Even though many people already get all the protein they need every day, having on-the-go snacks such as protein bars can be helpful when you're in a pinch. With so many protein bars on store shelves, finding the best one for your tastes and preferences can be difficult and overwhelming. But whether you’re hiking, commuting or just packing light, a good snack -- and maybe a compact Bluetooth speaker -- can make the journey more enjoyable.
To help narrow down the selection, I consulted dietitians and other experts to determine exactly what to look for when shopping for the best protein bar. They also revealed which ingredients you should avoid and which are the best if you have dietary restrictions.
What types of protein bars are there?
When you shop for protein bars, you'll see an array of choices. The options include whey- or casein-based (consisting of dairy), plant-based (which may be made up of soy, peas, seeds or nuts) and gluten-free bars. Others will specify if they're meant to be meal replacements.
Key ingredients to look for in a protein bar
One of the first things you should consider when shopping for protein bars is the ingredients. "The parts of the nutrition label I would look at right off the bat are the serving size, calories, the amount of protein and added sugars," said Clara Nosek, a non-diet registered dietitian. If you're unsure what to look for, our experts break down what to look for on the nutrition label.
Protein
One of the first things to look for in a protein bar is the protein content per serving. "Anything over 12 grams is ideal, while 20 to 25 grams is optimal," explained Jaclyn Sklaver, a certified nutrition specialist, dietitian and owner of Athleats Nutrition.
You'll probably notice some protein bars with 12 grams of protein or less, which she says serves better as a snack bar. You'll also want to check where the protein is coming from. You'll find protein bars are made up of either whey, peas or soy protein.
Fiber
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