3 Protein Bars I Actually Eat (and Love!)

Written By Carly Scanlon

Photo of a fraction of the protein bars you could select from

Protein bars are one of my go-to snacks when life gets busy. They’re portable, filling, and can be a great way to meet your protein goals without having to cook or prep something from scratch.
But here’s the thing—not all protein bars are created equal. If you’ve ever stood in the protein bar aisle, you know how overwhelming it can be. There are so many options, and it often feels like you have to choose between decent macros or decent ingredients. Very few bars strike a good balance without being packed with sugar alcohols, artificial flavors, or unnecessary fillers.
That’s why I wanted to share (in no particular order) my top three favorite protein bars that I actually enjoy eating, both for taste and nutrition: ALOHA Bars, IQ Bars, and Perfect Bars.

ALOHA Bars

Nutrition snapshot per bar*: 220-260 calories, ~14g protein, 9-13g fat, <30g carbs with <5g from added sugar, & packs 6-10g fiber!
Price: Typically range from $2.50-$2.80 per bar when bought individually. A box of 5 bars is typically ~$10 which saves a couple of dimes per bar. Note: these are the prices in northern TX and might vary in your geographic location.
Why I love them: Plant-based, organic, and not overly sweet. They use simple ingredients and pack in protein without a chalky aftertaste. They are soft but in my opinion, not too chewy like some natural bars. Plus, there is a wide variety of flavors to choose from. 
My favorite flavors: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Coconut Chocolate Almond. There's too many to try! 
When I eat them: When I need a quick, balanced snack to hold me over between meals.
Considerations: A quick note about fats - these are higher in fat. However, as you may know, not all fats are equal. Much of this fat is unsaturated which actually can help improve your cholesterol levels. You may notice that the coconut flavor is higher in fat, including saturated fat. This is because unlike other plant based sources of dietary fat, coconut is actually a saturated fat! Saturated fats are the type of fat associated with poorer heart health.

Try ALOHA for yourself!

6 Flavor Sampler (12 ct)

IQ Bars

Nutrition snapshot per bar*: 160-180 calories, 12g protein, 10-13g fat, 9-12g carbs with <1g added sugar, 7-9g fiber. 
Price: These seem to be on the lower end for similar products. I found individual bars for $1.67-$2.29 and boxes of 4 bars between $5.98-$6.39. 
Why I love them: Made with brain-boosting nutrients like omega-3s and flavonoids, these are low in carbs, high in fiber, and come in many flavors. They stand out because unlike other sugar free or low carb bars, they don’t contain artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols like sucralose or erythritol, which can cause an upset stomach for some.
Flavors to try: Lemon Blueberry or Chocolate Sea Salt
When I eat them: Perfect snack at any time of day to get through a slump and increase energy. 
Considerations: Because they are lower in calorie, I would recommend these as a snack, not a meal replacement.

Try an IQ sampler box!

7 Flavor Sample Box (7 ct)

Perfect Bars

Nutrition snapshot per bar*: 310-350 calories, 12-17g protein, ~19g fat, 26g carbs with ~12g from added sugar, 2-4g fiber. 
Price: These bars are a bit pricier. Typically they have a sale when you buy multiple individual bars, but you can expect to pay between $2.50-$3.50 per individual bar. In my experience, finding boxes in stores is hit or miss. When I do, it is usually between $8.99 -$9.99 for a box of 4 bars. 
Why I love them: Made with whole-food ingredients, refrigerated for a fresh, soft texture, and super satisfying. Higher in calories and fat, but that’s what makes them feel more like a real meal or snack.
Flavors to try: Classic Peanut Butter or Dark Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter with Sea Salt
When I eat them: A quick meal on the go when I am low on time and looking for something to keep me satisfied for a longer period of time.
Considerations: These bars are on the higher side for both calories and added sugar. They may not be the best fit if you’re aiming to limit sugar intake, watching your blood sugar, or just want a lighter snack—but they work well as a meal replacement or fuel for long, active days.

Get Perfect!

4 Flavor Fan Favorite Box (8 ct)

Honorable Mention

RX Bars – ~210 calories, 12g protein, 9g fat, 23g carbs, ~13g sugar (from dates, not added sugar). Great for simple ingredients, but the naturally high sugar may not fit everyone’s goals.
GoMacro Bars – ~270 calories, 11g protein, 10g fat, 36g carbs, ~10–12g added sugar. Great vegan, organic option, but higher in carbs and sugar, so they may be better suited for endurance athletes or those with higher energy needs.

Bars I Want to Try Next …

Most of the bars I want to try are in the photo at the top of the post. I haven't tried the TruBar is near the top of my must try list. Also on my list to try are Built Puff, Mosh, Mush, and the Mid-Day Squares (but idk if the latter is considered a protein bar...)

Final Thoughts

Protein bars don’t have to be boring, overly sweet, or just “functional.” When you find ones you truly enjoy, they can be a convenient, nourishing addition to your day. By no means have I tried every option out there and I am sure there are more good ones. But at this moment in time, for me, ALOHA, IQ Bars, and Perfect Bars hit the sweet spot of taste, quality ingredients, and balanced nutrition—without making me feel like I’m compromising on either macros or ingredients.
That said, nutrition is always individualized. What works for me may not be the perfect fit for you, since everyone has different goals, preferences, and energy needs. Think of protein bars as tools—you just need to find the right one for your lifestyle.
If you’ve tried any of these, let me know your favorite flavors—or if you have another bar you think I should test out next!

* actual nutritional content varies between flavors

Carly Scanlon