stand in for a meal, dietitians caution against making it a habit.
"Once in a while, having a nutrient-dense bar instead of a meal isn't necessarily unhealthy, but I wouldn't recommend doing so on a regular basis. No matter how healthy a protein bar is, choosing one over a balanced meal consistently would result in missing out on fruits, vegetables, whole grain sources and the array of nutrients these foods offer," shares McIndoo.
In short, protein bars are a convenient option in a pinch, but they're no substitute for the variety and nutritional benefits of a well-rounded meal.
Protein bars are designed to supplement your diet, not replace whole foods. Experts recommend limiting your intake to one or two bars per day to avoid potential digestive discomfort and to ensure you get a variety of nutrients from minimally processed high-protein foods.
"Energy bars are typically higher in carbs and calories, designed to offer a quick fuel source," explains Moskovitz. "Protein bars tend to be much lower in carbs and sugar and higher protein, making them better for recovery, blood sugar stability and muscle growth and preservation."
While these protein bars didn't make our top picks, they still offer features that may appeal to specific needs or preferences. Here's a rundown of the bars we tested and why they fell short:
FULFIL Chocolate Salted Caramel Protein Bar: A softer, healthier version of a 100 Grand candy bar, but it includes more processed ingredients than other protein bar options.
David Cake Batter Protein Bar: Packed with 28 grams of protein and no added sugar, this bar kept me full, but the waxy texture was off-putting.
CLIF Builders: Great for endurance workouts with higher calories, carbs and sugar (17 grams), yet a low glycemic index makes it a reliable energy source.
MET-Rx Big 100 Salted Caramel Brownie Crunch: At nearly 400 calories and 30 grams of protein, this meal-replacement bar delivers on size and flavor but includes 18 grams of added sugar.
Mezcla Peanut Butter Chocolate: This plant-based bar has a satisfying crunch but a blander flavor than other options.
Kate's Real Food Peanut Butter Cup Protein Bars: Made with just 10 ingredients, this bar prioritizes simplicity but falls flat on flavor.
Dave's Killer Bread Amped-Up Blueberry Almond Butter Bar: With a balanced nutty and fruity taste, this compact bar kept me full and is sustainably sourced — a solid choice for eco-conscious snackers.
Laird Superfood Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Protein Bar: Made with real food ingredients and an adaptogen blend, but the taste was flat, and the bar had a slightly chalky texture.
Bob's Red Mill Peanut Butter Chocolate & Oats: A delicious balance of oats and peanut butter, though the protein content is lower, at just 5 grams per bar.
Think Minis: These 100-calorie snack bars come in dessert-inspired flavors like Cupcake Batter but are bland and chalky, with a sugar alcohol aftertaste.
Simply Protein Crispy Dark Chocolate Almond: A vegan, soy-based protein bar with a crunchy texture and chocolate-forward flavor. However, digestive discomfort was a recurring issue for me and other reviewers.
Orgain Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk: This plant-based bar delivers 10 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, with a nutty flavor that's satisfying but not outstanding.
Protein per serving | Protein source | Nutritional info | Added sugars | |
Aloha Chocolate Fudge Brownie | 14 grams | Brown rice protein, pumpkin seed protein | 220 calories, 26 grams carbohydrates, 10 grams fiber, 4 grams sugar | 3 grams |
Barebells Cookies & Cream | 20 grams | Milk protein blend (calcium caseinate, whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate) | 200 calories, 20 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams fiber, 1 gram sugar | 0 grams |
Mosh Blueberry Almond Crunch | 12 grams | Whey protein isolate, grass-fed milk protein isolate | 180 calories, 15 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams fiber, 3 grams sugar | 2 grams |
Promix Chocolate Chip Protein Puff Bar | 15 grams | Whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate | 150 calories, 16 grams carbohydrates, 5 grams fiber, 5 grams sugar | 4 grams |
Verb Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Caffeinated Protein Bar | 10 grams | Pea protein | 190 calories, 24 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams fiber, 9 grams sugar, 80 milligrams caffeine | 9 grams |
Huel Chocolate Fudge Brownie Complete Nutrition Bar | 14 grams | Rice protein, pea protein | 180 calories, 11 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams fiber, 1 gram sugar | 0 grams |
Send Lemon Cherry Bar | 8 grams | Pea protein | 230 calories, 30 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fiber, 15 grams sugar | 0 grams |
Super Gut Healthy Prebiotic Bar | 10 grams | Whey protein crisps | 180 calories, 27 grams carbohydrates, 10 grams fiber, 2 grams sugar | 0 grams |
Pure Protein Lemon Cake Protein Bar | 20 grams | Milk protein, whey protein, casein, soy protein | 200 calories, 16 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams fiber, 2 grams sugar | 1 grams |
Honey Stinger Peanut Sunflower Seed Nut + Seed Bar | 14 grams | Whey protein, peanuts | 260 calories, 21 grams carbohydrates, 2 grams fiber, 16 sugar | 3 grams |
Aimee Dyess, MS, RDN, CDCES at Teladoc Health
Maj. Kelly Kaim, MS, RD, LD at U.S. Army
Lindsay Malone, RD and instructor of nutrition at Case Western University
Heidi McIndoo, MS, RD, LDN
Lisa Moskovitz, RD, founder of NY Nutrition Group
Brittany Werner, RDN and director of coaching at Working Against Gravity
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.