Are you following a gluten-free diet? There are many gluten-free protein bars that can help you get all the protein your body needs. However, not all protein bars are created the same. Many are made with whey protein, while others are crafted with plant-based protein. Gluten-free protein bars also come in many different flavors, so how do you know which one meets your needs the most?
To help you with your search, we've narrowed down the 10 best gluten-free protein bars. PowerBar's Protein Plus ranked first on our list as it provides you with a whopping 20 grams of protein while being free from any gluten ingredients. For more options, keep reading! There's also a buying guide at the end reviewed by a registered dietitian that contains many useful tips to help you with your decision.
Quick List - Top Gluten-free Protein Bars
Rachel Binkley is a registered dietitian who helps individuals develop healthy habits that fit into their lifestyle. She recommends adequate intakes of all micronutrients to help prevent deficiency as well as chronic conditions that may arise. You can keep up with her recipes, lifestyle, and more on Instagram or her blog, S'more Satisfaction.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
This buying guide discusses important considerations that you should keep in mind while choosing a gluten-free protein bar. Read on to learn more about how to find a gluten-free product and make sure the protein bar meets your needs.
A quick and surefire way to find gluten-free protein bars is to look for ones labeled "gluten-free," "free of gluten," or "no gluten." The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that products containing less than 20 parts per million of gluten can be labeled gluten-free. This amount of gluten is considered safe for those with celiac disease.
Several organizations offer gluten-free certification, such as the NSF Internation, the Celiac Support Association, and the Gluten-Free Certification Organization. The testing policies and standards vary between organizations, so check their website to see their gluten-free labeling rules.
Many non-certified protein bars are gluten-free as well! But to make sure that a product is gluten-free, take a careful look at the ingredient list for hidden gluten. For example, artificial and natural flavorings might be made with barley or wheat. Contact the manufacturer to determine exactly what those flavorings contain.
Some protein bars might be produced in a shared facility or processed on shared equipment with gluten ingredients. If you are hypersensitive to gluten, you should choose protein bars made in a 100 percent dedicated gluten-free facility.
Protein can come from a variety of sources such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, milk, and egg whites. This section introduces sources of protein commonly used in gluten-free protein bars.
If you're searching for a complete source of protein, consider gluten-free protein bars that contain milk protein. Milk protein has all nine amino acids that your body needs and is considered a complete source of protein.
Two main proteins in milk include casein and whey. Casein is slowly absorbed by the body. It is effective at supporting muscle recovery and reducing muscle breakdown when consumed before bed.
Whey protein digests quickly and is a great choice to consume before or after your workout. It can help you build muscles and boost muscle recovery.
Whey protein in gluten-free protein bars usually comes in the form of concentrate or isolate. Compared to whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate goes through a more intense filtering process and has fewer carbohydrates and less fat.
It also contains a higher amount of protein. Specifically, whey protein isolate comprises at least 90 percent protein by weight, while whey protein concentrate is made of 25 to 80 percent of protein by weight. However, both types have the same effects on muscle growth and can help you ramp up your protein intake.
There are many plant-based proteins for those who are on a plant-based diet or are lactose-intolerant. Common plant-based proteins in gluten-free protein bars include soy protein, pea protein, and brown rice protein.
Soy protein is made from soybeans and is a complete protein, just like milk protein. It's also a great source of vitamin B, calcium, phosphorous, and iron.
However, it has phytic acid, which can cause digestive issues such as constipation to those with iron or zinc deficiencies. However, if you have a balanced diet, soy protein shouldn't cause any problems.
Pea protein comes from yellow split peas and can provide you with all nine essential amino acids. One drawback of this type of protein is that it contains a small amount of methionine, which can be harmful when consumed in high amounts. Even so, it's rich in iron and can be absorbed easily by the body.
Brown rice protein is easily digestible and has a high fiber content. It's rich in B vitamins and contains many antioxidants as well. But brown rice protein isn't a complete protein as it doesn't have lysine. Still, brown rice protein can provide you with many health benefits, including improving blood sugar levels.
And if you don't like the taste of pea or soy protein, brown rice protein is a great choice. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that does not overwhelm other ingredients.
Egg whites are also a great source of protein and can provide you with all nine essential amino acids. Although they don't have a lot of vitamins and minerals, they are low in calories, fat, and cholesterol and are a good choice for those who want to limit these. Plus, egg whites can be digested easily.
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, pumpkin seeds, peanuts, flax seeds, and cashews, are also packed with protein! They are usually added to gluten-free protein bars for extra protein, flavor, and crunchiness. Nuts and seeds also have an array of minerals like magnesium and phosphorous.
Pay attention to the protein content of protein bars to make sure they give you the right amount of protein. Typically, they have about 10 to 20 grams of protein. But keep in mind that everybody's protein needs are different. So, to know the right amount of protein for you, check with a registered dietitian.
In addition to the protein content, look at the macro breakdown of a gluten-free protein bar to ensure that you're getting a balanced amount of nutrients.
Many protein bars feature 40 percent carbohydrates, 30 percent fat, and 30 percent protein to provide you with a balanced amount of nutrients. But once again, consult with your physician to know what would be best for you!
Consider the fiber content, too! You should choose a bar that has at least five grams of fiber to keep you full for a long time. However, remember that consuming too much fiber might lead to side effects such as gas, bloating, and stomachaches.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | PowerBar Protein Plus |Chocolate Peanut Butter | ![]() | Indulge in This Chocolate and Peanut Butter Treat | |
2 | One Protein Bars |Almond Bliss | ![]() | A Low-Sugar Option | |
3 | Probar Protein Bars |Mint Chocolate | ![]() | Healthy Seeds Provide You With Omega-3 Fatty Acids | |
4 | Quest Protein Bars|Birthday Cake | ![]() | A Perfect Amount of Sweetness | |
5 | Clif Bar Luna Nutz Over Chocolate | ![]() | A Yummy Blend of Chocolate, Peanuts, and Peanut Butter | |
6 | Rxbar Best Seller Variety Pack |Peanut Butter & Berries | ![]() | Made With Simple and Tasty Ingredients | |
7 | The Gluten Free Bars Protein Bars|Cranberry and Toasted Almond | ![]() | Packed With Nuts, Dried Fruits, and Seeds | |
8 | Clif Bar Variety Pack | ![]() | Three Delicious Flavors for You to Try | |
9 | Raw Rev Glo Protein Bars|Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough | ![]() | Protein Bar That's Also a Great Source of Fiber | |
10 | think! High Protein Bars|Sea Salt Almond Chocolate | ![]() | Sweet Bars With Plant-Based Proteins |
Powerbar's Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Plus combines soy protein isolate and whey protein isolate to offer you a whopping 20 grams of protein per serving. These gluten-free protein bars are high in fiber as well, giving you four grams per serving. With a chocolate and peanut butter combo, they taste rich, sweet, and slightly nutty.
A few buyers mention that these protein bars can cause some digestive issues like gas. Even so, the majority say they taste just like a peanut butter candy bar and satisfy their sweet tooth. They further mention that these bars have a soft and chewy texture and fill them up.
These Almond Bliss protein bars use a blend of milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate, and almonds and provide you with 20 grams of protein per serving. They're also a great choice for those following a low-sugar diet, as there is only one gram of sugar per serving.
A few buyers complain that the bars have a tough texture, and others don't like that they're sweetened with sucralose. Meanwhile, these protein bars receive many recommendations as they are healthy and filling. The flavor of almonds and coconut is also delicious, buyers mention.
Made with chia seeds, unsweetened chocolate, and flax seeds, Probar's Mint Chocolate protein bars give you 20 grams of plant-based protein. They're also rich in fiber and are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, these protein bars are certified gluten-free.
A few reviewers note that the formula has changed, and the texture of the bars is a bit hard. Even so, many others comment that they are not too sweet, and the chocolate mint flavor is spot on. They add that these bars are great before workouts!
Celebrate your birthday every day with these protein bars with a white chocolate-flavored coating. Packed with 21 grams of protein from whey protein isolate and milk protein isolate, these gluten-free and vegan bars are a great addition for those looking to gain muscle mass.
Some buyers notice a slight aftertaste to the protein bars, while a few others are a bit disappointed with their chalky texture. Nevertheless, the majority like that they are high in protein while having a low amount of carbs. They also mention that the sweetness is just enough to satisfy sugar cravings.
The protein in these gluten-free protein bars comes from a blend of soy protein isolate, rolled oats, rice flour, roasted soybeans, and soy flour. Made with real peanut butter, peanuts, and cocoa powder, these bars are crunchy, nutty, and chocolatey.
A few reviewers wished the protein bars had more nuts. Besides that, most buyers share that they are packed with flavor and have a nice texture similar to Rice Krispies treats. They further mention that the bars aren't overwhelmingly sweet and keep them full for a while.
These protein bars from Rxbar are made from only six ingredients: egg whites, peanuts, raspberries, sea salt, natural flavors, and dates for sweetness. There is no added sugar, artificial ingredients, or gluten in these protein bars at all! Each serving contains 12 grams of protein and six grams of fiber to keep you full for a while.
Although some buyers dislike the raspberry seeds in the bars, most praise the wholesome ingredients. They love the balanced peanut butter and raspberry flavor and the dense, chewy texture. Many mention that the bars are a great source of energy.
The Gluten Free Bar's protein bars are crafted from natural ingredients and loaded with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. They are also vegan and provide 12 grams of plant-based protein per serving. This flavor has cranberries and toasted almonds for a tart and nutty flavor.
A few reviewers express concern about the high sugar level of these protein bars. Still, many like the fruity and nutty flavor and chewy, soft texture. According to reviewers, the almonds add a nice crunchy element to these protein bars.
This variety pack gives you three flavors: peanut butter chocolate, salted caramel cashew, and coconut almond chocolate. Each bar provides you with 14 grams of protein while containing only five grams of sugar. These gluten-free protein bars are also free from GMO ingredients.
The review section is mostly positive, with the majority saying they are delicious, packed with nuts, and have a nice chewy texture. They also like the simple ingredients and share that these bars make a great afternoon or post-workout snack.
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough protein bars are plant-based and pack a punch of protein sourced from peas, brown rice, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, raw cashews, and coconut oil. On top of that, these bars provide you with 12 grams of fiber per serving and can aid in digestion.
For a few buyers, these bars are too small. However, most buyers are happy with the flavor and texture, saying they are soft, gooey, and sweet. They also appreciate the healthy ingredients and love how these bars are packed with protein and fiber but contain a low amount of sugar.
Craving something sweet and slightly salty? These bars combine dark chocolate with crunchy almonds and a touch of sea salt. And with a mix of pea protein, brown rice protein, and pumpkin protein, these gluten-free bars give you 13 grams of protein per serving.
One setback of these protein bars for buyers is the dry and powdery texture. But for many others, these gluten-free bars taste good and are sweet enough to satisfy their sweet tooth. Those who are sticking to a plant-based diet consider the protein bars a must-have as well.
If you're looking for some delicious gluten-free snacks to munch on, we have a lot of suggestions for you!
No. 1: PowerBar|Protein Plus |Chocolate Peanut Butter
No. 2: One |Protein Bars |Almond Bliss
No. 3: Probar|Protein Bars |Mint Chocolate
No. 4: Quest|Protein Bars|Birthday Cake
No. 5: Clif Bar |Luna Nutz Over Chocolate
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices