Protein is a crucial food group. It plays a critical role in muscle repair and growth and can enhance your recovery after exercise. It’s useful for weight loss, too, as it’s very filling and speeds up your metabolism.
Unfortunately, getting enough protein is not always easy. While there are lots of protein foods to choose from, most need to be cooked.
This can make eating enough protein something of a challenge. Your boss might not appreciate you eating chicken, eggs, or fish while you’re supposed to be working!
The best protein bars for women take the stress out of eating enough of this critical nutrient. They’re portable, digest easily, and require no preparation. You can eat a protein bar almost anywhere and anytime. Many of them even taste like candy bars!
Whether you are looking for the best protein bar for weight loss or muscle gain, we’ve tried and tested 10 of the best so you can find the right one for your needs.
10 Best Protein Bars For Women
A lot of protein bars contain all types of ingredients, including GMO, non-vegan, and non-organic. While these bars DO provide protein, they aren’t necessarily good for you. This product from Orgain is 100% organic and made from all-natural ingredients, making this a very healthy protein bar indeed!
Key Features
- 150 calories per bar
- 10 grams of protein
- 20 grams of carbohydrates
- 6 grams of fat
- Contains rice and pea protein
- Organic, vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and non-GMO
- Free from soy and lactose
- Available in five flavors
They are perfect for health-conscious women. With just 150 calories per bar, they won’t lead to weight gain but will still ward off hunger and boost energy between meals. With more carbs than protein, this product is ideal for exercisers, especially before and after workouts.
Pros
- Great range of flavors
- Low in calories
- Made with healthy ingredients
- Free from most allergens
Cons
- Low in protein
10 grams is not a lot of protein. Especially if you are trying to consume the recommended 1.5 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilo of bodyweight. But, if you are looking for a tasty, healthy alternative to candy that also contains a modest shot of protein, Orgain could be what you need.
2. One
ONE
$23.97
Features
- GLUTEN-FREE PROTEIN BARS: NEW and IMPROVED RECIPE. Don’t choose between flavor and nutrition with these delicious protein bars. Life’s too short for anything boring, tasteless, or chalky. Stressful day, Pre-workout snack, Grab your ONE protein bar.
- HIGH PROTEIN, WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE, JUST 1G SUGAR, ALL OMG TASTE: Whichever ONE bar flavor you grab, you'll get 20g of protein, 1g of sugar and all OMG taste. Our gluten-free snack bars are a perfect high protein snack when your energy is low.
- TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE SNACKING: At ONE Brands, we believe great taste and good health are not mutually exclusive, which is why we created the ONE Protein Bar. High protein, 1 gram of sugar and indulgent flavor make this protein bar one you'll keep eating.
- ONE PROTEIN BAR IS THE ONE: Taste ONE to Believe ONE and take the taste challenge against other brands like Gatorade, Pure Protein, Clif Bar, RXBAR, Quest Bar, Think Thin, Optimum Nutrition, Power Crunch, MusclePharm, Premier Protein, Kind, and LaraBar.
- THE ONE PROTEIN BAR: Congratulations, You've Found the ONE. Protein bar, that is. With our Gluten-Free Birthday Cake protein bar, everyday is a celebration. Satisfy your sweet tooth with 20g of protein and just 1g of sugar.
Some protein bars contain more carbohydrates than protein, and often these carbs are in the form of sugar. This product from One is almost sugar-free, and the carb and protein content is very well balanced. This is a good protein bar for anyone who wants more energy and protein.
Key Features
- 220 calories per bar
- 20 grams of protein
- 23 grams of carbohydrate
- 8 grams of fat
- Contains whey protein
- Fortified with minerals
- Available in nine flavors
These protein bars provide a substantial hit of carbs and protein. Available in 11 mouth-watering flavors, they taste amazing, and they’re filling too. Best of all, with next to no sugar, they’re sweet but won’t derail your weight loss diet.
Pros
- High in protein
- Great range of flavors
- Just one gram of sugar per bar
- Moist texture
- Free from gluten
Cons
- Quite high in carbs
- Not suitable for vegans
- Contains sources of eggs and lactose
If you want a filling protein bar, this could be the one you want. They’re tasty enough to satisfy the sweetest tooth but are virtually sugar-free, so they won’t ruin your diet. They’re the perfect health-conscious, guilt-free alternative to candy bars.
3. ProBar
PROBAR
$20.94
Features
- 20g of PLANT PROTEIN per Serving (See Nutrition Information on package for total fat and saturated fat content.)
- 4g FIBER: Helps to keep you satisfied longer
- CHIA AND FLAX SEEDS: Sources of OMEGA-3 fatty acids and natural fiber.
- GLUTEN-FREE: Safe, sustainably-sourced ingredients provide the health benefits of a gluten-free diet
- NON-GMO PROJECT VERIFIED: All PROBAR products are Non-GMO Project Verified; Cholesterol Less than 300mg
ProBar has been making sports supplements since 2002. Their Base protein bar is made from plant protein, so it’s suitable for vegetarians. High in fiber, this product is filling and also good for your digestive health.
Key Features
- 280 calories per bar
- 20 grams of protein
- 33 grams of carbohydrate
- 8 grams of fat
- Made with soy protein
- 4 grams of fiber
- High in omega-three fatty acids (good fats)
- Non-GMO
- Available in seven flavors, as well as a variety pack
ProBar is an official nutrition partner of U.S. ski and snowboarding. It’s easy to see why because their Base protein bars are made for hard-charging exercisers. With 280 calories and 33 grams of carbs, this is much an energy bar as a protein bar. Because of this, they’re better for exercisers and not so useful for dieters.
Pros
- Plant-based protein
- A substantial snack
- Gluten-free
- Excellent range of flavors
Cons
- May be too high in carbs and calories for weight loss dieters
If you like the sound of this bar but are put off by its high carb and calorie content, just cut each one in half! That way, you can enjoy all the benefits of a very well-formulated bar without worrying about weight gain. Simple!
4. RXBar
Features
- Discover a protein bar made with simple ingredients; Egg whites, pecans, cashews, and dates
- Enjoy a snack made with simple ingredients; High protein breakfast bar made with wholesome ingredients for great flavor and texture
- Gluten free; Contains 12g protein (23% daily value); Kosher Pareve; Contains pecan, cashew, and egg ingredients
- Protein snacks are great for the office, before or after your workout, or as a quick, feel-good boost for on-the-go snacking
- Includes 1, 22oz box containing 12 RXBAR Maple Sea Salt protein bars
Protein bars often contain a long list of ingredients, many of which are artificial. These RXBar protein bars contain just nine ingredients or less, and each one of them is readily identifiable. This is the kind of protein bar you could make at home!
Key Features
- 210 calories per bar
- 12 grams of protein
- 24 grams of carbohydrate
- 9 grams of fat
- 4 grams of fiber
- Sweetened with dates
- Protein from egg whites
- Gluten-free
- Available in 21 flavors
RXBar protein bars contain nothing but natural, recognizable ingredients. They are relatively high in sugar and carbs, but that’s because they contain dates. The protein comes from egg whites, which is one of the highest quality proteins available.
Pros
- All-natural ingredients
- Naturally flavored and sweetened
- Amazing flavors
- Available in 12s and 24s
- Moist, chewy texture
- High fiber
Cons
- High in (natural) sugars and carbs
If you’re doing keto or following any other low sugar/carb diet, this protein bar is not for you. It’s high in natural sugars and carbs and not all that high in protein. It’s undoubtedly a healthy protein bar that will give you lots of energy, but it may not be suitable for weight loss dieters and is not vegan or vegetarian-friendly.
5. LivBar Organic
Features
- SUPERFOOD BAR VARIETY 12 PACK: Indulge in the delectable variety of LivBar’s Blueberry Vanilla Kale, Raspberry Kale Maca, Ginger Lemon Turmeric, and Coffee Maple Cacao superfood bars. Each delivering perfectly balanced whole proteins and complex carbs that naturally fuel your energy throughout the day. Healthy nutrition never tasted so good!
- CERTIFIED ORGANIC INGREDIENTS: We believe real food is good food. LivBars are no exception. Our delicious protein bars are made with only the best Non-GMO, USDA Certified organic ingredients free of common allergens including gluten, dairy, soy, corn, and peanuts!
- ON-THE-GO SNACK: Fuel your wildest adventures with the perfect on-the-go energy snack! Unlike other competitor’s products, LivBars feature all natural and plant-based ingredients that don’t melt or freeze. Stash them for your next run, hike, or ride!
- COMPOSTABLE WRAPPER: On a mission to keep the environment and your health in tip-top shape, all LivBars are wrapped in 100% compostable cellulose packaging so you can feel good about what you eat!
- ABOUT LIVBARS: Designed for active, healthy people on-the go and handmade in Oregon, we care about what goes into our protein energy bars — so we guarantee only the best in our products!
A lot of protein bars, especially those made for bodybuilders, are loaded with unnatural ingredients. All those chemicals CAN’T be good for you! These organic superfood bars from LivBar are made from all-natural and mostly organic ingredients, making them one of the healthiest protein bars around.
Key Features
- 220 calories per bar
- 7 grams of protein
- 15 grams of carbohydrate
- 14 grams of fat
- 4 grams of fiber
- Compostable wrapper
- All-natural ingredients
- Free from common allergens including gluten, dairy, soy, corn, and peanuts
- Non-GMO, USDA Certified organic ingredients
- Four flavor variety pack
Strictly speaking, this ISN’T a protein bar. They contain protein, but the amounts are pretty low. Instead, it’s a high carb, moderate fat, and moderate protein food bar. That said, if you are looking for a healthy, natural, convenient snack, these bars are highly recommended.
Pros
- A very “green” product that’s good for the environment
- Healthy and nutritious all-natural ingredients
- Nice range of flavors
- Very tasty
- Handmade in Oregon, USA.
Cons
- Not very high in protein
Compared to some bars, this product is low in protein. That’s not good news if you want to boost your recovery after exercise or build muscle. But, if you want a healthy and nutritious food bar that also contains a modest amount of protein, this could be the product for you. It’s a guilt-free alternative to candy bars that is also good for you.
6. Kind
KIND
$17.47
Features
- Contains 1 Box of 12 – 1.76 Ounce KIND PROTEIN Dark Chocolate Nut Bars
- Nutrient-dense, gluten free protein bars with heart healthy peanuts as the #1 ingredient
- 12 grams of plant protein and 25% bigger than original KIND bars
- Kosher snacks offer a healthy snack for convenience on-the-go
- KIND PROTEIN Dark Chocolate Nut Bars are a good source of protein*, are gluten free, and have a low glycemic index *Contain 17g of fat per bar
A lot of protein bars are soft and chewy. These bars from Kind are high in nuts, which gives them a crunchy texture that’s a welcome alternative to most other protein bars.
Key Features
- 240 calories per serving
- 12 grams of protein
- 18 grams of carbohydrates
- 17 grams of fat
- Sweetened with honey
- Available in four flavors
- Gluten-Free, no genetically modified ingredients, zero trans fats, kosher
Nuts are an excellent source of protein, but they’re also high in fats. A lot of people are also allergic to nuts. That said, providing you don’t mind the extra calories, and the nuts won’t cause an anaphylactic shock, you’ll probably enjoy these tasty, crunchy, nut-based protein bars.
Pros
- Very tasty
- All-natural ingredients
- High in healthy fats
- High in satiating fiber
- Good range of flavors
Cons
- Not suitable for people with nut allergies
- Contain more fat and carbs than protein
Kind Protein Bars score low on the glycemic index, which means the carbs they contain will be released and digested slowly. That’s good news for your energy levels and helpful for weight loss. However, they are also quite low in protein. If you want an alternative to fattening candy bars, this product is an excellent choice.
7. GoMacro
GoMacro
Features
- HEALTHY INDULGENCE: Good things tend to come in threes, so we combined creamy peanut butter, crunchy peanuts, and our very own homemade peanut butter chips to create a peanut butter lover’s dream.
- YOUR NEW FAVORITE PROTEIN BAR: Stay energized, satisfied, and fueled with plant-based protein. Whether you enjoy them as a snack bar on-the-go or delicious treat, eating clean never tasted so good!
- CERTIFICATIONS YOU CAN TRUST: All MacroBars are Certified Organic, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Kosher, Non-GMO, C.L.E.A.N., and Soy-Free. If there were a certification for delicious, we’d have that too!
- RESPONSIBLY SOURCED: We believe that natural food is healthier for the body and soul. We only work with suppliers who meet our high standards for taste, certifications, and environmental stewardship.
- HIGH PROTEIN SNACKS ON A MISSION: Mother-daughter-owned, our mission is to spread awareness for a balanced, plant-based lifestyle with vegan bars that have positive effects on the world.
Macrobars are some of the cleanest protein bars around. USDA-certified vegan, raw, non-GMO, and gluten-free are made by hand from all-natural ingredients. These bars don’t have the highest protein content on review, but they are amongst the healthiest and most nutritious.
Key Features
- 280 calories per bar
- 11 grams of protein
- 36 grams of carbohydrates
- 11 grams of fat
- Organic, natural, non-GMO ingredients
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly
- Contains organic pea and brown rice
- Available in 15 varieties
Go Macro is a mother and daughter owned company. They make a range of nutritional products, all of which are as unprocessed and natural as possible. These bars are very “carby” but, if you want energy as well as protein, these healthy, tasty bars are a good choice.
Pros
- Delicious, all-natural flavors
- 100% organic, natural ingredients
- High in fiber
- Compostable packaging
- Plant-based protein
Cons
- Some reviews mention inconsistencies in texture
The problem with small companies that specialize in handmade products is that, without automation, it’s almost impossible to produce hundreds or even thousands of identical products. There will always be some inconsistencies from one bar to another, but this will not affect taste or quality. These GoMacro bars are healthy and tasty and a great alternative to sugar-laden candy.
8. Perfect Bar
Perfect Bar
Features
- VARIETY PACK: Perfect Bar is a delicious blend of creamy & crunchy with a cookie-dough-like texture. This variety pack includes 3 flavors: Dark Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter & Coconut Peanut Butter.
- SUPERFOOD: Superfoods like fruits, vegetables, seeds & oils are found in every bar to provide a convenient source of vitamins & minerals. Plus, we use whole food protein & never rely on whey or soy.
- THE INSIDE MATTERS: Featuring clean ingredients, whole food nutrition & a low glycemic index, these high-fiber gluten-free snack bars help keep you fuller, longer. Organic, non-GMO & kosher.
- ENJOY ON THE GO: Perfect Bar is kept refrigerated for optimal texture & tastiness, but stays good for one week out of the fridge. This snack is a great way to increase your protein intake on the go.
- PERFECT SNACKS: Our nutritious bars are great for an active lifestyle. Enjoy the full line of Perfect Snacks including Perfect Bar, Perfect Peanut Butter Cups, Perfect Bites & Perfect Kids.
Most protein bars have a very long shelf life, which suggests they either contain preservative additives or have been heavily processed. Perfect Bars have to be refrigerated to keep them fresh, which means they’re made from minimally processed whole foods.
Key Features
- 310 calories per bar
- 14 grams of protein
- 24 grams of carbohydrates
- 19 grams of fat
- 3 grams of fiber
- Contains 20+ superfoods, e.g., kale, kelp, celery, and rosehip
- Organic ingredients
- Protein from dried whole egg powder
- Available in 12 flavors and variety packs
These bars are made from all-natural ingredients, which is why they need to be refrigerated. They have a smooth, chewy, crunchy texture, and are both tasty and filling. They’re definitely best served chilled but will also stay fresh for 5-7 days outside the refrigerator, so they’re reasonably portable too.
Pros
- Great texture
- Extensive range of flavors
- Very fresh, wholesome ingredients
- Very nutritious
Cons
- High in calories, carbs, and fat
- Not very high in protein
- Contains the allergens nuts, eggs, and milk
This is one of the most calorie-dense bars on review. It’s virtually a small meal in a wrapper! It’s not all that high in protein, either. But, if you’re looking for a very healthy snack made from the freshest ingredients that also contain some protein and superfoods, this bar is worthy of your consideration.
9. Oatmega
Features
- PROTEIN BAR: Can't decide what you're craving? You can never go wrong with smooth chocolate mixed with crunchy peanuts
- NUTRITION BARS: This pack of 12counts(pack of 1), 1.8-ounce OATMEGA Chocolate Peanut grass-fed whey protein bars is an excellent addition to any pantry and is a great alternative to granola bars
- ENERGY BAR: These protein bars are non-GMO, gluten-free and contain Omega-3 fatty acids
- LOW SUGAR PROTEIN BAR: The perfect combination of sweet and salty made with premium grass-fed whey protein
- OATMEGA PROTEIN BAR: A delicious alternative to protein bars and nutrition bars from other brands including, Clif Bars, Clif Z Bars for Kids, Kind Bars, Larabar, Rx Bars, Quaker, Evo Hemp, NuGo Slim Bars, Onnit, Weight Watchers and Whole Foods.SNACK BARS: OATMEGA Protein Bars are a delicious snack! Compare to a range of similar snacks, including nutrition bars, gluten free snacks, dairy free snacks, Asian snacks, snack sticks, keto-friendly snacks, vegan bars and paleo snacks
A lot of protein bars are purposely devoid of grains. This makes them low in carbs and lower in calories. This product from Oatmega contains gluten-free oats to provide both fiber and a long-lasting source of energy.
Key Features
- 200 calories per bar
- 14 grams of protein
- 22 grams of carbohydrates
- 7 grams of fat
- 7 grams of fiber
- Made with grass-fed whey protein concentrate
- Added fish oils
- Non-GMO, dairy, and gluten-free
- Available in nine flavors and a variety pack
This nutritional product contains several beneficial nutrients, not least protein. It’s high in anti-inflammatory omega three oils, oats, and grass-fed whey protein powder. This makes it a very nutritionally complete, filling, and nutritious bar.
Pros
- Great flavors
- Satisfying and filling
- Low in sugar
- A healthy alternative to granola bars
Cons
- Not suitable for people with a peanut allergy
These bars taste good and are filling too. They’re not too sweet, and they have a pleasant texture. They’re a lot like a high protein flapjack. At 14 grams, they contain a reasonable amount of protein, but with more carbs than protein, this bar is not suitable for anyone on a low carb ketogenic diet.
10. Bulletproof Collagen
Features
- Collagen Protein: Great source of protein from grass-fed cows, only 2g of naturally occurring sugar, no added sugar
- Quality Fats: Bars feature added Brain Octane MCT oil which offers a reliable and quick source of energy; from coconuts, no palm oil
- Maximum Fuel On-The-Go: Healthy snack that keeps you full and focused anytime of day with all the best amino acids for bone, joint, and skin support
- Minimally Processed: To preserve flavors and maximize nutrients in every bite, keeping you strong with steady energy throughout the day
- Great Tasting: Bars are the purest you can get; you can expect to feel a difference. Shortbread texture, gluten-free, dairy and grain-free, non-GMO, keto (Packaging May Vary)
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It’s vital for things like healthy nails, skin, bones, and hair. In addition, it can be helpful for muscle repair and growth. In short, this product is good for the inside and the outside of your body!
Key Features
- 220 calories per bar
- 12 grams of protein
- 14 grams of carbohydrate
- 14 grams of fat
- Available in five flavors
- High in MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) oils
- Minimally processed
- Contains gut-friendly inulin
- Points
- Please
Bulletproof is known for making some of the best MCT oil products around. These bars are high in protein, MCTs, and fiber to give you energy, support exercise, and recovery, and boost digestive and brain health. The five flavors taste great, and the texture of the bars makes them taste like candy. This is a very palatable bar.
Pros
- Good macro balance
- Useful for boosting brain function and health
- Nice range of flavors
- Moderate calorie content
- Part of the Bulletproof diet range of products
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Contains nuts
These bars taste a lot like cookie dough, and that’s their texture too. They don’t do well in the heat and will turn very gooey if they’re allowed to get warm. However, they may be too hard to eat if they’re refrigerated. But, stored and served at room temperature, these bars are a pleasure to eat!
Key Information
Consider the following information before buying or using protein bars:
Types of protein bars
There are several different types of protein bars, and they all have their uses.
Low carb/high protein bars are suitable for ketogenic dieters and anyone dieting to lose weight. They are, however, not so good for refueling after exercise. On the downside, low carb bars are usually artificially sweetened and may contain sugar alcohols. Excess sugar alcohol consumption can cause gastric upset.
Bars that contain similar amounts of protein and carbs are ideal for after exercise. They’ll also help kickstart the recovery process, so you can exercise again sooner. The carbs will give you energy if consumed before a workout or any other time you need a boost.
High carb/low protein bars are mostly an alternative to less healthy snacks like candy. The small amount of protein will help to keep you feeling fuller for longer and stabilize your blood glucose. This type of bar is good before exercise for a fast-digesting energy boost but won’t do much for post-exercise recovery as their protein content is too low.
What to Look For in a Bar
Consider the following when deciding which protein bar to buy:
- Protein content – how much protein do you want from your bar. Products typically range from 10 to 25 grams per bar. If you need more protein, perhaps because you are an avid exerciser, seek out bars with higher protein content.
- Carb content – higher carb bars are good for energy and speeding up recovery after exercise, but less useful for weight loss. Match your bar with your needs and goals.
- Flavor – Some bars definitely taste better than others, but the taste is a very personal issue. Try a bar before you commit to buying a box of 20 in case you don’t like the taste. Many companies now offer selection packs, so you can try several flavors before committing to bulk purchases.
- Dietary requirements – some bars are compatible with specific diets and nutritional requirements. Check for things like allergens, GMO ingredients, and anything else you’d prefer not to eat before buying your protein bars. Also, if you are a vegetarian or vegan, make sure your bar is certified accordingly.
- Calories – if you aren’t too worried about your weight, there is no reason to focus too much on how many calories are in your protein bars. But, if weight loss is your goal, make sure you seek out low-calorie protein bars or cut your high-calorie bars in half. Bars under 200 calories are best for weight loss, and some bars contain 150 calories or less.
Ingredients to avoid
Protein bars contain a startling array of ingredients. Some are entirely natural, while others seem to be nothing but chemicals. Look out for and avoid these ingredients:
- Added refined sugar
- Artificial sweeteners
- Known allergens, e.g., nuts, dairy, wheat, etc.
- Chemical colors, flavors, and preservatives
- Trans fats
To make a protein bar taste like a candy bar, the manufacturer will undoubtedly have to use some chemicals, including sweeteners and emulsifiers. But these items should appear near the end of the ingredients list, which means they’re only used in tiny amounts.
Whenever possible, if you care about your health, seek out bars made with mostly natural, recognizable ingredients, and not just a bunch of chemicals or sugar.
Can they help with weight loss?
Protein bars can help you lose weight. Simply replace a high-calorie meal with a lower calorie bar. The protein will help fill you up, and you’ll save a whole lot of calories in the process.
Protein bars can also help you lose weight if you eat them in place of higher-calorie candy and snacks. Make sure you seek out the lower-calorie bars (120-150, and not 250-300+) for this purpose.
However, if you start eating protein bars and DON’T adjust your diet, you could find yourself gaining instead of losing weight!
Bottom Line
Getting enough protein is not always easy. It’s an abundant food group, but it’s not always convenient to eat it. You could chug down a protein shake, but you need water and a shaker cup to do that, which may not always be practical.
Protein bars provide a straightforward way to consume protein on the go. Just unwrap your bar and eat it; no mess and no fuss.
There are lots of different protein bars to choose from, and some are better than others. However, whatever your nutritional goal may be, there is a bar out there for you.
Protein bars are available in a dazzling range of flavors and are made from lots of different ingredients. Some contain 20+ grams of protein, while others are higher in carbs. All of these bars have a purpose and will suit some people better than others.
Patrick Dale is an ex-British Royal Marine and owner and lecturer for a fitness qualifications company. In addition to training prospective personal trainers, Patrick has also authored three fitness and exercise books, dozens of e-books, thousands of articles, and several fitness videos.
