Protein bars have become a staple in the diets of athletes, busy professionals, and health-conscious individuals alike. They offer a convenient and quick way to boost protein intake, whether as a post-workout snack, a meal replacement, or simply a way to curb hunger between meals. With countless options available on the market, navigating the protein bar aisle can be overwhelming. To simplify your search, we’ve consulted with registered dietitians to curate a list of the seven best protein bars that not only taste great but also provide a balanced nutritional profile.
What to Look for in a Protein Bar
Before diving into our top picks, it’s essential to understand what makes a protein bar a healthy and effective choice. Dietitians recommend considering the following factors:
- Protein Content: Aim for at least 12 grams of protein per bar, with active individuals potentially benefiting from closer to 20 grams.
- Ingredients List: Opt for bars with short and simple ingredient lists, prioritizing whole foods like nuts, seeds, egg whites, oats, or dates.
- Sugar Content: Be mindful of added sugars, aiming for 8 grams or less per bar. Natural sweeteners like fruit are preferable.
- Fiber Content: Look for bars with at least 3-5 grams of fiber to promote satiety and digestive health.
- Protein Source: Common sources include whey, casein, egg whites, and plant-based proteins like soy, pea, or brown rice.
- Fat Source: The fat content should ideally come from healthy sources such as nuts and seeds, rather than highly processed plant oils.
The 7 Best Protein Bars, According to Dietitians
Here are seven dietitian-approved protein bars that meet the criteria for a healthy and effective snack:
1. RXBAR
Why dietitians love it: RXBARs are known for their simplicity, featuring a short list of whole-food ingredients. They typically include egg whites for protein, dates for sweetness and energy, and nuts for healthy fats.
Nutrition information (per Vanilla Almond bar): 190 calories, 7g total fat, 1g saturated fat, 12g protein, 24g total carbohydrates, 5g fiber, 16g sugars (including 0g added sugars), 200mg sodium.
Pros:
- Simple, whole-food ingredients
- Good source of protein and fiber
- No added sugars
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those with egg allergies
- Can be chewy in texture
2. KIND Protein From Real Food Bars
Why dietitians love it: KIND Protein bars prioritize real food ingredients like nuts and seeds, providing a good source of protein and fiber. They are also relatively low in added sugar compared to other protein bars.
Nutrition information (per Crunchy Peanut Butter bar): 250 calories, 18g total fat, 4g saturated fat, 12g protein, 17g total carbohydrates, 6g fiber, 7g sugars (including 5g added sugar), 135mg sodium.
Pros:
- Made with real food ingredients
- Good source of protein and fiber
- Gluten-free and low in sodium
Cons:
- Higher in fat than some other protein bars
- May not be suitable for those with nut allergies
3. Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Bar
Why dietitians love it: Orgain bars are a great option for vegans or those with dairy sensitivities, offering a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. They are also organic and free from soy.
Nutrition information: 150 calories, 10g plant-based protein, naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
Pros:
- Organic and plant-based
- Good source of protein and fiber
- Free from soy, gluten, and dairy
Cons:
- May not be as high in protein as some other bars
- Taste and texture may not appeal to everyone
4. Barebells Protein Bar
Why dietitians love it: Barebells are praised for their delicious taste and texture, often compared to candy bars. They provide a good source of protein while remaining low in sugar and high in fiber.
Nutrition information: Around 200 calories, 16-20g protein, very low in sugar, and high in fiber.
Pros:
- Delicious taste and texture
- Good source of protein and fiber
- Low in sugar
Cons:
- May contain artificial sweeteners
- May not be suitable for those seeking whole-food ingredients
5. Aloha Organic Plant Based Protein Bars
Why dietitians love it: Aloha bars are a team favorite plant-based bar that is organic. These bars come in a mini size that is great for kids.
Nutrition information: 100-110 calories, 6 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, and 2 grams of sugar.
Pros:
- Organic and plant-based
- Good source of protein and fiber
- Great for snacks and kids
Cons:
- Taste and texture may not appeal to everyone
6. Snickers Hi Protein Bar
Why dietitians love it: Snickers Hi Protein bars provides the familiar chocolate, caramel, and peanut flavors with 20g of protein.
Nutrition information: 240 calories.
Pros:
- Familiar taste
- High in protein
Cons:
- May contain artificial sweeteners
- May not be suitable for those seeking whole-food ingredients
7. Quest Nutrition Hero Protein Bar
Why dietitians love it: Quest Nutrition Hero Protein Bar in Cookies & Cream flavor contains chocolaty goodness. It has 18g of protein and 1g of sugar.
Nutrition information: 150 calories, 18g protein, 1g sugar, 6g fiber.
Pros:
- High in protein
- Good source of fiber
- Low in sugar
Cons:
- May contain artificial sweeteners
- May not be suitable for those seeking whole-food ingredients
How to Choose the Right Protein Bar for You
Ultimately, the best protein bar is one that aligns with your individual dietary needs, preferences, and goals. Consider the following factors when making your selection:
- Dietary Restrictions: If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan), be sure to check the ingredient list carefully.
- Taste Preferences: Choose a flavor and texture that you enjoy to make it a sustainable snack option.
- Nutritional Goals: Determine your specific needs in terms of protein, carbohydrates, fat, and fiber to select a bar that supports your goals.
- Activity Level: If you are highly active, you may require a bar with a higher protein content to support muscle recovery and growth.
The Bottom Line
Protein bars can be a convenient and nutritious addition to a balanced diet. By considering the factors outlined above and choosing from our list of dietitian-approved options, you can confidently select a protein bar that supports your health and fitness goals. Remember to read nutrition labels carefully and prioritize whole-food ingredients whenever possible.
