10 Best Gluten-free, Dairy-free Protein Bars
Maybe, you’re having a hectic hour searching for the best gluten-free, dairy-free protein bars until now. Because here we’ve compiled the best dairy free and gluten free protein bars after extensive research on their quality, taste, price, protein levels, healthfulness, and others.
Stay with us till the end and you’ll learn how to verify if your protein bars are gluten free, dairy free, or not. You might not find some of your favorite brands here as they couldn’t meet the criteria.
Whether it is for your pre and post workout meal, gluten sensitivity, vegan norms, or meal replacement, you’ll find your favorite gluten-free, dairy-free protein bars here. Let’s roll in.
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10 Best Gluten-free, Dairy-free Protein Bars
1. IQBAR Brain and Body Keto Protein Bars
IQBAR Brain and Body Keto Protein Bars on Amazon
Flavors: Blueberry & Lemon
Protein: 12 grams
Carbs: 11-13 grams
The IQBAR Brain and Body Keto Protein Bars offer a well-balanced nutritional profile with 12 grams of protein and approximately 11-13 grams of carbohydrates, making them a convenient snack choice.
This gluten-free protein bar boasts a diverse array of flavors, catering to different taste preferences. Indulge in options like chocolate fudge, creamy peanut butter, cookies and cream, and the refreshing zest of lemon crisp.
The best and unique aspect of the IQBAR Brain and Body Keto Protein Bars lies in their formulation packed with 20 brain-boosting nutrients. These bars aren’t just about protein; they’re crafted with Lion’s Mane, MCTs, Omega 3, Flavonoids, Vitamin E, and Choline, among others. This distinctive combination supports both cognitive function and physical vitality, setting them apart from regular protein bars.
The emphasis on clean-label ingredients and their commitment to offering a snack that nourishes both the body and mind make these bars stand out in the market.
2. Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Bars
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Bars on Amazon
Calories: 140 kcals per bar
Protein: 10 grams per bar
Carbs: 20 grams per bar
Orgain’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough-flavored Organic Vegan Protein Bars offer a wholesome blend of 10 grams of clean, organic plant-based protein derived from brown rice, pea, and chia seeds, packed into a 140-calorie bar.
What makes these bars exceptional is their commitment to quality and dietary inclusivity. They’re USDA organic, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, soy-free, and kosher, catering to various dietary preferences. Moreover, they’re free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, ensuring a clean snacking option.
These bars are not just about protein; they’re a perfect way to supplement daily nutritional needs and curb cravings. They provide a healthy and convenient option for on-the-go nutrition, suitable for men, women, and kids alike. Whether it’s for meal replacement, office snacks, quick breakfasts, or supporting lean muscle and post-workout recovery, these bars offer a versatile and nutritious solution.
3. LÄRABAR Protein Bar
Calories: 210 kcals per bar
Protein: 5 grams per bar
Carbs: 23 grams per bar
LÄRABAR stands out as the ultimate choice for a vegan, gluten-free protein bar. Packed with pure, natural ingredients, it serves as an excellent pre-workout snack, deriving its protein naturally from nuts.
These bars boast a diverse array of flavors – from fruity to chocolatey to nutty. Each flavor maintains a similar balance in calories, protein, and carbs while offering a unique taste experience.
What sets LÄRABAR apart is its ingredient transparency. Every flavor showcases ingredients you’ll recognize on the nutrition label. Furthermore, it stands out as the most affordable option on the list, especially when availing the Subscribe & Save discount on Amazon!
LÄRABAR Cherry Pie, for instance, is crafted from just three simple ingredients: dates, almonds, and unsweetened cherries, ensuring a healthy snack without artificial sweeteners or complex additives.
4. Atlas Protein Bar
Calories: Varies by flavor
Protein: 20 grams per bar
Carbs: Varies by flavor
Atlas Protein Bars offer a powerful punch with 20 grams of protein per bar, available in flavors like Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, and Coconut Almond. They’re designed to provide sustained energy and focus.
What sets Atlas apart is its commitment to clean, plant-based ingredients without artificial sweeteners or additives commonly found in other bars. Crafted with real nut butter and fruit, they contain no sucralose or added sugars, promoting sustained energy without artificial components.
Each bar delivers 20 grams of protein with just 1 gram of natural sugar, ensuring exceptional nutrition without artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. With options for grass-fed or plant-based protein and ashwagandha for stress support, Atlas aims to cater to diverse dietary needs while promoting digestive health with its fiber content.
5. GoMacro MacroBar
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 11 g per bar
Carbs: 14 g
GoMacro MacroBars are crafted with quality 100% organic ingredients, making them suitable for diverse specialized diets, including low-FODMAP, and catering to those seeking dairy-free, gluten-free, and soy-free options.
These bars come in 12 unique flavors, providing a variety of taste experiences. However, they have certain drawbacks, including lower protein content (just over 10 grams per bar) and modest dietary fiber (averaging 2.5 grams per bar).
While offering organic ingredients, the bars contain higher levels of added sugars and may have texture issues. Despite these drawbacks, GoMacro MacroBars remain a good option for those seeking bars aligned with specialized diets and free from common allergens.
6. Clif Builder’s Bars
Clif Builder’s Protein Bar on Amazon
Calories: Varies by flavor (e.g., 270 for Chocolate Sea Salt)
Protein: Varies by flavor (e.g., 20 grams for Chocolate Sea Salt)
Carbs: Varies by flavor (e.g., 29 grams for Chocolate Sea Salt)
Clif Builder’s Bars offer sticky, chewy textures with flavors like Chocolate Sea Salt, Chocolate Coconut, or Peanut Butter Chocolate. Expect mild chocolate tastes with hints of sea salt or robust coconut and peanut butter flavors.
Each bar, priced at approximately $23.99 CAD for 14 bars, remains fresh for up to six months. They’re great for quick, on-the-go snacks or post-workout refueling.
For instance, the Chocolate Sea Salt variant contains 200 calories, eight grams of fat, 23 grams of carbs, three grams of fiber, 14 grams of sugar, and 12 grams of protein. They’re gluten-free and dairy-free but might contain traces of nuts, peanuts, eggs, milk, soy, or wheat.
Their main allure lies in their simple, transparent ingredient list.
7. RxBar Protein Bars
- Calories: Varies, typically around 200-210 kcals per bar
- Protein: Approximately 12 grams per bar
- Carbs: Roughly 22-25 grams per bar
Why They Stand Out:
- Simple Ingredients: Minimal, real ingredients like nuts, dates, and egg whites.
- Protein Source: Derived from egg whites, offering a wholesome protein boost.
- Gluten-Free: Suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Convenience: Individually wrapped bars for easy, on-the-go snacking.
- Flavor Variety: Available in diverse flavors catering to different tastes.
8. Good! Snacks Vegan Protein Bars
Calories: Varies
Protein: 15 grams
Carbs: 11–13 grams
These bars promise a sweet vegan treat that’s also gluten-free. With 15 grams of protein, 11–13 grams of fiber, and only 10 grams of sugar per bar, they aim to meet your daily protein needs, support digestion, and satisfy cravings without excessive sugar.
Pros:
- High Protein & Fiber: Offers 15g protein and 11–12g fiber per bar, aiding metabolism and promoting fullness.
- Low Sugar & Fat: Contains only 10g sugar and 6–10g total fat, suitable for weight management.
- No Harmful Fats: Free from cholesterol and trans fats for better health.
Cons:
- Added Sugars: Contains added sugars that bear health risks.
- Tapioca Fiber Concerns: Includes tapioca fiber, not the most ideal fiber source.
9. KIND Protein Bars – Double Dark Chocolate Nut
Calories: 240 kcal
Protein: 12 grams
Carbs: 8 grams
Best Features:
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with heart-healthy peanuts as the primary ingredient.
- Ample Protein: Provides 12 grams of plant protein and is 25% larger than original KIND bars.
- Gluten-Free: Ideal for those seeking a gluten-free snack.
- Low Sugar: Some varieties contain as little as 5 grams of sugar per bar.
- Nutrition-Rich: Offers calcium, iron, and essential nutrients.
Pros from Experts:
- Rich Ingredients: Combinations of nuts, fruits, and natural sweeteners.
- Healthy Energy: Provides sustained energy without feeling too heavy.
- Good Fats: Contains healthy fats from almonds and peanuts.
- Performance Boost: Helps replenish glycogen reserves for muscles.
Cons from Experts:
- Texture Issues: Occasional complaints of stale or hard bars upon delivery.
- Texture Preference: Not as chewy as some might prefer.
- Size: Smaller compared to similar bars on the market.
10. 88 Acres Bars – Cinnamon & Oats
Calories: 190 kcal
Protein: 6 grams
Carbs: 21 grams
Best Features:
- Seed Blend: Contains organic sunflower, pumpkin, and flax seeds.
- Real Ingredients: Made with gluten-free oats, maple syrup, and organic cinnamon.
- Nutrition-Rich: Offers 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein per 1.6-ounce bar.
- Variety: Seasonal flavors like Blueberry Lemon and Spiced Cranberry Orange available.
Highlights:
- Certifications: Certified Gluten-Free, Vegan, Non-GMO Verified, and Kosher Pareve.
- Dietary Notes: Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, peanut-free, soy-free, suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
- Availability: Primarily sold online in the U.S. via their website and Amazon.
How To Check if Your Protein Bars Are Gluten-free & Dairy-free
Checking whether protein bars are gluten and dairy-free involves a few steps:
- Read the Ingredients Label: Look for specific ingredients that indicate the presence of gluten or dairy. For gluten, watch out for wheat, barley, rye, malt, or any derivatives of these grains. For dairy, look for milk, whey, casein, lactose, or any milk-derived products.
- Look for Certifications: Many bars will have certifications like “Certified Gluten-Free” or “Dairy-Free” prominently displayed on the packaging. These certifications are often reliable indicators of meeting specific dietary requirements.
- Allergen Statements: Manufacturers are required to highlight major allergens like gluten and dairy in their allergen statement on the packaging. Check for any mention of wheat or dairy among the allergens listed.
- Contact the Manufacturer: If the information isn’t clear from the packaging or if you have any doubts, reaching out to the manufacturer’s customer service can provide clarification on whether the bar is gluten and dairy-free.
- Online Resources: Utilize online databases or websites that specialize in tracking allergens in various food products. These platforms often provide detailed information on ingredients and potential allergens in specific products.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which protein bars offer the highest protein content?
Answer: Some brands like Quest, Pure Protein, and Grenade offer protein bars with higher protein content, ranging from 20 to 30 grams per serving.
2. What protein bars are low in carbs?
Answer: Look for bars like Atkins, Perfect Keto, and D’s Naturals, offering low-carb options, often containing 5-7 grams of net carbs.
3. Which protein bars are known for their great taste?
Answer: RXBAR, Quest, and KIND Protein Bars are often praised for their delicious flavors and satisfying taste profiles.
4. Are there affordable protein bars available?
Answer: Many brands offer cost-effective options, including Kirkland Signature, ONE Protein, and Power Crunch, providing quality bars at reasonable prices.
5. What are some protein bars with low-calorie counts?
Answer: Brands like Built Bar, NuGo Slim, and ThinkThin offer bars with lower calorie counts, usually ranging between 150 to 200 calories per serving.
6. Where can I find vegan or plant-based protein bars?
Answer: Brands like GoMacro, Clif Builder’s, and 88 Acres specialize in vegan or plant-based protein bars, catering to specific dietary preferences.
7. What are some protein bars suitable for weight loss purposes?
Answer: Opt for bars like Built Bar, NuGo Slim, and think! High Protein Bars, which offer a good balance of protein and lower calories to aid in weight loss.
8. Are there protein bars suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions like gluten or dairy intolerance?
Answer: Yes, brands like RXBAR, KIND Protein Bars, and 88 Acres Bars cater to various dietary restrictions, being gluten-free, dairy-free, and free from other allergens.
9. Which protein bars offer a good balance of taste and nutrition for kids?
Answer: Clif Kid Zbars, RXBAR Kids, and Larabar Kids are popular choices, providing tasty options with kid-friendly nutritional profiles.
10. Are there protein bars designed specifically for athletes or bodybuilders?
Answer: Brands like MusclePharm, BSN, and Optimum Nutrition design bars with higher protein content, suitable for athletes and individuals seeking muscle recovery and growth.
11. Can protein bars be used as meal replacements?
Answer: Some bars like Quest Bars, Perfect Keto Bars, and Orgain Organic Protein Bars offer a balanced nutritional profile and can serve as convenient meal replacements in a pinch.
12. What are the best protein bars for boosting energy pre-workout?
Answer: Brands such as Clif Builder’s, Gatorade Whey Protein Bars, and PowerBar Performance Energy Bars offer a combination of carbs and protein for pre-workout energy.
