www.bbcgoodfood.com
Summarize this content to 100 words: Promising to deliver muscle-maintaining protein in a handy, pre-packaged snack, protein bars are a convenient option for gym goers, athletes and anyone looking to increase their protein intake.We tested the most popular protein bars on the market, and asked our nutritionist for her tips on when is best to eat them. Read on to see her advice.Once you’ve researched whether a protein supplement is right for you, discover which protein bars are best. You might also enjoy our review of the best protein powders. If you’re vegan, check out our review of the best vegan protein bars and powders.Visit our review section to find more health-related reviews, including collagen powder, creatine, pre workout and meal prep containers,Best protein bars at a glanceJUMP TO REVIEWSBest protein bar with collagen: ESN Designer protein bar fudge brownie, £2.29 for 1Best pistachio protein bar: ESN Designer protein bar white chocolate and pistachio, £25.99 for 12Best-tasting protein bar: Fulfil white chocolate caramel vitamin protein bar, £28.95 for 15Best all round protein bar: M&S raspberry and vanilla chocolate protein bar, £2.25 for 1Best bar for energy: CLIF white chocolate macadamia nut bar, £16.99 for 12Best natural protein bar: Holland and Barrett TriActive almond and dark chocolate bar, £2 for 1Best protein bar for snacking: Protein Works Loaded Legends choc fudge flavour, £14.99 for 12Best caramel protein bar: Grenade Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Protein Bar, £27 for 12Best fruity bar: Grenade Jaffa Quake protein bar, £27 for 12Best no-added-sugar bar: Barebells white salty peanut protein bar, £23.99 for 12Best high-calorie bar to fuel exercise: 33Fuel eroica natural protein bars, £21.99 for 5Jump to:Best protein bars to buy in 2026Are protein bars ultra-processed foods?When should you eat a protein bar?How to use protein supplements safelyWho could benefit from using a protein supplement?Who shouldn’t take protein supplements?Is it possible to take too much protein?How to choose a protein barHow we tested protein barsTaste and texture: is the flavour pleasant? Is the texture palatable?Type of protein: whey or plant-based? Concentrate, isolate or hydrolysate?Nutrient profile: how much protein per serving? What about calories, fat, saturated fat, carbohydrates and sugars?Type of sweetener: does it contain sugars, artificial sweeteners or neither?Dietary requirements: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free?Value for money: how does it compare to others on a cost-per-bar basis?All bars were blind taste tested, with thorough notes made according to the testing criteria. We’ve tested over 30 samples from a range of manufacturers with differing nutritional information, protein types and price points for this review.Best protein bars to buy in 2026ESN Designer protein bar – fudge brownieAvailable from ESN (£2.29 for 1)
Best protein bar with collagenStar rating: 5/5Grams of protein: up to 15g per 45g barCalories: 190 kcalsTypes of protein: whey protein, collagen peptidesType of sweetener: maltitol, sucraloseCarbohydrates per serving: up to 15gRich and deeply chocolatey, this protein bar feels more like a tasty treat than a typical protein snack. The smooth milk chocolate coating, sweetened without added sugar, delivers a classic flavour without being sickly. Inside, the chewy centre combines milk protein and collagen peptides for up to 15g of protein per bar, avoiding any chalky texture. Cocoa nibs add a pleasant natural crunch while a layer of cocoa paste brings extra depth. The overall taste is balanced and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both nutrition and enjoyment. A strong contender for anyone seeking a genuinely enjoyable protein bar.Available from:ESN (£2.29 for 1)ESN Designer protein bar – white chocolate and pistachioAvailable from ESN (£25.99 for 12)
Best pistachio protein barStar rating: 5/5Grams of protein: up to 15g per 45g barCalories: 193 kcalsTypes of protein: whey proteinType of sweetener: maltitol, sucraloseCarbohydrates per serving: up to 15gA distinctive and on-trend choice for anyone seeking a change from standard protein bar flavours. The combination of creamy white chocolate and real pistachio is both refined and pleasantly nutty, with a satisfying chewy texture that feels substantial without being heavy. Pistachio pieces on top add a subtle crunch and extra depth. With up to 15g of protein per bar and no added sugar, it manages to balance indulgence and nutrition well. The sweetness is present but not overpowering, making it easy to enjoy. It’s ideal for those who want something a little different from their usual snack.Available from:ESN (£25.99 for 12)Fulfil white chocolate caramel vitamin protein barAvailable from Amazon (£28.95 for 15)
Best-tasting protein barStar rating: 5/5Grams of protein: 20g per 55g barCalories: 211 kcalsType of protein: whey and soya protein, collagen hydrolysateType of sweetener: maltitol, erythritol, sucraloseCarbohydrates per serving: 16.1g (2.1g sugar)This bar was a firm favourite with our group of tasters, many felt it was the best one we tried all day. They enjoyed the contrast of crunchy-chewy textures, nutty flavour and satisfyingly squidgy caramel centre. The white chocolate adds delicious sweetness and there’s absolutely no chalky aftertaste, which means this bar feels like a treat, not something you have to force down, like some protein products. Whether you’re fuelling up for a workout or beating the afternoon slump, this bar will do the trick.Available from:Amazon (£27.95 for 15)M&S raspberry and vanilla chocolate protein barAvailable from Ocado (£2.25 for 1) Marks & Spencer (£2.25 in store)
Best all round protein barStar rating: 5/5Grams of protein: 36.8g per 55g barCalories: 370 kcalsType of protein: whey protein isolateType of sweetener: sucraloseCarbohydrates: 31.5g (3g sugar)Tangy, refreshing raspberry makes a delicious addition to this nougat-like bar. With protein crispies on the top, it feels like a real treat, but it’s actually low in sugar. There are so many chocolatey protein bars, so testers felt that this one was a nice change. Others noted that it doesn’t leave an overly sweet or cloying taste in your mouth.Available from:Ocado (£2.25 for 1)Marks & Spencer (£2.25 in store)CLIF white chocolate macadamia nut barAvailable from Amazon (£14.59 for 12)
Best bar for energyStar rating: 5/5Grams of protein: 14g per 68g barCalories: 266 kcalsType of protein: soy protein isolate, oatsType of sweetener: brown rice syrup, tapioca syrup, cane sugarCarbohydrates: 37g (17g sugar)While this is technically an energy bar, it’s made with soy protein, as well as oats and macadamia nuts. This combination of ingredients, along with the various sugars, mean you’ll benefit from a serious and sustained hit of energy that will power you through any endurance workout. Testers thoroughly enjoyed the white chocolate flavour and flapjack-like texture, and felt the bar would easily fit into pockets, running vests and backpacks.Available from:Amazon (£14.59 for 12)Holland and Barrett almond and dark chocolate barAvailable from Holland and Barrett (£2 for 1)
Best natural protein barStar rating: 5/5Grams of protein: 7.8g per 50g barCalories: 271 kcalsType of protein: almondsType of sweetener: honey, date pasteCarbohydrates: 15g (1.4g sugar)If you want a pre- or post- workout snack that’s made with all-natural ingredients, you need to try this delicious nutty bar. The flavour is rich, chocolatey and coconutty, meaning this bar scored top marks for taste as well as quality. It might not be as high in protein as some others, but it’s a fantastic choice for upping your energy and supporting your body during exercise.Available from:Holland and Barrett (£2 for 1)Protein Works Loaded Legends choc fudge flavourAvailable from Protein Works (£14.99 for 12), Amazon (£20 for 12)
Best protein bar for snackingStar rating: 5/5Grams of protein: 14g per 47g barCalories: 163 kcalsType of protein: soy protein, milk protein, wheat proteinType of sweetener: isomalt, sucralose, maltitolCarbohydrates: 15g (1.4g sugar)This bar has a really moreish texture similar to nougat, multiple testers noted that the dark chocolate is a nice change from some of the more sugary protein bar flavours, like birthday cake. It’s also a good size, compared to some of the heftier bars we tried, this was perfect for a light snack and won’t sit heavily in your stomach. It also stacks up an impressive amount of fibre, which contributes to feelings of fullness.Available from:Protein Works (£14.99 for 12)Amazon (£20 for 12)Grenade chocolate chip salted caramel protein barAvailable from Grenade (£20 for 12), Ocado (£10.15 for 4), Tesco (£2.70 for 1), Amazon (£19 for 12)
Best caramel protein barStar rating: 5/5Grams of protein: 20g per barCalories: 226 kcalsType of protein: calcium caseinate, whey protein isolate, bovine collagenType of sweetener: maltitol, sucraloseCarbohydrates: 20g (1.4g sugar)A genuinely great flavour – fans of salted caramel will love this. We enjoyed the soft nougat centre with a layer of salted caramel, topped with chocolate chips. Although these bars have the slight chewy texture common to protein bars, it’s not unpleasant, and the chocolate chips add a pleasing contrast in texture. Vegetarians, take note – these contain beef gelatine.Available from:Grenade (£20 for 12)Ocado (£10.15 for 4)Tesco (£2.70 for 1)Amazon (£19 for 12)Grenade Jaffa Quake protein barAvailable from Grenade (£22.22 for 12), Amazon (£17.49 for 12), Tesco (£2.70 for 1)
Best fruity barStar rating: 4/5Grams of protein: 21g per 60g barCalories: 204 kcalsType of protein: whey, milk protein, calcium caseinate, soyType of sweetener: maltitol, sucraloseCarbohydrates: 20g (1.4g sugar)With a zesty orange flavour and cookie dough-like appearance, studded with nuts and chocolate chips, this bar feels like a treat. Testers noted that the orange masks the taste of protein well, and while the packaging does look a bit cheap, you do get a decent size bar for the money.Available from:Grenade (£22.22 for 12)Amazon (£17.49 for 12)Tesco (£2.70 for 1)Barebells white salty peanut protein barAvailable from Barebells (£23.99 for 12), Amazon (£26.99 for 12), Ocado (£2)
Best no-added-sugar optionStar rating: 4/5Grams of protein: 20g per barCalories: 209 kcalsType of protein: milk protein and collagen peptidesType of sweetener: maltitol, sucraloseCarbohydrates per serving: 14g (1.5g sugar)This Barebells flavour is a winner in our book – a fluffy, slightly chewy bar, studded with caramel-dipped chunks of peanut, covered with a generous white chocolate coating. It’s a good choice if you don’t want any added sugar in your snack, although it does contain sweeteners maltitol and sucralose.Available from:Barebells (£23.99 for 12)Amazon (£26.99 for 12)Ocado (£2 for 1)33Fuel eroica natural protein barAvailable from 33Fuel (£21.99 for 5 XXL bars)
Best high-calorie option to fuel exerciseGrams of protein: 20g per a double bar pack (100g)Calories: 409 kcalsType of protein: almonds, egg whites and riceType of sweetener: caramelCarbohydrates: 43g (38g sugar)Double the size and much heavier than any other protein bars we tested, these are ideal as high-energy snacks for runners, cyclists, hikers and anyone exerting themselves. Each package contains two 50g bars, making them great to split up for pre- and post-training.Based on a traditional Italian recipe (allegedly used to fuel the Roman legions), these are pleasingly reminiscent of panforte. They use all-natural ingredients, including egg whites, rice protein and almonds as the protein source, and mixed candied peels and coconut sugar for sweetness. One note – although natural, these are on the high side for sugar content at 38g per 100g portion, as well as being higher in calories, fat and carbohydrates, so best used to fuel intense exercise rather than as an everyday snack.Available from:33Fuel (£21.99 for 5 XXL bars)Are protein bars ultra-processed foods?Ultra-processed foods are typically defined as products that are industrially manufactured using ingredients and additives not commonly found in a domestic kitchen. These foods often have a long shelf-life and are designed to be convenient and ready to eat, containing additives such as sweeteners, emulsifiers and preservatives.Most commercially available protein bars contain a blend of protein isolates or concentrates, plus various additives that enhance taste, texture and shelf stability. These are ingredients that go beyond what would be used in a home kitchen, and the resulting product is far removed from whole, natural foods and would place protein bars firmly in the UPF category.There are growing concerns about the health implications of eating too many UPFs. Diets high in ultra-processed foods have been linked to a greater risk of obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and even depression. However, it isn’t clear whether it’s the UPFs themselves resulting in health problems, or associated lifestyle factors. UPFs tend to be energy dense but low in nutrients, often containing high levels of sugar, fat and salt, while lacking fibre, vitamins and minerals.Despite these concerns, not all UPFs are inherently harmful. Some, such as fortified foods or products designed for specific dietary needs, can play a useful role in supporting health, especially when whole food options are limited. Enjoying the occasional protein bar or other UPF as part of a balanced, varied diet is unlikely to cause harm, particularly if most of your meals are based on whole and minimally processed foods. The overall quality and balance of your diet is far more important than whether you include the odd ultra-processed item.When should you eat a protein bar?This depends on whether you’re using protein bars to hit a certain fitness goal or just to keep you full. Eating a protein bar one or two hours before a workout can increase your performance and boost energy levels.Just be sure to leave plenty of time to digest, otherwise you may suffer from cramps and stomach issues. Alternatively, eating a protein bar 30-60 minutes after a workout can help you refuel and build muscle. If you find you get hungry between meals, pack a protein bar to go.How to use protein supplements safelyDietary supplements such as protein bars should be consumed as part of a healthy, balanced diet, and not used as a substitute for whole food.Nutritionist Kerry Torrens explains, ‘Protein supplements, such as bars, are highly processed and lack the micronutrients and other beneficial nutrients of whole, natural food. We should all aim to achieve our protein requirements from a well-balanced diet, but for short-term use or in certain circumstances, protein supplementation may be considered.’Although protein bars may have healthier credentials than a chocolate bar, it’s important to remember that they are a concentrated source of energy and can be high in sugar, carbohydrates and fats.Consider your individual health and fitness goals, your personal dietary requirements and your reason for including protein bars in your diet when deciding which product to buy and how often to eat them.Discover how to eat a balanced diet and the best protein sources, including options for vegetarians and vegans.Who could benefit from using a protein supplement?If you’re regularly getting enough protein from your diet, adding a supplement might not make a noticeable difference to your health. However, those who are either unable to regularly eat enough protein due to decreased appetite or illness, or who have increased protein needs as a result of high-intensity exercise might benefit from taking a supplement.Kerry explains, “One example, which is probably not an obvious one, is the elderly. This group often has a greater need for protein, but a lower appetite. Increasing protein intake in a form that is palatable and suits their lowered appetite may be effective in protecting against muscle loss.””That said, in this group other aspects, such as kidney health and osteoporosis, need to be considered and monitored – it’s worth checking with a GP that protein supplements are safe and suitable for each individual.”Who shouldn’t take protein supplements?Children shouldn’t take protein supplements unless directed by a dietitian. The NHS advises that consuming too much protein in the long term is linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis, and may worsen existing kidney problems.Some people find protein bars difficult to digest – it’s best to include them gradually into your diet, and see how you get on. Although allergens should be stated on the label, anyone with allergies should be cautious about using a new supplement, as there is an obvious risk of cross-contamination in factories.Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for existing medical conditions should consult their GP before starting new supplements.Is it possible to take too much protein?Yes. The Department of Health advises adults to avoid consuming more than twice the recommended daily intake of protein (55g for men and 45g for women). Always read the label of any protein supplement carefully, stick to the recommended serving size, and be mindful of other protein sources in your diet. If you’re concerned that you might be consuming too much protein, speak to your GP.Buyers’ adviceHow to choose a protein barChoosing a suitable protein bar will depend on your personal requirements and goals. For example, if you’re looking to gain weight or build muscle, you might want to consider a ‘mass-gainer’ product that is higher in calories and carbohydrates. Look for a product to fit your dietary requirements and double check allergen labelling on the packet.When choosing a protein bar, make sure that you buy from a reputable company, ideally based in Europe, as those that are based outside of Europe may not pass the same safety standards as those within. If you’re in any doubt about the safety of a product, speak to your pharmacist or GP.Related contentBest protein powdersBest sources of proteinBest sources of protein for vegetariansBest sources of protein for vegansWhat to eat for a workoutSports nutrition: what’s worth trying?More health-focused reviewsBest sports water bottlesBest collagen powdersBest health gadgetsBest fitness trackers for kidsBest meal prep containersBest kombucha to buyBest magnesium supplementsBest pre-workout supplementsBest creatine supplementsAll health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.This review was last updated in November 2024. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
Read More
