Why Do Protein Bars Taste Bad?

Protein bars can be a convenient snack to help you add more protein to your diet. They are a popular option among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. However, why do protein bars taste bad? It’s no secret that most protein bars don’t have the best taste or texture.

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why protein bars are so gross (at least some of them) and tips for helping you choose the best protein bar.

Why Do Protein Bars Taste Bad?

Protein bars are formulated to provide a large amount of protein in a single serving. As a result, the taste and texture of a protein bar may vary depending on the intended macronutrient distribution.

Also, protein bars may taste bad because of the preservatives, flavorings, or sweeteners that are added to help enhance the flavor. While they are meant to enhance the flavor, in some cases, they may do the opposite.

What Can Make A Protein Bar Taste Bad?

While there is no single answer as to why protein bars taste bad, there are some ingredients that can increase the risk of protein bars tasting strange. The sweeteners and protein options play a huge role in the taste of the protein bars.

1. Sweeteners

Research shows that artificial sweeteners may have a bitter aftertaste. While not everyone dislikes it, some cannot seem to handle this aftertaste. Options like saccharin, aspartame, and sucralose can all increase the risk of a protein bar tasting bad.

A natural sweetener, such as monk fruit or stevia, may be a better option for those who cannot tolerate the aforementioned sweeteners. However, some people may also experience an aftertaste with natural, non-caloric sweeteners. For those individuals, you may be stuck with protein bars that add sugar and/or fruit such as dates.

2. Plant-Based Proteins

Pea, soy, hemp, and rice proteins are popular among plant-based proteins. However, some people find these alternatives to have an earthy flavor and grainy texture. Also, some people seem to find plant-based proteins slightly bitter, which can enhance this bitterness when combined with artificial sweeteners.

3. Artificial Flavors

Finally, if the protein bar contains artificial flavors, it may result in a rather weird-tasting bar. While artificial flavors are meant to mimic natural flavors, some people find them too artificial, which can be off-putting.

Tips For Choosing The Best Protein Bar

Protein bars can aid in weight management due to their satiating effects and can help support muscle mass with their high protein content. For that reason, protein bars can be an excellent ally on your fitness journey. So, if you want to add a protein bar but don’t know how to choose one, here are some tips and tricks to help you.

1. Small Amount of Added Sugars

Make sure you choose a protein bar with a low sugar content. While sugar in moderation is not bad, the problem is when there is a large sugar intake. Search for a protein bar with less than 10 grams of added sugars per serving.

2. Choose Dairy-Based Protein (If Not Vegan)

Dairy-based protein (whey or casein) tends to be more pleasant than plant-based proteins. If you are not vegan, choosing a whey-based protein bar can be a good idea. It will be tastier and provide you with high-quality protein since it contains all the essential amino acids (unlike some plant-based proteins).

3. Check Out Reviews

Finally, check out customer reviews. But don’t go straight to the company’s website. In most cases, they only show positive reviews. Go to iHerb or Amazon and check what other users are saying. Here, you can read people’s thoughts about the protein bar’s texture and taste.

Our Recommended Protein Bar

Transparent Labs Protein Bars

• Protein Source: Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Flavors: Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
• Vegan: No
• Protein per bar: 15g
• Fats ber bar: 16g
• Carbs per bar: 23g
• Fiber per bar: 3g
• Added Sugar: 5g
• Sugar Alcohol: No
• Calories per bar: 280
• Sodium per bar: 280mg
• Bars per Package: 12
• Bar Weight: 60g
• Price per bar: ~$3.33
• Recommended by Athletes: Hafthor Bjornsson, Paul Sklar, Sean Harris

CHECK LATEST PRICE

Our recommended protein bar option is Transparent Labs grass-fed protein bar. It comes in a delicious peanut butter chocolate chip flavor. Since it is made with whey, it does not have the earthy flavor of plant proteins. In addition, it doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners, colorings, or preservatives.

Each protein bar provides 280 calories, 23 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber, 15 grams of protein, and 16 grams of fat.

FAQ

Are Protein Bars Sweet?

Yes, protein bars contain artificial (sucralose, saccharin, or aspartame) or natural sweeteners (stevia or monk fruit) to make them palatable.

Why Do I Feel Bad After Eating a Protein Bar?

Some protein bars may contain sugar alcohols, preservatives, and additives that may increase the risk of digestive issues in certain people. This means you may experience bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.

Why Do Protein Bars Taste Metallic? 

Some artificial or natural non-caloric sweeteners may provide a bitter or metallic aftertaste to some people.

Conclusion

Protein bars are an easy and convenient protein source. However, artificial or natural non-caloric sweeteners, preservatives, flavorings, and the type of protein can all affect the taste of the protein bar.

For the best-tasting protein bar, Transparent Labs has a grass-fed protein bar with peanut butter chocolate chip flavor. Since it doesn’t contain artificial flavorings or sweeteners and is made with whey protein, it provides a delicious protein bar.

What is your favorite protein bar? Let us know in the comments.

Also read:

• Is It Bad to Eat Protein Bars Without Working Out
• Do Protein Bars Help You Lose Weight
• Best Beef Protein Powder
• Are Protein Bars Actually Good For You
• When Should You Eat Protein Bars
• Is It Bad to Eat Protein Bars Everyday
• Are Protein Bars Good for Breakfast
• Do Protein Bars Give You Gas

References:

1. Kuhn C. Bitter Taste Receptors for Saccharin and Acesulfame K. Journal of Neuroscience. 2004;24(45):10260-10265. doi:https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.1225-04.2004
2. Muenprasitivej N, Tao R, Nardone SJ, Cho S. The Effect of Steviol Glycosides on Sensory Properties and Acceptability of Ice Cream. Foods. 2022;11(12):1745. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/foods11121745
3. Paddon-Jones D, Westman E, Mattes RD, Wolfe RR, Astrup A, Westerterp-Plantenga M. Protein, weight management, and satiety. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2008;87(5):1558S1561S. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/87.5.1558s
4. Carbone JW, Pasiakos SM. Dietary protein and muscle mass: Translating science to application and health benefit. Nutrients. 2019;11(5):1136. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11051136
5. Rippe J, Angelopoulos T. Relationship between Added Sugars Consumption and Chronic Disease Risk Factors: Current Understanding. Nutrients. 2016;8(11):697. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8110697