If we’re being honest — and we’re always honest in our product reviews — I’m not really a protein bar gal. As a certified nutrition coach, I know they can often be more like candy bars than a healthy, protein-packed snack. And hey, nothing wrong with a good candy bar, but if you’re searching for the best protein bars, you’re probably not only looking for a nostalgic bite.
With Think! High Protein Bars, you’ll get a solid amount of protein with candy-like nostalgia. You may also wind up with either a lot of sugar alcohols in your system (an oof to many people’s health) or a lot of vitamins and minerals like iron and calcium (a big win in our books). Using our supplement testing methodology, we’ll use this think Protein Bar review to take you through the ups and downs of these bars — and we’ve tested dozens. Depending on the flavor, we think that Think! Protein Bars (see what I did there?) are largely capable of delivering a grown-up amount of protein, taste, and micronutrients. Read on for our full Think! Protein Bars review.
Medical disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
think! Protein Bars do not skimp on flavor or on protein. With 20 grams of protein from a soy, whey, and casein blend and a range of 12 flavors from Boston Creme Pie to Lemon Crisp, these bars are for both gains and your sweet tooth.
Main Takeaways
- Think!’s high-protein bars contain 20 grams of protein (though other varieties contain much less, to the chagrin of our expert reviewer and RD), and between 200 to 240 calories, depending on the bar.
- Our expert tester absolutely loves the flavor of think! bars and gives them an easy 5 out of 5 for taste and a near-perfect score for texture.
- The bars come in a range of nutrition goals: High Protein, Delight (keto-friendly), Plant-Based, Crisp, Sweet Treat (still high protein, but slightly more decadent), and Mini.
Think! Protein Bars Specs
| Price Per Serving | $2.40-$2.80 |
| Available Flavors | Brownie Crunch, Creamy Peanut Butter, Chunky Peanut Butter, Chocolate Fudge, Banana Oat Muffin, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk, White Chocolate, Lemon Delight, Cookies & Crème, Girl Scout Thin Mints™, Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie, Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate Almond Brownie, Chocolate Mint, S’mores, Cupcake Batter, Boston Creme Pie, Chocolate Chip |
| Main Ingredients* | Protein blend (soy protein isolate, whey protein isolate, calcium caseinate), maltitol syrup, alkalized cocoa powder, vegetable glycerin, water, almond butter, palm kernel oil, sunflower oil, sunflower and/or soy lecithin, natural flavors, tapioca starch, chocolate, salt |
| Calories Per Bar | 200 to 240 depending on the flavor |
| Sweeteners Used** | Stevia, real fruits, cane sugar, monk fruit, maltitol, and erythritol |
*These are the High Protein Brownie Chunk ingredients. All bars contain a variation of the ingredients listed.
**These are all the sweeteners used in Think! Protein Bars — to find out which sweeteners are in each bar, check out each individual nutrition label.
Think!, formerly Thinkthin, offers a wide range of protein bars designed to meet various nutrition goals, from high-protein content for muscle building to low-sugar formulations meant to serve as some of the best protein bars for weight loss. As a nutrition coach, I like the variety of flavors and nutrition goals that think! offers. It can be mundane to eat the same thing every day in a means to meet your nutrition goals and these flavors can be a great way to switch it up.
They offer High Protein, Delight (keto-friendly), Plant-Based, Crisp (a Crunch-like protein bar layered with chocolate and crispy chocolate), Sweet Treat (still high protein, but slightly more decadent), and Mini (a bite-sized option for an even smaller treat). The specs above reflect the High Protein bars — the ingredients and macros of the other varieties will vary. Each type of bar doesn’t come in every flavor, either.
To that point, our expert reviewer, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RD, has this to say about Think! bars: “Think! Protein Bars have a lot going on, but some aspects of their nutrition labels give me pause. Depending on the think! product you choose, you may not get a whole lot of protein, but you might get a hefty dose of sugar alcohol.” Even when you do get 20 grams of protein with the High Protein bars, you’ll also be getting upwards of 8 grams of sugar alcohols, which many may wish to avoid. So, you’ll want to be selective and take your time going through the ingredients of your specific bar.
Macros vary slightly depending on the flavor and type, but a typical Think! high-protein bar provides about 230 calories, 20 grams of protein, 10 grams of total fat, 23 grams of total carbohydrates, and less than 1 gram of total sugars (depending on the bar you choose).
Most 10-count boxes are $23.99, or about $2.40 per bar on the website. They offer a convenient, affordable option for people seeking high-protein, low-sugar snacks that fit a range of dietary needs.
Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Think! Protein Bars
Depending on your goals, Think! Protein Bars may or may not be the best choice for you. To make it simple, we’ve made a quick list to help you decide for yourself.
Recommended for:
- Gluten-free folks who need to supplement their protein
- Those looking for a quick on-the-go snack or sweet treat with little to no added sugar (depending on the bar you choose)
Not Recommended for:
- Individuals who get enough protein naturally and don’t need to supplement
- People who don’t want to scrutinize the labels of every different type of bar and flavor (and would prefer a more standardized experience)
Our Experience Using Think! Protein Bars
Our tester, Matt Cummings is one of BarBend’s fitness writers and expert testers. After taking these bars for a test run, Cummings is impressed by both the flavor and the macros of this bar. As a nutrition coach, myself, I also like that these High Protein snack bars are high in protein and low in added sugar. This means it is more like a protein snack than a candy bar, which can’t be said for many bars marketed as protein bars.
Ingredients and Formulation
As a nutrition coach, I like that each serving size is around 220 calories and is packed with protein, particularly the High Protein bars. BarBend expert tester and fitness writer, Matt Cummings, likes the macro profile too, noting that, “Each bar contains 20 grams of protein, so for supplementing protein, it definitely does the job.”
The High Protein versions of Think! Protein Bars are made primarily with whey protein isolate, a high-quality, easily digestible source of protein. Depending on the flavor, the bar may contain ingredients like peanuts, cocoa powder, and natural flavors. They are also gluten-free though, which makes them a great option for individuals with gluten sensitivities.
These bars generally have 0 added sugars, which can be a great way to supplement protein without adding too much sugar. For those with diabetes, this can be exceptionally helpful in getting a sweet treat without raising insulin levels. (1) On the flip side, some of these sugar alcohol sweeteners, like maltitol and erythritol, can have negative side effects in large doses. (1)(2)
So, that may be something you want to avoid — a big dock against these bars, according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RD, who gives these bars a 2.5 out of 5 for their formulation: “Many of the Think options are high in added sugar, and if they don’t contain added sugar, they’re sweetened with a hefty dose of sugar alcohol.”
Bourgeois goes on to explain further: “While most people can tolerate sugar alcohol in small doses, excessive consumption can cause GI disturbances, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Some Think bar varieties are also pretty low in protein, so if protein is your main goal, you might be left wanting more.”
For the bars that do come packed with 20 grams of protein, Think! High Protein Bars use a protein blend made of soy protein isolate, whey protein isolate, and calcium caseinate. Both whey protein powders and soy protein powders contain all essential amino acids, which are essential for basic body functions like providing energy to break down food and aid with digestion, boosting the immune system, helping the body absorb nutrients, maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails, and more. (3)
These proteins are particularly useful post-workout because they can help with building muscle and recovering post-workout. (4) Calcium caseinate is used as a thickener and to add texture. The soy protein is often cheaper than whey, so blending the two can help make the bars more cost-effective. The downside is that if you are allergic to dairy or soy, you won’t be able to enjoy this particular bar. You can opt for the Plant-Based option instead if you’re vegan.
As a nutrition coach, sugar alcohols like maltitol and erythritol are not my favorite. They can be great for those looking for a sweetener with a low glycemic index, but consuming too much can lead to gastrointestinal issues (as Bourgeois points out). (2)(5)
Many of these bars also contain added fiber like inulin and soluble corn fiber. As a certified nutrition coach, I like this for ease of digestion and feeling satiated. Think! bars are also high in vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are great for in and out of the gym and help support strong bones and muscles. I like that these bars are relatively low in cholesterol which isn’t always the case for a protein bar.
As Bourgeois points out, “Some (not all) of the think! Protein Bar options provide a significant helping of vitamins and minerals, especially iron and calcium. If you tend to fall short of these micronutrients, it may be worth adding certain think! bars to your shopping list.”
On the flip side, they contain palm kernel oil or other vegetable oils, which are not the healthiest fats. Palm oil, in particular, can potentially cause inflammation and cardiovascular issues when consumed in large amounts, so moderation is key. (6)
It’s also important to note that some Think! bars contain peanuts and tree nuts, so if you have a nut allergy you will want to avoid those particular bars. For those who are keto and looking for a good protein bar, the Think! Delight Bars are a good option because they only contain 2 to 3 grams of net carbs.
Taste
BarBend fitness writer and expert tester Matt Cummings raves about the taste of these bars. He says, “I tried the Chocolate Fudge flavor, and it gets an easy 5 out of 5 for taste.” He attributes these high marks to the taste being similar to that of a candy bar. And there’s the rub — while this flavor has 0 grams of added sugar, it’s loaded with sugar alcohols that create that delicious taste. If 12 grams of sugar alcohols per bar isn’t your style, you might want to make a different selection.
Texture
Protein bars can often be chalky because they are packed with the best protein powders — which aren’t always optimal in bar form.. Thankfully, think! Protein Bars swerve away from that disaster and nail the texture, too. BarBend expert tester and fitness writer Matt Cummings gives the texture a 4.5 out of 5 saying, “The texture was thick, but not too chewy like other protein bars I’ve tried.”
He expands on these top marks, noting: “A lot of protein bars have a thick, synthetic feel and texture, but think! actually feels like eating a chocolate candy bar. The Chocolate Fudge flavor is delicious and I’d definitely use this again.”
Price Per Serving
When it comes to price, Think! Protein Bars are relatively affordable, ranging from $1.50 to $2.50 per bar depending on where you purchase them and whether you order in bulk or with a subscription. The value is great for what you’re getting. Whether you’re looking to up your protein intake or simply need a quick snack, these bars are a cost-effective option.
Third-Party Testing
So, depending on how much protein you need, you might take these bars to supplement your protein intake — but that doesn’t make these bars actual supplements, legally. They’re actually not considered supplements, just food: you can tell because they come complete with Nutrition Facts instead of Supplement Facts.
Because of this, they aren’t often eligible for third-party testing, because they don’t necessarily need it — food is regulated by the FDA, unlike supplements, so there’s a higher standard for ingredient reporting and safety that these bars automatically come with.
What to Consider Before Buying Think! Protein Bars
Before investing in a protein bar, it’s important to first know your own goals and what you are looking to get out of a protein bar. At BarBend, we’ve tested dozens of different bars to determine which bars are worth trying. These are some of the things I look at as a certified nutrition coach when looking at different protein bars.
- Macros: The macro profile of a bar is an essential part of knowing if the bar can help you reach your nutrition goals. Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RD, says to make sure you’re selecting a High Protein bar from think! if you want a high-protein macros ratio: otherwise, she explains, “the ingredients lists don’t seem to produce a macronutrient ratio that favors protein intake.”
- Whole, Natural Sources: Ideally, we would all be able to get enough protein from natural sources, but if you can’t, protein bars are a great way to get the extra protein. These High Protein choices typically have 20 grams of protein to keep you fueled up.
- Nutrition Goals: Think! offers a variety of bars depending on your goals and dietary needs like keto or dairy-free, so be sure you are clear on those before selecting a bar. You’ll also want to avoid the many grams of sugar alcohols if they don’t agree with your system.
- Budget: While Think! Protein Bars aren’t terribly expensive, it’s still important to determine if this fits into your personal budget.
Think! Protein Bars Vs. Competitors
It’s no surprise that the supplement industry is inundated with options — and the marketing around them can be misleading, especially with bars. Sometimes a bar that claims to be high in protein is actually not (relatively speaking), for example. We’ve compared think! bars with some other bars we like so that you can get an idea of how it compares to other bars out there.
| Think! Protein Bars | RXBars | Legion High-Protein Bars | |
| Price Per Serving | $2.40 or $2.80 depending on flavor | $2.33 | $3.33 |
| Available Flavors | 33 | 10 | 4 |
| Macros | 20 grams of protein, 20-24 grams of carbs, 7-11 grams of fat | 10-12 grams of protein, 22-29 grams of carbs, 6-9 grams of fat | 20 grams of protein, 24-29 grams of carbs, 11-12 grams of fat |
| Calories | 200-240 | 180-230 | 240-250 |
| Sweeteners Used | Stevia, real fruits, cane sugar, monk fruit, and maltitol | Sugar | Erythritol, monk fruit extract, Stevia |
At first glance, Think! Protein Bars are a great option when compared to RXBars and Legion High-Protein Bars. RXBars stands out from the bunch because they use real food ingredients and their formula is simple. Compared to the other two bars here, you’re getting only half the protein and more carbs for the same amount of calories. As a nutrition coach, I do like that RXBars include whole foods, though. Most bars can’t say that.
As a nutrition coach, I love that Legion is made with a whey blend including whey isolate and is third-party tested — something it doesn’t have to do as a food product — and that they show the certificates of each product in the image carousel. Unfortunately, unlike the other two bars, you can’t find these in most grocery stores, convenience stores, or pharmacies. Legion is the more expensive option of the two but to me as a certified nutrition coach, it’s worth the price.
Read our full RXBAR Review.
Places to Buy Think! Protein Bars
- thinkproducts.com
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Target
- 7-Eleven
- Walgreens
- CVS
- ShopRite
- Acme
- Sprouts Farmers Market
- Vitamin Shoppe
- Whole Foods
- Trader Joe’s
- The Fresh Market
- Safeway
- Harris Teeter
- Erewhon Market
- Vons
- Kroger
- H-E-B
- Randalls
Customer Experience and Brand Reputation
Think! is known for its high protein and low sugar content (but again, be aware of the sugar alcohol levels). It’s a generally reliable brand and known for its dessert-like flavors. If you order directly from the think! website, you can save 10% off your first order when you sign up with an email address. You can also save more by signing up for a subscription or ordering in bulk.
These bars are also available in most grocery stores, convenience stores, and pharmacies like CVS, 7-Eleven, or Walgreens. To find out which stores near you carry Think! bars, you can check out the “Where to Buy” tab on their website. This is a great option if you want a one-off bar to sample and find out if it’s worth the hype. You can also save on shipping this way, too.
Think! offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee as long as it was purchased directly from the website and within 90 days of the purchase. All orders over $69 come with free shipping. Think! also offers a no-melt guarantee (what they call “Cool-Ship”), so you can ensure that your bars will reach you without being damaged or melted. This Cool-Ship option comes with a surcharge of $2.99. There is an added fuel charge of $1.25 on orders that do not come with the Cool-Ship.
I like to use Amazon ratings as a relatively unbiased source of reviews and the Amazon ratings for Think! vary per type and flavor, but they are all between 4.2 and 4.5 out of 5 stars and this includes between 151 and 14,545 reviews (depending on the bar). Most have positive reviews for protein content, quality, and sugar content but negative reviews on freshness. There are mixed reviews reported on taste, value for money, texture, and satiety.
[Related: Best Protein Bars for Women]
Our Final Verdict on Think! Protein Bars
As a certified nutrition coach, I’m impressed by the high protein content of these bars, and they seem to be reasonably priced for the amount of protein you are getting, though I don’t like that some of these bars contain high amounts of sugar alcohols, which can have a rough impact on your body.
Think! bars are a great way to get a lot of protein packed into a sweet treat without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor and texture. Overall, they seem like a pretty decent option, especially if you’re picking them up at the grocery store and not ordering online.
Think! Protein Bars FAQs
Do Think! Bars have fake sugar?
The type of sweetener varies depending on the bar. Think! uses stevia, real fruits, cane sugar, monk fruit, and maltitol throughout their formulas. Of these sweeteners, maltitol is the only “fake” sugar. The others come from natural sources. Maltitol is a sugar alcohol that in small doses is not harmful. In large doses, it can cause diarrhea and possible birth defects. (1)
Are Think! Protein Bars low-carb?
In general, protein bars contain at least 20 grams of carbs. Most think! bars have about this amount and therefore, are not low-carb. But don’t fear — Think! does offer a keto-friendly low-carb protein bar. Look for the “Delight” bars. Those bars contain between 2 to 4 net carbs, depending on the bar.
What kind of protein is in Think! Bars?
Depending on the flavor and type, Think! Bars are made with whey protein isolate, milk protein isolate, soy protein isolate, and calcium caseinate. While this blend is a great source of protein, this means these bars are neither dairy-free nor soy-free.
The Plant-Based bars, however, are made with pea protein, brown rice protein, and pumpkin protein making this a good vegan option.
References
- Saraiva, A., Carrascosa, C., Raheem, D., Ramos, F., & Raposo, A. (2020). Maltitol: Analytical Determination Methods, Applications in the Food Industry, Metabolism and Health Impacts. International journal of environmental research and public health, 17(14), 5227. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17145227
- Mäkinen K. K. (2016). 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, 5967907. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/5967907
- National Research Council (US) Subcommittee on the Tenth Edition of the Recommended Dietary Allowances. Recommended Dietary Allowances: 10th Edition. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 1989. 6, Protein and Amino Acids. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK234922/
- Piri Damaghi, M., Mirzababaei, A., Moradi, S., Daneshzad, E., Tavakoli, A., Clark, C. C. T., & Mirzaei, K. (2022). Comparison of the effect of soya protein and whey protein on body composition: a meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials. The British journal of nutrition, 127(6), 885–895. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114521001550
- Msomi, N. Z., Erukainure, O. L., & Islam, M. S. (2021). Suitability of sugar alcohols as antidiabetic supplements: A review. Journal of food and drug analysis, 29(1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.38212/2224-6614.3107
- Kadandale, S., Marten, R., & Smith, R. (2019). The palm oil industry and noncommunicable diseases. Bulletin of the World Health Organization, 97(2), 118–128. https://doi.org/10.2471/BLT.18.220434
