A recent market report exploring protein bar trends between 2017-2022 states that North America accounted for over 40% of the total global market value.
This is the largest regional market and forecasts show this is set to remain.
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Protein bars have become increasingly popular in recent years for a number of reasons including changing fitness trends, increased demand for convenience foods and the added nutritional value they provide.
With interest at an all-time high, competition has toughened and protein bar manufacturers need to be more innovative than ever before.
In order to stay ahead, companies are not only having to consider taste, but also the ingredients that are used.
For consumers like you and I, this is great news as it means there is a lot more choice in the protein bar ranges on offer, such as the ingredients that are used, the level of protein contained in the bar and also solutions for various intolerances, including gluten and dairy free.
To make it a little bit easier to choose your perfect protein bar, we have put together our 6 favorite Costco protein bars below for some inspiration. Take a look now:
The 6 Best Bets
#1 Choice - RXBAR Whole Food Protein Bar, Chocolate Sea Salt
The RXBAR Whole Food Protein Bar is pure indulgence, whether you are looking for a quick snack to take away hunger or additional protein to support your workout regime.
This bar consists of egg whites, dates and nuts, and has 12 grams of protein with no added sugar.
The 100% pure chocolate and sea salt creates a truly decadent treat that is a pleasure to eat.
KIND Bars, Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate
The KIND Bars are healthy as well as incredibly tasty, so you don’t have to compromise on choice.
The peanut butter and rich dark chocolate ingredients complement each other perfectly for a snack that not only satisfies, but tastes utterly devine.
The KIND Bars have 8 grams of protein and are also gluten-free, so a welcome option if you are gluten intolerant.
Quest Nutrition Protein Bar, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
The Quest Nutrition Protein Bar is ideal if you have a sweet tooth! Tasting exactly like cookie dough and with real chocolate chips, what’s not to love.
Even better, there is no added sugar, so they really are a pleasure you don’t have to feel guilty about.
This bar also contains 21 grams of protein, so a great choice if you are a fitness fanatic and have serious goals to aim for.
You can also bake these bars in the oven to warm through and include them in your recipes, so why not be as creative as you want!
How about making a delicious chocolate chip cheesecake using a Quest Nutrition Protein Bar as the base?
RXBAR Whole Food Protein Bar, Blueberry
If you prefer the taste of fruit to chocolate, you may want to consider the RXBAR Whole Food Protein Bar with blueberries.
Blueberries are great for your health as they are high in antioxidants and low in calories, as well as tasting delicious so it’s not only the protein benefit you will be getting.
This protein bar has 12 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber so offers a healthy breakfast alternative or workout snack.
CLIF BUILDER'S Protein Bar, Chocolate Peanut Butter
Are you dedicated to the gym, never missing a session or sometimes even having more than one session a day?
Do you believe your workout doesn’t stop, even when you’ve finished a session?
If the answer is ‘yes’ to one or both of these questions, the CLIF BUILDER’S Protein Bar is for you.
This tasty bar has 20 grams of protein, helping to build and repair muscles as part of your recovery regime.
So even when you stop working out, the protein bar doesn’t stop working for you.
Pure Protein Bar Variety Pack
If you get bored easily and like variety in your life, and food, Pure Protein Bars may be the answer.
These bars contain at least 21 grams of protein, so you will still benefit from a high level of protein, but they also offer the choice of 3 delicious flavors in this variety pack; Chocolate Deluxe, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Chewy Chocolate Chip.
They are ideal if you have a busy lifestyle and always on the go, providing that extra energy and nutrition.
FAQ
What are protein bars good for?
As protein bars contain a high level of protein, they are particularly good for fitness enthusiasts to repair and strengthen muscles after a hard workout as part of their recovery plan. They are also a convenient snack for people who have busy lifestyles and always on the go. They are easily stored so are good for traveling or for taking to work for a quick lunchtime snack. Protein bars usually also contain additional vitamins and minerals, which all help support a healthy lifestyle.
What are the benefits of protein bars for weight loss?
The high level of protein can make you feel fuller for longer so can work as part of weight loss plan, but it is still important to have a balanced diet. Your doctor or nutritionist will be able to advise the best course of action, and to personalize a plan to fit your individual needs.
When is the best time to eat a protein bar?
This depends on the reasons for eating protein bars. If the protein bar is to replace a meal or as a convenient snack, then simply enjoy one when you otherwise would have had a meal. If, however, you are using protein bars as part of your workout regime, the best time is when you train or shortly afterwards to help aid recovery.
What is the difference between a protein bar and an energy bar?
An energy bar will usually contain a higher level of carbohydrates to create the food energy, where as protein bars usually have lower amounts of carbohydrates than energy bars, but a much higher level of protein.
