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Our top picks

Shop the best protein bars

Sweet, savorytheres something for everyone.

Image may contain Adult Person Cream Dessert Food Ice Cream Face Head Photography Portrait and Accessories

Original photos taken by SELF senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin / Laneen Wells

Protein Bars (12-Pack)

Ive been a huge fan of Think!

bars for yearsthey have a dense, chewy texture that I find super satisfying.

They also feature a dense, chewy middle, which I find majorly delicious.

Promix Protein Puff Bar next to branded beige box packaging on white background

Original photo by SELF senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

Im happy to have them in my pantry now for when I need a snack.

She adds that the chocolate peanut butter flavor is her favoritewere hungry just thinking about it.

They are my go-to emergency snack, and they dont taste like chalk, one SELF tester says.

Protein Puff Bars in branded beige packaging on beige background

You get a nice crunch, followed by a delicious, gooey middle.

Theyre chock-full of fiber, with 14 (!)

grams coming from soluble corn.

Think Protein Bars in a variety of six different flavors next to branded orange and beige box packaging on white background

How to shop for protein bars

What should you look for in a high-quality protein bar?

In addition to quantity, you should also check the proteinsourcein your bar of choice.

Rizzo says whole-food options like eggs, seeds, and nuts are especially good.

Protein Bar in branded wrapper packaging on white background

What should you avoid in protein bars?

But there are some you should be aware of before opening the wrapper.

The amount of fiber in a protein bar can also have an impact on your stomach, Jones says.

Barebells Creamy Crisp High Protein Bars in branded blue and white box packaging on white background

Fiber is good for you; its an important nutrient for regulating your digestion and increasing feelings of satiety.

Frequently asked questions about protein bars

How much protein do I need in a day?

But if you exercise, youll likely want more to help you recover and support muscle building.

Creamy Crisp High Protein Bar in branded blue and black packaging on white background

What are the benefits of protein bars?

Is it okay to eat protein bars every day?

Ideally, Id like people to eat food in its whole and minimally processed form, Feller says.

Organic Plant Based Chocolate Mint Protein Bars (12-Pack)

When were buying things that are meal replacements, then we should think about: Whatzs this bar?

What are the ingredients?

What are the additives?

Organic Plant Based Chocolate Mint Protein Bar in branded green wrapped on tropical backdrop

Image may contain Food and Sweets

Original photo by SELF senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

Fulfil protein bars with SELF Pantry Award seal

Protein Bars in branded yellow and green box packaging on white background

Ahi Tuna Jerky Strip

Original photo by SELF senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

Ahi Tuna Jerky Strip in branded blue and white packaging on white background

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars (12-Pack)

Strawberry Crème Protein Wafer Bars (12-Pack)

Strawberry Crème Protein Wafer Bar on white background

Nut + Seed Almond Pumpkin Seed Bars (12-Pack)

Nut + Seed Almond Pumpkin Seed Bar on white background

Refrigerated Coconut Peanut Butter Protein Bar (3-Pack)

Refrigerated Coconut Peanut Butter Protein Bars stacked on one another on yellow background

RXBAR Protein Bars in a variety of six different flavors and colored wrappers on white background

Protein Bar in branded brown packaging atop ingredients on white background

Protein Sampler Variety Pack in branded packaging on white background

One protein bar in branded wrapped next to a variety of ingredients

Organic Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bars (12-Pack)

Organic Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bar on white background

GoMacro Variety 12-Pack in branded wrapper packaging on white background

GoMacro Variety 12-Pack in branded wrapper packaging on white background

Protein Bar Variety Pack in branded gold packaging on marble background

Protein Bar in branded gold packaging on white background

High Protein Bars in branded packaging on white background

High Protein Bars in branded packaging on white background

Image may contain Adult Person Wristwatch Accessories Jewelry Necklace Head Face Food Sweets and Box

Original photo by SELF senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin