Cheap, convenient and delicious, protein bars are perfect for those days that are so busy you don’t even have time to check your Insta feed. Below, we profile the top three brands and break down the health facts about these (kinda healthy) candy bars in disguise:
3. Quest Bar:
Photo by Krysten Dorfman
Don’t let the low sugar content of Quest Bars fool you, they still taste pretty damn good (put the brownie one in the microwave for 10 seconds and your life will never be the same). Quest Bar’s high protein and fiber content will keep you full so you won’t have to deal with embarrassing mid-lecture stomach noises.
Bonus: Check out their YouTube videos for different #15secondrecipies. The videos are perhaps just a little better than the protein bars themselves.
Nutrition Facts (Brownie):
Calories: 170 per bar; Total Fat: 6g; Total Carb: 24g; Dietary Fiber: 19g; Sugars: 1g; Protein: 20g
2. LUNA Protein Bar:
Photo by Krysten Dorfman
Made by the same company as Clif bars, LUNA Bars are created for women, containing the “Core 4” vitamins and minerals: calcium, vitamin D, iron and folic acid. But don’t worry, boys, you can still enjoy their delicious six flavors, too, four of which are some variation on chocolate. These bad boys are tasty, but didn’t quite make the number one spot.
Nutrition Facts (Chocolate Peanut Butter):
Calories: 190 per bar; Total Fat: 8g; Total Carb: 19g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugars: 12g; Protein: 12g
1. KIND Bar:
Photo by Krysten Dorfman
Your winner ladies and gents: KIND bars. KIND creators are all about all-natural ingredients and believe “if you can’t pronounce an ingredient, it shouldn’t go in your body.” These bars are great as a heart-healthy snack when you’re not looking for a high dose of protein. Plus, they just teamed up with the (good-looking) NBA star Kevin Durant and launched the STRONG & KIND pledge to challenge stereotypes and promote cultural strength and kindness. Have you met a kinder company? (Ha. But seriously, healthy has never tasted so good). Check out U of M’s own KIND campus rep.
Nutrition Facts (Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt):
Calories: 200 per bar; Total Fat: 13g; Total Carb: 16g; Dietary Fiber: 7g; Sugars: 5g; Protein: 6g