The 16 best nutritionist-backed protein bars we tested for every diet

We know the feeling — the feeling of waltzing down a supermarket aisle to find the best protein bars, but getting too overwhelmed that we just put our protein bar-hunting on the back burner.

Now, it’s time to revisit that deep-dive into all the different brands and ingredients that are expert-backed to help you up your protein count in a healthy, balanced way — whether you’re looking for a pre-workout boost before hitting your rowing machine and treadmill or are looking to swap out unhealthy boxes in your pantry.

“When looking for the healthiest options for protein bars, I always prioritize ingredients and ensure the ingredients are simple and natural,” Kayla Barnes, certified brain health coach, and nutrition expert, told the New York Post. “You should be able to pronounce or have heard of the ingredients before. Avoid bars with pro-inflammatory oils like canola and soybean and artificial ingredients.”

Luckily, Barnes and five other nutrition experts — including registered dietitians — rounded up the best protein bars of 2025. Not only that, but they share their expertise below in our in-depth FAQ section to help you answer some crunching questions about protein bars.

Barebells quickly took off on TikTok after hitting the shelves at Trader Joe’s, and we can see why. The creamy nougat top layer gives this bar a candy-like texture, and the chocolate is creamy without any semblance of some of the waxier coatings associated with protein bars. With 20 grams of protein, these bars certainly deserve a spot on our favorites list.

“Barbells Bar is designed for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want a protein-packed snack without any unnecessary additives. Each bar contains 20 grams of high-quality protein, primarily from whey isolate, ensuring fast absorption for muscle recovery,” explained Holistic Nutritionist and Founder of Wellness the Right Way, Katelyn Bedford.

NY Post review: Our team agreed these were our favorites tastewise — and not just due to the decadent consistency and dessert-like flavors. Commerce Reporter Angela Tricarcio said that she “doesn’t like many protein bars at all — but these Barebells are actually really, really good. The birthday cake flavor is sweet, but not artificial-tasting. And, they don’t have that annoying chalky texture.”

Recommended flavor: (Carmel Cashew) | Calories: 200 | Fat: 8 | Carbs: 16 | Protein: 20 | Fiber: 2.8 | Sugar: 1.6 | Gluten Free: No | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

Rated the No.1 bestselling protein bar on Amazon, these will provide both a tasty flavor and without the carbs, so you can get packed with protein before your next workout.

“Quest Protein Bars have become a go-to for those looking for a high-protein snack without compromising on taste. With 20 grams of protein and only four to five grams of net carbs per bar, Quest bars offer a great option for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet,” suggested Bedford. She also mentioned that the high fiber content helps keep you full longer.

NY Post review: “Quest bars, especially since its adopted its chewy recipe, is one of my favorite protein bars,” said Updates Editor, Holly J Coley. “The Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough is my favorite, mainly for its giant chocolate chunks. I love the soft texture of the bars, especially if you heat in the microwave for 5 secs (no more than that!). It feels more like a ‘treat’ and keeps me from reaching for chips or worse, nothing at all. The bars typically have a good amount of fiber, so keep that in mind if you’re not used to eating something with more than 5 grams at once. “

Recommended flavor (Cookies and Cream) — Calories: 200 | Fat: 8 | Carbs: 21 | Protein: 21 | Fiber: 15 | Sugar: 1 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

For muscle gain, Kelly Jones, MS, RD, board-certified sports dietitian and owner of Student Athlete Nutrition recommends protein bars that also offer more energy and aren’t low in carbohydrates. Luckily, Perfect Bars clock in with 340 calories and 17 grams of protein.

“This could be a great snack before bed for those looking to gain weight since muscle protein synthesis requires both energy and protein, and a key time for it to occur is during sleep,” she adds. “It can also help bridge the time between two larger meals, or be a good option to pair with fruit and milk for an on-the-go breakfast.”

NY Post review: “Perfect Bars stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week, but I like the texture of these bars best when they come straight out of the refrigerator. They’re not quite as chewy as other bars, and the cashew butter adds a bit of creaminess,” shared Commerce Reporter and Content Strategist, Victoria Giardinia.

Recommended flavor: (Dark Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter) — Calories: 330 | Fat: 18 | Carbs: 24 | Protein: 15 | Fiber: 4 | Sugar: 19 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: Yes | Contains Nuts: No

We’ve searched long and far for a little bar that packs a punch, and think! does just that. These tiny bars are the ideal snack to grab before you head out the door. While they don’t offer as much protein as some of the others on this list, they still make a tasty snack for those looking to hold themselves over until their next meal.

“Think! Mini Protein Bars are perfect for those who need a quick, protein-packed snack on the go,” shared Bedford. “With 8–10 grams of protein per bar and a modest calorie count, they provide a satisfying, portion-controlled option for people looking to curb hunger without overindulging.”

NY Post review: Our team thought that Think! minis had everything to be considered for this list — regardless of their smaller size. While they weren’t quite big enough to keep us full, we thought the chocolate coating and texture were tasty, and the fact that they are right at the 100-calorie mark makes them a good choice for those looking for a pick-me-up.

Recommended flavor: (Chunky Chocolate Peanut) — Calories: 100 | Fat: 3.5 | Carbs: 13 | Protein: 6 | Fiber: 3 | Sugar: 4 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

We discovered Aloha bars after hunting for a low-sugar and artificial sweetener-free option, and these have really impressed us. Aloha Bars are a fantastic option for anyone seeking a clean, plant-based protein bar without compromising on taste. The coconut flavor has received rave reviews.

“Made with organic ingredients like pea protein, nuts, and seeds, these bars offer 14 grams of protein per serving, all while remaining free from gluten, dairy, and soy,” said Bedford. “Aloha’s focus on natural sweeteners like coconut nectar means you can enjoy a balanced, low-glycemic snack that won’t spike your blood sugar. They also happen to be my favorite.”

NY Post review: “I went through a phase when I only ordered ALOHA Coconut Chocolate Almond protein bars on-demand,” admitted Commerce Writer, Miska Salemann. “I like that they have a bit of fiber, and don’t use artificial sweeteners. They’re just a touch fruity, and have a little nutty texture, which helps break up the protein taste.”

Recommend flavor: (Coconut Chocolate Almond) — Calories: 260 | Fat: 13 | Carbs: 22 | Protein: 14 | Fiber: 6 | Sugar: 4 | Gluten Free: No | Vegan: Yes | Contains Nuts: Yes

These bars have 28 grams of protein. You read that right. David bars have been all over TikTok, and rightfully so — with more protein than any others on this list we had to put them to the test. Experts also seem to agree they may be worth the hype.

“David Protein Bar are an excellent option for anyone looking for a high-protein snack… With 28 grams of protein per bar, it’s crafted with premium ingredients like whey protein isolate and almond butter, offering a smooth texture and rich taste,” said Bedford.

NY Post review: “These bars pack 28g of protein, just 150 calories, and are sweetened with allulose. They’re one of the highest-protein options out there, though they only have 2 grams of fiber. Yes, they’re pricier, but hey — you’re getting nearly double the protein of most bars. While the macros are solid, the real test is the taste — and it delivered. I found there wasn’t a heavy protein aftertaste, a texture that’s not too chewy, and crispy bits for some added crunch. The chocolate chip cookie dough and blueberry pie flavors are my top picks. And they did the job of keeping me full,” shared Visual Content Editor, Hannah Sulcov.

Recommended flavor: (Cake Batter) — Calories: 150 | Fat: 2 | Carbs: 13 | Protein: 28 | Fiber: 7 | Sugar: 3 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

Meet the official protein bar of the 2024 Association of Pickleball Players Tour. If the pickleball players love it, you know it has to be delicious and packed with enough protein to get you through a heated match. But FULFIL bars aren’t just stacked with 15 grams of protein, they’re also packed with vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and E to give you all the energy you need to get swinging.

NY Post review: Commerce Writer, Emma Sutton-Williams was blown away by the FULFIL Protein Bars during our protein bar testing party. “These are super tasty,” she said, “Easy to bite into, and I am surprised they’re not candy.” She explained that the chocolate salted caramel flavor has a chewy nougat center reminiscent of a candy bar. It also doesn’t hurt that the whole thing is drenched in two layers of chocolate.

Recommended Flavor: (Chocolate Peanut Butter) — Calories: 214 | Fat: 9.9 | Carbs: 15 | Protein: 20 | Fiber: 2.6 | Sugar: 1.6 | Gluten Free: No | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

For a paleo-friendly protein bar, look no further than Bulletproof, according to our expert’s recommendations. The brand has grass-fed healthy snacks made with MCT oil (backed by Barnes as brain-boosting) and no added sugar.

“Bulletproof Bars are perfect for those looking to fuel their bodies with high-quality ingredients that support sustained energy and mental clarity,” said Bedford. “With a unique blend of grass-fed collagen protein and healthy fats from MCT oil and coconut, these bars are designed to keep you feeling fuller for longer while boosting brain function.”

NY Post review: “It’s difficult to find a protein bar that is packed with collagen and MCT oil (great for healthy skin, bones, and joints.) Bulletproof bars are easy on the stomach, low-calorie, and have a cookie-like texture that really tricks you into believing you’re eating dessert. Their new recipe is far less oily than the former,” said Salemann.

Nutrition (Lemon Cookie) — Calories: 180 | Fat: 5 | Carbs: 12 | Protein: 11 | Fiber: 2.6 | Sugar: 2 | Gluten Free: No | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

Want a simple, wholesome protein bar that isn’t over 200 calories? We’ve got one for you.

“The SimplyProtein Snack Bars boast 12 grams of plant-based protein, 7 grams of fiber, and only 2 grams of sugar per bar while also being gluten-free and dairy-free,” noted Mia Syn, a registered dietitian. Plus, they have a satisfying texture and crunch thanks to ingredients like whole almonds and brown rice crisps. 

Editor’s Note: “These taste more like a breakfast bar than a protein bar, and the texture reminds me of a Rice Krispie bar. Consider SimplyProtein the best protein bar for people who don’t like protein bars!” said Giardinia.

Recommended flavor: (Peanut Butter Chocolate) — Calories: 160 | Fat: 7 | Carbs: 12 | Protein: 11 | Fiber: 7 | Sugar: 2 | Gluten Free: No | Vegan: Yes | Contains Nuts: Yes

You’re probably already well-acquainted with KIND bars, but have you tried KIND Protein Max? The protein-packed version of the best-selling bars is just as tasty as the originals, per our reviews.

“Kind Protein Max bars are a standout for anyone looking for a combination of plant-based protein and a satisfying crunch,” said Bedford. “Made with high-quality ingredients like nuts, seeds, and a blend of plant proteins, they offer 12 grams of protein per bar while maintaining a clean, simple ingredient list.” She added that they’re a great option for those looking to maintain a more whole-food-based diet.

Editor’s Note: Our team loves KIND bars, so we weren’t too surprised by how much we liked the protein version. They’re crispy, crunchy, and just a bit crumbly. We agreed they would be a great choice for someone who enjoys a granola breakfast bar. There’s hardly any protein aftertaste.

Nutrition (Chocolate Peanut Butter) — Calories: 250 | Fat: 14 | Carbs: 23 | Protein: 20 | Fiber: 9 | Sugar: 1 | Gluten Free: No | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

It’s hard to keep track of all the indulgent One flavors — the brand recently released a Reece’s Peanut Butter flavor that tastes nearly as good as the real thing. These have a balanced yet sweet flavor, and many reviewers are shocked at how much protein is packed into each bar.

“ONE Protein Bars are a game-changer for anyone looking for a treat that satisfies both their sweet tooth and their nutritional needs,” noted Bedford, who has compared them to a candy bar. “With 20 grams of protein and just one gram of sugar per bar, ONE Protein Bars offer a rich, dessert-like experience without the guilt.”

Editor’s Note: The Post Wanted team was blown away by the range of flavors that One offers, but we weren’t sold on the consistency. These bars were a bit hard to bite into, but the flavor made up for it. Plus, with 20 grams of protein, you should expect a bit of chewiness.

Nutrition (Cinnamon Roll) — Calories: 220 | Fat: 7 | Carbs: 24 | Protein: 20 | Fiber: 9 | Sugar: 1 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

Because the RXBAR is made with 3 core ingredients — egg whites, nuts, and dates — it’s a paleo-friendly option (and one Syn loves!)

“The paleo diet is a dietary plan based on foods similar to what may have been eaten during the paleolithic era, so focuses on whole food ingredients like meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, nuts, and seeds while excluding dairy products, legumes, and grains,” Syn explained.

Editor’s Note: “I was a bit hesitant to try these bars knowing that they were packed with egg whites and I felt that flavor might clash in a protein bar. Don’t let that fool you — the other ingredients really mask the eggs and you wouldn’t know they’re in there,” salemann explained. “Plus, the crunchy nuts add a satisfying texture, and the dates sweeten it up just the right amount. You won’t be disappointed.”

Nutrition (Chocolate Sea Salt) — Calories: 210 | Fat: 10 | Carbs: 24 | Protein: 12 | Fiber: 6 | Sugar: 15 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

We’ve talked about protein bars, but have you heard of brain bars? These might be the next healthy snack to get your hands on. MOSH was founded by Maria Shriver and Patrick Schwarzenegger, and their bars are packed with all the brain-enhancing nutrients you can imagine.

Bedford explained that MOSH is more than a protein bar — “MOSH Bars are a unique choice for those looking to support both brain health and physical recovery. With ingredients like Omega-3-rich flax seeds and functional mushrooms, these bars aren’t just about protein; they’re designed to promote mental clarity and cognitive function,” she shared.

Editor’s Note: “I was pleasantly surprised by these bars. They’re not overly sweet, or too chewy. In fact, the flavors are milder than I expected based on the names. What sold me was the ingredients,” said Salemann. “I love the combination of brain-boosting nutrients, and ashwagandha for stress. Just eating this made me feel relaxed (and full!).”

Nutrition (Cookie Dough) — Calories: 180 | Fat: 10 | Carbs: 24 | Protein: 12 | Fiber: 7 | Sugar: 3 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

“For muscle gain, you’ll want a bar that contains an excellent amount of protein,” Amy Gorin, MS, RD, an inclusive plant-based dietitian and owner of Plant Based with Amy notes. “I like the GoMacro Organic Vegan Protein Bars.” In each bar, too, you get around 10 grams of protein for 280 calories.

Extra tip: try and choose a GoMacro bar that doesn’t feature “natural flavors.”

Editor’s Note: “For someone who prefers a simple, clean treat over something packed with flavor, I recommend trying these. The ingredients are super clean, and you get a good mix of superfoods and healthy fats like pumpkin and sunflower seeds,” said Salemann. “I’ve also had trouble finding these bars at stores, so it’s a relief that I can order them in bulk from Amazon.”

Nutrition (Double Chocolate + Chip Peanut Butter Chips) — Calories: 280 | Fat: 10 | Carbs: 36 | Protein: 10 | Fiber: 2 | Sugar: 14 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: Yes | Contains Nuts: Yes

“One of my favorite vegan protein bars is CLIF Builders,” Jones highlights. “The brand has a great reputation and they use high-quality soy protein.”

There’s also a variety of tasty flavors, carbohydrates to help replenish muscle energy stores and maintain blood sugar, and 20% of the daily value of iron, a nutrient that active females as well as vegans need more of, she notes.

Editor’s Note: “I find Cliff Builders to be very filling, and at just under 300 calories they should be. I personally am a huge fan of anything chocolate-flavored, and while these are not Hershey’s bars, they really do have a decadent, smooth flavor that convinces me I am enjoying dessert. Keep in mind they’re on the sweeter side,” Salemann noted.

Nutrition (Chocolate Peanut Butter) — Calories: 280 | Fat: 9 | Carbs: 31 | Protein: 20 | Fiber: 3 | Sugar: 17 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: No | Contains Nuts: Yes

What’s great about vegan protein bars is that they’re made up of solely plant-based ingredients. “Larabar is made with no more than nine 100% whole food ingredients including unsweetened fruit, nuts, and spices,” according to Syn.

Editor’s Note: “Larabars have been a favorite of mine since childhood,” said Salemann. “They’re easy on the tastebuds and contain wholesome ingredients. I love that they offer a wide range of flavors — from apple pie to cashew cookies — so it’s difficult to get bored or hung up on just one. These are smaller bars, so while I won’t consider them a meal replacement, they’re a good snack to refuel.”

Nutrition (Cherry Pie) — Calories: 200 | Fat: 8 | Carbs: 28 | Protein: 4 | Fiber: 2 | Sugar: 20 | Gluten Free: Yes | Vegan: Yes | Contains Nuts: Yes

FAQ Section

Ahead, our team of dietitians dish out the deets on what to look for when shopping for protein bars — for every diet and preference, too.

What are the best protein bars?

The best protein bars will depend on your personal goals and dietary needs.

“Some people look for protein bars to give them energy on the go and bridge the gap between meals others look for protein bars that may help support weight loss or muscle growth,” said Syn. “Additionally, some may be looking for a bar that specifically caters to their dietary needs such as gluten-free, plant-based or keto-friendly.”

“The best protein bars offer high quality protein alongside important nutrients, while also having a desirable taste and texture,” Jones adds. “If you are eating protein bars regularly, I also recommend limiting ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, most sugar alcohols, and high doses of fibers such as inulin and chicory root, since frequent or high consumption can cause digestive distress in some people. 

Which bar has the most protein?

Out of all the bars we tested, David bars have the most protein at 28 grams. Another popular high-protein option is MET-Rx Big 100 Colossal Protein Bars, which offer a whopping 30 grams of protein per serving.

“The highest protein bars pack around 20 grams or more,” Syn adds. “CLIF Builders contain 20 grams of protein per bar and are designed to help recovery after a tough workout,” she highlights.

However, more protein isn’t always better. “While there are a couple of bars on the market packing in 30 grams of protein, they aren’t my top recommendation due to the balance of nutrients and other ingredients,” Jones notes.

Is it healthy to have a protein bar every day?

Are there any protein bars that are actually healthy? According to Gorin, it really depends on what bar you are choosing.

“There are some very nutritious bars out there that are made with whole-food ingredients like nuts and seeds — and they are some very processed food bars that I would not recommend eating a lot of,” she told The Post.

The nutritional criteria for protein bars, explained by our experts

“I try to make sure it contains about 180-250 calories per serving, at least 10 grams of protein and minimum 4 grams of fiber,” Maeng notes. “I also look at the net carb (total carbohydrate – fiber = net carb) and look for products that have 15 grams or less of net carb to minimize blood sugar spikes and crashes, which can impact their energy levels as they go about their day.”

On the same token, carbohydrate plays an important role in muscle building and repairing so you shouldn’t just look for low carb protein bars. “Try to look for bars that use carbohydrates that are higher in fiber (indigestible part of carb) such as dates, seeds, whole grains, and nuts,” Maeng adds.

What are the benefits of protein?

Above all else, knowing the nutritional impact of protein is important when on the lookout for protein bars (and naturally so!)

“Protein is an essential macronutrient and is found throughout the body including muscles, bones, skin and hair,” Syn explains. “This satiating macronutrient helps you feel full and may help support weight management and even weight loss. It also helps with muscle mass maintenance and growth when coupled with strength training.”

Can a protein bar be a meal replacement?

The answer depends completely on the bar’s components.

According to a study by the National Institute of Health, high-protein, protein bars formulated using whey protein isolate, soy protein isolate, oat flakes and inulin, were able to achieve the requirements for a meal replacement formula for physically active people.

Shoppers should be sure to check the ingredients of the bar, and consider their daily nutritional and caloric needs if using a protein bar to replace a meal.

How We Tested

After speaking with expert nutritionists, the Post Wanted team put the bars to the ultimate test. We evaluated the best protein bars based on three main criteria — ingredients, nutritional value, and taste.

• Ingredients: We evaluated the ingredients in each protein bar — looking for artificial sweeteners and unwanted additives. We considered bars that used whole foods, added Vitamins, and superfoods. Noted any bars that met dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, vegan, and keto diets.
• Nutritional Value: Our experts recommended looking for protein bars that contain about 180-250 calories per serving, at least 10 grams of protein, a minimum of four grams of fiber, and net carbs of 15 grams or less. We made note of where each bar fell on this criteria and their overall nutritional value.
• Taste: Taste is subjective, however, we considered the flavor variety, sweetness level, chewiness, and overall texture, as well as any standout flavor points — including whether there were any artificial flavors that came through. We also considered how full we felt after eating each bar.

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