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Aug 29, 2016 By Stacie Hassing

Healthiest Protein Bars? Ask the Dietitians #2

You asked, we answered! Today we’re sharing our 5 go-to, best tasting, healthiest protein bars.

Healthiest Protein Bars? Ask the Dietitians #2

Protein bars are a quick, on-the-go option – but they definitely aren’t all created equal!

That said, today we’re clearing the mud and answering your question in our Ask the Dietitian Series – “What are the healthiest protein bars?”

There are an endless number of options available so it’s no wonder this is a common question that we’re asked. And if you’ve ever stood in the Whole Foods aisle where the protein bars are located, you can understand why it’s quite overwhelming. Unfortunately many protein bars on the market are filled with artificial flavorings, artificial colorings, artificial sweeteners, highly processed sugars and oils, and unpronounceable ingredients. Ingredients we don’t recommend you put into your body. But we’re here to save the day and share with you what we feel are the healthiest protein bars of the ones we have tried. And if you keep reading we have an awesome giveaway included at the end of this post! 

Healthiest Protein Bars

When to eat protein bars.

While we always encourage real and wholesome foods, we also understand that time is not always in your favor and that’s when protein bars come in handy. We’re all about being realistic here. Here are 5 situations we feel are the perfect time to reach for a protein bar:

  1. Pre-workout or post-workout. If you need a little fuel before or after your workout, these proteins bars are great for that. Choose one that you know sits well with you. How to do you know which one “sits well” with you? Well, you just have to trial and error it. No one bar works for everyone so be patient and try a few.
  2. Travel snacks. Perfect for road tips or travel days. Because no one wants to be stuck in an airport or roadside convenience store without any healthy, real food options to choose from.
  3. Hiking, skiing and other outdoor activities. Protein bars are nice and compact, provide a good source of protein, carbs and fats making for the perfect fuel for active outdoor activities.
  4. Emergency fuel. I like to keep a protein bar in my purse in the event that I’m out-and-about and feeling hungry and need just a little something to get me by.
  5. Occasional treat. We all have a sweet tooth every once in awhile. I know I do! So having a mini bar or half of a bar is a perfect way to cure that sweet tooth while consuming some quality nutrition at the same time.

Rule of thumb. One protein bar per day. (Exception – long day of hiking or other outdoor or endurance activities)

The Real Food Dietitians Top 5 Healthiest Protein Bars:

Our top 5 healthiest protein bars were determined by 5 things:

  1. Taste – they must taste good!
  2. Protein – have at least 10 grams of quality protein (not from soy).
  3. Clean ingredients – contain only clean ingredients (no artificial anything).
  4. Sugar – must be 15 grams of sugar or less
  5. Gluten-free – all recipes and product recommendations on our blog are gluten-free and these bars are too.

So here they are…….in no particular order.

Primal Kitchen Dark Chocolate Almond Bar

Healthiest Protein Bars | Primal Kitchen Dark Chocolate Almond BarThese chewy paleo-friendly protein bars are one of our favorites and truly one of a kind. Similar to a Snickers bar but much MUCH healthier! They’re the lowest in sugar of all of the bars included in this Healthiest Protein Bars list, they’re gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free and soy free. And a big bonus is that collagen is the type of protein added to these bars! Nice job Mark Sisson (founder of Primal Kitchen)!

  • Only 3 grams of sugar from honey.
  • 15 grams of protein from grass-fed collagen and cage-free eggs. More collagen than a cup of bone broth! Read more about the benefits of collagen here.
  • Available online, in the Primal Kitchen store. 10% off with coupon code: REALFOODRDS – Purchase here.

Website: primalkitchen.com

RxBar

Healthiest Protein Bars | RxBarAnother paleo-friendly protein bar makes our top 5 Healthiest Protein Bars list. Made with a very short list of ingredients such as dates, fruit, nuts, and egg whites. No added sugars and 9 delicious flavors available. Seven of the flavors are Whole30-friendly*! They’re also gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free and soy-free.

  • 12-16 grams of sugar from dates and fruit.
  • 12 grams of protein from egg whites.
  • Widely available at Whole Foods, health food stores, health food sections of grocery stores and on Amazon. Purchase here.
  • Flavors (grams of sugar): Chocolate Sea Salt (12 g)* / Coconut Chocolate (13 g)* / Coffee Chocolate (13 g)* / Mint Chocolate Chip (14 g), Blueberry (15 g)* / Peanut Butter (15 g) / Pumpkin Spice (15 g)* /  Apple Cinnamon (15 g)* / Maple Sea Salt (16 g)*
  • Dietitian Stacie’s favorite flavor is Chocolate Sea Salt.

Whole30-Friendly*

Website: rxbar.com

GoMacro Bars

Healthiest Protein Bars | GoMacro BarsWe love G0Macro bars! A family-owned company that makes vegan-friendly, sustainably-sourced, certified organic energy bars. Six of the 12 flavors are high in protein and make our list (see flavors below). And isn’t the packaging gorgeous?! We think so!

  • 10-15 grams of sugar from organic brown rice syrup and organic coconut sugar.
  • 10-11 grams of protein from organic sprouted brown rice protein and organic pea protein.
  • Widely available at Whole Foods, health food stores, health food sections of grocery stores and on Amazon. Purchase here. They come in a mini-size too which are the perfect size for a sensible treat or to add to your kids’ lunch boxes.
  • Flavors (grams of sugar): Sunflower Butter and Chocolate (10 g) / Cashew Caramel (10 g) / Peanut Butter (12 g) / Coconut and Almond Butter And Chocolate Chip (12 g) / Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip (14 g) / Banana and Almond Butter (15 g)
  • Dietitian Stacie’s favorite flavor is Sunflower Butter and Chocolate. Jessica’s kids beg for the mini Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip flavor for an afternoon snack or to tuck into the pocket of their ski jackets on powder days. 

Website: gomacro.com

Zing Bars

Healthiest Protein Bars | Zing BarsWe didn’t even have to think twice about including  Zing Bars in this Healthiest Protein Bars list. Zing Bars, created by Registered Dietitians (like us!), are insanely DELICIOUS! There are a total of 12 flavors. Nine of those flavors are vegan-friendly and all of the bars are well-balanced, high in fiber, gluten-free and soy free.

  •  9-15 grams of sugar from organic agave syrup, organic tapioca syrups, organic brown rice syrup and organic cane sugar.
  • 10-13 grams of protein from brown rice protein, pea protein and/or whey protein.
  • Check your local Whole Foods or health foods store. Also available on Amazon. Purchase here. They come in a mini-size too which are the perfect size for a sensible treat or to add to your kids’ lunch boxes.
  • Order directly from the Zing Bar website and use the code REALZINGRDS to get 30% off your next order!
  • Flavors (grams of sugar): Oatmeal Chocolate Chip – V (9 g) / Double Nut Brownie – V (9 g) / Lemon Cashew Crunch – V (9 g) / Dark Chocolate Mocha – V (10 g) / Coconut Cashew Crisp (10 g) / Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip – V (12 g) / Almond Blueberry (12 g) / Cashew Cranberry Orange – V (13 g) / Dark Chocolate Coconut – V (13 g) / Dark Chocolate Hazelnut – V (13 g) / Dark Chocolate Mint – V (13 g) / Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter (15 g)
  • Dietitian Stacie’s favorite flavor is Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Dietitian Jess’s favorite flavor is Dark Chocolate Hazelnut.

Vegan – V

Website: zingbars.com

Health Warrior Superfood Protein Bars

Healthiest Protein Bars | Health Warrior Superfood Protein BarWe were recently introduced to these protein bars and we definitely give them our stamp of approval! Each of the 4 flavors provide 10g of plant based protein from a superfood blend of chia, quinoa, and oats. They are gluten-free, soy-free and vegan-friendly. Chia seeds make these bars especially healthy as they add a nice boost of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein and antioxidants.

  • 10-11 grams of sugar from brown rice syrup, agave, organic cane sugar.
  • 10 grams of protein from chia, quinoa, oats and pea protein.
  • Check your local Whole Foods or health foods store. Also available on Amazon. Purchase here.
  • Flavors (grams of sugar): Honey Almond (10 g) / Lemon Goldenberry (10 g) / Dark Chocolate Coconut Sea Salt (11 g) / Peanut Butter Cacao (11 g)
  • Dietitian Stacie’s favorite flavor is Honey Almond.

Website: healthwarrior.com


Healthiest Protein Bars GIVEAWAY!

This giveaway has closed. 

We’re excited to be giving 3 lucky readers a sample pack of all 5 protein bars. To be entered in this giveaway, head on over to our Instagram page {Click here} to enter!

Healthiest Protein Bars Giveaway

All you have to do is follow @TheRealFoodRDS and tag at least 3 friends in the giveaway post! We’ll announce the winner on September 2nd, 2016. Good luck!

Don’t have Instagram or want to double your chances of winning? Enter by letting us know in the comments below which bar you’re most excited to try!

Pin it!

Ask the Dietitians Series-What are the Healthiest Protein Bars?


This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.

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About Stacie Hassing

Stacie is a Licensed and Registered Dietitian from rural southern Minnesota where she, her husband and daughter reside with their two pups. She’s a co-founder of The Real Food RDs and content creator of simple and wholesome recipes. She loves all kinds of fitness and has a passion to inspire as many as she can live a healthier and happier life both in and out of the kitchen - the driving force behind the co-development of the The Real Food RDs brand.

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Reader Interactions

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  1. Amy Iwen says

    August 29, 2016 at 8:08 pm

    Primal kitchen! Only 3G sugar from honey! That’s perfect!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 29, 2016 at 9:14 pm

      That’s what we think, too!!

      Reply
    • Ann says

      November 28, 2018 at 8:16 pm

      Primal kitchen is pretty good at 3g of honey. How is the taste and protein level? I just started eating Real Food Bars, a new brand that just launched this year and can’t stop. They’re 10g of sugar from honey, not bad.

      Reply
      • Jessica Beacom says

        November 28, 2018 at 8:42 pm

        Hi Ann,

        The Primal Kitchen Collagen & Seed Bars have about 13g of protein (from egg whites) + 7.5g collagen in each bar. Their new keto-friendly Protein Bars have 9g protein (from egg whites) and 2g sugar from honey (also has monk fruit). We haven’t heard of the Real Food Bars so we’ll need to check those out.

        Reply
  2. Amanda says

    August 29, 2016 at 8:20 pm

    I havent tried the Zing bars or the Health Warrior bars! I am trying to get my nutrition back on track after having baby!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 29, 2016 at 9:13 pm

      Congrats, mama! These bars are the perfect way to get started back on the road to great nutrition.

      Reply
  3. Brittany says

    August 29, 2016 at 8:28 pm

    I am so excited to try the dark chocolate primal kitchen bar. I wish I had these when I was on Whole30. Being a 3rd grade teacher on my feet all day, I need to have a bar for emergencies in my bag, since I don’t have the luxury of stepping out for a second to grab a snack, let alone a coffee! Thanks for listening!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 29, 2016 at 9:13 pm

      These are the PERFECT bars for busy teachers – so delicious and in my opinion, one of the most satisfying bars out there thanks to the 15 grams of protein and the very low sugar content.

      Reply
  4. Anna says

    August 29, 2016 at 8:47 pm

    I’ve been dying to try the GoMacro bar!!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 29, 2016 at 9:12 pm

      They’re great – you’re going to love ’em!

      Reply
  5. Anna says

    August 29, 2016 at 8:50 pm

    Zing bars sound delicious?

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 29, 2016 at 9:11 pm

      They’re soooooooo good! Thanks for entering the giveaway for a chance to get your hands on Zing Bar of your own!

      Reply
  6. Haley Schoettelkotte says

    August 29, 2016 at 8:58 pm

    Definitely the zing! bars!! Haven’t been able to find them near me and I’ve been seeing them all over insta!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 29, 2016 at 9:10 pm

      Oh, Haley!

      You’ve got to try them – they’re crazy good! You can also order on their website here:

      Reply
  7. Brittany Watkins says

    August 30, 2016 at 3:40 am

    I’m most excited to try the Health Warrior bar because it’s all plant-based protein!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 30, 2016 at 8:55 am

      Awesome! They sure are delish and I know you’d love em’!

      Reply
  8. Becky Przy says

    August 30, 2016 at 4:22 am

    I am most excited to try the Zing bars–I have not seen those before!

    Thanks for this post. It bums me out when I try out a new protein bar and it either tastes awful or doesn’t take the hunger away!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 30, 2016 at 8:59 am

      I hear ya. I’ve tried some really awful tasting bars! haha. But the Zing bars….they’re the best and so many great flavors to choose from!

      Reply
  9. Morgan K says

    August 30, 2016 at 5:47 am

    The primal kitchen one sounds delicious! Definitely the one I’d be most excited to sink my teeth into.

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 30, 2016 at 9:00 am

      Yes! And the nutrition profile is spot on too! We love Primal Kitchen!

      Reply
  10. Lisa says

    August 30, 2016 at 6:10 am

    I would love to try the Pumpkin RX bars!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 30, 2016 at 9:01 am

      All things pumpkin! Especially this time of year!

      Reply
  11. Alicia S. says

    August 30, 2016 at 6:50 am

    Pregnant with my first baby- I’m finding having high protein snacks with me is a must! I’m super excited to try Primal Kitchen’s protein bar! Thanks for the review of all 5- very helpful!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 30, 2016 at 9:02 am

      Congrats lady! Primal Kitchen bars would make for the perfect fuel for you and baby! 🙂 Glad you found this post helpful!

      Reply
  12. Ariel Renken says

    August 30, 2016 at 7:52 am

    RX Maple Seasalt!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 30, 2016 at 9:02 am

      Oh my goodness…it’s so good!! Perfect for Fall!

      Reply
  13. Allison says

    August 30, 2016 at 10:55 am

    I would really like to try the Zing bars! I’ve had the Primal Kitchen bars and they are very difficult for me to chew but they did taste good. I’ve had the rxbar also and those are really good!!! I haven’t found the coffee chocolate yet but I do have the coconut chocolate, chocolate sea salt, and mint chocolate chip and they are really good. I’ve always enjoyed the convenience of protein bars because I’m always on the go. I do have a question though- what do you think of Quest bars and what didn’t make the cut so I know what should be avoided and why?

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:14 pm

      Hey Allison,

      Great question. Quest Bars didn’t make the cut because of their use of sucralose which is a somewhat controversial artificial sweetener. They also use corn fiber as a prebiotic fiber which in many people can cause pretty significant gas and bloating. Additionally, the corn and whey aren’t from organic sources (i.e. likely GMO or fed GMO feed) which is something I feel pretty strongly about when it comes to recommending a ‘clean foods’.

      As for the chewiness, you’re right. Sometimes the Primal Kitchen bars can be quite chewy – especially if you tried them before they reformulated a couple months ago. They last several batches I’ve had have been much softer.

      Hope that helps!

      Reply
  14. Megan says

    August 30, 2016 at 11:36 am

    Primal Kitchen bars sound amazing…always looking for low sugar quick eats for travel. Thanks for this post!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 30, 2016 at 10:43 pm

      Oh yes, they are! So chewy and just the right amount of sweetness.

      Reply
  15. Annie says

    August 30, 2016 at 2:46 pm

    I LOVE Rx bars! I haven’t tried the other bars, but they all look great!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 30, 2016 at 10:42 pm

      RX bars are great and I think you’ll love the others too!

      Reply
  16. Alyssa Parker says

    August 31, 2016 at 2:35 am

    Pea to butter chocolate chip Zing bars sound so good! I would pop it in the microwave for a few seconds so it tastes more like a warm cookie. Yum!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 9:19 pm

      Oh my – now that sounds delicious! I’m trying that tomorrow 🙂

      Reply
  17. Jacquelyn says

    August 31, 2016 at 5:14 am

    The Zing bars sound so good! I love hazelnuts too so that caught my eye? I was able to snag the free box of primal kitchen’s and they are delicious!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 9:20 pm

      Oh good – Both of those bars are oh so tasty! Glad you were able to snag the free box of bars!

      Reply
  18. Jillian says

    August 31, 2016 at 5:58 am

    I’d love to try out that Apple Cinnamon Rx bar! Sounds delish – like apple pie for those of us who can’t have gluten or bake! ?

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 9:21 pm

      They’re so good! And will def give you your apple pie fix..yum!

      Reply
  19. Tricia Webb says

    August 31, 2016 at 6:17 am

    Excited to try the Zing bars! I have the Primal Kitchen bar at home now and they definitely remind me of a sticky, yummy candy bar (but healthy!) Great helpful review of protein bars!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 9:56 pm

      Great to hear! You’re going to love Zing bars! So many delicious flavors to choose from. And Primal kitchen bars are like a healthy Snicker bar! So good.

      Reply
  20. Deanna says

    August 31, 2016 at 6:27 am

    I STILL need to try the RX bars and the Primal Kitchen bars but I’m super pumped about ALL of these bars! I’m obsessed with your list so thank you!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 9:57 pm

      Oh my goodness girl, they’re so good! And you’re very welcome! 🙂

      Reply
  21. Sarah says

    August 31, 2016 at 6:40 am

    I’d love to try the Zing bars, never heard of those!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:01 pm

      Awesome! We’re glad we could introduce you to a new bar!

      Reply
  22. Stephanie Joplin says

    August 31, 2016 at 6:45 am

    Can’t wait to try the GOMacro bars! I just recently have realized that the protein bar I grab has just as much sugar in it as protein – not the best choice. This post is perfect timing for me. Now I can look for some great options when I go to the store.

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:03 pm

      It’s not uncommon for protein bars to have so.much.sugar. Excited for you to try one or all of these 5 bars!

      Reply
  23. Sarah D says

    August 31, 2016 at 6:51 am

    Would love to try the Zing bars!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:03 pm

      So many great flavors to choose from!

      Reply
  24. Angie Walters says

    August 31, 2016 at 7:28 am

    I haven’t tried any of these bars (I live on an island in the Caribbean with limited food shopping choices). But … the Primal Kitchen bars interest me the most — plenty of protein to keep me satisfied and honey-sweetened!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:07 pm

      Yes! Wow, the Caribbean! Hopefully you can get a few of the bars online too. Don’t forget to visit our Real Food Bar Giveaway post on Instagram and share it with your friends to double your chances of winning.

      Reply
  25. Sarah Barts says

    August 31, 2016 at 7:54 am

    As a fellow dietitian, I’m interested in trying the Zing Bar.

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:05 pm

      Dietitian fist bump!! Isn’t is great when you find a product on the market made by one of your RD peeps?! It’s like they got your back when it comes to real food.

      Reply
  26. Lanie says

    August 31, 2016 at 8:13 am

    I’ve never really gotten into protein bars. I enjoyed the read and I’m looking forward to trying a zing bar!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:04 pm

      Sweet! Thanks for your kind words. I think you’re going to love the Zing Bars.

      Reply
  27. Kaitlyn says

    August 31, 2016 at 8:46 am

    I’m most excited to try the Primal Kitchen bars! 3g of sugar for the win

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:03 pm

      We can’t agree more!

      Reply
  28. stacey says

    August 31, 2016 at 9:37 am

    I would love to try the health warrior!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:03 pm

      Here’s hoping you get your chance to try all five!

      Reply
  29. Melissa Kantor says

    August 31, 2016 at 9:54 am

    I am excited to try the RX bar!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:03 pm

      Oh yeah! So many flavors to choose from!

      Reply
  30. Ally J says

    August 31, 2016 at 12:45 pm

    I’ve never tried the Primal Kitchen Dark Chocolate Almond Bar, but they sound delicious!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:02 pm

      Oh yes, they are! I can’t think of anything better than chewy + crunchy, sweet + salty while being totally satisfying without blowing up your blood sugars.

      Reply
  31. Nicole McCann says

    August 31, 2016 at 12:57 pm

    Go Macro Macrobar; they look amazing to pair with my daily lunch, with good nutritional value and well as the protein I should be getting on a daily basis.

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:01 pm

      I think they’d be a great addition to your lunch – and they also make a great snack when you want a little something sweet but don’t want to fill your belly with empty carbs and calories.

      Reply
  32. Charlotte says

    August 31, 2016 at 1:36 pm

    RX bar – the flavors sound delicious! I’ve tried the Primal Protein bars and they’re great (both in taste and nutrition content)! Thanks the suggestions!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 11:00 pm

      The Rx Bar flavors are pretty off the hook. I mean, anything that combine coffee and chocolate and sea salt. It’s just too much!

      Reply
  33. Noelle says

    August 31, 2016 at 1:49 pm

    New to your website. Protein bars have been hard to figure out for our family. Many have to much sugar. So look forward to researching the ones listed here. Hope to win. Noelle

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:59 pm

      Hey Noelle,

      Welcome! We’d love to hear what you think of our 5 faves after you dig into their ingredient lists and nutrition profiles. We’ll cross our fingers for you!

      Reply
  34. Erinn says

    August 31, 2016 at 3:41 pm

    the dark chocolate hazelnut Zing bar sounds divine!! Thanks for this post!

    -Louisiana RD 🙂

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:57 pm

      Yeah, I have to agree with you on that one – it’s like Nutella in a wrapper that you can take with you – and without all the crap!

      Reply
  35. Ally J says

    August 31, 2016 at 4:15 pm

    The Primal kitchen dark chocolate almond sound great! I’ll have to step out of my comfort zone of Think Thin bars and try some of these! Great post!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:57 pm

      Step out of the comfort zone because dark chocolatey, chewy satisfaction awaits you 🙂

      Reply
  36. Kaitlyn says

    August 31, 2016 at 5:13 pm

    I love zing bars and so does my son great afternoon snack. Haven’t had the others look forward to maybe trying them. It’s always hard to find healthy tasty bars with none of the added yuck in them. Glad to see more like these around today.

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:56 pm

      Another Zing Bar fan! Yes, it is hard to find a good bar – trust us, we’ve tried so many to find our 5 faves to share with you guys!

      Reply
  37. Alycia Hacke says

    August 31, 2016 at 6:07 pm

    I would love to try the gomacro bar! Sounds great!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:55 pm

      Well, let’s hope you’re one of our lucky winners so you can give them a try. Don’t forget, you can double your chances of winning by visiting our IG feed and sharing with your friends!

      Reply
  38. Mel says

    August 31, 2016 at 7:00 pm

    I’d like to try the Zing and Health Warrior bars!

    Ps- love your site

    xx- a fellow Minnesotan 🙂

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:00 pm

      Awwww ubetcha, Mel! 😉 Thanks for the kind words!

      Reply
  39. Agnes says

    August 31, 2016 at 7:40 pm

    Health Warrior Peanut Butter Cocoa! Yum!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:52 pm

      Peanut Butter and Chocolate for the win! And the addition of chia is just the icing on the cake, no?

      Reply
  40. Marissa Ierna says

    August 31, 2016 at 7:43 pm

    I have seen the GoMacro bars in stores because their wrapping grabs my attention, but I haven’t tried them!! I would definitely love to try those!!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:52 pm

      Oh, those gorgeous wrappers! Trust us, what’s inside the wrapper is just as great. Give ’em a try – you’ll love them

      Reply
  41. Jamie Brittain says

    August 31, 2016 at 7:44 pm

    Been wanting to try the primal kitchens dark chocolate almond bar forever! Definitely most excited to try that one! Love the addition of collagen it has!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:51 pm

      They’re worth the try – collagen makes them pretty much a superhero when it comes to bars!

      Reply
  42. Izzy Teo says

    August 31, 2016 at 8:01 pm

    I love the Zing bars! 🙂 I have yet to try the RxBars which I have been wanting to get!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:49 pm

      We’re with you on those Zing Bars! Stacie loves the RxBars so I trust her taste (I have an egg allergy so I can only speak for Stacie on this one)

      Reply
  43. Erinn Bell says

    August 31, 2016 at 8:02 pm

    I am most excited to try the Zing bars! I have heard such great things about them, yum!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:48 pm

      Zing Bars are where it’s at! Even if you aren’t one of the lucky winners in this giveaway, you can get 30% of your next order at Zingbars.com when you use the code REALZINGRDS at checkout.

      Reply
  44. Jodi says

    August 31, 2016 at 8:35 pm

    Thank you for vetting these for the rest of us! I make a lot of homemade bars that are high in protein, and low in sugar. Problem is, most of them require refrigeration. I haven’t figured out how to take them on a summer trail ride, etc. That’s why these options are so great! I love the Primal Kitchen ones I got free via your blog! Thank you! I’ve been wanting to try the Health Warrior ones for a while. I’ll head over to Instagram to let some friends know. Thanks again, ladies!

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:40 pm

      I hear you about needing a bar that doesn’t need refrigeration – especially in the summer and on the trail. I’m so glad you loved the Primal Kitchen bars that you nabbed from our free offer last week. They’re awesome though they do get a little misshapen in your pack when the weather is warm but they’re still really good.

      Thanks for sharing with your IG tribe!!

      Reply
  45. Kerri Sulcov says

    August 31, 2016 at 9:17 pm

    Primal Kitchen! As a type1 diabetic, I am alwYs looking for low sugar protein bars. There are so many out there with sugar alcohol or stevia, and I find them yucky, plus I don’t wNt to put that in my body.

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      August 31, 2016 at 10:38 pm

      We totally agree! There’s no place in our diet for yucky ingredients either. These bars do contain a small amount of monk fruit extract though it doesn’t have the metallic or overly sweet or bitter aftertaste that so many other ‘natural sweeteners’ do. And with just 8g net carbs, these are great for promoting stable blood sugars – even for those of us without T1DM

      Reply
  46. Ashley @ The Small Town Foodie says

    September 1, 2016 at 7:29 am

    I have Primal Kitchen bars at home I can’t wait to try after I finish Whole 30! I’ve seen people posting about Rx Bars everywhere, so I definitely want to try those!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:30 am

      They both are great! Happy Whole30! I’m starting on the 5th!

      Reply
  47. Gina says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:37 am

    I can’t wait to try RX bar in pumpkin spice !! Just in time for fall 🙂 love that I can still get the pumpkin spice fix but in a healthy way!!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:31 am

      They are quite delightful! One of my faves and definitely perfect for this time of year!

      Reply
  48. Chris says

    September 1, 2016 at 9:42 am

    I want to try the blueberry RXBar. On Day one of my #whole30 and I am planning my snacks.

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:33 am

      RxBars make for a perfect on-the-go snack during the Whole30. When I’m on the whole30 I usually have to set some boundaries around RxBars. Otherwise I’d be having one (or more) everyday!

      Reply
  49. Emily says

    September 1, 2016 at 10:05 am

    I would absolutely love to try Zing or Primal Kitchen; I’ve tried Go Macro and RX Bars. I like them too!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:33 am

      They’re both so good! You’re going to love em’!

      Reply
  50. Jill says

    September 1, 2016 at 5:30 pm

    I haven’t even heard of most these! I need to step up my game! I have tried RxBar and thought it was absolutely terrible 🙁 Hopefully the others taste better!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:34 am

      Girl, you’ve got some sampling to do! Would love to hear which one is your favorite once you try them!

      Reply
  51. masala girl says

    September 1, 2016 at 8:05 pm

    i would love to try primal, since it’s not available in stores!
    i normally stay away from bars with sweetener (like some syrups) added but occasionally i’ll try them! love that you really paid attention to the quality of ingredients, too.

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:38 am

      Quality is so very important to us. Quality over quantity is one of our mottos. Excited to hear if you give the primal kitchen bar a try and how you like it!

      Reply
  52. Amy says

    September 1, 2016 at 8:50 pm

    What a great question and topic! Thank you for your information and expertise! I’m most excited to try the Primal Kitchen brand and also am looking forward to reading more about the benefits of collagen!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:38 am

      You’re so welcome! And we agree-collagen is quite a nutrition powerhouse!

      Reply
  53. Tracy says

    September 2, 2016 at 4:42 am

    Love this list!! I’m a huge fan of the RX bars. They are a staple for my long cycling rides! But, the Zing bars definitely have my attention. Would love to give them a try.

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:40 am

      Yes! Perfect fuel for tough workouts! Zing Bars are great and so many flavors to choose from. I’ve tried them all and their isn’t one that I don’t like!

      Reply
  54. Sue Liebl says

    September 2, 2016 at 5:54 am

    I’m seeing lemon bars! Yum! Would love to try one of those!

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      September 2, 2016 at 8:42 am

      Yes!! So good!

      Reply
  55. Sandy says

    October 31, 2017 at 5:52 am

    Wow, where have I been. I am interested in trying the RX bar in Pumpkin Spice. I have not heard of these bars and love that they only have a few ingredients.

    Thanks for sharing this information with us.

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      November 4, 2017 at 7:41 am

      The Pumpkin Spice RXBARS are pretty darn delicious! You’re welcome 🙂

      Reply
  56. Laura Langenbach says

    November 13, 2017 at 4:56 pm

    I can’t wait to try the rx bars! Please enter me in the contest.

    Reply
  57. Vanessa says

    May 17, 2018 at 10:09 am

    Why would you state that they have to by gluten free to be healthy? Seems inaccurate and supports fear-mongering of a component that’s really NOT any less healthy than a protein bar full of gluten.

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      May 17, 2018 at 2:35 pm

      Hi Vanessa,

      Our intent was not to fear monger but rather to present our favorite bars that just happen to be gluten-free since that’s what our readers come for – gluten-free recipes and honest reviews of gluten-free products.

      Reply
  58. Vanessa says

    August 19, 2018 at 4:35 pm

    I loved your post on the healthiest nutrition bars. I have 3 children that are allergic to peanuts. I hate it when manufacturers are not conscious of this major allergy. They never offer variety boxes without peanuts and they never insure that they make the non peanut bars away from the peanut ones.

    Reply
  59. Cameron Holt says

    August 23, 2018 at 12:02 pm

    I’ve only ever had RXBars, so I’d be excited to try any of them! 🙂

    Reply
  60. She C says

    September 24, 2018 at 10:50 pm

    Excited to try healthy warrior. Everything I am looking for in food bar..

    Reply
  61. Laura says

    October 28, 2018 at 9:31 pm

    What about Lara Bars?

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      October 29, 2018 at 9:52 pm

      Hi Laura,

      We didn’t include Lara Bars because, although not UNhealthy, they didn’t meet our criteria for a protein bar since they’re made only from dried fruit and nuts. However, if the protein isn’t something you’re looking for in an energy bar, then they’re great – and they’re even starting to roll our a line of organic Lara Bars which we’re pretty excited about.

      Reply
  62. Anne says

    October 31, 2018 at 11:39 am

    Thanks for sharing! I’ll have to try Zing, haven’t tried them yet. I am hooked on Real Food Bar! They have 15g of protein from peas and are also sweetened with honey. I used to eat a lot of RX Bars, but I switched over because the egg white protein gets stuck in my teeth. Not pretty.

    Reply
    • Stacie Hassing says

      November 1, 2018 at 8:34 am

      Hope you enjoy the Zing bars!

      Reply
  63. Meg Mulhern says

    December 16, 2018 at 12:08 pm

    Primal Kitchen has sadly added eggs to their bars….

    Reply
    • Jessica Beacom says

      December 23, 2018 at 1:07 pm

      Hi Meg,

      Yes, they did. I agree, it was sad for those of us that can’t eat egg. I’ve updated the post to reflect this change- thanks for bringing it to our attention.

      Reply

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