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11 Best Protein Bars of 2024, According to Dietitians and Taste Testers

Our nutritionists share the best tasting protein bars for women and men that are actually good for you.

10 best protein bars of 2023, according to dietitians and taste testerspinterest

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Like protein shakes, a protein bar can be a convenient, filling snack when you're on-the-go. These days, there are all sorts on supermarket shelves, from whey protein to plant-based options that cater to vegans and vegetarians. Not to mention unique flavors — who knew that birthday cake and sprinkle donuts could be transformed into protein bar form?

For many of these products, the nutrition claims are often quite lofty. While many might associate the word “protein” with health, a lot of these bars can be full of sugar, artificial ingredients and saturated fats. In fact, if you read the nutrition labels, you may find that some more closely resemble that of a candy bar.

Since some bars have more protein than others, consider your individual needs and dietary preferences. "For an average person looking to get a satisfying dose of protein as a snack, I typically suggest aiming for at least 10 grams," said Kelly Jones M.S., R.D., C.S.S.D., a sports dietitian for pro athletes and active families. "For someone who is more fitness-minded, greater amounts can be helpful. For those with specific goals related to physical performance and muscle mass, 20 grams is great," she added.

Registered dietitians in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab analyzed dozens of protein bars, evaluating ingredients, nutrition labels and flavor profiles. We then had taste testers sample products for feedback on flavor, texture, consistency and more. After careful consideration, we rounded up our top choices that provide great nutrition and taste.

1
Best Overall

RXBAR Protein Bar (12 count)

Protein Bar (12 count)
Pros
  • Gluten-free and naturally sweetened with dates
  • Large variety of flavors
  • Good source of fiber and protein
Cons
  • Texture has mixed reviews

Wholesome foods and simple ingredient lists are the focus of this popular snack brand. This tasty bar comes in a wide variety of flavors and is loaded with 12 grams of protein, thanks to nutrient-dense egg whites. Plus, it's a good source of fiber — the combo of protein and fiber can help keep you full for longer.

Our registered dietitians pointed out that this delicious bar is gluten-free, sweetened with dates for binding purposes and contain no added sugar. Plant-based bars, mini bars and high-protein breakfast bars are also available from the brand and were all hits with members of our panel.

Testers said that the classic RX Protein bar are very tasty and satisfying, and one described it as "the perfect snack." Chocolate Sea Salt and Peanut Butter Chocolate were both top picks with testers. But the sheer volume of different flavors — from Blueberry and Banana Chocolate Walnut to Mint Chocolate and Coconut Chocolate — is what really wowed us. The texture had some mixed reviews, but the bar does hold together well.

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 52g): 210 cal, 9g total fat, 2g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 260mg sodium, 23g carb, 5g fiber, 13g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 12g protein
  • Flavors: Vanilla Almond, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Sea Salt, Coconut Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Maple Sea Salt, Banana Chocolate Walnut, Chocolate Raspberry, Mint Chocolate, Mixed Berry, Chocolate Sea Salt, Blueberry, Strawberry and seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Spice
  • Protein type: Egg whites
2
Best Value

B.T.R. Nation Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bliss Bar (12 count)

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bliss Bar (12 count)
Credit: B.T.R. Nation
Pros
  • Plant-based ingredients
  • No added sugars, natural or artificial flavors
  • Incorporates superfoods and adaptogens
Cons
  • Some may find monk fruit extract has an aftertaste

You'll find no added sugars, natural or artificial flavors, gums or fillers in this bar from B.T.R. Nation. Though it's available in several fun flavors, the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bliss bar was most popular in our tests. You'll find 10 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber for a nutrient-dense combo to keep you full and fueled.

The bar is low-carb and suitable for a variety of different dietary preferences, including for plant-based eaters since the protein comes from a blend of pea protein, almond protein powder and pumpkin seed protein. What's more, it packs in a variety of superfoods and adaptogens for even more nutrition.

It's lightly sweetened with monk fruit extract, which some may find has an aftertaste. The size is the smaller side but it's the lowest cost per bar on this list.

Our nutrition pros and our testers were impressed with the nutritious ingredient list. One tester said that the Bliss bar reminded them of a "healthier cookie dough" and went on to say, "I loved the clean ingredients and the taste was good as well. I liked that it was chewy, but not too hard and chewy like some protein bars can get."

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 35g): 150 calories, 9g total fat, 3.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 80mg sodium, 11g carb, 8g fiber, 2g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 10g protein
  • Flavors: Cinnamon Cookie Dough Energy, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bliss, Dark Chocolate Brownie Recharge, Banana Nut Nourish, Cherry Chocolate Chip Zen
  • Protein type: Pea protein and almond protein
3
Best Vegan

ALOHA Organic Plant Based Protein Bar (12 count)

On Sale
Organic Plant Based Protein Bar (12 count)
Pros
  • Free from sugar alcohols and stevia
  • Excellent taste, flavor variety and nice texture
  • Expert and tester favorite
Cons
  • Monk fruit may cause GI discomfort

Many protein bars contain whey protein, but Aloha manages to create a delicious protein bar that is completely vegan and utilizes a blend of brown rice protein and pumpkin seed protein instead of animal-derived whey. Coming in at 14 grams of protein per bar, this option is also low-carb and free from sugar alcohols and stevia (though some options do contain monk fruit as a sweetener, which may cause GI discomfort for some).

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip was a top-rated flavor in our tests, but other honorable mentions were Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Chocolate Mint. Seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Spice also performed well with our testers. We love that the vegan bars are also organic and contain 10 grams of filling fiber.

Testers gave Aloha top scores across the board, highlighting the great taste and perfect texture, especially for a plant-based bar. One tester said, "This was one of the best protein bars I've ever tasted!" Another commented that the bar was "easy to bite and easy to chew. It did not have the sawdust texture of most protein bars."

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 56g): 240 cal, 12g total fat, 3g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 24g carbs, 10g fiber, 5g total sugars, 3g added sugars, 14g protein
  • Flavors: Chocolate Espresso, Peanut Butter Cup, Lemon Cashew, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Chocolate Mint, Coconut Chocolate Almond, Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Vanilla Almond Crunch, Caramel Sea Salt and seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Spice and Peppermint White Chocolate
  • Protein type: Brown rice protein and pumpkin seed protein
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4
Best Nut

KIND PROTEIN From Real Food Bar (12 count)

PROTEIN From Real Food Bar (12 count)
Pros
  • Free from sugar alcohols and low sodium
  • Crunchy texture and pleasant taste profile
  • No artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons
  • Not suitable for nut or soy allergies

KIND bar fans will love this mega version that is 25% bigger than the original KIND bar and boasts 12 grams of plant-based protein per serving. With only 6 grams of added sugar, the bar is free from artificial flavors, preservatives and sugar alcohols.

Our registered dietitians love that peanuts and almonds are the first ingredients. The bar is also a good source of fiber with 5 grams per serving. It's also gluten-free and low in sodium, which is something to take note of since many protein bars sneak in excessively high levels of sodium.

Testers said that the bar felt substantial and tasted crunchy and delicious, noting that the bar didn't have any artificial aftertaste like many other protein bars. Crunchy Peanut Butter and Double Dark Chocolate Nut were top-rated flavors among our testers. That said, it's not suitable for those with nut or soy allergies.

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 50g): 240 cal, 17g total fat, 4g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 18g carb, 5g fiber, 8g total sugars, 6g added sugars, 12g protein
  • Flavors: Crunchy Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate Nut, Caramel Nut, Almond Butter Dark Chocolate
  • Protein type: Soy protein, peanuts and almonds
5
Best Organic

Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Bar (12 count)

Organic Plant-Based Protein Bar (12 count)
Pros
  • Vegan, organic and gluten-free
  • Nice texture that doesn't fall apart
  • No soy ingredients
Cons
  • Erythritol may cause GI discomfort for some

Finding a good quality organic protein bar that tastes great can be a challenge. But this organic chewy bar from Orgain packs in 10 grams of plant-based protein at only 150 calories per bar. Even though it's vegan, it's free from soy.

The protein blend in this bar contains organic pea protein and organic brown rice protein. It even manages to sneak in organic chia seeds, and our experts love that the bar is also naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.

Testers enjoyed the texture of the bar saying that it wasn't too hard, but didn't fall apart either. Many added that it wasn't too sweet, and the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough flavor was the most popular with our panel. That being said, it does contain organic erythritol, which may cause GI discomfort for some, but it's toward the end of the ingredient list.

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 40g): 150 cal, 5g total fat, 1.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 19g total carb, 1g fiber, 6g total sugars, 6g added sugars, 10g protein
  • Flavors: Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk, S'mores, Chocolate Coconut
  • Protein type: Organic brown rice protein, organic pea protein, organic rice flour and organic ground chia seeds
6
Best High-Fiber

No Cow Dipped High Protein Bar (12 count)

Dipped High Protein Bar (12 count)
Pros
  • Very high in fiber and protein
  • Variety of dessert-inspired flavors
  • Certified Gluten-Free
Cons
  • Contains stevia, erythritol and monk fruit

This chocolate-dipped protein bar line from No Cow is high in fiber — boasting a whopping 14 grams per bar — and has 20 grams of plant-based protein. You'll find a blend of pea protein and rice protein that packs in at least 20 grams of protein per serving without any dairy, which is a protein level on par with most whey protein bars.

Testers liked that it delivered a ton of protein without whey and also said that the chocolate coating felt decadent. The fiber and protein combo creates a very satisfying bar — just be sure to hydrate before and after eating to aid in the digestion of the fiber. Our nutrition pros appreciated that the bar is Certified Gluten-Free and also Non-GMO Project Verified.

Dipped Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup, Dipped Chocolate Sprinkled Donut and Dipped Key Lime Pie were all tester favorites. The bar is also free from added sugar but, it contains stevia and monk fruit (some flavors also include erythritol as well).

Although it contains palm oil, the brand says that it is extremely selective when choosing a palm oil supplier and that its palm oil is considered certified sustainable by the RSPO (Round Table on Sustainable Palm Oil).

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 60g): 200 cal, 7g total fat, 3.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 25g total carb, 14g fiber, 1g total sugar, 0g added sugar, 20g protein
  • Flavors: Chocolate Coconut Almond, Chocolate Mint Cookie, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate Salted Caramel, Chocolate Sea Salt, Chocolate Sprinkled Donut, Frosted Gingerbread Cookie, Key Lime Pie
  • Protein type: Brown rice protein and pea protein
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7
Best Chewy

Zing Plant-Based Protein Bar (12 count)

Plant-Based Protein Bar (12 count)
Credit: Zing
Pros
  • Made by dietitians
  • Nice chocolate coating and fresh texture
  • Variety of tasty flavors
Cons
  • Not suitable for those with nut allergies

Designed by a team of registered dietitians, this chewy bar is completely plant-based and boasts a strong 10 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber. It blends nuts, seeds, brown rice and almond protein for a nutrient-dense base. Though it is not suitable for those with nut allergies.

Our nutrition pros appreciated that each bar is packed with protein, fiber, heart-healthy fats and essential nutrients. The bar is also a source of prebiotic fiber to support digestion. Mini bar options are available too, and everything comes in a variety of inventive flavors.

The chocolate-covered bars were a standout in our tests for not only their delicious flavor but also their powerful punch of antioxidants. Dark Chocolate Coconut was a top pick, with testers saying it tasted just like an Almond Joy and was "one of the best protein bars I've ever had."

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 50g): 210 cal, 13g total fat, 5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 21g carb, 5g fiber, 6g total sugars, 5g added sugars, 10g protein
  • Flavors: Dark Chocolate Cherry, Dark Chocolate Coconut, Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate Mint, Dark Chocolate Mocha, Dark Chocolate Hazelnut, Coconut Cashew Crisp, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip
  • Protein type: Almond protein and rice protein
8
Best Dairy-Free

good! Snacks Vegan Cookie Dough Protein Bar (12 count)

Vegan Cookie Dough Protein Bar (12 count)
Pros
  • High-fiber and filling
  • Soft, chewy texture
  • Tasty flavor varieties
Cons
  • High fiber content may take getting used to for some
  • Higher in saturated fat

Our testers tended to gravitate toward chocolate-covered bars, which is why this bar from good! Snacks was another top pick in our tests. Not only is it plant-based, but it's also high in fiber (12 grams!) and has an average 4.2 rating on Amazon. Just be sure to introduce the extra fiber slowly and stay hydrated to help it properly digest.

The gluten-free and dairy-free bar stood out to our experts for its custom protein blend of fava bean protein and brown rice protein. You'll find almond butter and cocoa powder among other nutritious ingredients in each bite. Though it is higher in saturated fat than some of the others on the list.

Testers said loved the great taste and soft, chewy texture, and found it very filling. The bar accommodates a lot of dietary restrictions, making it a favorite for the whole family. Cookie Dough and Birthday Cake were both tester favorites.

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 60g): 220 calories, 7g total fat, 4g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 200mg sodium, 29g carb, 12g fiber, 10g total sugars, 9g added sugars, 15g protein
  • Flavors: Birthday Cake, Blueberry, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookie Dough, Lemon, Peanut Butter, Snickerdoodle
  • Protein type: Fava bean protein and brown rice protein
9
Best Brain Health

IQBAR Brain and Body Plant Protein Bar (12 count)

 Brain and Body Plant Protein Bar (12 count)
Pros
  • Certified gluten-free
  • Flavorful vegan option
  • Brain-supporting nutrients
Cons
  • Contains stevia

The IQBAR Brain and Body Plant Protein Bar is a great option if you're looking for a bar that is high in protein (hello, 12 grams!) and low in sugar and carbs. It contains brain-supporting elements like lion's mane, mcts, magnesium, flavonoids and vitamin E to support sustained cognitive and physical performance. There's also a fiber boost of 7 grams, providing added health benefits, though it does contain stevia.

Made with almonds, pea protein, and blueberries, the bar has a soft, slightly chewy texture that's mixed with some crunchy bits for an overall satisfying eating experience. One tester said that the Lemon Blueberry flavor has a “good lemon flavor with crunchy morsels in each bite.” The testers loved that it contains real whole lemons that are incorporated into the bar.

The bar is Certified Gluten-Free and vegan, making it a nice option for those with dietary restrictions. “As someone who juggles a busy schedule, I need a snack that keeps up with me, and IQBAR does just that. Each bar is packed with high-quality plant protein and essential nutrients that help sharpen focus and enhance mental clarity. Whether I'm preparing for a critical meeting or hitting the gym, these bars are my go-to for convenient sustained energy without any crash,” said one Amazon reviewer.

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 45g): 180 calories, 12g total fat, 2.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 10g carb, 7g fiber, 2g total sugars, 0g added sugars, 12g protein
  • Flavors: Lemon Blueberry, Almond Butter Chip, Banana Nut, Fruit Lovers, Chocolate Sea Salt, Matcha Chai, Peanut Butter Chip, Toasted Chocolate Chip, Wild Berry
  • Protein type: Pea protein
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10
Best Whey

UNiTE Churro Flavored Protein Bar

Churro Flavored Protein Bar
Pros
  • Contains 11 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber
  • Certified gluten-free
Cons
  • Whey protein may be difficult to digest for certain individuals

Made with almond butter, pistachios, walnuts and whey protein, UNiTE recreates the iconic baklava into a nutrient-dense snack that tastes amazing. Packed with 11 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber and under 200 calories, each bar is Certified Gluten-Free and fulfills an ideal nutrient balance to keep you satisfied and nourished.

Founder Clara Paye believes that being an immigrant was her unique point of view when creating UNiTE. The brand takes inspiration from her upbringing and lends playful and representative flavors, like Baklava Mexican Hot Chocolate, to a category that has seen little innovation.

Taste testers really enjoyed the sweet and nutty flavor profiles of these churro bars. "I liked the flavor of the bars, bold and tasty. They are a good size to be satisfying as a snack. My husband likes them and has been putting them in his lunchbox as a snack at work," one tester said. Another person noted, "The concept of diversity and inclusion in the snack industry is inventive and new." Keep in mind that whey protein may be difficult for some people to digest.

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 45 g): 180 calories, 8g total fat, 1g sat fat, 30mg cholesterol, 85mg sodium, 19g carb, 4g fiber, 8g total sugars, 7g added sugars, 10g protein
  • Flavors: Churro, Mexican Hot Chocolate, Baklava, Peanut Butter, Bubble Tea and Almond Butter
  • Protein type: Whey
11
Best Energizing

Possible Possible Protein Snack Bar (12 count)

Possible Protein Snack Bar (12 count)
Credit: POSSIBLE
Pros
  • Organic and plant-based
  • No refined sugars or artificial sweeteners
Cons
  • Only available in 2 flavors

Enjoy 10 grams of plant-based protein in an organic energy bar that's free from refined sugars. The natural ingredients list includes superstars like almonds and dates. Although Possible bars only come in two flavors, Cashew Date Turmeric and Strawberry Beet Almond, they are innovative offerings with unique flavor combinations.

This bar meets a lot of different dietary preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, organic and non-GMO. Those looking to avoid artificial sweeteners will appreciate this pick too. For even more protein, their line of meal bars, available in chocolate almond, is also noteworthy.

"Since they have so much protein, they keep me feeling full even after hiking several miles, unlike other snack bars," one Amazon reviewer said. The size of the bar was rated highly, and our registered dietitians and testers appreciated the wholesome ingredient list. The texture got mixed reviews, but we found the bar to be satisfying and energizing.

  • Nutrition facts (per one bar, 55g): 220 calories, 13g total fat, 1.5g sat fat, 0mg cholesterol, 110mg sodium, 27g carb, 4g fiber, 19g total sugars, 10g added sugars, 10g protein
  • Flavors: Cashew Date Turmeric, Strawberry Beet Almond
  • Protein type: Organic pea protein

How we test the best protein bars

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Our food and nutrition experts, including registered dietitians in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, rigorously evaluate thousands of snack samples year round. For protein bars, we specifically looked for choices with no more than 300 calories per bar and a maximum of 10 grams of added sugar. In order to be considered a protein bar, we required at least 10 grams of protein per serving.

We also feel that fiber is important to help keep you full and balance out the bar's nutrition, which is why we prioritized choices with 3 grams of fiber or more per serving. Sodium counts were kept under 300 milligrams per bar too.

The second part of our tests involved real-life testers just like you. We sent the bars to dozens of testers across the nation for feedback on taste, texture and overall flavor profile and quality.

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What to look for when shopping for the best protein bar

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Protein bars are fairly inexpensive, so there isn't much of a risk buying one to see if you do in fact enjoy the flavor and texture. But there are a few factors to consider when purchasing the right one for you and your nutritional needs:

✔️ Flavor: Many of these bars offer sample or variety packs, so our pros suggest trying those first before committing to one case of a single flavor. Even if you normally prefer chocolate-flavored bars, you may be surprised by the flavor profiles of a lemon meringue bar or a birthday cake flavor and decide you'd want to change things up.

✔️ Texture: Do you prefer a crunchy bar or something smooth and creamy? Texture is another big factor, especially if you're looking for a bar that won't melt in your purse or crumble when eaten.

✔️ Type of protein: All of these picks have at least 10 grams of protein per serving, but it's important to look at what the protein source is to make sure it meets your dietary preferences. Whey protein seemed to dominate the protein bar market years ago, but as you can see from this list, many plant-based offerings are coming up that offer competitive protein counts too.

✔️ Carbs and fiber: If you're following a low-carb or diabetic diet, take note of the total carbohydrate count of the bar. Fiber can help make these bars more substantial and filling, but more is not always better. If you're going for a bar with more than 10 grams of fiber, do so gradually and make sure to stay hydrated to help the fiber properly digest.

✔️ Other dietary preferences: When it comes to allergens, look for special certifications or bars that are made in dedicated facilities. Gluten-free claims can still contain traces of gluten due to cross-contamination in factories, look for a Certified Gluten-Free stamp with strict third-party gluten-free standards.

Is it OK to eat protein bars every day?

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Relying too much on protein bars instead of whole foods may mean missing out on vital nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fiber and omega-3 fats. According to dietitian Kelly Jones: "So long as an eating pattern is mainly made up of nutrient-dense whole foods at meals and other snacks, protein bars can have a place, even regularly."

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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The Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab Director Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N., NASM-CPT is a registered dietitian with an extensive knowledge of food labeling and nutrition requirements on food products, rigorously evaluating hundreds of claims for products that apply for the Good Housekeeping Seal. Growing up with a family in the restaurant business, Sassos was able to combine her nutrition expertise with culinary skills taught to her by her mother and grandmother. She's passionate about finding great-tasting products that provide a healthier alternative but don't sacrifice on quality. She has written about several other food products including granola bars and high-protein snacks.

Kelly Jones, M.S., R.D., C.S.S.D. is a board-certified specialist in sports dietetics and owner of both KJN and Student Athlete Nutrition. She began her career with nearly a decade as an associate professor of nutrition and exercise physiology, while building her performance nutrition business and gaining notoriety in the media. As a nationally recognized nutrition expert, Jones is regularly featured in outlets such as US News, Runner’s World, Women’s Health, Insider and more.

Headshot of Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N., NASM-CPT

Stefani (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, where she handles all nutrition-related content, testing and evaluation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from NYU. She is also Good Housekeeping’s on-staff fitness and exercise expert. Stefani is dedicated to providing readers with evidence-based content to encourage informed food choices and healthy living. She is an avid CrossFitter and a passionate home cook who loves spending time with her big fit Greek family.

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