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Dietitian Exposes the Hidden Truths of Protein Bar Nutrition
13 Nov
Summary
- Protein bar sales surged 24.4% in 2025 to £225.6 million
- Many protein bars are packed with sugar and ultra-processed ingredients
- Dietitian advises keeping protein bars as an occasional addition, not a substitute for whole foods
As of November 13th, 2025, the protein bar market has seen a substantial boom, with sales surging 24.4% last year to £225.6 million. This growth is predicted to continue into the future. While marketed as filling and healthy snacks, a dietitian has revealed that the nutrient composition of these bars can vary significantly, with many containing high amounts of sugar and ultra-processed ingredients.
The expert advises consumers to carefully compare labels and look for shorter, more recognizable ingredient lists. Protein bars should be treated as an occasional addition to the diet, not a replacement for whole food sources of protein such as eggs, dairy, beans, lentils, fish, poultry, and nuts.
When selecting a protein bar, the dietitian recommends opting for one with 15-20g of protein if you're very active and need a post-workout snack, or 8-10g of protein for a more general snack. She has also assessed a variety of the latest protein bar offerings, providing her verdict on their nutritional value and suitability as part of a healthy diet.
