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The 11 Best Protein Bars of 2024, According to a Dietitian

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

Best protein bars collaged against a teal striped background

Verywell Fit / Brian Kopinski

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 1.2-2.0 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 on the market. Some contain added protein concentrates (like whey and pea protein isolate) which typically have higher amounts of protein per serving, while others are made from natural protein sources like nuts, seeds, and even egg whites. In general, we recommend primarily choosing bars made with simple, whole-food ingredients with limited added sugars and artificial sweeteners. When selecting our top list of protein bars, we considered protein content, ingredient list, overall nutrition content, and taste.

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.

In This Article

Best Overall

Rise The Simplest Protein Bars

Rise The Simplest Protein Bars 12 Pack

Amazon

Pros
  • Only three ingredients

  • No artificial flavors or preservatives

  • Easy to chew

  • No chalky aftertaste

Cons
  • Includes 13 grams of added sugar

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 no aftertaste and can even satisfy a sweet tooth. If almonds and honey aren't your favorites, they also come in different flavors as well as plant-based bars.

Be mindful that 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. Plus, if you're an athlete looking for a quick pre- or post-workout snack, the Rise bar is an easy, nutritionally balanced option.

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

Best Budget

Power Crunch Protein Energy Bar

Power Crunch Protein Energy Bar

Amazon

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

Protein bars can get expensive, but the 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 are similar in texture to a wafer, and according to Shushy Setrakian, MS, RD, "While the Power Crunch bar contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener that may not be ideal for everyone, 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 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. Some other favorite flavors include Chocolate Mint, Peanut Butter Fudge, and Salted Caramel.

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

Best Vegan

Go Macro Dark Chocolate + Almonds

 Go Macro Dark Chocolate + Almonds

Amazon

Pros
  • Plant-based

  • Non-GMO, organic, gluten-free

  • Certified Clean

  • Variety of interesting flavors

Cons
  • Higher in added sugar

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. For 270 calories, you get 10 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 11 grams of fat. Due to the lower protein content, this may be better suited as a general snack as opposed to a post-workout snack.

These bars 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.

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

Best Allergen-Free

Elemental Superfood Dark Chocolate + Almond Butter Seed Bar

Elemental Superfood Dark Chocolate + Almond Butter Seed Bar

Amazon

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

Bars that are free of 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. Note that these bars are on the lower end of protein and do require refrigeration.

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

Best Raw

Papa Steve's No Junk Raw Protein Bars

Papa Steve's No Junk Raw Protein Bars

Courtesy of Amazon

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

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. When it comes to texture, this product is on the stickier side as sort of gooey.

Each bar is handmade in Southern California from non-GMO, wheat-free, and soy-free ingredients. 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.

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

Best High Fiber

ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars

ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars

Amazon

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

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.

They're made from whole food ingredients, including brown rice and pumpkin seed protein, with no artificial ingredients or stevia. Whether you prefer chocolate or vanilla, there is a tempting flavor for every taste preference, including Caramel Sea Salt, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Vanilla Almond Crunch, and Chocolate Mint. These bars are dense, and the ruling on taste is conflicting; some people say it's their favorite tasting bar, and others feel there's a slight aftertaste.

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

Best No Added Sugar

RXBar Chocolate Coconut

RXBar Chocolate Coconut

Amazon

Pros
  • Wholesome ingredients

  • Good source of fiber

  • Gluten-free and kosher

  • Conveniently found in most stores

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

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.

For those who have sensitivities to sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners, these bars are ideal. They are a bit lower in protein compared to other bars but still provide 12 grams. The chewy, dense texture is not loved by all, but keeping these at room temperature helps keep them soft and easier to chew.

RX Bars come in a variety of flavors, such as Chocolate Raspberry, Vanilla Almond, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Mixed Berry, and more.

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

Best for Athletes

Garden of Life Protein Bar

Garden of Life Organic Plant-Based Performance Protein Bar

Amazon

Pros
  • Certified for Sport by NSF and Informed Choice

  • Organic, non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free

  • Certified carbon-free company

  • Contain BCAAs

Cons
  • Tend to be a bit gummier than other protein bars

As an athlete, a protein bar that is high in carbohydrates and protein can be a good pre- or post-workout snack; the Garden of Life Organic Plant-Based Performance Protein Bar is just that. Each bar contains 20 grams of protein, 36 grams of carbohydrates, 9 grams of fiber, and only 7 grams of added sugar.

These bars also contain 3.5 grams of BCAAs, which have some research linking them to increased muscle growth and decreased muscle soreness. While the evidence isn't strong, they are safe to consume for most people. Keep in mind that if you are already getting a high amount of protein in your diet, you will be consuming adequate BCAAs.

All of Garden of Life's sports products are Certified for Sport by NSF and Informed Choice, making this a rigorously tested and ideal product for athletes. Flavors come in Chocolate Fudge, Chocolate Mint, Peanut Butter Chocolate, and Salted Caramel Chocolate.

Key Specs:
Serving Size: 1 bar (75 grams) | Protein: 20 grams Carbohydrate: 36 grams | Fiber per Serving: 9 grams | Fat:  10 grams | Added Sugar per Serving: 7 grams | Calories per Serving: 280

Best for a Sweet Tooth

Barebell Protein Bar

Barebell Protein Bar Salty Peanut

Amazon

Pros
  • Taste like a candy bar

  • Soft texture

  • No added sugar

Cons
  • Contain artificial flavors and sugar alcohols, which may not be suitable for all

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 these do contain artificial flavors and sugar alcohols 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.

Other flavors include Caramel Cashew, Creamy Crisp, Cookies and Cream, and more.

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

Best Gluten-Free

IQBAR Protein Bars

IQBAR Keto Protein Bars

Amazon

Pros
  • Gluten-, dairy-, and soy-free

  • 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

The IQBAR Keto Protein bar is a fairly new product that's quickly become a favorite. While the bars are marketed as being suitable for a 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 and 1 gram of sugar, with the focus being on "brain nutrients." Some of the more familiar ones may be almonds and flaxseed, with lion's mane being another. Lion's mane is a medicinal mushroom that is linked to promoting positive brain and nerve health; however, research is limited mostly to animal studies, and clinical evidence is limited.

The IQBAR is also gluten-, dairy-, and soy-free, as well as non-GMO, paleo-friendly, and vegan. They're also lower in energy, 180 calories per bar, making this a good grab-and-go snack, especially during that afternoon slump or when you want something lighter.

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

Best New Bar

Perfect Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bar

Perfect Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bar

Amazon

Pros
  • Soft and Chewable texture

  • Tastes very similar to cookie dough

  • Contains 20+ superfoods

Cons
  • Must be refrigerated

Our favorite relatively new bar is the Perfect Bar - especially the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough flavor. The texture is soft and almost melts in your mouth, with a very close flavor to real cookie dough.

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.

The Perfect Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bar should be kept refrigerated; although they are perfectly fine for up to a week out of the fridge, the texture is best right out of the fridge! Keep in mind that these bars are also a bit higher in calories (310 calories).

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

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 like fruit, maple syrup, or honey. Aim to select a bar with 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 artificial sweeteners. However, be cautious, as high doses can 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.

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.

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. 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 grains.

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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