Best Protein Bars you can Buy at the Grocery Store
I’ve reviewed the Best Protein Bars you can Buy at the Grocery Store so you don’t have to! Check out my tips for choosing a protein bar plus my top picks at the grocery store.
How is one protein bar different from the next?
The protein bar aisle can be overwhelming. Here are a few key ways that protein bars may differ from one another. Still not sure which one is best for you? Scroll down for my top protein bar picks.
Balanced protein bar vs. protein only
There are a variety of protein bars on the market to suit your snacking needs. If you’re looking for a balanced snack, aim for a bar with a carbohydrate, fibre, and fat source as well. If you’re looking for a bar to help contribute only your protein intake for the day, stick to a bar that has protein as the main macronutrient. Note: this will likely be a less filling and satiating option.
Sugar-sweetened vs. Non-caloric Sweetener
Protein bars are flavoured with either sugar or non-caloric sweeteners. Whether or not non-caloric sweeteners are a better option than sugar remains controversial. There is debate as to the impact of these sweeteners on our hunger & satiety cues, whether or not we overcompensate with more calories or sweet foods later in the day after eating non-caloric sweeteners, and the impact on gut microflora and weight.
Whether you choose sugar-sweetened or non-caloric sweetener may depend on your overall health and nutrition goals. In general, I suggest reducing your overall intake of both added sugar and non-caloric sweeteners. Opt for a lower sugar-sweetened option or a bar with only one non-caloric sweetener in the ingredient list.
Ingredient list
Some protein bars have a very long list of ingredients and tend to be more processed, while others contain a shorter list with more whole-food ingredients (ie. ingredients that you would likely use if you were making a protein bar at home). Consider the quality of ingredients used when looking at the nutrition information on each label.
Protein source
From soy to whey to egg whites, there are a variety of protein sources available depending on the protein bar that you choose. When comparing products, keep in mind that the majority of protein in your diet should come from whole food sources and not protein bars or other supplements. Getting a variety of protein sources in your diet is best, so this could be an opportunity to try a protein bar with a different protein source than you typically include in your diet.
Best Protein Bars you can Buy at the Grocery Store
The protein bars included in this review were classified as bars that contain less than 250 calories per bar, contain at least 10g protein per bar, and are marketed as a protein bar. These bars are available in Ontario, Canada at most grocery stores.
RX Bar
This balanced, whole food protein bar is perfect for on the go snacking.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 210-220
Fat: 7-10g
Carbohydrate: 22-25g
Sugar: 13-15g
Fibre: 4-5g
Protein: 12g
Simply protein
This light-tasting protein bar has only 1g of sugar and uses no artificial sweeteners.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 150
Fat: 3.5-4.5g
Carbohydrate: 16-17g
Sugar: 1g
Fibre: 7g
Protein: 15g
Sprouted Protein
This vegan protein bar is also high in fibre. It contains lower sugar and is sweetened with stevia.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 220-230
Fat: 8-9g
Carbohydrate: 29-32g
Sugar: 3-4g
Fibre: 16-17g
Protein: 15g
President’s Choice Protein Granola Bar
These protein bars are budget friendly and contain lower sugar with no artificial sweeteners.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 160-170
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrate: 15-15g
Sugar: 5-7g
Fibre: 5-6g
Protein: 11g
Lara Bar Protein
These protein bars contain less than 6 ingredients and are a less processed option.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 210-230
Fat: 7-10g
Carbohydrate: 24-26g
Sugar: 18-19g
Fibre: 4-5g
Protein: 11g
Hemp Yeah! Protein Bars
This plant-based protein bar is a source of omega-3 fats from hemp seeds.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 220-230
Fat: 14-15g
Carbohydrate: 15-16g
Sugar: 7-8g
Fibre: 2-3g
Protein: 10g
YoFit Probiotic Bar
This allergen-friendly protein bar is free of all priority allergens.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 180-200
Fat: 8-10g
Carbohydrate: 23-25g
Sugar: 7-8g
Fibre: 4-5g
Protein: 10g
Looking for a comprehensive comparison of snack bar nutritional value? Download our our Product Nutrition Guide: Snack Bars, Protein Bars, Energy Bars!
What’s your favourite protein bar? Let us know in the comments!
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About Brittany
Hi there! I am a registered dietitian and I 💚 food! I am passionate about making it easier for busy people to eat well by sharing quick and healthy recipes. Healthy cooking at home can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. I love helping people uncomplicate weeknight dinners and reduce stress around meal time, so I’m so glad you’re here!