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The 10 Best Protein Bars, Tested and Reviewed

Our favorite tasting protein bars are also packed with whole food ingredients

Aloha Protein Bar

Verywell Fit / Joy Kim

Protein bars can be a nutritious and convenient snack option between meals or as a post-workout boost to support muscle repair. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. However, protein needs are highly individualized and dependent on many factors, including physical activity and overall health, with some athletes needing higher amounts of protein, from 1.2 to 2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight.

Allison Koch, MS, RD, CCSD, LDN, says, "A protein bar is a great on-the-go option for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack when there isn't time to get in a full meal. Athletes may find them particularly helpful after a hard workout or long run when the appetite may be suppressed, and fuel is needed to jumpstart muscle recovery." Try protein bars that incorporate both protein and carbohydrates to optimally refuel post-workout.

Depending on your dietary preferences and nutritional needs, there are many varieties of protein bars available. Some feature added protein concentrates, like whey and pea protein isolate, which typically provide higher amounts of protein per serving. Others are made from natural protein sources such as nuts, seeds, and egg whites. Generally, we recommend choosing bars made with simple, whole-food ingredients with limited added sugars and artificial sweeteners.

To select our top protein bars, we researched and tested over 20 top-rated options, evaluating them for taste, texture, smell, aftertaste, and value. We also considered the ingredient list, overall nutrition content, and protein content. We combined those results with nutritional profile reviews and value scores to select our top picks.

Editor's Note

Our team of registered dietitians reviews and evaluates every single supplement we recommend according to our dietary supplement methodology. From there, a registered dietitian on our Expert Review Board reviews each article for scientific accuracy.

Pros
  • Only three ingredients

  • No artificial flavors or preservatives

  • Easy to chew

  • No chalky aftertaste

Cons
  • Includes 13 grams of added sugar

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (60 grams) | Protein: 20 grams Carbohydrate: 21 grams | Fiber per Serving: 4 grams | Fat: 16 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 13 grams | Calories per Serving: 280

Why We Recommend It

Rise Almond Honey bars are at the top of our list with simple, whole-food ingredients and 20 grams of protein. Each bar contains only almonds, honey, and whey protein isolate, making this one of the shortest ingredient list bars on the market. Rise bars have the perfect texture—soft with just enough chewiness. They have a light but pleasant aftertaste and can even satisfy a sweet tooth. If you're an athlete looking for a quick pre-or post-workout snack, the Rise bar is an easy, nutritionally balanced option.

We tested the almond honey flavor and found the bar was easy to eat, with a mostly neutral taste, a light aftertaste, and mild sweetness. The texture is smooth on the outside, soft and dense on the inside, and has a slight stickiness.

Things to Consider

  • These bars are higher in sugar, with 13 grams per bar, and also higher in fat compared to some other bars. Because of the higher fat content, this bar can help keep you fuller for longer.
  • If almonds and honey aren't your favorites, they also come in different flavors, such as Lemon Cashew and Sunflower Cinnamon, and plant-based bars.
Pros
  • Conveniently found in most stores

  • Crunchy, wafer texture with no aftertaste

  • Comes in a variety of delicious flavors

  • Half the price of most other protein bars

Cons
  • Contains artificial sweetener, which may not be suitable for all

  • Low in fiber

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (40 grams) | Protein: 14 grams Carbohydrate: 11 grams | Fiber per Serving: <1 grams | Fat: 13 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 5 grams | Calories per Serving: 220

Why We Recommend It

Protein bars can get expensive, but the whey-based Power Crunch bars are affordable and available almost everywhere. From drug stores to gas stations, these bars are fabulous for those moments when you need a snack and are stuck with limited options. They have a delicious wafer-like texture, although they do contain sucralose, an artificial sweetener that may not be ideal for everyone. One of our testers noted, "They are the best-tasting protein bars I've had so far, with a perfect, crunchy texture."

Try this bar if you want a sweet, satiating snack with only 5 grams of added sugar. One French Vanilla Creme bar packs 14 grams of protein from a whey blend, 220 calories, and 11 grams of carbohydrates.

Things to Consider

  • These bars contain the artificial sweetener Sucralose and sugar substitute Stevia, which some people may wish to avoid.
  • It is available in other flavors, including Chocolate Mint, Peanut Butter Fudge, and Salted Caramel.
Pros
  • Plant-based

  • Non-GMO, organic, gluten-free

  • Certified Clean

  • Variety of interesting flavors

Cons
  • Higher in added sugar

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (60 grams) | Protein: 10 grams Carbohydrate: 35 grams | Fiber per Serving: 4 grams | Fat: 11 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 14 grams | Calories per Serving: 270

Why We Recommend It

For a vegan protein bar that is satisfying and delicious, the Go Macro bar is a top pick. Each plant-based bar contains sustaining protein to power your workout or snack.

The easily digestible protein comes from nutrient-dense whole food ingredients such as sprouted brown rice and peas, making this non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free bar an excellent choice. With 270 calories, this bar provides 10 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 11 grams of fat, making it a good choice for a post-workout snack.

According to our testers, these bars are soft, smooth, and chewy, with a mild, sweet flavor. They are also Certified Clean (conscious, live, ethical, active, nourishing) and organic, as well as FODMAP friendly. Plus, Go Macro bars don't require refrigeration, so you can stash them in your bag for a healthy snack anytime and anywhere.

Things to Consider

  • Keep in mind that these bars contain 14 grams of added sugar per serving and may not be ideal for people following low-sugar or low-carbohydrate diets.
  • Due to the lower protein content, this may be better suited as a general snack than a post-workout snack.
Pros
  • Non-GMO, free of gluten, soy, and egg

  • Good source of fiber

  • Diverse, interesting flavors

  • Plant-based

Cons
  • Not as high in protein as others

  • Refrigeration requirement may be inconvenient

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (51 grams) | Protein: 7 grams Carbohydrate: 16 grams | Fiber per Serving: 4 grams | Fat: 16 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 8 grams | Calories per Serving: 230

Why We Recommend It

Bars that are free of many of the common allergens but not filled with excess junk are hard to come by; enter Elemental Superfoods. These bars were created out of the founder’s need for on-the-go snacks that would fit her daughter’s dietary restrictions.

Free of soy, egg, gluten, and dairy, these bars are great for anyone following an anti-inflammatory or allergen-free diet or merely looking for snacks that support a whole food, plant-based style of eating. The non-GMO Project Verified raw ingredients are easy for the body to digest and absorb.

The inventive flavors—including Dark Chocolate + Peanut Butter, Currant Cacao + Hemp Seed, and Mulberry Cacao + Spirulina—will keep your taste buds excited and body fueled with energy-boosting protein and nutrient-rich superfoods. With 230 calories, 8 grams of sugar, and 7 grams of protein, the Dark Chocolate + Peanut Butter bar is an indulgent and incredibly nutritious snack.

Things to Consider

  • These bars require refrigeration and may not be the best option for traveling or on the go.
  • While these bars are free of soy, egg, gluten, and dairy, they do contain nuts and should be avoided by people with a nut allergy.

Pros
  • Free of gluten, soy, wheat, and dairy

  • Contains fruits

  • Can be used as a meal or snack

  • Good source of fiber

Cons
  • Higher in calories and sugar than some of our other picks

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (71 grams) | Protein: 20 grams Carbohydrate: 31 grams | Fiber per Serving: 9 grams | Fat: 12 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 16 grams total (no specification on added sugar) | Calories per Serving: 315

Why We Recommend It

Looking for a bar with raw ingredients? Papa Steve’s No Junk Raw Protein Bars can be consumed as an on-the-go mini-meal or as a satisfying post-workout snack. Depending on the flavor, these bars contain anywhere from 12 to 20 grams of protein from raw whey or vegan protein sources, over 50% of the recommended daily intake for fiber, and less than 10 grams of sugar. In fact, the sugar in each bar comes from natural sources—raw dates and fruit—as opposed to refined sugar.

Each bar is made in Southern California from non-GMO, wheat-free, and soy-free, locally sourced ingredients. We found the overall flavor of these bars to be mild, and while the texture of the bar is slightly crumbly, our testers reported it to be moist and chewy instead of dry. They last for 45 days at room temperature, two to three months in the refrigerator, or up to six months in the freezer.

Papa Steve’s offers a variety of products to satisfy a wide array of consumers, including those who eat a vegan diet, follow a paleo lifestyle, or are highly active.

Things to Consider

  • Take note, the sugar in this bar is on the high side and may not be a good choice for people following a low-sugar diet or watching their overall daily sugar intake.
  • Although it is wheat-free and soy-free, it is made in a plant that processes many common allergens (nuts, wheat, soy, milk, and egg products) and, therefore, may not be a good choice for people with certain allergies.
Pros
  • Certified vegan

  • Non-GMO, organic and kosher

  • Lower in added sugar

  • 10 grams of fiber per bar

Cons
  • Dense, chewy texture may not be suitable for all

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (56 grams) | Protein: 14 grams Carbohydrate: 25 grams | Fiber per Serving: 10 grams | Fat: 9 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 2 grams | Calories per Serving: 230

Why We Recommend It

Many bars are lacking in dietary fiber, which helps to keep you satisfied and can help lower your risk for various chronic conditions, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Aloha’s Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars are almost as high in filling fiber as they are high in protein. For example, the Chocolate Mint bar contains 14 grams of protein and 12 grams of fiber, or nearly 50% of the recommended daily intake of fiber.

The high fiber content comes from tapioca fiber, which is an indigestible starch extracted from the roots of the cassava plant. Tapioca fiber is a soluble fiber that can help slow blood sugar spikes from a high carbohydrate intake as well as regulate the absorption of dietary fat and cholesterol.

These bars are made from whole food ingredients, including brown rice and pumpkin seed protein, with no artificial ingredients, stevia, or sugar alcohol. While taste is subjective, some testers found the bar slightly chalky, while others appreciated its dense and chewy texture. There are many flavors to suit various preferences, including Caramel Sea Salt, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Vanilla Almond Crunch, and Chocolate Mint, in addition to more common flavors such as chocolate and vanilla.

Things to Consider

  • The ruling on taste is conflicting with these bars. They are dense, and while some people say it's their favorite tasting bar, others feel there's a slight aftertaste.
  • These bars contain monkfruit, which some people may find unappealing in taste.
ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars displayed with backpack and water bottle

Verywell Fit / Joy Kim

Pros
  • Whole food ingredients

  • Good source of fiber

  • Gluten-free and kosher

  • Conveniently found in most stores

Cons
  • Dense, chewy texture may not be suitable for all

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (52 grams) | Protein: 12 grams Carbohydrate: 23 grams | Fiber per Serving: 5 grams | Fat: 9 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 0 grams | Calories per Serving: 210

Why We Recommend It

If you're looking for a protein bar with simple ingredients and no added sugar, RX Bars are a go-to. Not only do they contain wholesome ingredients, such as egg whites, nuts, and dates, but they are also easily found in many stores.

These bars are ideal for people sensitive to sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners. Although they contain slightly less protein compared to other bars, they still provide 12 grams. The texture is chewy and dense; some of our testers didn't mind it, while others found it a bit sticky. The flavors are well-balanced and not overwhelming. RX Bars come in a variety of flavors, such as Chocolate Raspberry, Vanilla Almond, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Mixed Berry, and more.

Things to Consider

  • The chewy, dense texture is not loved by all, but keeping these at room temperature helps keep them soft and easier to chew.
  • These bars contain nuts and eggs and would not be appropriate for people with these allergies.
Pros
  • Taste like a candy bar

  • Soft texture

  • No added sugar

Cons
  • Contains artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohol, which may not be suitable for all

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (55 grams) | Protein: 20 grams Carbohydrate: 18 grams | Fiber per Serving: 3 grams | Fat: 8 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 0 grams | Calories per Serving: 200

Why We Recommend It

If you're looking for a protein bar that satisfies your sweet tooth, the Barebell Salty Peanut bar is for you. The consensus is that these bars taste similar to Snickers, and people can't get enough of that candy bar consistency and flavor.

Keep in mind that this bar does contain artificial flavors, the artificial sweetener, sucralose, and maltitol, a sugar alcohol that you may want to consider consuming in moderation. The 5 grams of sugar alcohols classify this bar as a "no added sugar" option, and for 200 calories, they also include 20 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber.

These bars are available in multiple flavors, including Caramel Cashew, Creamy Crisp, Cookies and Cream, as well as a certified vegan option, Hazelnut & Nougat.

Things to Consider

  • This bar contains artificial flavors and sweeteners, which some people may want to avoid. It also contains the sugar alcohol maltitol, which may cause digestive discomfort in some people.
  • This bar contains peanuts, milk, and soybeans and should be avoided by people with these allergies. They may also contain wheat, gluten, and tree nuts.
Pros
  • Free of gluten, dairy, and soy

  • Vegan, keto, and paleo-friendly

  • Soft texture with a nutty flavor

  • High in fiber

Cons
  • Contains lion's mane, which may not be suitable for all

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (45 grams) | Protein: 12 grams Carbohydrate: 11 grams | Fiber per Serving: 8 grams | Fat: 15 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 0 grams | Calories per Serving: 180

Why We Recommend It

The IQBAR Protein bar has quickly become a favorite, and while the bars are marketed as being suitable for a low-carb or keto diet, they can be enjoyed by anyone. What makes them great is their soft texture and nutty flavor.

Each bar contains 12 grams of plant-based protein, 3 grams of net carbs, and 1 gram of sugar, with the focus being on "brain nutrients." Familiar ingredients include almonds and flaxseed, while lion's mane, a medicinal mushroom linked to promoting positive brain and nerve health, is another key ingredient. However, most research on lion's mane is limited to animal studies, with limited clinical evidence.

We found this bar to have a nutty and soft texture with a subtle grittiness and satisfying crunch. Our testers particularly appreciated its neutral aroma, and pleasant aftertaste. The IQBAR is not only gluten-, dairy-, and soy-free but also non-GMO, paleo-friendly, and vegan. With just 180 calories per bar, it's a perfect grab-and-go snack, ideal for combatting the afternoon slump or when you want something lighter.

Things to Consider

  • This bar contains stevia, a non-calorie sweetener that may not appeal to everyone due to its taste.
  • This bar contains almond and coconut and should be avoided by people with these allergies.
Pros
  • Soft and chewable texture

  • Tastes very similar to cookie dough

  • Contains 20+ superfoods

Cons
  • Must be refrigerated

Key Specs:

Serving Size: 1 bar (62 grams) | Protein: 12 grams Carbohydrate: 25 grams | Fiber per Serving: 2 grams | Fat: 18 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 12 grams | Calories per Serving: 310

Why We Recommend It

If you're a fan of peanut butter, honey, and cookie dough, the Perfect Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough bar is the perfect choice for you. Its soft texture practically melts in your mouth, with a very close flavor to real cookie dough. Our testers were impressed by its taste and texture, noting it feels more like a delightful treat than a standard meal replacement or protein bar.

These protein bars contain 12 grams of protein coming from peanut butter, rice protein, dry milk, and dry eggs. They're also packed with 20+ superfoods, such as kale, orange, lemon, alfalfa, kelp, and more. This boots the bar's vitamin and mineral content, making it a good source of magnesium and zinc, among others.

For optimal taste and texture, refrigerate Perfect Bars. While they remain perfectly fine for up to a week outside the fridge, their texture is at its best served chilled straight from the fridge!

Things to Consider

  • Keep in mind that these bars contain a higher amount of added sugar, 12 grams per serving, and may not be ideal for people following a lower-sugar diet.
  • With 18 grams of total fat per serving, these bars are higher in fat than others on our list. While the fat content can help keep you feeling full for longer, it may not be suitable for people following a low-fat or cardiac-style diet.

Where We Stand

Rise Protein Bar is our top choice thanks to it's simple, three-ingredient formula and balanced flavor. With just the right amount of chewiness, this bar provides a satisfying, nutritionally well-balanced snack. For other favorites, we recommend RX Bar due to its minimal ingredient list and the fact that it contains no added sugar or the plant-based ALOHA bar, which contains a whopping 10 grams of fiber and 14 grams of protein per serving.

How We Tested Protein Bars

Our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here. We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. We value certain product attributes that we find to be associated with the highest-quality products. Our team of experts has created a detailed, science-backed methodology to choose the supplements we recommend.

In addition to our research, we tested over 20 of the top protein bars in the Verywell Testing Lab, serving them as directed by the manufacturer. When testing, we evaluated each product for the following six critical criteria:

  • Flavor: We tasted each protein bar, noting how accurate it is to the flavor advertised on the packaging. We also made subjective notes on whether the flavor was good or bad, the strength of the flavor, and if we felt it was overly sweet or salty.
  • Texture: We reviewed the texture of each protein bar, noting if it was thin and smooth, clumpy, grainy, or otherwise unpleasant.
  • Aftertaste: We tested to see if any of the bars left an aftertaste in the mouth after eating them and noted if it was unpleasant, how long it lingered, and if we had to eat or drink something after to mask the aftertaste.
  • Smell: Upon opening the protein bars, we noted how the bar smelled, including salty, sweet, or chemical, and noted any pleasant or unpleasant aromas. We also reviewed to see if the smell was consistent with the flavor listed on the packaging and if the smell impacted the bar when we ate it.
  • Value: We assessed the value, analyzing the cost in the context of the quality of the product, use and taste experience, and amount of servings per container.
  • Nutrition: Our nutrition editors analyzed each product based on the quality of ingredients, including protein, calories, fiber, sugar and fat, and other nutrients added.

What to Look for in a Protein Bar

Ingredients

A general rule of thumb when picking a protein bar is the fewer ingredients, the better. We suggest aiming to select a bar with fewer than 10 ingredients. When possible, choose bars made from whole food ingredients that you can recognize, like nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dried fruit. This will help ensure you are also getting a variety of other nutrients like vitamins and minerals from a bar.

Protein

When searching for a protein bar, look for a bar with more grams of protein than grams of sugar. Also, consider the source of the protein. If you prefer plant-based or vegan products, a nut or seed-based bar is likely best for you. If you want a higher-protein bar, choose one that includes a protein powder such as whey, hemp, pea, or brown rice protein. Koch says, "For snacks, look for a bar that contains around 10 grams of high-quality protein. For a meal replacement, look for one with a bit more protein—ideally 20 to 30 grams of protein."

Sugar

Choose a bar that uses natural sweeteners, such as fruit, and aim to select a bar with less than 10 to 15 grams of total sugar at most. If you have diabetes or are at risk for diabetes, you may want to consider using bars with sugar substitutes or artificial sweeteners. However, be cautious, as high doses may cause stomach issues.

Fiber

Aim to choose a bar with 3 or more grams of dietary fiber. Note: Plant-based bars tend to be higher in fiber. If you are not used to consuming a lot of fiber, you may want to start slowly to avoid any digestive distress. When consuming fiber, it is always important to stay hydrated to avoid any discomfort.

Calories

Protein bars range in calories from approximately 100 to 300 calories. Consider your needs when selecting a bar. If you're choosing a bar as a small snack, you may want a lower-calorie option, whereas if you are using a bar as a meal replacement, you may want a bit more paired with fruit, yogurt, or other snacks.

Our Experts

We consulted with dietitians to help choose and review the top picks:

  • Allison Koch, MS, RD, CCSD, LDN, is a Board-Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) who helps endurance athletes - like runners and triathletes - improve their nutrition to support their workouts and achieve peak performance,
  • Holly Klamer, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian with experience in many areas, including supplements, personal training, and sports nutrition.
  • Amy Fischer MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and covers a wide range of health and wellness-related content, including nutrition, fitness, and supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the best time to eat a protein bar?

    You can eat a protein bar at any time of the day, but they are especially helpful for when you need a protein and energy boost on the go—so they're good to have in your gym bag for a quick snack after working out. They make a great snack and help to bridge the gap until you eat your next meal. Protein bars may be used as a meal substitute when you don't have access to a nutritious, well-balanced meal; however, consider your individual energy and nutrition needs. You will probably need to pair the bar with something else to ensure you're getting enough nutrition for a meal and to feel full.

  • What is the best protein bar to lose weight?

    Consider how the protein bar will fit your daily energy and nutrition needs. If you're using the protein bar as a snack, you may want to make sure that you select a bar with approximately 100 to 200 calories and at least 3 grams of protein and fiber. If you want something more filling, pair it with fruits, vegetables, other proteins, or whole-grain foods.

5 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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  2. Dhingra D, Michael M, Rajput H, Patil RT. Dietary fibre in foods: A review. J Food Sci Technol. 2012;49(3):255-266. doi:10.1007/s13197-011-0365-5

  3. Li IC, Lee LY, Tzeng TT, et al. Neurohealth properties of hericium erinaceus mycelia enriched with erinacinesBehav Neurol. 2018;2018:5802634. doi:10.1155/2018/5802634

  4. Gorisen SHM, Crombag JJR, Senden JMG, et al. Protein content and amino acid composition of commercially available plant-based protein isolates. Amino Acids. 2018;50:1685-1695. doi:10.1007/s00726-018-2640-5

  5. Makinen KK. Gastrointestinal disturbances associated with the consumption of sugar alcohols with special consideration of xylitol: Scientific review and instructions for dentists and other health-care professionals. International Journal of Dentistry. 2016;2016:5967907. doi:10.1155/2016/5967907

Shushy Rita Setrakian MS, RD

By Shushy Rita Setrakian MS, RD
Shushy has an eye for spotting the latest nutrition trends, research, and breaking down what that can mean for your supplement and food choices.