The Greens+ product line is the creation of Sam Graci, the head of Orange Peel Enterprises.  Graci created the original Greens+ superfood drink in 1990 – inspired by the desire to help his disabled sister-in-law live a healthier life.  Since that time, the line has expanded to include other drinks, protein powders, supplements and bars.  The protein bars come in 4 basic flavors: Natural Peanut Butter, Chocolate-Coated Peanut Butter, Wild Berry Burst and Whey Protein Krisp.

Manufacturer’s Description: We’ve combined organically grown superfoods, whey protein, high energy herbal extracts and a little agave nectar to produce the only cold-processed, alkaline-forming, protein-rich green food bar. The GREENS+® Protein Bar contains no processed sugar, salt, corn syrup, hydrogenated oil, synthetic sweeteners, preservatives, or genetically-modified foods of any kind.

The GREENS+® Protein Bar delivers low-glycemic carbohydrates, essential fatty acids and biologically-complete protein to help build lean muscle and balance the body’s blood sugar. Perfect for athletes seeking an edge, students, travelers, children of all ages, and anyone in need of optimum energy, superior well being, and peak performance.

Serving Size 1 bar (59g) Calories 240 Calories from Fat 100 Total Fat 11g Monosaturated Fat 4g Saturated Fat 2.5g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 45mg Total Carbohydrates 20g

Dietary Fiber 2g Sugars 17g Protein 20g Vitamin A 3200iu 70% Vitamin B6 .10mg 5% Vitamin B12 12mcg 216% Vitamin C 18mg 30% Vitamin E 40iu 133% Calcium 60mg 6% Iron 2mg 13%

Ingredients: Organic peanut butter, whey protein isolate, organic agave nectar, organic quinoa sprout powder, original GREENS+® (GMO-free soy lecithin, organic Hawaiian spirulina, organic apple fiber, barley grass powder, wheat grass powder, Japanese chlorella, hydroponic soy sprouts, organic brown rice bran, sprouted barley malt, alfalfa grass powder, dairy-free probiotics, royal jelly, Montana bee pollen, acerola berry juice, natural vitamin E, licorice root powder, milk thistle extract, echinacea root extract, Siberian eleuthero root extract, astragalus root extract, licorice root extract, organic red beet juice, dunaliella salina algae, organic Nova Scotia Dulse, organic ginkgo biloba leaf extract, organic Japanese green tea extract, grape seed and skin extract, organic Swedish bilberry extract), organic brown rice crisps, Omega 3 Chia seed oil, mixed tocopherols (natural vitamin E).

Comments: I picked up a box of a dozen Natural Peanut Butter bars from www.iherb.com for $24.40 (US). This is considerably less than the price I would have paid buying direct from the company ($35.88).

The bars look quite simple: they’re basically firm, smooth, brownish-greenish slabs of nougat – no layers or coating. They have a smooth, homogenous texture and are quite chewy, although not excessively so. Despite the color, they don’t taste “grassy” or “herby” – just mildly sweet with a pleasant – but not powerful – peanut butter flavor.

So, not great… but definitely ok.

The bars provide a decent amount of high quality protein (from whey), as well as some green “superfood” nutrition from Greens+ powder. There’s even some chia seed oil to provide some omega-3 fats. The bars are filling without being particularly high in calories, so they’d make a decent snack for someone on a reduced calorie diet.

One of the things I liked about the Greens+ bars is that – unlike many other protein bars – they’re made from actual food ingredients, vs. additives. Thus, they don’t taste much like traditional candy bars, but are also more “real”. Personally, I think they’d make good snacks for traveling, as they’re nutritious, can slip easily into a purse or pocket, and are firm enough to resist being mangled.

Taste: 2.5/5.0

Quality: 5.0/5.0

Efficacy: 5.0/5.0

Value: 3.5/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

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Lean Body Double-Dipped Hi-Protein Energy Bars are made by Labrada Nutrition: a company well-known to the bodybuilding world. The company was founded by Lee Labrada, who holds 22 professional bodybuilding titles, including the IFBB “Mr. Universe.” The bars are part of the larger “Lean Body” line of meal replacements and functional food products aimed at the fitness market.  They come in four flavors: Chocolate Rocky Road Crunch, Peanut Butter Chocolate Crunch, Triple Chocolate Peanut Crunch and White Chocolate Crunch.

Manufacturer’s Description: This Lean Body® Hi-Protein Energy bar provides protein and essential fats to support lean muscle tissue and fuel your body! These great tasting bars are double dipped and sinfully delicious! Each bar has a soft nougat protein center, then dipped in a creamy coating, layered in peanuts, and then smothered in rich, chocolatey goodness!

• Double Dipped Coating!
• 21g Protein!
• Loaded with Peanuts!
• Incredible Taste!

Serving Size 1 Bar (70g) Amount Per Serving Calories 330 Calories From Fat 140 Total Fat 16g Saturated Fat 8g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 240mg	Potassium 200mg Total Carbohydrate 26mg Dietary Fiber 3g Sugar 16g Protein 21g Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 8% Iron 6%
Ingredients: Lean Pro® Protein Blend (Peanuts, Soy Nuts, Soy Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate, Milk Protein Isolate, Nonfat Dry Milk, Whey), Sucrose, Fractionated Palm Kernel Oil, Hydrolyzed Gelatin, Glycerine, Evaporated Cane Juice, Cocoa Processed With Alkali, Soy Lecithin, Salt, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Palm Oil, Sucralose

Comments: I bought the Chocolate Rocky Road and White Chocolate Crunch bars at my local Walgreens for $2.99 each. That’s a pretty hefty price (even though they’re hefty-sized bars). Fortunately, the online price is more than a dollar less per bar ($22.99 for a box of 12 at bodybuilding.com, which works out to $1.92 each).

Good thing too…these bars are delish! They’re easily as good, if not better, than a real candy bar. Each coated bar has a layer of whole roasted peanuts, surrounding a gooey, sweet nougat. Overall, they’re crunchy (thanks to the peanuts) AND chewy; chocolately and sweet without being cloying.

Mmmmmm…

Admittedly, these are NOT exactly diet food, but they do provide a solid amount of protein from a good-quality blend, while supplying only half the sugar and fat of an equal-sized Snickers Bar. As such, they’re a much better deal if you’re dying for a sweet snack or chocolate fix.

Taste: 5.0/5.0

Quality: 4.0/5.0

Efficacy: 4.0/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

Lean Body Double-Dipped Hi-Protein Energy Bars are available at bodybuilding.com!

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Genisoy bills itself as “the #1 soy company in the US.”  Certainly it’s one of the most visible: Genisoy products are mainstreamed into grocery stores throughout the country.  The product line is diverse, and divided between shakes/protein powders, snacks (chips, crisps, soynuts/trail mix) and bars.  The bars come if four varieties: Ultra, Protein Crunch, Organic and Regular.  There six flavors of the latter: Cookies and Cream, Creamy Peanut Yogurt, Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Crispy Chocolate Mint, Chunky Peanut Butter Fudge and Cafe Mocha Fudge.

Manufacturer’s Description: Help get your body through your busy day with the complete nutrition of Genisoy Soy Protein Bars. With 20 vitamins and minerals, folic acid and 14 grams of soy protein, you’ll have the complete nutrition that you need to finish the day, deliciously, economically and conveniently. Delight your taste buds with six unique Genisoy flavors dipped in creamy yogurt or rich chocolate. Great taste and good sense come together in Genisoy.

Serving Size 1 Bar (61.5g) Calories 240 Fat Calories 60 Total Fat 6g Sat. Fat 3g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 0mg Sodium 200mg Total Carb 33g Dietary Fiber 2g	Sugars 19g Protein 14g Vitamin A 10% Vitamin C 10% Calcium 10% Iron 15% Vitamin E 10% Thiamin 15% Riboflavin 15% Niacin 10%	Vitamin B6 10% Folate 15% Biotin 10% Pantothenic Acid 10% Phosphorus 15% Iodine 10% Zinc 15% Selenium 15% Copper 30%
Ingredients: Genisoy Blend (Soy Protein Isolate, Soy Crisps [Soy Protein Isolate, Tapioca Starch, Salt], Alkalized Cocoa Powder, Sugar, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Cookie Pieces [Wheat Flour, Sugar, Canola Oil, Cocoa Processed with Alkali, Salt, Baking Soda],Roasted Soy Nuts, Canola Oil, Corn Starch), Corn Syrup, Chocolate-Flavored Coating (Sugar, Palm Kernel Oil, Cocoa Powder, Whey Powder, Skim Milk Powder, Soy Lecithin [an Emulsifier], Natural Vanilla Flavor), Two Percent or Less of the Following: Water, Natural Flavors, Tricalcium Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid [Vitamin C], Almond Butter, Wheat Germ, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin E Acetate, Niacinamide, Zinc Oxide, Copper Gluconate, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride [Vitamin B6], Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Cyanocobalamin [Vitamin B12].

Comments: I picked up the Crispy Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Chunky Peanut Butter Fudge bars at the store for the on-sale price of $0.97 each. Each bar contains 12.5 g soy protein per serving; half of the 25 g/day of soy protein determined to reduce cholesterol and cardiovascular disease risk.

The bars proved to be flat, dense and chewy.  It thought they were pretty good, for the most part.  I liked the Chocolate Fudge Brownie bar; and the Crispy Chocolate Mint tasted just like a chewy, bar version of a York Peppermint Patty.  On the other hand, the Chunky Peanut Butter Fudge tasted sweet, but odd – and not the least bit “peanutty.”

So two out of three…not bad, overall.

Each bar supplies small, but significant amounts of the major vitamins and minerals, as well as 14 – 15 g total protein.  Although not specifically low cal or low sugar, Genisoy bars contain considerably less fat and sugar than most candy bars.  For example, for roughly the same number of cals, a (2.2 oz) Genisoy bar supplies 6 – 7 g fat and 18 – 19 g sugar, whereas a (2.1 oz) Milky Way has 10 g fat and 35 g sugar…quite a difference.

While I wouldn’t make a habit out of eating Genisoy bars (there are better ways to get soy protein, if desired), they could certainly be used on occasion to satisfy a sweet tooth, or as an on-the-go snack.

Taste: 3.5/5.0

Quality: 3.5/5.0

Efficacy: 3.5/5.0

Value: 4.0/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

 

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Balance Bars are based on the macronutrient ratio popularized by Barry Sears in the Zone Diet: 40% carbohydrate, 30% protein, 30% fat.  Now manufactured by Kraft Foods, they come in a range of 4 different types: Original, Balance Bare, Pure, Carb Well and Gold.  There are 4 Gold bar flavors: Caramel Nut Blast, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate Mint Cookie Crunch and Triple Chocolate Chaos.

Manufacturer’s Description: Lasting energy combines with triple layer goodness.  Complete with 23 vitamins and minerals perfect for on-the-go hunger satisfaction and maintaining your healthy lifestyle.

Serving Size 1 bar (50g) Calories 210 Calories from Fat 60 Total Fat 7g Saturated Fat 4g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol <5mg Sodium 125mg Potassium 140mg Total Carbohydrate 23g Dietary Fiber 1g Sugars 15g	Protein 14g Vitamin A 50% Vitamin C 100% Calcium 10% Iron 25% Vitamin E 100% Vitamin K 25% Thiamin 25% Riboflavin 25% Niacin 25% Vitamin B6 25% Folic Acid 25%	Vitamin B12 25% Biotin 25% Pantothenic Acid 25% Phosphorus 15% Iodine 25% Magnesium 10% Zinc 25% Selenium 25% Copper 25% Manganese 25% Chromium 25% Molybdenum 25%
Ingredients: Balance Pro 4 Protein Blend (Casein, Whey Protein Isolate, Partially Hydrolyzed Casein and Whey, Soy Protein Isolate), Evaporated Cane Juice, Invert Syrup, Corn Syrup, Sugar, Fractionated Palm Kernel Oil, Glycerin, High Maltose Corn Syrup, Milk Protein Concentrate, Cocoa (Processed with Alkali), Canola Oil, Contains Less Than 2% of Natural Flavor, Nonfat Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate, Fructose, Soy Lecithin, Cocoa, Maltodextrin, Dextrose, Heavy Cream, Butter (Cream, Salt, Annatto for Color), Carrageenan, Salt, Mixed Tocopherols (To Help Protect Flavor), Fish Gelatin. Vitamins & Minerals: Calcium Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Magnesium Oxide, Vitamin E Acetate, Beta Carotene, Copper Gluconate, Niacinamide, Ferric Orthophosphate (Iron), Zinc Oxide, Biotin, Phytonadione (Vitamin K1), Potassium Iodide, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Chromium Chloride, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, Sodium Molybdate, Sodium Selenite, Riboflavin, Thiamin Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Folic Acid.

Comments:  I was able to pick up a couple of Balance Bar samples from my local Fred Meyer for only $1.00 (US) each – a pretty good bargain, although Bodybuilding.com also sells them for $16.95 per box of 15…which is pretty close ($1.13 each). 

I sampled both the Triple Chocolate Chaos (shown above) and the Chocolate Peanut Butter.  Both were pretty tasty: chocolatey, sweet and chewy, without being difficult to chew – if you know what I mean.  The “Chaos” bar had a particularly deep, dark chocolate flavor, rather than the more typical milk chocolate, which I liked.

I liked the look of the protein blend, although was less than thrilled with the low fiber and 14 grams of sugar.  Admittedly, this amount of sugar is about half that of a candy bar of the same size, but if you’re trying to keep your intake of simple sugars reasonably low (like me), you might prefer the Balance Carb Well bars instead. 

Nonetheless, as “value-added candy” I thought the Gold bars were pretty decent.  They’d make a good, portable on-the-go snack for an active person.

Taste: 4.0/5.0

Quality: 3.0/5.0

Efficacy: 3.0/5.0

Value: 4.5/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

Balance Gold Bars are available from bodybuilding.com here!

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Worldwide Sports Nutrition produces a number of ready-to-drink supplements, including “Pure Protein” shakes, “Sonic” Tea, and various pre-/post-workout formulas.  The Pure Protein bars come in two sizes (50g and 78g) and seven flavors: Blueberry Crumb Cake, Chewy Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Deluxe, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Peanut Marshmallow Eclipse, S’mores and Strawberry Shortcake.

Manufacturer’s Description:  New Pure Protein® Chocolate Peanut Butter high protein bars are loaded with 20 grams of high quality protein and have 0 grams trans fat. A pure paradise for peanut butter lovers and anyone who wants to eat good on the go. Keep one close at hand because you never know where temptation is lurking. Pure Protein Bars… High Protein never tasted so heavenly.

Serving Size 1 Bar (50g) Amount Per Serving Calories 190 Calories from Fat 60 Total Fat 6g Saturated Fat 3g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 10mg Sodium 210mg Potassium 120mg Total Carbohydrate 17g	Dietary Fiber 1g Sugars 2g Sugar Alcohol 6g Protein 20g Vitamin A 25% Vitamin C 20% Calcium 25% Iron 10% Vitamin E 25% Thiamin 25% Riboflavin 25%	Niacin 30% Vitamin B-6 25% Folic Acid 25% Vitamin B-12 25% Biotin 25% Pantothenic Acid 25% Phosphorus 10% Iodine 20% Magnesium 8% Zinc 25% Copper 30%
Ingredients: Chocolate Coating (Maltitol, Fractionated Palm Kernel Oil, Whey Protein Concentrate, Cocoa (processed with alkali), Calcium Carbonate, Natural Flavor, Soy Lecithin, Sucralose), Hydrolyzed Collagen, Peanut Flour, Protein Blend (Whey Protein Hydrolysate, Whey Protein Isolate), Glycerin, Maltitol Syrup, Soy Crisps (Soy Protein Isolate, Tapioca Starch, Salt), Water, Peanuts, Peanut Oil, Sucrose, Salt, Natural Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamin and Mineral Blend (Ascorbic Acid, Tricalcium Phosphate, d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate, Niacinamide, Zinc Oxide, Copper Gluconate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Cyanocobalamin), Sucralose, Soy Lecithin, Milk Protein Isolate, Wheat Germ, Almond Meal.

Comments: The 50g bars were on sale at my local Fred Meyer for $1.00 (US) each – a pretty good bargain. I picked up the Blueberry Crumb Cake, Strawberry Shortcake and Chocolate Peanut Butter (shown above) flavors.

The Chocolate Peanut Butter bar had a chocolate coating around a peanut butter-flavored nougat center, which was chewy – with a grainy/slightly crunchy texture. It was sweet without being overpowering – I thought it was pretty good.

The two fruit bars (Blueberry Crumb Cake and Strawberry Short Cake) were fruity and somewhat tangy. Each bar had a white (vanilla?) coating, surrounding two layers: a fruit and semi-cookie like base. The fruit flavors were a little more acidic than I would have preferred – overall, I thought they were decent, but weren’t my faves.

Each bar supplies a solid amount of protein (18g – 20g) – mostly from whey protein, although hydrolyzed collagen is also in the list…it’s a cheap and incomplete protein source that’s doesn’t rank real high on my list of top-quality ingredients.

On the other hand, though, the fruit bars are made with genuine fruit, and the nutrient fortification is pretty comprehensive.

The bars are also low in sugar (good) but also relatively low in fiber (not so good).

Overall, I thought they were ok: economical and reasonably tasty. Not the best bars I’ve had, but certainly not the worst, either.

Taste: 3.5/5.0

Quality: 3.0/5.0

Efficacy: 3.5/5.0

Value: 4.0/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

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Given the enormous popularity of protein/energy/nutrition bars, it was just a matter of time before more conventional candy makers got into the act.  Thus, the Mars Corporation has extended its “Snickers” line of candy bars to include Marathon bars.  There are four basic types: Energy, Nutrition, Low Carb and Protein.  The Protein bars come in two flavors: Chocolate Nut Burst and Caramel Nut Rush.

Manufacturer’s Description: When you’re looking for a quality protein bar, SNICKERS MARATHON® Protein Bar delivers! And because it is from SNICKERS MARATHON® it tastes great!

…Made with our unique Protein Blend (soy, peanut, casein and whey), your body is supplied with crucial amino acids needed to build and repair muscle. Protein when consumed with carbohydrates (the primary fuel for endurance activity) helps you get the most from your workouts or gives an added boost of energy for that busy day!

And as low Glycemic Index foods, Protein Performance Bars help keep your blood sugar levels stable and provide your brain and working muscles the long lasting energy you require.

Serving Size 1 Bar (80g) Calories 290 Calories from Fat 90 Total Fat 9g Saturated Fat 5g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 200mg Potassium 250mg Total Carbohydrates 40g	Dietary Fiber 11g Sugars 20g Protein 21g Vitamin A 35% Vitamin C 100% Calcium 50% Iron 45% Vitamin D 0% Vitamin E 100% Thiamine 100%	Riboflavin 100% Niacin 100% Vitamin B6 100% Folic Acid 100% Vitamin B12 100% Biotin 100% Pantothenic Acid 100% Phosphorus 30% Magnesium 35% Zinc 35%
Ingredients: Quadratein (Soy Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate, Peanut Flour, Calcium Caseinate), Milk Chocolate (Sugar, Chocolate, Cocoa Butter, Skim Milk, Lactose, Milkfat, Soy Lecithin), Caramel (Corn Syrup, Polydextrose, Palm Kernel Oil, Sugar, Skim Milk, Glycerin, Salt, Whey Protein Isolate, Natural Flavors), Polydextrose, Glycerin, Corn Syrup, Soy Nuts, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Peanuts, Tapioca Starch, Salt, Sucralose, Natural Flavor, Almonds. Vitamins And Minerals: Tricalcium Phosphate, Magnesium Oxide, Sodium Ascorbate, Niacinamide, Vitamin E Acetate, Biotin, Ferrous Fumarate, Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine HCl, Vitamin A Palmitate, Zinc Oxide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Cyanocobalamin, Folic Acid

Comments: The two Marathon bars (one of each flavor) cost $1.99 (each) at my local grocery store…a pretty standard price. The Caramel Nut Rush bar (shown above) was reminiscent of a real Snickers bar, with a chocolate coating and caramel/nougat center – the major difference was that the nuts were coarsely ground vs. intact. It was chewy and sweet without being overwhelming – nice.

The Chocolate Nut Burst bar was a little different, however. This was uncoated, and featured a nut/nougat layer sandwiched between two chocolate ones. The bar was a bit sticky, as well as chewier and less sweet than the Caramel Nut Rush.

I expected both bars to be decent-tasting (they’re made by a candy company, after all), and they were. The big surprise to me was the fact that both contain over 10g of dietary fiber – which is a pretty healthy amount. Likewise, the bars have a low glycemic index – the site doesn’t say HOW low, but I expect it fits the “textbook” definition…I didn’t experience any “sugar crash” after consuming one on a relatively empty stomach.

The bars have a decent protein blend and are fortified with an array of vitamins and minerals so – despite their origin – they have as much right to be viewed as a meal replacement bar as the ones made by various sports nutrition companies…on the basis of their labels, they’re hard to tell apart from the Protein Plus Power Bars, for example. This doesn’t make them health foods, of course, but they could certainly “work” as an occasional on-the-go snack.

Taste: 4.0/5.0

Quality: 3.0/5.0

Efficacy: 4.0/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

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California-based Premier Nutrition specializes in protein bars, powders and “shot” type supplements.  According to the company web site, Premier is “…dedicated to researching and developing a variety of products with advanced formulas, outstanding taste, and exceptional nutritional values that are unsurpassed by any other products on the market.”  The Twisted^® bars are one of four different protein/energy bar lines, and come in three flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla and Peanut Butter.

Manufacturer’s Description: There’s a whole lot to love about Premier Nutrition’s Twisted Bars. In addition to combining four delicious ingredients that include pretzel, caramel, peanuts, and nougat, covered in a creamy chocolate vanilla or peanut butter coating; the Twisted Bar is packed with 15 grams of protein!

All the flavor of a salty sweet snack plus the protein you need to keep you going throughout the day! It doesn’t get much better than that!

Serving Size: 1 Bar (46g) Calories 190 Fat Cal. 60 Total Fat 6g Sat. Fat 4g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 190mg Potassium 80mg

Total Carbohydrate 20g Dietary Fiber <1g Sugars 13g Protein 15g Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 6% Iron 8% Phosphorus 8%

Ingredients: Protein Blend (Whey Protein Isolate, Soy Protein Isolate, Milk Protein Isolate, Hydrolyzed Whey Protein, Whey Protein Concentrate, Calcium Caseinate), Hydrolyzed Fish Gelatin (From Cod), Sugar, Vegetable Glycerine, Milk, Corn Syrup, Wheat Flour, Water, Palm Kernel Oil, Peanuts, Peanut Oil, Peanut Flour, Invert Sugar, Coconut Oil, Salt, Malt, Partially Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Yeast, Sodium Bicarbonate, Lecithin (An Emulsifier), Vanilla, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid.

Comments: I bought the Chocolate and Peanut Butter flavors from my local Fred Meyer…they were $1.49 each. The bars were on the smallish size (1.62 oz) – a little less than a standard candy bar.

Each bar is coated according to the labelled flavor, and has several layers: pretzel, nougat and caramel. They were quite sweet, almost too sweet (for my taste, at any rate). The flavors and textures were good, though: the bars were soft/chewy AND crunchy (thanks to the pretzels added to the top of the bar)…overall, I thought they were pretty tasty.

Despite the protein content, however, these are not really meal replacement bars…they’re more like value-added candy. That’s not necessarily a bad thing if you’re interested in a sweet/chocolate fix. Gram-for-gram, the Twisted bars are slightly lower in fat and calories, and contain only about half the sugar of – say – a Milky Way bar. So they’re definitely an improvement over conventional candy bars, but aren’t precisely “health food” or low in calories, either.

In my opinion, Twisted bars would make a good backpacking snack or lunchbox treat for an active teen; but if you’re watching your weight, there are probably better choices.

Taste: 4.0/5.0

Quality: 3.0/5.0

Efficacy: 4.0/5.0

Value: 3.5/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

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Gnu Foods describes itself as “…a small company that makes all natural, great tasting foods that help address specific nutritional needs and health conditions.”  Founded in 2004, its “Gnu Bars” are its first (and so far, only) product.  Each bar contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber that – according to the company web site – is equivalent to 4 8 oz glasses of Metamucil.  The bars come in 5 flavors: Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Raisin, Chocolate Brownie, Orange Cranberry and Banana Walnut.

Manufacturer’s Description: …Gnu Bars make getting your fiber so easy. Our individually wrapped bars can go with you anywhere. Throw one in a gym bag or a desk drawer for a quick “pick me up.” You can have healthy, delicious fiber anytime; no mixing, measuring, or stirring required. Our baked, chewy and delicious Gnu Bars can be enjoyed on their own, anytime, anywhere.

Serving Size: 1 bar (45g) Amount Per Serving Calories 140 Calories From Fat 45 Total Fat 5g Saturated Fat 1g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 0mg Sodium 95mg Total Carbohydrate 30g	Dietary Fiber 12g Soluble Fiber 8g Insoluble Fiber 4g Sugars 7g Other Carbohydrate 11g Protein 4g Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 6% Iron 15%
Other Ingredients: Gnu High Fiber Blend™ (whole rolled oats, organic whole wheat flour, wheat bran, organic kamut, psyllium, flax, millet), chicory root inulin, fruit juices, rice dextrins, rice, canola oil, peanuts, apples, plums, natural flavors, wheat protein isolate, salt, baking powder.

Comments: When I visited the Gnu Foods website, I was favorably impressed by the fact that they have an inexpensive “sampler pack” with one of each bar flavor for $9.95 – including shipping. There’s a wide variety of purchasing options, in fact: single bars, 5-bar packs and 16-bar packs, as well as a monthly “Joy of Fiber” autoship program consisting of 15 or 30 bar units, with a savings of 35% off the regular price. Unlike the supplement company rip-off tactic Paul discusses in his video and ”Dirty Rotten Tricks” e-book, however, the Joy of Fiber program is a separate option – so people interested in trying out the products aren’t at risk of being automatically enrolled.

So…nice job, Gnu Foods!  I like trying out new bars, but many in the sports nutrition market are sold online in units of 10 – 12 (or more), which makes sampling a pricey proposition.

The bars are pretty tasty, too: moist and fruity, with a grainy texture and bit of a crunch.  Although they’re uncoated, they weren’t the least bit sticky, which was a plus.  The fruit flavor really came through with the Orange-Cranberry, which was my favorite of the five…it had a distinctive citrus flavor that tasted fresh and natural.  By contrast, the Chocolate Brownie bar was the one I liked the least: it was ok, but I thought it was a little flat and dry-tasting.

One drawback to the bars vs. an over-the-counter fiber supplement such as Metamucil, is that the latter is typically dissolved in water…and water/fluid intake is important with any fiber supplement (or food equivalent).  The Gnu Foods site does point this out: “As you increase your fiber intake, remember to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water“, but it’s not highlighted, and could be missed if the information on the site isn’t read carefully.

Overall, Gnu Bars are a pleasant and convenient (if somewhat more expensive) way to consume extra fiber.  In my opinion, people should be getting their fiber from fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, etc., vs. snack bars or supplements, but Gnu Bars can certainly make a contribution, particularly since they’re made with whole grains, seeds and fruit.  One bonus: they’re also low in calories and can help take the edge off an appetite, so could be a good addition to a reduced calorie diet.

Taste: 4.0/5.0

Quality: 5.0/5.0

Efficacy: 5.0/5.0

Value: 3.5/5.0

Overall: 4.5/5.0

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EAS is the nutrition/sports supplement company associated with Muscle Media 2000 publisher/Body For Life author Bill Phillips, although the company is now a subsidiary of Abbott Laboratories.  The change in ownership helped EAS expand beyond the sports nutrition market, and onto the shelves of grocery and discount department stores.  The AdvantEDGE product line consists of ready-to-drink shakes and bars…the bars come in 6 different flavors: Chocolate Cream Pie, Cookies and Cream, Chocolate Chip Brownie, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate Peanut Butter Crisp and Double Chocolate Chip.

Manufacturer’s Description: If you are serious about health, training and diet, chances are pretty good that you have no problems finding enough carbohydrates to meet your daily requirements. What may be an issue is getting in enough high quality protein to get your muscles the nutrients they need to repair themselves and grow larger. AdvantEdge Carb Control Nutrition Bars deliver a high quality, diversified 26 grams of protein to help you meet your daily intake goals, with only 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving. Each bar also contains 26 essential vitamins and minerals to aid you in meeting your daily requirements and avoid any potential nutritional deficiencies.

AdvantEdge Carb Control Nutrition Bars were designed specifically to offer a minimal carbohydrate meal supplement for those who wish to avoid taking in excess carbohydrates

Serving Size 1 Bar (60 g) Calories 230 Calories from Fat 70 Total Fat 8g Saturated Fat 6g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol <5mg Sodium 170mg Potassium 210mg Total Carbohydrate 27g Dietary Fiber 5g Sugars 2g Sugar Alcohol 19g	Protein 17g Vitamin A 30% Vitamin C 30% Calcium 30% Iron 35% Vitamin E 30% Vitamin K 30% Thiamin 30% Riboflavin 30% Niacin 30% Vitamin B6 30% Folate 20% Vitamin B12 30%	Biotin 30% Pantothenic Acid 30% Phosphorus 15% Iodine 30% Magnesium 10% Zinc 30% Selenium 30% Copper 30 % Manganese30% Chromium 30% Molybdenum 30%
Ingredients: Protein Blend (Whey Protein Isolate, Soy Protein Isolate, Casein, Hydrolyzed Whey Protein), Maltitol Syrup, Glycerine, Maltitol, Fractionated Palm And Palm Kernel Oil, Fructooligosaccharides, Milk Protein Concentrate, Water, Cocoa (Processed With Alkali), Cocoa, Unsweetened Chocolate. Contains Less Than 2 Percent Of The Following: Corn Maltodextrin, Nonfat Milk, Natural Flavor, Canola Oil, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Calcium Carbonate, Caramel Color, Soy Oil, Vitamin And Mineral Blend (Calcium Phosphate, Ferric Orthophosphate, Sodium Ascorbate, Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium Oxide, dl-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, Niacinamide, Zinc Oxide, Copper Gluconate, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Beta-Carotene, Vitamin A Palmitate, Folic Acid, Chromium Chloride, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Molybdate, Sodium Selenite, Phytonadione, Cyanocobalamin), Mono- And Diglycerides, Soy Lecithin, Cocoa Extract, Cocoa Butter, Heavy Cream, Butter (Cream, Salt), Salt, Sodium Phosphate, Tocopherols, Carrageenan And Sucralose.

Comments: I picked up the Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies and Cream and Chocolate Chip Brownie bars (shown above) from my local Fred Meyer for $1.59 (US) each: a fairly decent price for a protein bar. Each bar was chewy – as most low carb/high sugar alcohol bars are – but not excessively so. The Chocolate Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Brownie bars had a chocolate coating; while the Cookies and Cream bar had a white (vanilla?) coating topped with cookie pieces. All three bars had a flavored nougat center and were sweet, without being too cloying.

Overall, they were pretty tasty – not the greatest I’ve had, but above average. The bars are quite low in sugar, provide a solid amount of prebiotic fiber and contain only 2 – 3 grams net carbs. The protein blend also looks pretty decent. At 60g, the bars aren’t huge (approx. the size of a standard candy bar), but one made a reasonably filling snack.

Taste: 3.5/5.0

Quality: 3.5/5.0

Efficacy: 4.0/5.0

Value: 3.5/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

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Met-Rx was founded in 1991 by Dr. A. Scott Connelly, who is considered a pioneer in bodybuilding nutrition.  The company is now a part of the NBTY conglomerate, which also owns a variety of other, familiar supplement brands.  The Protein Plus bars feature the company’s proprietary METAMYOSYN® blend, and are relatively low in net carbs.  The bars come in 4 flavors: Chocolate Roasted Peanut w/Caramel, Chocolate Fudge Deluxe, Chocolate Chocolate Chunk and Mud Pie Fusion.

Manufacturer’s Description: Athletes, anyone pursuing a high protein diet and active people from all walks of life require a higher protein intake than the average person – and the new PROTEIN PLUS food bar is the best tasting, most convenient way to get that extra protein. PROTEIN PLUS bar delivers almost twice the protein per gram compared to most other bars, and it’s easily digested and absorbed for faster, more effective lean muscle growth and body fat loss. Each bar contains 32 grams of high quality METAMYOSYN enhanced protein-the exclusive protein formulation that is a fundamental ingredient in other MET-Rx products.

Serving Size 1 Bar (85g) Amount Per Serving Calories 300 Calories From Fat 80 Total Fat 9g Saturated Fat 7g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 130mg Potassium 100mg Total Carbohydrate 32g	Dietary Fiber 1g Sugars 3g Sugar Alcohol 18g Protein 32g Vitamin A 35% Calcium 25% Vitamin E 35% Riboflavin 35% Vitamin B6 30% Vitamin B12 30% Pantothenic Acid 35%	Iodine 30% Zinc 35% Vitamin C 35% Iron 50% Thiamin 35% Niacin 35% Folic Acid 35% Biotin 35% Phosphorus 10% Magnesium 4% Copper 40%
Ingredients: Vanilla Creme Topping (Maltitol Syrup, Milk Protein, Sorbitol, Palm Kernel Oil, Nonfat Dry Milk, Soy Lecithin, Salt, Natural Flavor, Calcium Carbonate), Metamyosyn® VPP Protein Blend (Whey Protein Hydrolysate, And Milk Protein Isolate), Chocolate Coating (Maltitol, Fractionated Palm Kernel Oil, Whey Protein Concentrate, Cocoa (Processed With Alkali), Calcium Carbonate, Natural Flavor, Soy Lecithin, Sucralose), Glycerin, Soy Protein Isolate, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Milk Chocolate Drops (Sugar, Whole Milk Powder, Chocolate Liquor, Cocoa Butter, Milk Fat, Soy Lecithin, Natural Vanilla Flavor), Water, Soy Crisps (Soy Protein Isolate, Rice Flour, Malt Extract, Salt), Coffee Extract, Cocoa (Processed With Alkali), Instant Coffee, Inulin, Natural Flavor , Vitamin And Mineral Blend (Ascorbic Acid, Ferrous Fumarate, Tricalcium Phosphate, D-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate, Niacinamide, Zinc Oxide, Copper Gluconate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Cyanocobalamin), Sucralose, Wheat Germ, Peanut Flour, Almond Meal.

Comments: I picked up a “Mud Pie Fusion” (shown above) and a “Chocolate Roasted Peanut w/Caramel” bar from my local Fred Meyer store, where they were on sale for only $1.67 apiece – quite cheap for bars of this size (3 oz. each).

After my first bite, however, I’m glad I didn’t pay more. Don’t get me wrong: each bar was chocolately and sweet, with a rich flavor. But biting into one of these bars was like chomping down on a chocolate- coated tire. One downside of low-carb bars made with sugar alcohols is that they tend to be chewy. Well, these were two of the hardest, chewiest bars I’ve ever eaten.

(And no…I didn’t accidentally purchase bars past their “best by” dates, either. )

It’s a pity, since the Protein Plus bars are actually rather tasty, and the nutritional profile’s not bad at all…with this amount of protein and the added vites and minerals, a Protein Plus bar could be a pretty decent meal substitute or on-the-go snack. But the corporate brain trust at NBTY needs to get with the program…food technology has advanced a lot over the last decade, and – as the makers of Supreme Protein Carb Conscious Bars have shown – it’s not impossible to make a low carb bar that you don’t have to masticate into submission.

Update: On a recent trip to Ohio, I stopped at a local Kroger’s to pick up a portable snack, and ended up with a Chocolate Fudge Deluxe Protein Plus bar…it was the only low carb, high protein bar on display.  To my surprise, this one had a much better texture than the ones above…sure, it was chewy, but not excessively so.  In fact, it was pretty good.  I don’t know if it this just happened to be a “good” flavor, or I ended up with a couple of duds earlier, but – to be fair – I thought I should make note of it.

Taste: 2.5/5.0

Quality: 3.5/5.0

Efficacy: 3.5/5.0

Value: 4.5/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

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