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In a world increasingly obsessed with protein, the popularity of protein bars has surged, with brands offering countless options to cater to health-conscious consumers. A recent taste test conducted by a group of volunteers from The Guardian’s New York City office sought to answer a burning question: do these bars actually taste good? After sampling 12 different protein bars, the results revealed a mix of delicious options and a few that left much to be desired.
The Taste Test Methodology
To ensure a fair evaluation, 22 participants participated in a blind taste test, sampling the chocolate-flavoured varieties from each brand. Each bar was stripped of its packaging and labelled with letters A through L. Volunteers were divided into smaller groups to taste six bars at a time, allowing them to provide focused feedback without palate fatigue. Water and crackers were available for cleansing the palate between samples.
Participants were asked to score each bar based on flavour, texture, aftertaste, and overall quality, with scores ranging from one to five. The results were compiled to identify the standout bars and those that fell short.
Top Performers in the Protein Bar Category
Best Overall: Barebells Chocolate Dough
With a flavour score of 4 out of 5, the Barebells Chocolate Dough bar emerged as the clear winner in this taste test. One enthusiastic taster described it as “straight up candy bar,” praising its chocolate nougat centre and crispy coating. At 200 calories and 20 grams of protein, this bar not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also packs a significant protein punch. However, some testers noted a rather sweet aftertaste that could be overwhelming.
High Protein Champion: Gatorade Chocolate Chip
Claiming the title for high protein content, Gatorade’s offering scored 3 out of 5. This bar, designed as a post-workout recovery snack, combines crispy rice protein with a chocolate coating. Testers enjoyed its texture, with comments highlighting its resemblance to a chocolate Rice Krispies treat. Despite its appealing crunch, some found it excessively sweet, with a sugar content of 28 grams.
Best Vegan Option: NuGo Dark Chocolate Mocha
The NuGo Dark Chocolate Mocha bar, with a flavour score of 3.4, was celebrated for its enjoyable crunch and mild coffee hints. Made with real dark chocolate, this vegan and gluten-free snack offers 11 grams of protein at just 200 calories. While many testers found it satisfying, a few noted that it could be a touch too sweet.
Best Organic Choice: Aloha Chocolate Fudge Brownie
Aloha’s Chocolate Fudge Brownie bar was praised for its organic ingredients and delightful chocolate flavour. With 14 grams of protein and 220 calories, it scored 3 out of 5. Tasters appreciated its resemblance to chocolate ice cream, although some did point out that its strong aftertaste might be overpowering for some.
Disappointing Entries
Despite some successes, several bars failed to impress. Eight of the 12 tested scored below average, garnering comments ranging from “just okay” to “plain terrible.” The David Protein Bar, for instance, was described as “weirdly spongey,” while the Quest Nutrition Protein Bar elicited responses like “it took me on a journey to sadness.”
The Glaring Shortcomings
Among the most disappointing entries was the Perfect Bar, which testers compared unfavourably to “compacted dust.” Several participants noted a lingering, unpleasant taste that overshadowed any potential enjoyment.
Why it Matters
The exploration of protein bars is more than just a quest for tasty snacks; it reflects a broader cultural shift towards health and fitness. As consumers become more aware of their dietary choices, understanding which products deliver both flavour and nutritional benefits is vital. This taste test serves as a valuable guide for those looking to incorporate protein bars into their diets without sacrificing taste, ultimately supporting informed choices in a marketplace flooded with options.
