Protein bars have become a staple in many people’s fitness routines, but are they as healthy as we think? While they can be a convenient and quick source of protein, experts warn that many protein bars may not contain as much protein as claimed.
A recent study found that the most commonly used protein sources in bars are soy protein, peanuts, and WPI (whey protein isolate), with some containing as little as 12% protein. However, these ingredients are often mixed with other additives like chocolate, nuts, and wafer that not only mask the taste but also affect the digestibility of the protein.
Researchers analyzed 1,641 bars and found that lower protein digestibility values were measured when proteins were included in the bar matrix compared to pure formats. This raises concerns about the nutritional quality of many protein bars.
The study’s findings suggest that even if a protein bar claims to be “high in protein,” its nutritional value may be low due to the use of lower-quality proteins and other ingredients that can deteriorate the bio-accessibility of essential amino acids.
With the NHS warning against ultra-processed foods, it’s essential to scrutinize the ingredients and nutritional content of protein bars before adding them to your diet.
Source: https://www.ladbible.com/news/health/study-science-health-protein-bars-major-issue-780166-20250528