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Are pure protein bars healthy. Pure Protein Bars: A Nutritionist’s Perspective on Health Benefits and Concerns

by alexxlab

Are Pure Protein Bars a healthy snack option. What ingredients do Pure Protein Bars contain. How do Pure Protein Bars compare nutritionally to other protein bars. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of consuming Pure Protein Bars. How can Pure Protein Bars fit into a balanced diet.

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Composition and Nutritional Profile of Pure Protein Bars

Pure Protein bars have gained popularity as a convenient high-protein, low-carb snack option. To understand their nutritional value, it’s essential to examine their ingredients and macronutrient composition.

Key Protein Sources

Pure Protein bars derive their protein content from various sources:

  • Dairy proteins: milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and casein
  • Soy protein isolate
  • Collagen: listed as hydrolyzed collagen or hydrolyzed gelatin

Carbohydrate and Fat Content

These bars contain a minimal amount of sugar, typically 2 to 4 grams per bar. Most of this sugar comes from naturally occurring carbohydrates in dairy products and the chocolate coating. The bars also contain sugar alcohols as a low-calorie sweetener alternative.

The fat content in Pure Protein bars is relatively low, primarily sourced from nut products like almond butter and various oils such as palm kernel, canola, and peanut oil.

Vitamin and Mineral Fortification

Pure Protein bars are fortified with various vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin A, potassium, and zinc, among others. This fortification adds to their nutritional value, especially for those who may struggle to meet their daily micronutrient needs through whole foods alone.

Nutritional Breakdown of Pure Protein Bars

On average, a Pure Protein bar provides:

  • Calories: Approximately 200
  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Sugar: 2 to 4 grams
  • Fiber: 1 to 7 grams (varies by flavor)

Do these nutritional values make Pure Protein bars a suitable meal replacement or post-workout snack? The 20 grams of protein can be adequate for many individuals, particularly as a snack or part of a meal. However, those with higher caloric needs, intense training regimens, or weight gain goals may require additional protein intake.

Potential Health Benefits of Pure Protein Bars

While the definition of “healthy” can vary depending on individual needs and goals, Pure Protein bars do offer several potential benefits:

High-Quality Protein Source

With 20 grams of protein per bar, Pure Protein bars can help individuals meet their daily protein requirements. Adequate protein intake is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.

Low Sugar Content

The minimal amount of refined sugar in these bars (2-4 grams) is a significant advantage, especially for those monitoring their sugar intake or managing blood glucose levels.

Micronutrient Fortification

The added vitamins and minerals in Pure Protein bars can contribute to meeting daily micronutrient needs, potentially filling nutritional gaps in one’s diet.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Despite their benefits, there are some aspects of Pure Protein bars that warrant consideration:

Artificial Sweeteners and Sugar Alcohols

Pure Protein bars contain sugar alcohols like maltitol and artificial sweeteners such as sucralose. While these ingredients allow for a sweet taste without added calories, they can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals, including bloating and gas.

Common Allergens

These bars contain dairy and soy, making them unsuitable for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients.

Low Fiber Content

Most Pure Protein bar varieties have a relatively low fiber content. Considering that most adults should aim for at least 25 grams of fiber per day, these bars may not significantly contribute to meeting daily fiber needs.

Comparing Pure Protein Bars to Whole Food Options

How do Pure Protein bars stack up against whole food protein sources? While these bars offer convenience and a concentrated source of protein, they can’t fully replace the nutritional benefits of whole foods.

Whole food protein sources like chicken, fish, eggs, or legumes often provide additional nutrients and fiber that processed protein bars may lack. Moreover, whole foods typically don’t contain artificial sweeteners or preservatives found in many protein bars.

Incorporating Pure Protein Bars into a Balanced Diet

Can Pure Protein bars be part of a healthy eating plan? When used appropriately, these bars can fit into a balanced diet. Here are some guidelines for their consumption:

  • Use them as an occasional convenience food, not as a regular meal replacement
  • Pair them with whole foods like fruits or vegetables to increase nutrient diversity and fiber intake
  • Consider them as a post-workout snack to support muscle recovery
  • Be mindful of total daily protein intake, especially if consuming multiple bars

Alternative Protein Bar Options and Homemade Recipes

For those seeking alternatives to Pure Protein bars, numerous options exist in the market. Some individuals might prefer bars with more natural ingredients, while others may prioritize organic or plant-based options.

Creating homemade protein bars can be an excellent way to control ingredients and tailor the nutritional profile to individual needs. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade protein bars:

  1. Mix 2 cups of oats, 1/2 cup protein powder, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup nut butter, and 1/4 cup milk
  2. Press the mixture into a baking dish
  3. Refrigerate for 2 hours before cutting into bars

This recipe can be customized with various ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, or seeds to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Understanding Protein Bar Labels and Marketing Claims

When evaluating protein bars, including Pure Protein bars, it’s crucial to understand how to interpret nutrition labels and marketing claims. Here are some key points to consider:

Serving Size

Always check the serving size on the nutrition label. Some bars may list nutritional information for only half a bar, potentially misleading consumers about the actual calorie and nutrient content.

“Low Sugar” Claims

While a bar may be low in added sugars, it might contain sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners. These ingredients can affect blood sugar levels differently and may cause digestive issues in some individuals.

Protein Quality

Not all protein sources are equal in terms of amino acid profile and digestibility. Animal-based proteins like whey and casein (found in Pure Protein bars) are generally considered complete proteins, containing all essential amino acids.

Ingredient List

Ingredients are listed in order of predominance by weight. Be wary of bars with sugar or sugar substitutes as the first or second ingredient.

By understanding these aspects of protein bar labeling, consumers can make more informed choices about which products align best with their nutritional goals and dietary preferences.

The Role of Protein Bars in Athletic Performance and Recovery

For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, protein bars like Pure Protein can play a significant role in supporting performance and recovery. Here’s how:

Pre-Workout Fuel

Consuming a protein bar before exercise can provide readily available energy and help prevent muscle breakdown during intense workouts. However, the timing and individual tolerance should be considered to avoid digestive discomfort during exercise.

Post-Workout Recovery

The high protein content in Pure Protein bars can aid in muscle recovery and growth when consumed after exercise. The combination of protein and carbohydrates can help replenish glycogen stores and initiate muscle protein synthesis.

Convenience for Athletes

For athletes with high energy and protein needs, protein bars offer a convenient way to meet increased nutritional demands, especially when whole food options are not readily available.

While protein bars can be beneficial for athletes, they should not replace a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Instead, they should complement an overall nutrition strategy tailored to individual needs and performance goals.

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations of Protein Bars

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, it’s worth considering the sustainability aspects of protein bars, including Pure Protein bars:

Packaging

Most protein bars, including Pure Protein, come in individual wrappers that are not easily recyclable. This packaging contributes to single-use plastic waste.

Ingredient Sourcing

The environmental impact of ingredients like palm oil (often used in protein bars) and dairy proteins should be considered. Sustainable sourcing practices can significantly reduce the ecological footprint of these products.

Plant-Based Alternatives

While Pure Protein bars contain animal-derived proteins, there’s a growing market for plant-based protein bars. These options often have a lower environmental impact in terms of land use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Consumers interested in minimizing their environmental impact might consider choosing bars with more sustainable ingredients or opting for homemade alternatives using locally sourced, plant-based proteins.

The Future of Protein Bars: Trends and Innovations

The protein bar market continues to evolve, with new trends and innovations emerging:

Functional Ingredients

Future protein bars may incorporate functional ingredients like adaptogens, probiotics, or nootropics to offer benefits beyond basic nutrition.

Clean Label Movement

There’s a growing demand for protein bars with simpler, more natural ingredient lists. This trend might influence companies like Pure Protein to reformulate their products.

Personalized Nutrition

Advancements in nutrition science may lead to more personalized protein bar options, tailored to individual nutritional needs, genetic profiles, or fitness goals.

Sustainable Packaging

Innovations in eco-friendly packaging materials could address the environmental concerns associated with single-use wrappers.

As the market evolves, consumers can expect a wider range of options catering to various dietary preferences, health goals, and environmental concerns.

In conclusion, while Pure Protein bars offer a convenient source of protein with minimal sugar, they should be consumed as part of a balanced diet rather than a replacement for whole foods. Understanding their nutritional profile, potential benefits, and limitations can help individuals make informed decisions about incorporating these bars into their dietary routine. As with any dietary choice, moderation and individual nutritional needs should guide consumption.

Are Pure Protein Bars Healthy? What A Nutritionist Wants You To Know

Additional reporting by Kelsey Hampton, MS, RDN, LD, CSSD

Protein bars are a popular food item for meal replacements and post-workout snacks. While choosing food in its whole or less processed state is typically more ideal, the convenience a protein bar offers is hard to beat. Some of the most popular protein bars on the market are Pure Protein bars.

Marketed as a high protein, low carb option, it’s no wonder why this is the go-to bar for many people looking for a quick and easy protein boost. But is it truly a good option? Read on to learn more about what ingredients are in Pure Protein bars, their nutrition information, and whether they’re really as healthy as they seem.

What’s in a Pure Protein bar?

Pure Protein bars get their protein from several different sources:

  • dairy protein, which includes milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and casein (the exact combination depends on the bar)
  • soy protein isolate
  • collagen, listed as hydrolyzed collagen or hydrolyzed gelatin

While there is a small amount of sugar used in these bars (2 to 4 grams per bar), the majority of this comes from the carbs naturally occurring in the various dairy products and the chocolate coating used in many of the bars. Other carbs are from sugar alcohols (more on this ingredient later).

The bars generally contain only a few grams of fat that comes from the nut products used in some bars (like almond butter), and various oils, including palm kernel, canola, and peanut.

In addition to the calorie-containing ingredients, these bars are also fortified with vitamins and minerals, like calcium, vitamin A, potassium, and zinc, to name a few.

What is the Pure Protein bar’s nutrition?

On average, Pure Protein Bars have the following nutrition information:

  • Calories: 200, on average
  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Sugar: 2 to 4 grams
  • Fiber: 1 to 7 grams

As a meal replacement or post-exercise recovery snack, the 20 grams of protein is adequate for many people, although individuals with higher calorie needs, high training volumes and/or looking to gain weight may require more protein.

The modest amount of total carbohydrate and minimal sugar is appealing. It is important to differentiate between naturally occurring sugar, like that which occurs in dairy and fruit, for example, and refined sugar that is highly processed with little nutritional value. The minimal amount of refined sugar in these bars is definitely a selling point.

The nutrient composition of this bar makes it a good option for a snack and even a meal, if combined with additional food, like fruit. However, the low fiber content across most of the bars is less than ideal (most adults should be getting at least 25 grams per day), and while the composition of carb, fat, and protein is reasonable, these bars do contain common allergens, like dairy and soy, so they would not be a good option for those with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients.

Are Pure Protein bars healthy?

“Healthy” is different for everyone. What works for a highly active individual may not be ideal for someone more sedentary. With that in mind, Pure Protein bars do have some attributes we traditionally think of as being healthy:

  • good protein
  • low sugar
  • broad variety of vitamins and minerals

While these are positive characteristics in the bars, there are some components to be mindful of.

Sugar alcohol, like malitol, and the artificial sweetener Sucralose are used in all of these bars. This is how manufacturers are able to make a sweet-tasting bar without the sugar and associated calories.

While this may seem positive, sugar alcohols, in particular, are known to cause digestive upset and symptoms like bloating and gas (the bars even have a warning stating this). Not everyone may experience this when consuming products containing sugar alcohols, but it is worth noting for the population who may notice this digestive discomfort.

Overall, this is a good bar option for those who are not sensitive to dairy, soy and/or sugar alcohols. I always encourage whole food whenever possible; however, you can certainly use protein bars as part of a healthy, well-rounded diet.

Pure Protein Bars Review

July 11, 2019   16 Comments

This Pure Protein Bars review is the latest in my ongoing quest to find the best protein bar.

There are so many on the market! I have taken a look at Built Bar Review and thinkThin Protein Bars and many others that I did not feature.

The latest bar is Pure Protein and I include it because unlike the Built Bar, you can find it in CVS, Walgreens, Target, and Costco. You can buy ONE and see if you like it (except if you buy them at Costco).

They do remind of the Built Bar because they are a bit of a chemical experiment to get you a product that looks and tastes like a candy bar.

The ingredients for the Chocolate Deluxe are:

Protein Blend (Milk Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate), Chocolate Flavored Coating (Maltitol, Fractionated Palm Kernel Oil, Whey Protein Concentrate, Cocoa, Calcium Carbonate,Natural Flavors, Soy Lecithin, Sucralose), Hydrolyzed Collagen, Glycerin, Cocoa Powder, Water, Milk Chocolate Drops (Sugar, Whole Milk Powder, Chocolate Liquor, Cocoa Butter, Milk Fat, Soy Lecithin, Natural Vanilla Flavor), Maltitol Syrup, Peanut Flour, Natural Flavors, Sucralose, Almond Butter, Soy Lecithin.

Nutrition Facts for the Chocolate Deluxe:

One bar is 180 calories, 4.5 g fat, 3 g saturated fat, 17 g carbohydrates, 3 g sugar, 4 g sugar alcohol, 21 g protein, 2 g fiber, 85 mg sodium, 5 Freestyle SmartPts

The bar is under 200 calories (which is good but I wish it was around 150). Also, as you can see there are sugar alcohols and this message is on the package:

Warning: This product contains sugar alcohols, which may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Excessive consumption may have a laxative effect.

I did not have a problem with these (and I do have a problem with sugar alcohols). Perhaps there wasn’t enough to trigger a response.

I thought that this bar did taste like chocolate and it surprised me that there was no yucky sucralose after taste.

This Chocolate Chip Pure Protein bar tasted chalky and terrible. If I had tried this one first, I would never have bought another one. It was cloyingly sweet and odd in texture. FAIL!

I liked the Chocolate Peanut Butter Pure Protein bar the most of all of the flavors. It is remarkably like a chocolate, peanut butter candy bar. Would I eat this on a regular basis? Probably not, but I would stuff it in my purse for a trip.

These are chewy, like a Snickers Bar (but without the caramel or peanuts). I guess they are like nougat.

The manufacturer (Canadian) suggests that you drink a glass of water when you eat one and my guess is that it helps you digest the bar.

Do I think these are the best choice? I would still try to go with unprocessed food when you can but these are good in a pinch because they are lower in sugar than most of the bars on the shelf.

Other posts you might like:

Pure Protein Bars

More and more people are turning to healthy foods and good nutrition to improve health and just feel better. With countless nutrition bars out there, how do you know which ones are the best? That is not an easy answer, but a little bit of research will help to make the process easier.

Kristin Forte/Simplemost Media

Who needs a nutrition bar? Nutrition bars are not just for those looking to lose weight or gain muscle; they offer a solution for heart health, diabetics, allergy-sensitive consumers, athletes and moms-on-the-go, just to mention a few. So, this means nutrition bars need to have all the right stuff in them to support all these different lifestyles. You will need to get the appropriate bar for you and your dietary restrictions so be sure to read the labels before you buy.

There are numerous factors to consider when reading the label of a nutrition bar. Good carbohydrates, healthy fats, the amount of fiber and good proteins are all things you will want to know about your nutrition bar.

Good carbohydrates are one of the most important factors in a good nutrition bar. Carbohydrates give our bodies energy to do our daily functions. They are composed of hydrogen, oxygen and carbon. In our bodies, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose which is, in turn, used to produce adenosine triphosphate or ATP which is used in the metabolic process. Carbohydrates are also important for muscles to function and retain their mass, especially during an extended period of exercise. The best nutrition bars will source their carbohydrates from natural foods without added sugar such as certain vegetables.

Kristin Forte/Simplemost Media

Healthy fats are important to our daily diets. Triglycerides and cholesterol not only store our energy but also give us insulation for our organs. Proteins wouldn’t be able to keep us moving without healthy fats. Cholesterol is what our cell walls are comprised of because cholesterol is not water-soluble. The cholesterol only allows fat-soluble molecules in and out of the cell.

The amount of fiber in your nutrition bar is extremely important. Fiber helps to move large molecules through our bodies. Most nutrition bars have proteins and carbohydrates to give energy, but they are difficult for our bodies to digest. Having at least 3 grams of fiber in the bar will enable the larger food molecules to move through our digestive tract with ease. You can find the amount of fiber listed in the nutrition facts section on the packaging.

Proteins are so vital to the function of our bodies. They are massive molecules that are extremely complex and perform most duties within the cell. They support tissues and organs but are also an essential part for the structure of these body parts. We need proteins to keep our blood sugars regulated for long periods of time as well.

When you want a nutrition bar that is dairy-free, soy-free, cholesterol-free and does not contain high fructose corn syrup, Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars are perfect. They are also kosher and vegan for those specific diets.

A nutrition bar that boosts energy and offers an incredible, 14 grams of protein is the Zone Perfect Nutrition Bar in fudge graham flavor. This bar is packed with vitamins and even offers antioxidants for boosting immunity. The flavor is similar to s’mores.

A popular choice among nutrition gurus is the KIND nutrition bars in Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt. This bar has only 5 grams of sugar but 6 grams of protein. Gluten-free and non-GMO in addition to 7 grams of fiber, makes these KIND bars a balanced option for a nutrition bar.

So when you want to find that happy medium between healthy and tasty, turn to these nutrition bars rather than your sugary, carb-filled, pantry snacks. You won’t regret it and they’ll make you feel great!

13 Best Protein Bars – Healthiest Protein Bars 2021

Looking for a quick on-the-go munch or post-workout bite? Protein bars are a portable snack that are great when you’re in a pinch and need something to eat quick. But the protein bar aisle has become saturated with countless choices and lofty nutrition claims that can be overwhelming to decipher. And just because something has the word “protein” in it does not make it automatically healthy.

So what makes a protein bar worthy of being on your grocery list? As a registered dietitian, ingredients are always at the forefront of any testing I do. After analyzing dozens of protein bars in our Good Housekeeping Institute’s Nutrition Lab, our choices focused on protein bars with a readable list of ingredients and a whole grain or whole food (i.e. nuts, oats, legumes, etc) as the first ingredient.

We capped calories at 300 per bar, and looked for choices with no more than 10 grams of added sugar. In order to be considered a protein bar, we required at least 10 grams of protein per serving. We also feel that fiber is important to help keep you full and balance out the bar, which is why all choices on our list have at least 3 grams of fiber or more per serving. We also tried to keep sodium counts under 300mg per bar.

After careful consideration, we rounded up our top choices for the best protein bars of 2020:

1

Organic Plant Based Protein Bars

This new-kid-on-the-block vegan protein bar is not to be missed. Packed with wholesome ingredients and no sugar alcohols or stevia, it’s a vegan and low-carb option that’s also USDA organic. Peanuts and pumpkin seed protein are the star of the show. 

Nutrition Facts (1 Bar): 240 cal, 12g fat, 85mg sodium, 24g total carb, 13g fiber, 4g total sugar, 14g protein

2

PROTEIN From Real Food Bars

Don’t be fooled by its granola bar facade! This crunchy snack from KIND actually packs in 12 grams of plant-based protein and only has 6 grams of added sugar. We love the taste and texture on this nutty and chocolatey bar. 

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 250 cal, 17g fat, 125mg sodium, 17g carb, 5g fiber, 6g added sugar, 12g protein

3

Organic Plant Based Protein Bar

Vegan protein bars can be hard to come by, and organic ones are even tougher to find. We love the chewy texture on this chocolate chip cookie dough flavored protein snack bar from Orgain that boasts 10 grams of plant-based protein and is both vegan and soy-free.

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 140 calories, 5g fat, 125mg sodium, 20g carb, 3g dietary fiber, 5g total sugar, 4g added sugars, 10g protein

4

Gluten-Free, Low-Sugar Protein Bars

ONE
amazon.com

With flavors like Birthday Cake and Pumpkin Pie, this bar will not only cure your sweet tooth but it’ll also pack in a protein punch post-workout. These bars are super flavorful and have 20 grams of protein, which is far more than most on the market. They now also come in minis for a portion-controlled treat.

Nutrition Facts: 220 cal, 8g total fat, 140mg sodium, 24g carb, 8g fiber, 1g total sugar, 0g added sugar, 20g protein

5

LAYERS Layered Protein Bar

RXBAR’s newest innovation is chewy, gooey, and nutrient-dense. Packed with 14+ grams of protein, it boasts a wholesome ingredients list and is sweetened with dates and honey. It has that candy bar taste and texture, but only 4 grams of added sugar.

Nutrition Facts (1 bar, Peanut Butter Chocolate): 250 cal, 14g total fat, 180mg sodium, 20g carb, 3g fiber, 13g total sugar, 4g added sugar, 15g protein

6

Omega-3 and Grass-Fed Whey Protein Bars

Oatmega
amazon. com

$19.61

The first ingredient in this protein-packed bar is grass-fed whey protein concentrate. It’s packed with fiber (7 grams to be exact) and only 4 grams of added sugar. Plus, it has a great flavor and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids as well. 

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 200 cal, 7g total fat, 120mg sodium, 22g total carb, 7g fiber, 5g total sugar, 4g added sugar, 14g protein

7

Protein Bar

Of course we love the traditional RXBAR protein bar as well. Made with real ingredients that you can pronounce, these bars load up 12 grams of protein and are also gluten-free. Plus, they are free from added sugar and sweetened instead with dates.

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 210 cal, 9g total fat, 260mg sodium, 23g total carb, 5g fiber, 13g total sugar, 0g added sugar, 12g protein

8

Plant-Based Protein Bars

Zing Bars
amazon. com

$23.84

Designed by registered dietitians, these chewy bars are completely plant-based and boast a strong 10 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber. The Dark Chocolate Coconut Vitality Bar features macaroon-style shaved coconut and tastes like an almond joy.

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 210 cal, 11g total fat, 55mg sodium, 24g carb, 7g fiber, 9g total sugar, 10g protein

9

Protein & Superfruit Bars

thinkTHIN
amazon.com

Not only does this yummy bar from thinkTHIN have 10 grams of protein and fiber, but it also contains heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. This gluten-free and non-GMO choice is both sweet and tart from the combination of chocolate, pomegranate, and cherry. 

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 230 cal, 9g total fat, 140mg sodium, 30g carb, 10g fiber, 8g total sugar, 10g protein

10

Performance Bar, Almond Butter Chocolate

EPIC Provisions
amazon. com

These performance bars from EPIC are all made with six ingredients or less. They get their sweetness from dates and protein content from egg whites and nuts. This bar is also gluten-free and great for pre or post-workout snack. 

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 210 cal, 7g fat, 180mg sodium, 25g carb, 4g fiber, 19g total sugar, 0g added sugar, 12g protein

11

Nut Butter Protein Bars

You may be familiar with Bobo’s oat bars, but their new protein bars deliver great nutritionals and flavor. With a strong 11 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, and only 7 grams of added sugar, it’s perfect for an on-the-go snack.

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 270 cal, 11g fat, 60mg sodium, 39g carb, 4g fiber, 7g added sugar, 11g protein

12

Vegan Cookie Dough Protein Bar

This plant-based, low-sugar bar is top-rated on Amazon and comes in a variety of flavors. It’s a gluten-free, plant-based, low-sugar option that’s both soft and tasty. We like that the protein blend comes from fava beans and brown rice, and that is has a whopping 11 grams of fiber.

Nutrition Facts (1 bar): 220 cal, 7g fat, 210mg sodium, 29g carb, 11g fiber, 10g total sugar, 15g protein

13

Plant Based Protein Bars

Super Pop Snacks
amazon.com

$34.99

The first ingredient in this soft bar is almond butter, which helps to pack in 10 grams of plant-based protein per bar. You’ll find actual dried blueberries throughout and a nice flavor, with no dairy or soy in the ingredient list.

Nutrition Facts: 260 cal, 13g fat, 50mg sodium, 23g total carb, 4g fiber, 11g total sugar, 10g protein

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The Healthiest Protein Bars on the Market, According to a Nutritionist

While a healthy, balanced diet is the best fuel for both workouts and daily life, there is a time and a place for a healthy protein bar. The best protein bars can serve as a healthier alternative to other packaged snacks for those who lift weights, those in need of a quick post-workout meal, and all those who are replacing a meal on the go. In these cases, a low-sugar protein bar is better than most fast food, and can provide a quick hit of protein in the event that a sit-down meal isn’t an option. But that’s about the extent of the benefits offered by even the healthiest protein bars. Why? They’re not any nutritionist’s idea of a healthy snack.

“I understand that nowadays everyone is always short on time and rushing from one commitment to the next, but I think people rely on protein bars too often,” says Jennifer Silverman, a New York–based nutritionist. “Depending on the bar, they might be upward of 250 or 300 calories and packed with added sugar.”

Plus, many high protein bars are packed with fillers. Silverman suggests looking out for added and fake sugars (sucralose, erythritol, and aspartame in particular). “Instead look for bars that have ingredients you can pronounce and natural sugars,” she recommends.

How to Find a Healthy Protein Bar

  • In a perfect world, a protein bar should have no more than 14 grams of sugar per serving.
  • It should also have about five or so grams of fiber, which helps you digest it slowly and release its energy evenly.
  • It should have four grams of fat.
  • If you are looking to shed weight, the maximum calories a bar should have is 200.
  • If muscle gain is your goal, a bar should have at least 20 grams of protein.
  • Otherwise, a protein bar should have 10 grams of protein.

You can always make your own low-sugar protein bars, but if you don’t have time, these are some of the healthiest protein bars on the market. You’ll note that some have more sugar than others, because ultimately, if you don’t like the taste of something, you won’t eat it, no matter how much it’s marketed as good for you. We’ve provided the nutritional info. You make the call.

Picky Bars uses a base of dates for all its bars, then adding natural (and pronounceable) ingredients to achieve a four-to-one ratio of carbs to protein. All flavors clock in right around 200 calories and are free of soy, dairy, gluten, and GMOs. Despite its foundational ingredient, they come in a variety of fun and delicious flavors like this chocolate chip variety.

With its Provisions line of food, outdoor outfitter Patagonia is trying to achieve the same level of sustainability it has with its clothing. Each bar uses an organic almond base and adds fruits for the right amount of natural sweetness. Black chia seeds add crunch and a little more protein.

Free is the name of the game here: These bars are gluten-free and soy-free, plus they’re vegan. Because these aren’t loaded with protein, they’re best to eat when you’re on a hike and need an energy boost. Each bar is made with roughly seven ingredients, so you know what you’re eating, like dates and figs. Nutritional info varies bar to bar, so you’ll want to check the online label for each flavor. Protein: 4 grams; Sugar: 18 grams; Fiber: 4 grams; Fat: 5 grams; Carbs: 26 grams; Calories: 150.

Packed with chia and flax seeds, this bar sure doesn’t taste like it’s completely vegetarian. What it tastes like is a candy bar that’s still hella good for you, and one that you’ll have to fight to keep from your kids. Protein: 20 grams; Sugar: 14 grams; Fiber: 3 grams; Fat: 9 grams; Carbs: 32 grams; Calories: 290.

From a mother and daughter-run company, these protein bars are made from plant-based ingredients that will fill you up. These protein bars are organic, gluten-free, vegan, and soy-free. They have 12 grams of protein that comes from peas and brown rice. All of the ingredients are sustainably grown, and you can choose from 14 flavors. Nutritional info varies bar to bar, so you’ll want to check the online label for each flavor. Protein: 12 grams; Sugar: 11 grams; Fiber: 2 grams; Fat: 10 grams; Carbs: 34 grams; Calories: 270.

This bar is rich on taste, because it’s made with honey and nut butters, but you need to refrigerate it. It stays good for one week out of the fridge. What it lacks in convenience, it makes up for in taste. It’s creamy, crunchy, and reminiscent of cookie dough. Which makes sense, given how high it is in sugar and fat. Nutritional info varies bar to bar, so you’ll want to check the online label for each flavor. Protein: 17 grams; Sugar: 18 grams; Fiber: four grams; Fat: 18 grams; Carbs: 26 grams; Calories: 330.

A bar that proudly lists its main ingredients on the front, so you know exactly what you’re getting. There are no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or fillers, plus most of the bars are gluten-free with no soy or dairy. Its 12 grams of protein come largely from egg whites, an ingredient offered by precious few other bars. Nutritional info varies bar to bar, so you’ll want to check the online label for each flavor. Protein: 12 grams; Sugar: 14 grams; Fiber: 4 grams; Fat: 8 grams; Carbs: 22 grams; Calories: 210

These bars are made with plant-based proteins, are certified USDA organics, kosher, vegan, non-GMO, grain-free, and most of all, they’re gooey-good. And they’re made with just four ingredients. Protein: 11 grams; Sugar: 18 grams; Fiber: four grams; Fat: 10 grams; Carbs: 25 grams; Calories: 210.

Each of these protein bars contains eight grams of organic plant protein from pumpkin seeds. We like that you can recognize the ingredients in these protein bars, and that each bar contains six grams of sugar. The chewy texture is a nice plus, too. Protein: 8 grams; Sugar: 6 grams; Fiber: 2 grams; Fat: 13 grams; Carbs: 11 grams; Calories: 170.

These protein bars contain a whopping 20 grams of whey and milk protein. These bars are meant for serious workouts and are eaten by NFL athletes. They’re loaded with protein, but are also heavy on the sugar. Still, they’re one of the most delicious protein bars you can buy, both in terms of flavor and texture. Nutritional info varies bar to bar, so you’ll want to check the online label for each flavor. Protein: 20 grams; Sugar: 29 grams; Fiber: 2 grams; Fat: 13 grams; Carbs: 41 grams; Calories: 350

This bar has three, yes three, ingredients in it. Easy and simple. It’s clean eating on the go. You get three ingredients and they are almonds, honey, and whey protein isolate. So there’s no need to get a chemistry degree before buying this protein bar. And you get 20 grams of protein per bar. Nutritional info varies bar to bar, so you’ll want to check the online label for each flavor. Protein: 20 grams; Sugar: 11 grams; Fiber: 4 grams; Fat: 16 grams; Carbs: 20 grams; Calories: 280

A great-tasting bar that has 20 grams of protein that will fill up in the short term until your next meal. There are only four grams of sugar in each bar. With six grams of fiber per protein bar, it should keep you feeling full for hours after eating. Nutritional info varies bar to bar, so you’ll want to check the online label for each flavor. Protein: 30 grams; Sugar: 5 grams; Fiber: 4 grams; Calories: 340.

This bar tastes delicious, has nine grams of sugar, three grams of fiber and 8 grams of protein. It has 28 grams of carbs and six grams of fat. For nine grams of sugar, which is on the reasonable side, you get a protein bar packed with flavor. It really, really tastes good. Protein: 8 grams; Sugar: 9 grams; Fiber: 3 grams; Fat: 6 grams; Carbs: 23 grams

From a trusted name in the nutritional bar world, this bar has got 20 grams of protein and a great selection of great flavors. You won’t get more than 10 grams of fat in these gluten-free and vegan protein bars. Protein: 20 grams; Sugar: 17 grams; Fiber: 3 grams; Fat: 9 grams; Carbs: 31 grams; Calories: 280

This bar has everything our expert recommends, as well as being a gluten-free option for those with sensitivities or allergies. While this one utilizes whey for its animal-based protein, the company also makes a Vegan-friendly plant-based bar. Protein: 20 grams; Sugar: 1 gram; Fiber: 3 to 9 grams, based on variety; Fat: 9 grams; Carbs: 23 grams; Calories: 210 to 240

Every product on Fatherly is independently selected by our editors, writers, and experts. If you click a link on our site and buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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Pure Protein Bars Review (UPDATE: 2021)

Pure Protein Bars are meal replacement bars made with a blend of soy and whey protein. The company claims protein is an essential nutrient for optimal body function, lean mass, and strength. Does this take into account those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle?

Plant-based protein is an ideal solution because it addressed the needs of most dieters. However, our team wanted to understand the ingredients’ benefits better while addressing any potential side effects. Then, we compiled our research to give you the facts.

Pure Protein Bars can be purchased through their Official Site.

Overview

What are Pure Protein Bars?

First off, Pure Protein Bars are a meal-replacement containing soy protein isolate, whey protein isolate, milk protein isolate, malitol syrup, palm kernel oil, milk protein isolate, cocoa, hydrolyzed collagen, glycerin, cocoa powder, natural flavors, rice flour, corn starch, canola oil, glycerin, salt, dehydrated coconut, tapioca starch, sugar, nonfat dry milk solids, yogurt powder, soy lecithin, salt, water, vitamin and mineral blend.

After eating one bar as a substitute for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the product supposedly helps you lose weight. One benefit is the packaging makes it easy to eat on-the-go.

There’s no information as to when Pure Protein Bars were first introduced, but the parent company NBTY has been operating for more than 70 years – fantastic. The official website and multiple trusted retailers sell the product. We like the inclusion of a few natural ingredients and that we located some positive customer comments, but this is what some of the research says:

  • Nutrition: Soy protein was found to be a suitable addition to calorie-restricted diets used for the treatment of obesity.
  • Nutrition & Metabolism: Some proteins found in milk may benefit metabolic health.
  • Nutrients: Researchers from this found that, “ingestion of a whey protein supplement before bedtime during a 4-week period on a VLCD [very-low calorie diet] improved nitrogen balance, but did not lead to any significant improvement in the quality of the weight loss.”

Pure Protein Bars Competitors

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Explanation of Price

This is how much it costs to start on the respective program. We always recommend trying a product before making a large investment.

    Protein Benefits Negative sides Digestibility (g / hour) Value,%
    Whey – can be mixed with a variety of components;
    – low cost;
    – rich composition;
    – quickly absorbed;

    		 – will be effective only before and after training;
    – during the day, it is better to take in combination with other proteins;    		 10-12 100
    Egg – good composition;
    – great for losing weight;    		 – expensive; nine 100
    Complex – consists of proteins of different absorption rates;
    – can be taken for both weight loss and weight gain;    		 – not always a high-quality composition;

    		 5-8 95
    Milk – affordable price;
    – balanced amino acid composition;

    		 – the composition contains components that can impair the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract; 4-5 90
    Casein – low rate of assimilation;
    – good amino acid composition;    		 – not very soluble in water;
    – some manufacturers have a not very pleasant taste;    		 4-6 80
    Soy – lowers the level of cholesterol in the blood;
    – great for women;    		 – low efficiency;
    – contains phytoestrogens and GMOs;

    		 four 74