In a recent video, we discussed what’s really going on inside your “healthy” protein bars. If you didn’t get a chance to watch it, check out our analysis below on two of the most popularly consumed protein bars on the market.
Luna Bars
Luna bars are typically promoted as a “healthy” way to maintain energy during the day. With so many people consuming them. We wanted to take a closer look at what you’re actually putting inside your body.
Here’s what’s in a Lemon Zest Luna bar:
Soy protein, rice flour, roasted soybeans, flaxseed, organic brown rice syrup, sunflower oil, added vitamins and minerals, among others.
Now, let’s take a look at what these ingredients actually are…
You could make your own protein bars at home that taste just as good with dates, almond flour, almond butter, granola and even dark chocolate!
Pure Protein Bars
This is another type of bar we see people consuming often. Pure Protein bars are high in sugar alcohol, fractionated palm kernel oil, whey protein concentrate, MSG, more sugar, cocoa, sucrose, almond butter and hydrolyzed collagen among others.
Hydrolyzed collagen may be something you aren’t familiar with—but when consuming it, you want to make sure it was pasture raised (we can’t be certain, but we’d venture to say this isn’t.)
Have other questions you’d like us to answer? Comment below or simply give us a call to schedule an appointment. We look forward to working with you soon.
Dec 11, 2023 at 11:14 PM
I don't see MSG listed on my protein bar. Does it have to be listed on the ingredients?
Dec 13, 2023 at 3:04 PM
Hi Cristina - Yes, it does have to be in the ingredient list but it is rarely straightforward. MSG has all kinds of names that make it super tricky. It's important to know these because MSG consumption can result in brain cell damage. It can be difficult to avoid at restaurants and of course, processed foods. So the fewer ingredients, the better. Here is a list for you. Always MSG: monosodium glutamate potassium glutamate autolyzed yeast yeast extract yeast food yeast nutrient hydrolyzed vegetable protein hydrolyzed protein hydrolyzed plant protein hydrolyzed oat flour plant protein extract sodium caseinate calcium caseinate textured protein Usually MSG: maltodextrin malt extract bouillon/broth/stock any flavors or flavoring natural flavoring artificial flavoring natural beef flavoring natural chicken flavoring seasoning spices May contain MSG: soy sauce soy protein isolate soy protein concentrate whey protein isolate gelatin carrageenan enzyme modified protein fortified fermented ultra-pasteurized I hope this helps!