Compare protein bars and snacks on the protein, calories and sugar in each bar, the sweeteners used and the cost per 25g of protein. Bars are convenient, but they vary a lot and usually cost more per gram of protein than powder, so the label is where to start.
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What makes a protein bar "high protein"?
"High protein" on a label has a legal meaning: at least 20% of the food's energy must come from protein. "Source of protein" means at least 12%. So a bar can be "high protein" and still contain a lot of calories, sugar or fat.
This collection includes bars, wafers, cookies and protein cups. Some names show a protein percentage, which usually refers to the share of the bar's weight that is protein; check the nutrition label to be sure.
How much sugar is in a protein bar?
It ranges from very little to a lot, so check "of which sugars" per bar. The NHS classes food with more than 22.5g of total sugars per 100g as high, and 5g or less as low, and says adults should have no more than 30g of free sugars a day.
Many lower-sugar bars use polyols (sugar alcohols such as maltitol). Foods with more than 10% added polyols must carry the warning that excessive consumption may produce laxative effects, so look for it on the wrapper. Browse low-sugar snacks.
How do you compare protein bars on value?
Work out the cost per 25g of protein. Bars are usually more expensive per gram of protein than powder, which you're paying for in convenience.
How to compare value (example figures, not real products): a box of 12 bars for £24, each with 20g of protein, is £2 per bar and £2.50 per 25g of protein. A box of 12 for £18, each with 15g, is £1.50 per bar and also £2.50 per 25g. The cheaper box is no better value for protein. Compare with our protein powder hub.
We sell the products on this page. That's our commercial interest, and it's why we show the evidence alongside them. This page is general information for adults, not personalised medical advice.
Written by Andy Arshad, SupplementHQ. Last reviewed 11 October 2026.