What Makes Trubars Seem Healthy?
Trubars stand out in the crowded protein bar market for several key reasons that align with modern health trends. They are made with simple, recognizable, plant-based ingredients like a blend of cassava and brown rice protein, which makes them suitable for vegans and those avoiding animal products. The company emphasizes its commitment to using clean ingredients, and recently removed seed oils, which are often cited for their inflammatory potential. Furthermore, Trubars are free from gluten, dairy, and soy, and do not contain sugar alcohols, appealing to those with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
A Look at Key Nutritional Components
For a typical 50g Trubar, the nutritional profile is generally appealing. Each bar contains around 190 calories, a moderate count for a snack. A notable feature is the high fiber content, which can be as high as 12-13 grams in some flavors, contributing significantly to daily fiber intake and aiding with satiety. However, a closer look at the protein-to-carbohydrate ratio is necessary for a balanced nutritional perspective.
The 'Healthy' Bar That Acts Like a Treat
Despite the positive attributes, Trubars are often criticized for their indulgence-focused nature. Their dessert-like flavors, such as "Oh Oh Cookie Dough" and "Daydreaming About Donuts," can make them feel more like a candy bar than a functional protein bar. While a small amount of organic cane sugar is used for sweetness, some consumers still find the bars excessively sweet. For those monitoring sugar intake closely, this is a relevant point to consider.
Trubars vs. Other Popular Protein Bars
Comparing Trubars to other popular protein bar options highlights its strengths and weaknesses.
| Feature | Trubar | RXBAR | Quest Bar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Plant-based (pea, brown rice) | Whole foods (egg whites, nuts) | Dairy-based (whey) |
| Ingredient Simplicity | Clean, pronounceable ingredients, no sugar alcohols | Minimal, recognizable ingredients (dates, egg whites) | Processed ingredients, includes sugar alcohols |
| Dietary Restrictions | Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free | Not vegan, gluten-free | Not vegan, often gluten-free |
| Sweetness | Can be very sweet, uses organic cane sugar | Naturally sweetened with fruit (dates) | Artificially sweetened with erythritol and sucralose |
| Texture | Soft, chewy, can sometimes be gummy | Denser, chewy texture from dates | Chewy with a distinct protein-bar texture |
| Protein per Bar | 12g | ~12g | 20g+ |
The Bottom Line on Healthfulness
Whether a Trubar is "healthy" ultimately depends on your specific nutritional goals. For individuals seeking a convenient, plant-based, and high-fiber snack without sugar alcohols, Trubar is a strong contender. However, if your primary goal is to maximize protein intake for muscle building or to minimize all forms of sugar, there may be better options available. The balance of macros, especially the carbohydrate-to-protein ratio, may not be ideal for all fitness objectives.
Conclusion
Trubars offer a tasty and appealing alternative to traditional protein bars, particularly for those on a vegan or gluten-free diet. Their emphasis on clean, plant-based ingredients and removal of inflammatory seed oils are definite pluses. However, their dessert-like flavor profile and moderate protein content might not align with everyone's definition of a truly functional protein bar. As with any packaged snack, moderation and consideration of your overall diet are key.
Outbound Link
For more information on the company's ingredient philosophy and recipe changes, see Trubar's official blog.
