Reviews

Best Plant Based Protein Bars: Top Picks

|
December 28, 2023
Best Plant Based Protein Bars: Top Picks

In the epic battle of snacks, plant-based protein bars have emerged as the unsung heroes. They were once chalky, tasteless blocks of desperation for gym-goers. But now, they're the delectable, convenient powerhouses taking the snacking world by storm. 

Don't believe us? 

Well, buckle up, because you're about to embark on a delicious journey. We've compiled a list of the best plant-based protein bars that will surely make your taste buds do a happy dance while your muscles say, "thank you!" So, read on and find your new favorite snack. 

Best Plant Based Protein Bars: Top Picks

Protein Bar Pros Cons Category 
GoMacro MacroBar High-quality ingredients, filling, multiple flavors Can be pricey for some Best Premium 
Vega Protein Bar High in protein, good for muscle recovery Some users thought the taste was somewhat bitter Best Vegan 
Orgain Protein Bar Organic, high in fiber, good protein content Some find the texture too chewy Best High-fiber 
No Cow Protein Bar High in protein, vegan, low sugar - Best Digestibility 
Nugo Dark Chocolate Pretzel Protein Bar Delicious taste, solid protein content Contains soy, not ideal for soy allergies Best Taste
Clif Builder’s Protein Bar Tasty, aids muscle recovery, good ingredient profile High sugar content Best Budget
KIND Protein Bars Wholesome ingredients, great taste, decent protein content Some find it too sweet Best Taste Runner Up

GoMacro MacroBar Protein Pleasure

GoMacro MacroBar Protein Pleasure is the perfect balance of a protein-packed snack and a dessert-like treat. Each bar contains a substantial 11g of protein, derived from a blend of organic brown rice and organic pea protein. 

The high-quality protein sources coupled with the infusion of organic fair-trade chocolate and creamy peanut butter deliver a taste that is both delightful and satisfying. Gluten-free, non-GMO, and soy-free, this bar is a well-rounded pick for those who need to consider dietary restrictions. 

The texture is pleasing, not too crunchy nor too chewy, which makes it a delightful snack for any time of the day. GoMacro has committed itself to environmental sustainability, making its MacroBars not only beneficial for health but also for our planet. It’s a company whose ethos aligns with those who are conscious about their health and the environment.

Vega Protein Bar

The Vega Protein Bar is more than just a snack; it's a protein powerhouse. Each bar boasts an impressive 20g of plant-based protein sourced from brown rice, pea, and hemp proteins. This unique blend provides a complete amino acid profile, crucial for muscle recovery and growth. 

What sets Vega apart is the fact that these bars are not only gluten-free, but also vegan and non-GMO. The combination of real plant-based food ingredients like nuts and seeds gives the bar a satisfying crunch, while the inclusion of natural sweeteners like brown rice syrup provides just the right level of sweetness. 

Each bar is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, further boosting its nutritional value. Whether you are a hard-training athlete or simply need a satisfying snack during a busy day, Vega Protein Bar is a convenient and delicious option.

Orgain Organic Protein Bar

The Orgain Organic Protein Bar is a perfect blend of taste, convenience, and nutrition. Made with high-quality organic brown rice protein, pea protein, and chia seeds, each bar delivers a solid 10g of plant-based protein. 

Free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, this bar offers a clean eating experience. Its texture is soft and chewy with a hint of crunch from chia seeds, making it a pleasant snack to enjoy on the go. Orgain's commitment to using organic and non-GMO ingredients aligns well with consumers who are mindful of both their health and the environment. 

The bars come in a variety of flavors like Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip, and S'mores, providing plenty of options to cater to individual taste preferences. Whether it's a pre-workout snack, a post-workout recovery aid, or a convenient meal replacement, Orgain Organic Protein Bar is a reliable choice.

Clif Builder’s Protein Bar

The Clif Builder’s Protein Bar is a favorite amongst fitness enthusiasts due to its high protein content and wholesome ingredients. Each bar is packed with a hefty 20g of plant-based protein, mainly from soy protein isolate, providing a complete range of essential amino acids. 

The bar has a layered texture that includes a crispy center, a nougat-like layer, and a chocolate or vanilla coating, making every bite enjoyable. Despite its high protein content, the bar does not compromise on taste. 

It comes in an array of flavors, including Chocolate Mint and Peanut Butter, which are a hit among consumers. It's also worth noting that these bars are non-GMO and free from high-fructose corn syrup. Clif Builder’s Protein Bar is a great post-workout snack for muscle recovery, but it's also perfect for a nutritious and satisfying snack at any time of the day.

KIND Protein Bars

KIND Protein Bars are crafted with a blend of heart-healthy almonds, peanuts, and soy protein isolate, providing a wholesome 12g of protein per bar. What sets KIND bars apart is their commitment to using recognizable, nutrient-dense food as their primary ingredient. 

Each bar contains whole nuts, which give a satisfying crunch, and they're sweetened with honey for a touch of natural sweetness. The bars are gluten-free and non-GMO, aligning with various dietary requirements. 

With flavors like Crunchy Peanut Butter and Double Dark Chocolate Nut, these bars cater to both the classic and adventurous taste buds. Besides being a high-protein snack, KIND bars are also high in fiber, contributing to a feeling of fullness and aiding in digestion. 

The brand's motto, "ingredients you can see and pronounce," holds true as they deliver simple, good-for-you ingredients in a convenient and tasty protein bar format.

No Cow Protein Bar 

No Cow Protein Bar is designed for those who desire a high protein intake without any dairy or animal-derived ingredients. Each bar is packed with an impressive 20g of protein sourced primarily from brown rice and pea proteins. They are entirely plant-based, gluten-free, soy-free, and non-GMO. 

Their natural ingredients, like almonds and cacao, offer a delightful texture and flavor. The high fiber content, derived from tapioca and prebiotic fiber, aids in digestion and gives you a feeling of fullness, making it an excellent meal replacement option. 

No Cow bars are low in sugar and free from artificial sweeteners, aligning with a mindful eating approach. Their assortment of flavors, ranging from Chocolate Fudge Brownie to Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, caters to diverse taste buds. 

The brand's mission of creating dairy-free, high-protein snacks without compromising on taste or texture has been perfectly accomplished with the No Cow Protein Bar.

Nugo Dark Chocolate Pretzel Protein Bar

The Nugo Dark Chocolate Pretzel Protein Bar redefines the concept of a healthy protein snack by combining the decadent taste of dark chocolate with the salty crunch of pretzels.

Each bar contains 13g of plant-based protein, primarily derived from soy protein isolate, offering a complete amino acid profile for optimal recovery and growth. Besides being vegan and gluten-free, Nugo bars are also certified non-GMO. 

The bars provide a delightful texture; the crunchiness of the pretzels combined with the creaminess of the dark chocolate coating is a match made in snack heaven. Despite having a dessert-like taste, these bars are low in sugar and high in fiber, making them a guilt-free indulgence. 

The dark chocolate used in the bars is real, not just flavored coating, which adds a natural sweetness and a plethora of health benefits. Nugo Dark Chocolate Pretzel Protein Bar offers a unique flavor profile for those who crave something different in a protein bar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Given below are some more questions that will help you make your choice easier:

I'm new to the world of protein bars. With so many choices available, how do I decide which plant-based protein bar is right for me? 

Your choice will depend on your dietary needs and personal taste preferences. Check the protein content, sugar levels, ingredient list, and whether it caters to your dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or vegan. Also, consider the taste and texture that you prefer, as these vary among different brands.

I see some protein bars are quite pricey. Are expensive protein bars always better than cheaper ones?

Not necessarily. Price does not always reflect quality. Some cheaper bars offer a good balance of taste and nutritional content. It's more important to check the ingredient list and nutritional values rather than focusing solely on price.

I have a sweet tooth. Are there any plant-based protein bars that can also satisfy my sugar cravings without being unhealthy?

Absolutely! Many protein bars are sweetened naturally with fruits or sweeteners like stevia. KIND Protein Bars and NuGo Dark Chocolate Pretzel are two examples that blend taste and nutrition effectively.

I'm allergic to soy. Do all plant-based protein bars contain soy, or are there options available that are soy-free? 

While many plant-based protein bars do contain soy, there are alternatives. For instance, No Cow Protein Bar is a great soy-free option.

In conclusion, these seven plant-based protein bars offer an array of flavors, textures, and nutritional profiles to cater to different dietary needs and taste preferences. The best bar for you will depend on your specific nutritional requirements, lifestyle, and of course, your flavor preferences. Happy snacking!

The Protein Bar Team

Get 15% off Our Top Rated Bar

PROTEINBAR

Click coupon for automatic savings

Cleanest Protein Bars: Top Picks

Unearth the cleanest protein bars you can buy right now. (Some might even have superfoods)

Read More

Related articles

RAISE THE BAR

At  Protein Bar, we’re committed to helping you look and feel your best, which starts by raising the bar (pun intended) in the nutrition industry. We're currently in stealth mode, but you can join our waiting list to receive exclusive access to new products and become a beta tester!

Thanks, We'll let you know when we launch!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.