Snack preparation can be quite tricky when you want to squeeze all the nourishments that you need in one bite. Sandwiches can suffice, as well, as salads but collecting the ingredients altogether can be quite time-consuming too. Recently, I’ve heard about how snack bars are becoming very convenient and efficient in providing nourishment needs. Since then, these healthy munch-ons have become a staple in my pantry, as well as my backpack and purse (and pockets too).

What is a Protein Bar?

A protein bar is a snack bar that has squeezed in a number of nourishments that you need for the day, especially protein. People eat protein bars for varying reasons and some can be very specific. Some munch on for weight loss, and others for weight gain. Some see it as a supplement for muscle-building and others take it as a post-workout nourishment. Some people consume these bars for meal replacement while others regard it as a regular, tasty snack or something to curb their appetite. Whatever your reason may be, one thing is for sure: Protein bars, especially plant-based ones, are good for you and will support your dietary needs.

Why you need it

As mentioned above, snacking on protein bars bring a lot of advantages to your body. They are a good source of amino acids, fiber, and carbohydrates and you can chomp on it worry-free about your health as most of them are glucose-free, gluten-free, and preservatives-free.

Ease of Use

Preparation of plant-based protein bars is as easy as 1,2,3 because they are ready-to-eat snacks. No need for messy preparations and time-consuming efforts to come up with a delicious yet nourishing goody. All you have to do is grab a bar, stuff it in your backpack, and you’re good to go! You can eat it anytime and anywhere: whether you’re at the gym after a work-out, at home while watching your favorite TV show, on a road trip or even while resting from a trek at the top of the mountains.

Cost

When looking for the best protein bar that’ll suit your requirements, more than the ingredients, you should also take into consideration the costing as one piece’s price vary from another. The price range is about $1-$4 per piece but you could always bulk buy when purchasing online. Buying in packs is a good deal too as you get to experience the variety of yummy flavors.

Why you should trust Ideaing?

Since 2013, our team at Ideaing holds an extensive background in technology, from electrical engineering to product managers at Fortune 500 companies. We pride ourselves in providing truly objective incite into our reviews and recommendations. Our expert panel of product experts spend thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products. After our extensive research on the best plant-based protein bars, here are our top 10 picks for most people.

Best Plant-Based Protein Bars 2020

Based on our research, here are the Best Plant-Based Protein Bars options this year.

1. CLIF Energy Bars: Best energy-sustaining treats

If you’re an outdoorsy type of person, for sure, you might need to take with you light snacks to keep up with your energy used while outdoor pursuits. Personally, I’ve become a fan of hiking and I would admit that preparing trail food can be quite tricky. Tricky in the sense that first, I should make sure that my treats would still palatable when I reach my destination. Second, it should be light as it should not contribute to the weight of my backpack. Last and most importantly, it should replenish all the lost energy that I burned on the way up. Good thing, I came across CLIF Energy bars; snack bars that are ready-to-go and packed with zest to sustain your on-the-go lifestyle.

Why You Should Get It

These energy bars definitely meet my standards or trail food but it can actually give us more than the qualities set. They’re non-GMO products and are made of 70% organic ingredients. They’re made to last long all throughout the day but also act fast in supporting your needs nutrition-wise. As a nature-lover and outdoorsy person, it is a major plus that plan-based ingredients that they use help Mother Nature be in a good shape.

Pros

Variety pack contains 16 energy bars in 8 delicious flavors
Helps fuel big and small activities
Fast shipping

Cons

Unsealed shipping
Some flavors are a little stale

2. CLIF Builders Protein Bars: Best muscle-building snack bars

Nowadays, snack bars abound the market and people purchase it in heaps. Besides the fact that it fits an on-the-go lifestyle, which is a trend in today’s generation, it is also a tasty yet beneficial treat. Also, it is interesting to know that protein bars are not just simple snacks, but it also addresses our specific needs. Some may be most advantageous as a source of energy while some might help aid weight loss. Others store a huge chunk of protein to help in muscle-building. Such is the goal of CLIF Builders Protein Bars.

CLIF Protein Bars work best post-workout. Protein is known to seep in cracks whenever thews are toned. And so, combined with fats and carbohydrates compacted in a bar, it proves to be the top choice in muscle toning, replenishing of used energy, and fueling power once more.

Why You Should Get It

With 20 grams of Protein per piece plus essential amino acids, CLIF Builders Protein Bars are more than ready to repair and build. It comes in a variety of tasty flavors, all gluten-free. It serves as a reward after strenuous and straining activity. You definitely deserve this high-quality bar, as much as you deserve that toned physique. After all, “no pain, no gain.”

Pros

Comes in a brand new, modern look
A bar of 20g plant protein
Reasonable price

Cons

A little sugary
Texture needs improvement

3. Luna Bar: Best Gluten-free bars

“Someday a woman’s goal will be worth as much as a man’s. Someday is now.”

This advertisement tag line caught my attention when I came across Luna’s Gluten Free Bars’ packaging. There’s something about this brand that makes it unique than the rest; because it has advocacy: equality. Luna has been helping match the gap between women’s and men’s World Cup roster pay. But, this brand has something more to give more than its advocacy. It has promised to concoct together high-quality ingredients to prepare the best gluten-free bars just for you.

Why You Should Get It

Luna Bars come in 12 varieties of tasty flavors not only meant to satisfy your cravings, but also to fulfill your body’s needs as well. It has added healthy legumes on your snack to assist your dietary goals. They veered away from commercial sweeteners and high-fructose syrups and used natural ones such as brown rice and sugar cane. Given their backing of the US Women’s World Cup Soccer Team, their aim is to give you no less than the energy and support that they give to these professional athletes. Each of their bars contains the nourishment that you need to get you alive and kicking!

Pros

Keeps you full longer
Very tasty
Low-calorie snack

Cons

Has the tendency to melt on the way to delivery
Packaging needs improvement

4. CLIF Nut Butter-Filled Organic: Best butter snack bars

Of course, everyone wants to be physically fit and healthy that’s why we always try to balance our diets, exercise daily, and a whole lot more. We always look forward to that one day that we get to see the optimum results of our hardships and sacrifices for our well-being. But, aside from that, there is also that one day within a week that we look forward to – cheat day!

It is almost impossible to be guilt-free after a whole day of binging on your favorites – donuts, chocolates, sodas, you name it! My personal favorite is to eat peanut butter straight from the jar! After an afternoon of sugar rush, I would usually end the day thinking that I am bloated with a heavy tummy. It went on like this until I discovered CLIF Butter-Filled Organic Snack Bars. Chocolate-coated with peanut butter goodness on the inside, I’ll bet that you too will binge on it but setting aside the guilt.

Why You Should Get It

These tasty treats are made of organic ingredients with no artificial flavors. With 6-7g of protein in each bar, it will surely get you ready to face the strength-requiring activities of each day. Who would think that snacking on almond butter, hazelnut butter, and peanut butter could actually leave you free of guilt?

Pros

USDA Organic
Non-GMO
Made of quality ingredients

Cons

New products taste different from original ones
Packaging issues

5. Orgain Organic Protein: Best Chocolate-Flavored

Growing up, I used to be a really picky eater as most children are. I haven’t explored much on food so I questioned why unhealthy treats are super yummy and sugary while healthy foods are usually bland and boring. The new generation, I say, is very much fortunate to have a new variety of delicacies and modern recipes. Also, delicious indulgences do not automatically equate to junk food. One example is Orgain’s Organic Protein Chocolate Cookie.

This chocolate cookie-flavored goodie is actually a convenient source of nutrients. These munchies can also replace a whole meal as it comes with 3g organic fiber and can be enjoyed by the whole family: Mom, Dad, and the children alike.

Why You Should Get It

Orgain’s Organic Protein Chocolate Cookie spells healthy. It is free from preservatives and artificial flavors coming from 100% plant-based protein. This well-rounded bar may act as a side on a whole meal or it can be packed as a handy snack whenever hunger strikes. It benefits your digestive system best as fiber from this appetizing treat aid in keeping the tummy of the whole family healthy.

Pros:

Includes brown rice, chia seeds, and peas, a good source of protein
Can be enjoyed by the grownups and young ones alike

Cons:

Small in size
A little hard to bite

6. think! High Protein Bars: Best vegan snack bars

Chocolate and mint are forever a hard to resist combo. No wonder consumers go gaga with think! High Protein Bars. This ready to eat snack is perfect whenever cravings attack from nowhere. Plus, it has vegan options for the veggie-lovers out there. With pea, brown rice, and pumpkin as a source of protein, we’re pretty sure that it’d boost your zest and you’d be enthusiastic to face the day. think! High Protein Bars also come in several mouth-watering combinations such as Berries & Crème, Sea Salt Almond Chocolate, Cookies & Crème, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, and more!

Why You Should Get It

Filled with nutrients, think! High Protein bars can act as a meal replacement. Add a piece of fruit on the side and you’re ready to go. Indulge in creamy chocolatey goodness plus nuts and almonds for that added crunch guilt-free. This also works best for those craving for “desserts” but cautious of their sugar intake.

Pros:

Contains only 5g of sugar and no artificial sweeteners
Protein powerhouse

Cons:

Price is costly
Spongy texture

7. CLIF Builders Protein Bars: Best protein treats

CLIF Builders Protein Bars – Chocolate Peanut Butter Flavor

In order to fulfill our protein needs, we must also take into consideration the food that we eat. Meat and poultry, as well as, nuts and beans are a great source. Dairy products also top the list of grow food that we must intake. But how about chocolates? Before we say “Nah”, CLIF, a brand known for their sumptuous and drooling protein bars, has made it possible through their protein-loaded Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Vanilla Almond Protein Bars.

These bars carry a huge 20g chunk of protein. They are most advantageous during pre and post-workouts but not limited to these activities as you can just grab a bite after a long, activity-induced day. For people who have dietary restrictions, CLIF has made sure to give you options by bringing a variety of healthy snack bars into the table.

Why You Should Get It

Protein takes a major role in muscle building and repairing. Moreover, unknown to everyone, it also aids in our digestive tracks by helping in our metabolism process. It also plays a part in keeping our immune system strong. CLIF Builders Protein Bars are a great source of protein. And through its non-GMO and low glycemic ingredients, it’s bound to boost your energy and up your vitality.

Pros:

Crunchy and tasty
Prolongs hunger

Cons:

Flavor can be improved
Formula varied from the original product

8. ONE Plant Protein Bars: Best in taste

“Plant-based snacking shouldn’t taste like you’re eating, well, plants.”

This witty tagline by ONE Plant Protein Bars is a little funny but superbly true. And the company has proven it true. They released vegan, gluten-free protein bars that are incredibly tasty. Exciting flavors such as the classic Chocolate Peanut Butter and Banana Nut Bread and new favorites Carrot Cake and Churros are being tagged as the “tastiest plant bar” by patrons.

Why You Should Get It

ONE Plant Protein Bars been plugging “shameless snacking” and it’s nowhere near impossible. Containing only a gram of sugar plus 12g equals a concoction of zero regrets. These guilt-free goodies are perfect for an energy-boosting breakfast, lazy afternoon snacking, and even midnight binge after a long day. Gluten-free and dairy-free, ONE Plant Protein Bar is the healthy one-of-a-kind plant bar that you’ve been waiting for.

Pros:

Satisfy choco cravings
Perfect for on-the-go snacking

Cons:

A bit dry
Has a chalky texture

9. No Cow Protein Bar: Best Keto-friendly protein bars

Protein bars also act as supplements to back up your dietary needs. No Cow Protein Bars are low-carb munch-ons with a bunch of protein. With this said, it is definitely Keto-friendly and Keto diet approved by consumers. It only means one thing—fast metabolism. By crunching on Keto-friendly treats, it means stored fats in your body will be burnt ASAP. No Cow Protein Bars are a perfect complement for this kind of diet. Whoever thought that a to-crave-for peanut butter & chocolate-flavored goodness will support weight loss?

Why You Should Get It

There are two main reasons why you would love the No Cow Protein Bar: Peanut butter and 100% raw cacao nibs. The smooth texture of PB plus the added chomp of cocoa would steal your heart. Speaking of, studies show that these beans are good for the heart as they improve heart risks and improve blood flow. They are also anti-inflammatory and improve the immune system.

Pros:

Solid flavors
Good macro profile

Cons:

Nutrition facts vary

10. Vega Protein Snack Bar: Best on-the-go eats

The world is evolving quickly and so are we. Fast, quick, and dynamic are the best characteristics to describe the place that we live in. In order to survive, we need to cope up and squeeze in not only work and study but leisure as well. Vega Protein Snack Bar is the to-go bar that can keep up with us. It is ready-to-eat and handy; you can grab a bite anytime, anywhere. Whether you are on the train, at the gym, or just lazying around after tiring day, your favorite bar is there to replenish lost energy and nourish your body.

Why You Should Get It

Preparing snacks and meals can be time-consuming. The perfect, handy substitute is your Vega Protein Snack Bar. Just take a bunch, toss it in your gym duffel, and you’re good to go. With 10g of protein and 4g of fiber, it is set to fuel you in the long run. Available in Peanut Butter, Blueberry Oat, Chocolate Caramel, and Coconut Almond, sink in your teeth and feel the chewy goodness of a gluten-free and guilt-free goody.

Pros:

Worth the price
Great in-between-meals snack
A balance of protein and carbs

Cons:

Contains some allergens

— Plant-Based Protein Bars Guide & FAQ —

What to look for purchasing a Protein Bar?

Protein bars have variants of appetizing and mouth-watering flavors and sometimes we’d like to just buy and taste them all! But then again, remember that when purchasing this healthy snack, we must also take some things into consideration. Below are some tips in choosing the right hearty bar for you:

Protein count

A protein bar’s major purpose is to supply you with the recommended daily protein that you need. To harness its full advantage, look for a protein count of 10 grams or more. This amount will supply you with the dose that you need whether you want to maintain your muscle mass or promote muscle growth.

Sugar type

There are different types of sugars contained in a piece of protein bar so take caution. Stay away from those labeled with HFCS or High Fructose Corn Syrup as research has linked it to inflammation, obesity, and diabetes. Sugar alcohols, too, cause bloating side-effects. Choose bars that contain natural sweeteners such as honey, stevia, sugar cane, and brown rice syrup.

Natural ingredients

Go for natural ingredients as they are always the safest choice. With protein snack bars, plant-based ones are best and take no side effects. Also, natural flavors contribute to nutritional needs as opposed to artificial ones. The protein bars gathered above are among the best-est natural, plant-based choices that are good for your system.

Plant-Based Protein Bars FAQ

Q: Will protein bars help me lose weight?

A: If we compare a 150-calorie bar to a 750-calorie full meal, choosing to snack on the bar will definitely make you lose weight. Of course, you shouldn’t deprive yourself from eating go, grow, and glow food. Snack bars work hand in hand with good food to reach a healthy state.

Q: What happens if I take on too much protein?

A: We must be well-educated when it comes to what we eat because too much of anything is not good. With too much protein intake, studies show that it may have a not-so-good effect on your kidneys. A good amount will aid muscle building but anything extra will end up as fat.

Q: When I purchase a protein bar, what does the label “Packaging may be different” mean?

A: Some companies update their ingredients from time to time so it means what was then advertised may be tweaked a little. For safety purposes, you may contact the manufacturer for additional details and updates.

Q: What does shelf life mean?

A: Shelf life is the length of time for which a product, specifically food in this setting, is still consumable. For some protein bars, the shelf life runs over a year but remains good even after a few more months.

With the given list of the cream of the crop, the decision is still up to you. Be smart enough to check out to calculate protein, carbs, and sugar amounts as they will surely leave an impact in you. Choose the one that fit your goals, you’ll get the optimized results that you deserve.