The 9 Best Protein Bars, According to our Dietitians

The 9 Best Protein Bars, According to Our Dietitians
Published September 12, 2024 | 7-minute read

High-Protein Trend of 2024: Protein Bars at the Center

High-protein foods are taking 2024 by storm, with an increase in protein consumption trends. From protein shakes to cottage cheese, protein is everywhere. Among these, protein bars have become a go-to snack for convenience and nutrition, with sales reaching over $5 billion in 2023. With so many options available, it can be hard to pick the right one. Here, we dive into the nine best protein bars, with expert insights from registered dietitian Daisy Mercer on what makes these bars stand out.

Nutritional Criteria for the Best Protein Bars

Mercer emphasizes two key points when choosing protein bars: protein content and added sugars. Ideally, a bar should contain at least 10 grams of protein. As for sugars, Mercer advises keeping added sugar consumption below 10% of your total daily calories.

Tracking your protein and sugar intake is easy with MyFitnessPal’s food-logging capabilities.

Top Picks for Protein Bars

1. Whey Protein Bars: Built Bars & Think! Bars

For those looking for high-protein options with minimal sugar, Built Bars and Think! Bars are excellent choices. These bars offer 17–20g of protein per serving, making them ideal for a post-workout boost or midday snack.

• Built Bar Nutrition (varies by flavor)

  • Calories: ~130-180
  • Protein: 17-20g
  • Carbs: 18-22g
  • Fat: 2-4g
  • Sugar: 3-5g
  • Fiber: 0-5g

• Think! Bar Nutrition (varies by flavor)

  • Calories: ~150-230
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbs: 18-23g
  • Fat: 4-9g
  • Sugar: 0-3g
  • Fiber: 2-5g

2. Low-Carb Keto Protein Bar: Collagen Protein Bars

Perfect for those on a ketogenic or low-carb diet, these bars provide 11g of protein with minimal sugar. Made with clean ingredients, they are ideal for maintaining a low-carb lifestyle.

• Nutrition per Bar
  • Calories: ~230
  • Protein: 11g
  • Carbs: 12g (net carbs: 4g)
  • Fat: 18g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Fiber: 2g

3. Gluten-Free Protein Bar: Perfect Bar Peanut Butter

Primarily made from whole foods, this bar offers 17g of protein and is rich in healthy unsaturated fats.

• Nutrition per Bar
  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 17g
  • Carbs: 27g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Sugar: 19g
  • Fiber: 3g

4. Dairy-Free Protein Bar: RX Bar – Nut Butter and Oat (Blueberry Cashew Butter Flavor)

With 10g of protein and a clean ingredient list, this dairy-free option is nutritious and flavorful.

• Nutrition per Bar
  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbs: 29g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Fiber: 5g

5. Soy-Free Protein Bar: RX Protein Bar (Chocolate Sea Salt Flavor)

This soy-free bar offers 12g of protein and is made from five simple ingredients.

• Nutrition per Bar
  • Calories: 200
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbs: 23g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Fiber: 5g

6. High-Fiber Protein Bar: Aloha Protein Bars (Peanut Butter Cup Flavor)

For a fiber-rich option, these bars deliver 10g of fiber alongside 14g of protein.

• Nutrition per Bar
  • Calories: 230
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbs: 26g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Fiber: 10g

7. Plant-Based Protein Bar: IQ Bar (Peanut Butter Chip Flavor)

A great choice for plant-based eaters, this bar contains 12g of protein and only 160 calories.

• Nutrition per Bar
  • Calories: 160
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbs: 12g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Fiber: 9g

Frequently Asked Questions

Are protein bars a good option for meal replacement?
Protein bars can be convenient but lack the broad range of nutrients found in balanced meals.

Can protein bars help with weight loss?
Yes, when chosen wisely. Opt for bars low in added sugars and watch your overall calorie intake.

When should I eat protein bars?
Great for after workouts, as a mid-afternoon snack, or a quick breakfast.