The 13 Best Protein Bars of 2023, According to Taste Testers

When it comes to supplementation, your protein intake is one that gets a lot of attention. A hearty protein powder can do wonders for these needs, but making a shake or toting around a shaker bottle isn’t always feasible, especially when on the go. Protein bars can be worthwhile alternatives for those needing a quick fix of muscle-boosting macros. Additionally, the best protein bars can be your secret weapon for maintaining healthy amino acid levels and keeping hunger at bay between meals. (4)(5)

Take a look online, at your local supplements store, or even at the gas station, however, and you’ll soon realize that there’s practically no end to the assortment of protein bars available to athletes. So, to narrow down your search efforts, we took a deep dive into the category by personally testing 46 different bars, conducting mounds of research, and consulting with customer reviews. After weeks of testing (and plenty of wrappers discarded) we’ve landed on the best protein bars available today.

The 13 Best Protein Bars of 2023

• Best Protein Bar Overall: Ka’Chava Whole Food Bar
• Best Tasting Protein Bar: Onnit Protein Bites
• Best Protein Bar for the Money: Legion High-Protein Bar
• Best Whey Isolate Protein Bar: Onnit Protein Bites
• Best Post-Workout Protein Bar: Legion High-Protein Bar
• Best Protein Bar for Weight Loss: Onnit Protein Bites
• Best Vegan Protein Bar: Ka’Chava Whole Food Bar
• Best Protein Bar for Muscle Gain: Legion High-Protein Bar
• Best Protein Bar for Keto: Nick’s Keto Snack Bar
• Best Crunchy Protein Bar: Promix Crunchy Puff Bar
• Best Natural Protein Bar: Legion High-Protein Bar
• Best Low-Carb Protein Bar: EPIC Protein Bars
• Best Protein Bar for Diabetes: Extend Bar Blood Sugar Control Protein Bars

Editor’s note: 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.

Best Protein Bars Video Review

Check out our best protein bars round-up video for an up-close and personal look at some of the picks on our list. BarBend‘s Nick English walks you through the makeups of our favorite macro-rich snacks, offering some expert insight along the way on what you may like or dislike about them depending on your training goals and nutritional needs.

How We Tested

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. We’re constantly looking to boost our nutrition and performance, so protein bars have been a common placeholder for us within our respective diets.

For this round-up, we looked at a wide swatch of protein bars from various brands, getting down to the finer details outside of just taste and available flavors (don’t worry, those were analyzed as well). We looked for bars offering worthwhile doses of protein, fats, and carbohydrates in each serving. After all, these snacks are intended to be accessory pieces to your overall nutrition rather than direct sources for these vital macronutrients.

We also looked at calories per bar and whether they would be worthwhile solutions for meeting our daily goals. We understand that every diet is different, so we opted to include bars on both the low and high end of the spectrum — between 120 and 250 calories per bar.

Lastly, your daily snacks shouldn’t bankrupt your budget, so we looked for protein bars at a variety of costs. Some came in at less than $2, making them great for a bulk purchase to have at the ready, while others showcased a price tag over $3, which may be best reserved as a special treat.

Best Protein Bar Overall: Ka’Chava Whole Food Bar

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $3.33
• Protein Source: Plant-based
• Macros: 11-13g protein, 16-19g total carbohydrates, 13-14g fats
• Calories: 200-210
• Available Flavors: Chocolate, Peanut Butter

Pros

• These have no sticky, sugary binders and no artificial ingredients. 
• These bars contain 13 grams of fiber per serving, which can be great for hitting daily totals. 
• Each bar contains 200 to 210 calories, perfect for a hearty snack when out and about.

Cons

• Athletes in a bulking phase may want a bar with more than 11 to 13 grams of protein.
• These bars contain allergens such as tree nuts, so sensitive athletes should steer clear.
• The 16 to 19 grams of carbs per bar is not ideal for a low-carb diet.

The best protein bar needs to check many boxes, and taste and a balanced macronutrient profile are two of the most important. The texture and ingredients also have to be right, so you actually enjoy each bite. Ka’Chava’s Whole Food Bar checks all those boxes and then some.

These protein-packed snacks are loaded with 11 to 13 grams of plant-based protein sourced from peas, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, macadamia nuts, and almonds, depending on your choice of chocolate or peanut butter. Regardless of your decision, both flavors are chewy and subtly sweet — one reviewer even said it “tastes like a healthy brownie.” 

Ka’Chava’s Whole Food Bar also pack in 13 grams of fiber. We appreciate this dosage, as it’s nearly half the recommended daily intake. (7) The macros are rounded out with 13 to 14 grams of fat and 16 to 19 grams of carbs. In our opinion, this is a well-rounded ratio, but the carbohydrates may be too high for athletes on a low-carb diet like keto.

We do caution athletes with specific allergen sensitivities to read the full ingredients list before opting for this top-performing protein bar, though. Both available flavors contain tree nuts such as almonds, cashews, coconut, and macadamia. Additionally, the bars are manufactured on equipment that also processes peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, egg, and milk. 

Still, these Ka’Chava bars can be a great alternative when craving a sweet snack or candy bar. The nutrition is on point, and you still get to satisfy your sweet tooth in the process.

[Related: Pretty Close to Perfect Protein Bars From Your Own Kitchen]

Best Tasting Protein Bar: Onnit Protein Bites

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $1.66
• Protein Source: Whey Protein, Milk Protein Isolate
• Macros: 7-9g protein, 12-15g total carbohydrates, 5-7g fats
• Calories: 120-150
• Available Flavors: Cookies and Cream, S’mores, Chocolate Coconut Cashew, Chocolate Cookie Dough, Chocolate Peanut Butter

Pros

• Our tester noted that every flavor is delicious, even comparing them to their favorite candy bars.
• These bars contain between 120 and 150 calories per serving — perfect for weight loss journeys.
• This product is gluten-free for those who have gluten sensitivity. 

Cons

• The bars only contain between seven and nine grams of protein per serving.
• The calorie count is lower than other bars in this round-up.
• Sensitive athletes may want to forgo this option, since it contains tree nuts, soy, and other allergens.

Your protein snack should be enjoyable, so you are actually looking forward to meeting your protein intake. Onnit’s Protein Bites are almost scarily good — our tester commented that eating one of these bars is like enjoying your favorite candy bar.

Despite their enticing sweetness, Onnit’s Protein Bites contain between five and seven grams of sugar while also delivering between seven and nine grams of a protein blend containing whey protein and milk protein isolate. Would you rely on these snacks as full-blown meal replacements? No, the calorie count is too low to substitute for a dish. For a quick post-meal dessert, however, they’re absolutely divine.

There’s also the budget-friendly price point that gives these protein bars the edge over other options we tested. The Cookies and Cream, S’mores, Chocolate Coconut Cashew, Chocolate Cookie Dough, and Chocolate Peanut Butter offerings come in boxes of 24 for roughly $40. That equates to just $1.66 per bar. That’s well below the average $2.88 price of a chocolate bar, with the added perks of worthwhile macronutrients. (8)

These products are also gluten-free, but they do contain tree nuts, milk, soy, and sesame, so be cautious if you have an allergy. If you’re able to indulge in these tasty treats, though, our tester states that there is no bad option amongst the available flavors. Find a taste that tickles your palette and snack away.

Best Budget Protein Bar: Legion High-Protein Bar

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $3.33
• Protein Source: Whey Isolate, Whey Hydrolysate, Whey Concentrate
• Macros: 20g protein, 24-38g total carbohydrates, 6-12g fats
• Calories: 240-250
• Available Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Jelly, S’mores

Pros

• The $3.33 price tag is affordable when you account for the large 20-gram protein dosage.
• These bars are free of sugar alcohols, gluten, and artificial sweeteners.
• The 240 to 250 calories per bar can be great for a meal alternative.

Cons

• Our tester noted that the bars are drier than expected and take a while to chew.
• These bars contain 24 to 38 grams of carbs, which may be too high for low-carb diets.
• There’s no option to subscribe for repeat orders and lower price points.

Okay, so Legion’s High-Protein Bar may not sound like the best budget-friendly option when you compare the $3.33 per bar to other options in this round-up. While we admit that the cost is high, the value of this high-calorie, high-protein snack is definitely worth its weight. Each bar comes with 20 grams of a protein blend containing whey isolate, whey hydrolysate, and whey concentrate, as well as 240 to 250 calories. That’s enough to replace a small meal throughout your day.

We also liked how Legion keeps these bars well-rounded and clean with six to 12 grams of fat, 24 to 38 grams of carbohydrates, and a makeup that’s free of any sugar alcohols, gluten, or artificial sweeteners. There’s also a good mix of flavors available, from Chocolate Peanut Butter and Blueberry Muffin, to Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Jelly, and S’mores.

As far as tastes go, though, our testers found these bars to be a mixed bag. While some offerings like Chocolate Peanut Butter and S’mores were easily finished with pleasure, others — like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough — proved to be underwhelming. Additionally, the looks of each protein bar can have you assume that each bite will be moist and comforting, but in reality, our testers said that the bars were slightly dry. Also, Legion’s High-Protein Bars are also somewhat dense, which can lead to excessive chewing.

If you’re looking for a light, low-calorie protein snack to hold you over between meals, this isn’t the protein bar for you. But if you want a hearty treat that can double as a meal replacement when on the go, definitely consider this value-riddled bite from Legion.

Best Whey Isolate Protein Bar: Onnit Protein Bites

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $1.66
• Protein Source: Whey Protein, Milk Protein Isolate
• Macros: 7-9g protein, 12-15g total carbohydrates, 5-7g fats
• Calories: 120-150
• Available Flavors: Cookies and Cream, S’mores, Chocolate Coconut Cashew, Chocolate Cookie Dough, Chocolate Peanut Butter

Pros

• These bars contain milk protein isolate as part of their protein blend.
• Each serving contains between seven and nine grams of protein per serving.
• Our tester noted zero chalky aftertaste with any of the available flavors.

Cons

• These aren’t a recommended option for athletes allergic to tree nuts, milk, soy, or sesame. 
• The bars are only 120 to 150 calories per serving, which isn’t ideal for a meal replacement option.
• The 12 to 15 carbs per bar may be too much for low-carb diets.

Containing high-quality grass-fed milk protein isolate and a blend of 60 plant nutrients, this product from Onnit is great to turn to when a craving hits, or you want a solid protein source containing seven to nine grams of the macronutrient. Whey protein isolate is a leaner source of protein than its concentrated counterpart and is often easier to digest, according to studies. (13) So, having a protein bar that features this protein source can be excellent for snacking without fear of stomach discomfort once you’ve tossed the wrapper in the trash. 

The five available flavors, according to our tester, mimic the taste of your favorite candy bars, too, so there’s some sweetness to go along with the worthwhile nutritional information. Don’t let the tastes fool you, though. Onnit’s Protein Bites contain just five to seven grams of sugar per serving. Additionally, the six to seven grams of dietary fiber can be a great hit to keep hunger at bay in-between your larger daily meals.

In testing, we used these Onnit protein bars more as a post-meal dessert, which we think is the best category for this snack. There are only seven to nine grams of protein and between 120 and 150 calories per serving. Thinking of these bars as a quick treat can be better than classifying them as a full meal replacement, in our opinion.

Additionally, the bars feature carb counts between 12 and 15 grams. While this dosage is lower than other bars in this round-up, it still may be too much for athletes following a strict low-carb diet. Onnit Protein Bites are gluten-free, though, which could be great for athletes dealing with gluten sensitivity.

Best Post-Workout Protein Bar: Legion High-Protein Bar

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $3.33
• Protein Source: Whey Isolate, Whey Hydrolysate, Whey Concentrate
• Macros: 20g protein, 24-38g total carbohydrates, 6-12g fats
• Calories: 240-250
• Available Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Jelly, S’mores

Pros

• This bar offers solid post-workout macros with up to 12 grams of fat and 20 grams of protein.
• There are five flavors to choose from, which can cater to multiple palettes.
• The 240 to 250 calories per bar can be great for replenishing your body post-training.

Cons

• The calorie count may be too high for athletes going through a cut.
• There are some allergens present in each flavor, including tree nuts.
• The $3.33 per bar price tag may not fit some budgets.

Sometimes, when you’re done with your workout and just want to get something in your stomach before the drive home from the gym, a protein bar can come in handy. Legion’s High-Protein Bar can be a great gym bag addition for these cases.

Legion bars have a whopping six to 12 grams of fat — and because fats can digest slower than carbs, they aren’t as likely to give you an energy spike and crash later. (10) This can help you maintain a steady energy level after an intense training session instead of feeling pumped up then very wiped out. Of course, you want to replenish those carbohydrates post-workout, too, but having this amount of fat can be good for avoiding any unwanted downturns.

These bars also pack 20 grams of a protein blend containing whey isolate, whey hydrolysate, and whey concentrate into each flavor offering along with 240 to 250 calories, which can help give your body the refueling you need after going hard in the gym.

While our testers appreciated the five available flavors in testing, they were quick to note a recurring theme across the board. All of the bars were somewhat dry and required a good bit of chewing to get them down. Additionally, our testers noted that the chocolate chip cookie dough flavoring didn’t quite mimic the taste of actual cookie dough. This could be a detriment to athletes really favoring this palette.

Finally, we understand that Legion’s High-Protein Bar is on the expensive side, especially when compared to other options in this guide. While the $3.33 price tag may not suit all wallets, we feel the macronutrient makeup and post-workout benefits warrant the cost.

Best Protein Bar for Weight Loss: Onnit Protein Bites

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $1.66
• Protein Source: Whey Protein, Milk Protein Isolate
• Macros: 7-9g protein, 12-15g total carbohydrates, 5-7g fats
• Calories: 120-150
• Available Flavors: Cookies and Cream, S’mores, Chocolate Coconut Cashew, Chocolate Cookie Dough, Chocolate Peanut Butter

Pros

• These bars contain just 120 to 150 calories per serving, depending on the flavor.
• Onnit’s Protein Bites are gluten-free — perfect for gluten-sensitive athletes.
• The included six to seven grams of fiber can be good for satiation between meals.

Cons

• Those looking to gain muscle can find bars with higher caloric content.
• These have decent protein but there are more protein-dense alternatives out there.

Protein bars can be great for supplementing your weight loss journey, provided the calories don’t throw you out of a caloric deficit. (9) Thankfully, these Protein Bites from Onnit contain just 120 to 150 calories per bar, which can be great for taking in a quick snack without weighing down your daily totals.

We love these bars on taste alone — our tester commented how all of the flavors are similar to that of a candy bar — but the nutritional value within these treats is worthwhile, too. The Cookies and Cream, S’mores, Chocolate Coconut Cashew, Chocolate Cookie Dough, and Chocolate Peanut Butter offerings can deliver between seven and nine grams of a protein blend containing whey protein and milk protein isolate per bar, along with 12 to 15 grams of carbs, and six to seven grams of dietary fiber. They may not replace an entire meal with that makeup, but they can definitely hold you over between meals.

Additionally, Onnit Protein Bites are gluten-free, which can be ideal for athletes that need to account for gluten sensitivity. That said, though, they do contain tree nuts, milk, soy, and sesame. So, those that need to avoid these allergens may be wise to opt for a different protein bar.

Finally, while Onnit Protein Bites can be great for your aspirations to slim down, they can keep your wallet fat thanks to a low price tag. At just $1.66 per bar, these are some of the cheapest snacks we had the pleasure of testing. 

Best Vegan Protein Bars: Ka’Chava Whole Food Bar

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $3.33
• Protein Source: Plant-based
• Macros: 11-13g protein, 16-19g total carbohydrates, 13-14g fats
• Calories: 200-210
• Available Flavors: Chocolate, Peanut Butter

Pros

• The bars are 100 percent plant-based with protein sourced from peas, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, and other ingredients.
• The 13 grams of fiber can help with staving off hunger in-between meals.
• Ka’Chava’s bars use zero sugary binders and artificial sweeteners.

Cons

• Other options have higher protein content, but they’re not necessarily vegan-friendly.
• The 200 to 210 calories per bar is less of a meal replacement and more of a snack.

If you follow a vegan diet, it can be difficult at times to find optimal sources of protein. These Ka’Chava Whole Food Bars pack in between 11 and 13 grams of plant-based protein sourced from peas, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, macadamia nuts, and almonds per bar, yet retain a 100 percent plant-based makeup. The result? A tasty treat that’s rich in flavor, texture, and worthwhile macronutrients.

Additionally, we appreciate the included 13 grams of fiber per bar, which our tester said was excellent for staving off hunger in-between meals throughout the day. “The bars are fantastic, keeps me full and I don’t crave for other types of sweetness,” adds one positive customer review.

There’s also between 200 and 210 calories per bar, depending on your choice between the available chocolate or peanut butter flavors. This can be excellent for maintaining your caloric intake throughout the day, but we feel the numbers are a little lacking if you’re trying to replace a full-blown meal. There are other protein bars out there containing higher caloric counts for those scenarios.

Lastly, the Ka’Chava Whole Food Bars are priced reasonably at $3.33 per bar. They’re not the cheapest snacks in this round-up, but we’re willing to pay the upcharge for a cleaner makeup that’s free of any artificial ingredients or sticky, sugary binders. If your desire is to supplement your plant-based nutrition plan, these can be an excellent option to have at the ready before a training session or when craving a sweet treat.

Best Protein Bar for Muscle Gain: Legion High-Protein Bar

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $3.33
• Protein Source: Whey Isolate, Whey Hydrolysate, Whey Concentrate
• Macros: 20g protein, 24-38g total carbohydrates, 6-12g fats
• Calories: 240-250
• Available Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Jelly, S’mores

Pros

• Athletes looking to gain muscle will appreciate the 20 grams of protein in each bar.
• The bars are between 240 and 250 calories, which can serve as a reasonable meal replacement.
• These bars are free of artificial sweeteners, dyes, and flavors.

Cons

• Athletes in a weight loss journey or cutting phase should opt for a lower calorie count.
• Our testers note that the bars can take a lot of chewing. 

Looking to gain some muscle? You’ll need a protein bar that’s rich in proteins, carbs, and fats. This macro-dense snack from Legion can be excellent for such endeavors, boasting formulations containing 20 grams of a protein blend containing whey isolate, whey hydrolysate, and whey concentrate, between six and 12 grams of fat, and 24 to 38 grams of carbohydrates.

Legion’s High-Protein Bar also earns our praise thanks to its high caloric count per bar. The five available flavors of Chocolate Peanut Butter, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Jelly, and S’mores can deliver between 240 and 250 calories per serving. This means that this protein bar can serve as a worthwhile meal replacement if you’re in a pinch or on the go.

Our testers appreciated the macro makeup of this protein bar and felt it was a nice addition to their nutrition regimen. That said, though, getting the bars down can prove to be a workout in itself. Our testers routinely noted that the bars were drier than expected, and they needed to chew the bars aggressively in order to swallow the dense bits.

Flavor notes aside, these can still be a worthwhile pick for any athlete looking to gain a little size. Naturally, they won’t fit for everyone, particularly those on a cut or athletes currently trying to lose weight alongside their muscle gain, but Legion’s High-Protein Bar is still a quality pick for when pumping up is the name of the game.

Best Keto Protein Bar: Nick’s Keto Snack Bar

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $1.99
• Protein Source: Milk Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Concentrate, Hydrolyzed Casein
• Macros: 12-15g protein, 20-24g total carbohydrates, 6-10g fats
• Calories: 160-190
• Available Flavors: Choklad Peanot, Karamell Choklad, Kristi Nougat, Mint Chocolate, Almond Chocolate, Triple Chocolate, Premium Variety Pack

Pros

• With only four grams of net carbs and up to 10 grams of fat per bar, these are ideal for those on a keto diet. 
• These have between 160 and 190 calories per bar, ideal for quick snacking between meals.
• Each bar delivers between 12 and 15 grams of protein per serving. 

Cons

• The calorie count may be too low for athletes needing a meal replacement bar.
• There’s no allergen info available, but these bars do contain nuts.

Looking to limit your carbs and chow on some protein bars that are high in fat instead? If you’re keto, this protein bar can be a great option for you.

It can be tough to find a good keto protein bar, but Nick’s Keto Snack Bar takes care of business. Each bar only has four net grams of carbs, 10 grams of fat, and two grams of sugar — but the 12 to 15 grams of protein can keep you fueled up. The protein blend includes milk protein concentrate, whey protein concentrate and hydrolyzed casein. There are no added sugars in these bars, but their full chunks of nuts and layers of texture make these protein bars feel like candy bars. Naturally, though, we advise those sensitive to nut allergens to forgo this protein bar option.

As tasty as these bars are, though, we don’t recommend them for athletes looking to replace a meal with a worthwhile protein bar. The calorie count sits between 160 and 190 depending on the flavor, which is sufficient for a snack, but not enough to substitute for a dish containing whole foods.

Best Crunchy Protein Bar: Promix Crunchy Puff Bar

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $2.67
• Protein Source: Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate
• Macros: 14-15g protein, 16-17g total carbohydrates, 3-4.5g fats
• Calories: 150-160 
• Available Flavors: Vanilla, Snickerdoodle, Chocolate Chip, Mint Chocolate, Blueberries and Cream, Strawberries and Cream, Variety Pack

Pros

• The “puffs” of this protein bar give it a unique, crunchy texture, similar to a Rice Krispies Treat.
• Promix’s bars come in six great flavors.
• These are third-party tested, so you get all-natural ingredients and transparency.

Cons

• The 14 to 15 grams of protein per serving is lower than others in this guide.
• Anyone who is allergic to or doesn’t like marshmallows should avoid this product. 

Texture is a big part of what makes food enjoyable. If you’re tired of the same old grainy protein bar texture, you might want to pick up one of these snacks that are more Rice Krispies Treat than chocolate bar thanks to the crunchy makeup of the individual “puffs.” They feature whole food ingredients and third-party testing results available to view for each product — you’ll see that testing is done by Convance and Eurofins Laboratories right on their website.

Our tester appreciated the flavor profile of these unique protein snacks, which they noted as light and not too rich. Each puff is airy rather than dense, which creates that pleasing crunch in every bite. It reminded them of their favorite treats from elementary school and definitely served as a nice alternative to other, dense bars they’ve used in the past.

Additionally, these Promix Crunchy Puff Bars contain between 14 and 15 grams of a protein blend containing whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate, along with 150 to 160 calories per serving. This can make for a great in-between meals snack, or a nice treat after dinner.

The price is also approachable at $2.67 per serving, albeit slightly higher than some protein bars we included in this round-up. For the uniqueness and interesting makeup, though, we’re willing to pay the extra coin and get a nice dose of nostalgia along with our daily macros.

Best Natural Protein Bar: Legion High-Protein Bar

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $3.33
• Protein Source: Whey Isolate, Whey Hydrolysate, Whey Concentrate
• Macros: 20g protein, 24-38g total carbohydrates, 6-12g fats
• Calories: 240-250
• Available Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Jelly, S’mores

Pros

• These bars are free of any artificial sweeteners, dyes, or flavors.
• All of the flavors come with 20 grams of protein, which rivals some protein powders.
• There are between 240 and 250 calories per bar, which can be ideal for a quick meal replacement.

Cons

• The $3.33 price tag can be a good chunk of change for some athletes.
• Our testers state that the bars can be dry, even despite their moist-looking appearance.

If you’re looking for a protein-rich bar that’s free of any artificial ingredients, Legion has you covered. We liked how these bars contain 20 grams of a protein blend containing whey isolate, whey hydrolysate, and whey concentrate per serving while abstaining from any artificial sweeteners, dyes, colors, and, as the brand puts it, “Other chemical junk.” Additionally, Legion provides you with a good mix of flavor options from Chocolate Peanut Butter and Blueberry Muffin, to Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter Jelly, and S’mores.

Our testers do note, though, that you should not view these protein bars as a quick snack. Getting through these treats containing a whopping 240 to 250 calories per serving takes some chewing … literally. Plus, our testers said that there’s an apparent dryness to the bars, which was surprising given the snack’s moist-looking texture.

Despite the extensive chewing, we were pleased with how these bars could round out our diet on occasion, even serving as quick meal replacements when away from our prepped dishes. We understand, though, that using these protein bars in a regular rotation can begin to add up in the price department. At $3.33 per bar, they’re one of the more expensive profiles in this guide.

Best Low-Carb Protein Bar: EPIC Bars

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $2.77
• Protein Source: Meat-based
• Macros: 7-11g protein, 1-8g total carbohydrates, 4.5-11g fats
• Calories: 70-170 
• Available Flavors: Bison with Beef + Sea Salt + Pepper, Bison Bacon Cranberry, Venison Sea Salt Pepper, Chicken Sriracha, Beef Apple Bacon, Uncured Bacon + Pork, Beef Sea Salt + Pepper, Beef Jalapeño, Beef Barbacoa-Inspired, Chicken BBQ Seasoned, Variety Pack, Keto Friendly Variety Pack

Pros

• These bars only have between one and eight grams of carbs.
• Unlike most bars, these are meat-based, much like jerky.
• These bars have low sugar content.

Cons

• These are completely animal-based, which may not align with certain diet plans.
• There are more cost-friendly protein bars out there.
• The seven to 13 grams of protein per serving may be low for athletes in a bulking phase.

There are not too many true low-carb protein bars on the market. Most protein bars will have higher fiber content with minimal carbs, which will be promoted as a lower net carb content. Although, with respect to true carb minimalism, few bars truly accomplish this. At a meager one to three carbs per bar, EPIC Bars are the perfect fit for the best low-carb protein bar. 

You can buy bars made from a variety of meat sources, including pig, chicken, beef and bison. They are Whole-30, Keto-approved and are free of GMOs. Depending on the flavor you choose, they pack between seven and 13 grams of protein, five to 13 grams of fat, and one and eight grams of carbs. They’re also Paleo-friendly.

Our tester noted that these bars can be excellent for avid meat eaters, saying each flavor is robust and balanced well. Additionally, they stated that EPIC bars keep surprisingly well during long trips, making them an excellent addition to your hiking setup or for long road trips. 

Naturally, the animal-based makeup of these treats doesn’t align with certain diets. We wouldn’t recommend these bars for athletes that are plant-based in their nutrition (we have other recommendations for those needs). Still, if you’re looking to mix things up and want a unique flavor to compliment your daily nutrition, consider EPIC’s lineup of animal-based protein snacks.

Read our full EPIC Protein Bars Review.

Best Protein Bar for Diabetics: Extend Bar Blood Sugar Control Protein Bars

Specs

• Price Per Bar: $2.30
• Protein Source: Whey Protein Isolate, Milk Protein, Isolated Soy Protein
• Macros: 9-12g protein, 20-25g total carbohydrates, 2.5-5g fats
• Calories: 130-160
• Available Flavors: Yogurt + Berry, Chocolate + Caramel, Yogurt + Lemon, Rich Chocolate, Chocolate + Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter, Best Sellers Variety Pack

Pros

• These bars have at most one gram of sugar, ideal for athletes needing to control their blood sugar.
• The 20 to 25 grams of carbs can be great for keeping energy levels in check throughout the day.
• If you like a variety of flavors, these bars have six to choose from.

Cons

• The calorie count may be too low to support any muscle-gaining ventures.
• You only get about nine to 12 grams of protein per bar.

Extend Bars contain between nine and 12 grams of a protein blend containing whey protein isolate, milk protein, and isolated soy protein, and they were created with blood sugar regulation in mind. Their ingredients are low-glycemic, meaning that they’re more slowly absorbed into your bloodstream — leading to more stable blood sugar levels as you digest. 

“My husband is a diabetic and we bought Extend bars as a snack that is able to be enjoyed because [they contain] no sugar and no net carbs,” notes one positive customer review. “We are delighted at how tasty these are.”

The bars have six flavors: Chocolate and Caramel, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Rich Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Yogurt and Lemon, and Yogurt and Berry. Depending on the flavor, your bar will have between 130 and 160 calories, 20 to 25 grams of carbs, and 2.5 to five grams of fat. Regardless of your chosen flavor, though, your protein bar won’t contain added sugar. 

We appreciate this makeup, but want to point out that certain flavors do feature some sugar within the nutritional formulation. Both of the peanut butter flavors have zero grams of total sugar, while Chocolate and Caramel and Yogurt and Berry both have only one gram of total sugar.

If you’re trying to avoid a sugar high (as well as the resulting crash), Extend Bars might be able to help with their slow-release carbs and no added sugars. They’re especially ideal for people with diabetes who are constantly watching their blood sugar levels. 

How We Chose the Best Protein Bars

There are loads of protein bars to choose from, each with their own dosages, flavor offerings, and price points. To help curate this well-rounded guide, we focused on a handful of important factors that can help you easily determine which snack is best for your pantry.

Macronutrients

We’re recreational strength athletes that are always on the lookout for the optimal snack to power us through workouts, work, and our day-to-day activities. A great protein bar will have macronutrients that promote muscle recovery and satiation while also sometimes keeping calories on the lower end of the spectrum.

Additionally, we understand that different athletes have different needs and wants when it comes to nutrition. So, while our testing primarily focused on the protein dosages of each bar, we included our findings as they related to carb and fat totals, too. We searched for options containing at least seven grams of protein, and highlighted higher totals as good picks for goals such as muscle gain or post-workout recovery.

Calories Per Bar

There’s no denying that protein bars aren’t the lowest calorie snacks on the market. That said, we looked for bars ranging in calories in an effort to give you a variety of options suitable for different needs. 

In testing, we found options between 120 and 250 calories per bar. Lower-calorie bars were included for snacking and weight loss needs, while those with higher counts served as solid options for weight gain and meal replacement.

Taste and Experience

Taste can be a subjective term for most, but we looked for protein bars that appealed to our palettes, as you’d likely expect. We included our notes on flavors, as we feel you’re likely to opt for a pick if you know others enjoy the taste. Additionally, we searched for protein bars offering some sense of variety in flavors. While many of our included profiles showcased a chocolate-rich variety, we also featured a handful offering more fruit-based options like blueberry or lemon.

As far as experiences go, we didn’t have any issues regarding digestion or post-consumption distress with any of our included protein bars. So, we instead honed in on how easily the bars were to eat. If we had to really chew through a dense makeup, we highlighted that experience in our notes above. If a profile was soft and delectable, those points also made their way into our guide.

Price

Protein bars should easily fit within your budget as a nice snack or quick alternative to a meal when in a pinch. We searched for bars and bites at a variety of price points, with many coming in between $1.50 and $3.50 per serving. We were able to find respectable protein and calorie counts at all price points, but we did notice that bars containing particularly high doses of protein typically cost more.

We attribute this price increase to the added calories, as well, and why we recommended such profiles for meal replacement and occasional snacking over daily satiation.

The Different Types of Protein Bars

When looking at protein bars, you’re likely to find differences within each makeup. Some may contain gluten or artificial ingredients, while others contain a completely plant-based formulation. We could really get into the weeds when it comes to all the differentiators between brands and makeups, so for the sake of simplicity, let’s focus on one area that matters most in protein bars — the protein source. (11)

Animal-Based

Many of the top protein bars utilize whey as a protein source. Whey is a derivative of milk, and therefore an animal-based source of protein. It comes from the process of making cheese, and can be broken down into a concentrate. That concentrate can be broken down even further into a protein isolate, which is often considered a gold standard in protein bars and powders.

Other animal-based protein sources include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and other dairy products. While these can be used in protein blends for certain protein bars — or even primary sources, as seen in EPIC’s lineup of meat-based bars — whey or milk-derived protein is still the most common.

Plant-Based

While dairy and animal-based protein sources are heavily represented in the protein bar category, there are other plant-based options out there that can still deliver worthwhile macro dosages. 

Beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are heavily used in plant-based protein bars — many of which we’ve included in this guide. These options can be great for athletes following strict diets, or those sensitive to dairy or other animal products.

While plant-based protein bars can be great for such nutritional needs, we do recommend paying close attention to the listed calories in bars of this type. Nuts, for example, can be rich in protein and fat, but tend to be more calorie dense than other options. (12) 

The Benefits of Protein Bars

Protein bars can be worthwhile alternatives to protein shakes and whole foods every now and again, giving your palette a nice mix-up while still delivering hearty helpings of vital macronutrients. Below are some of the benefits that can come with adding these tasty treats to your repertoire.

Additional Protein Intake

Whether you’re looking to gain muscle, decrease body fat, or both, studies suggest that focusing on protein intake can help. According to a 2020 study, getting a lot of protein in your diet can help increase muscle mass and decrease body fat. (1) So, finding the right protein bar for you can potentially help you achieve any aesthetic goals you might have while maintaining your energy levels.

Boosted Post-Workout Recovery

Protein bars can also come in handy when you’re training extra hard. A 2018 study found that a diet high in protein can help improve your muscles’ recovery after a hard training session. (2) So whether you’re thinking about your long term goals (muscle gain, for example) or short term gain (improving recovery), protein bars might be helpful.

Convenience

Plus, protein bars can be a convenient and healthy snack to have on hand. Even if you aren’t trying to meet any particular fitness goals, it can be better for your long term health to reach for a protein bar rather than a candy bar when your sweet tooth hits. 

When Should You Eat Protein Bars?

No matter what fitness gossip you hear in the weight room, it’s not necessary to gulp down a particular amount of protein within minutes of leaving the gym. Nutrient timing is largely individualized — the infamous post-anabolic workout window won’t slam shut if you don’t consume your protein within an hour of finishing your workout. (3)

That said, your workout schedule might prevent you from being able to eat a full meal within a few hours of training. Or, you might just like having a protein bar on hand — especially if you travel around a lot during the day, or train early in the morning on an empty stomach. In those cases, you can eat protein bars when your body feels like you need them. You won’t jeopardize your gains by not wolfing it down immediately after a sweat session.

Calculating Your Protein

Protein is the building block of the muscle and is responsible for muscle gain (if you’re in a caloric surplus) or muscle retention (if you’re in a caloric deficit). (11) According to Harvard Health, the recommended dietary intake for protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, or 0.36 grams per pound. (14) Rather than breaking out the calculator to confirm your daily servings, use our protein intake calculator to figure out how much you need.

What To Consider When Buying Protein Bars

Okay, so finding the ideal protein bar for your nutritional needs may seem like a daunting task with all the options and formulations available. It doesn’t need to be a complicated matter, though, if you keep the following factors in mind when searching through the available snacks on the market.

Training Goals

When you’re thinking about investing in protein bars, you want to consider your training goals and how you want your supplements to fuel your progress. In the gym, are you mostly training right now to build muscle? To lose weight? Regardless, you’ll want a protein bar that matches what you’re putting your body through during workouts. Check to see whether the bar you’re interested in is on the upper or lower end of the protein bar calorie range, typically between 150 and 300 calories.

Eating Habits

Which protein bar is right for you also depends on your eating habits throughout the day. Do you tend to be on the run after your workout? You may need a bar that’s higher in protein to make sure you are properly refueling post-workout. Or, maybe, you just want a protein bar to keep in your bag to stave off hunger between meals. In that case, it might be less about total protein levels and more about something that’s going to taste good.

In the end, be sure to look for a protein bar that compliments your regular intake rather than throws your nutrition out of whack. The best nutrition plan is one containing plenty of whole foods and dishes, therefore your protein bars should act as accessory pieces instead of the leading roles.

Dietary Needs

Thinking about what your body and mind need from your food is also of primary importance. If you don’t want to count calories, try to check out the ingredients instead. Do you want something with pure cane sugar or sweeteners like honey? Maybe it’s most important to you that your protein bar be as unprocessed as possible and free of any artificial ingredients.

You’ll also need to think about your specific dietary needs and restrictions when deciding on a protein bar. If you follow a diet such as keto, Paleo, veganism, or others, be sure to look and see if your protein bar’s formulation fits within your guidelines.

Flavor

Of course, you’re going to find more enjoyment and positivity with your protein bar selection if the flavor pleases your palette. Make sure your protein bar offers an enticing taste that you’d likely enjoy on a regular basis. It can also be helpful to go with a bar offering multiple flavors. This can give you some leeway down the road if you begin to suffer some flavor fatigue. The additional flavor variety can be helpful in keeping your formulations relatively the same while still making for a tasty treat.

Price

Finally, protein bars are a nice snack to have on hand, but they shouldn’t be a major detriment to your daily budget. Most bars will range in prices from roughly $1.50 to $3.50, so be sure you can afford your daily treat before opting for a specific profile.

If you’re really intrigued by a more expensive protein bar, consider saving that specific formulation for special occasions. This can be a good way to motivate yourself in training while also keeping your needs satisfied with a worthwhile snack.

Final Word

If you’re looking to add an extra source of protein — and flavor — to your meal plans, the protein bars on this list should do the trick. Whether you’re in a cutting phase, trying to bulk up, are vegan, or love animal meat more than any other type of food, there’s a protein bar out there for you.

When you’re selecting a protein bar, think about your training goals, the ways you like to eat, and the tastes that make you smile. You’re sure to find an option to suit your needs on this list — and then all you have to do is toss a bar in your gym bag and enjoy.

FAQs

References

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2. Davies, R. W., Carson, B. P., & Jakeman, P. M. (2018). The effect of whey protein supplementation on the temporal recovery of muscle function following resistance training: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients, 10(2), 221.
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4. Williams, G., Noakes, M., Keogh, J., Foster, P., & Clifton, P. (2006). High protein high fibre snack bars reduce food intake and improve short term glucose and insulin profiles compared with high fat snack bars. Asia Pacific journal of clinical nutrition. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17077058/
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8. Wunsch, N.-G. (2020, November 25). U.S. candy and chocolate average price by segment 2019 L statistic. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/643582/average-unit-price-candy-and-chocolate-us-by-segment/ 
9. Kim, J. Y. (2021). Optimal Diet Strategies for weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome, 30(1), 20–31. 
10. Collier, G., McLean, A., & O’Dea, K. (1984). Effect of co-ingestion of fat on the metabolic responses to slowly and rapidly absorbed carbohydrates. Diabetologia, 26(1). 
11. Protein. The Nutrition Source. (2023, October 19). https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/protein/
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14. How much protein do you need every day?. Harvard Health. (2023, June 22). https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-much-protein-do-you-need-every-day-201506188096