The Nutritional Label: What it Says
For many of its most popular products, Built Brands consistently lists 17 grams of protein on the nutritional label. This is accurate as per the stated value for specific products like the Puff line, where the protein count is a significant marketing point alongside their low-calorie profile. However, nutritional information can vary slightly across the brand's diverse product range and with different flavors. It is always recommended to check the specific product's packaging for the most precise and up-to-date nutritional data. The company has multiple product lines, including the classic bar and the more recent Puffs, which have different formulations.
Protein Source Breakdown: Whey vs. Collagen
This is where the story gets more nuanced. The 17g figure is correct, but the composition of that protein is critical, especially for those with specific fitness goals. Built Bars and Puffs derive their protein from a blend of sources, primarily partially hydrolyzed whey protein isolate and collagen.
- Whey Protein Isolate: This is a high-quality, complete protein source derived from milk. It contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. In the traditional Built Bars, whey protein isolate is a key component of the protein blend.
- Collagen Peptides: Used heavily, or even exclusively, in the 'Puff' bars, collagen is a protein derived from animal sources, typically bovine. While it provides protein, it is not a complete protein because it lacks the full spectrum of essential amino acids required for muscle protein synthesis. It is a useful ingredient for other benefits, such as joint, skin, and hair health, but it is less effective for building muscle than whey.
Why the Protein Source Matters for Your Goals
For most individuals consuming a bar as a general snack, the distinction between a complete and incomplete protein source may not be a major concern, especially if they get a variety of protein from other food sources throughout the day. However, for serious athletes or bodybuilders, relying on a collagen-based protein bar for post-workout recovery is a significant drawback. Muscle protein synthesis, the process of repairing and building muscle, requires all essential amino acids. An incomplete protein like collagen cannot effectively trigger this process on its own.
Comparison Table: Built Bars vs. Whole Food Sources
To understand the context of Built Bars, it's helpful to compare their protein offering to that of whole-food sources. This highlights the trade-offs between convenience and nutritional completeness.
| Feature | Built Bar (Puff, 17g) | Greek Yogurt (1 cup) | Grilled Chicken Breast (4oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Amount | 17g | ~15-20g | ~35g |
| Protein Type | Incomplete (Whey + Collagen) | Complete (Casein & Whey) | Complete |
| Essential Amino Acids | Partial profile | Full profile | Full profile |
| Convenience | Very High | High | Low |
| Processing Level | High (processed ingredients) | Moderate (fermented dairy) | Low (minimally processed) |
| Other Nutrients | Fiber, sugar alcohols | Calcium, probiotics | Vitamins, minerals, iron |
Beyond the Protein: Other Ingredients to Consider
Beyond the headline protein number, there are other ingredients in Built Bars that consumers should be aware of, especially those with dietary sensitivities or specific health concerns.
- Sugar Alcohols: Built Bars are typically sweetened with erythritol, a sugar alcohol that keeps the sugar count low. While generally safe, for some, consuming large amounts can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating and gas.
- Gelatin: As a key ingredient for the marshmallow-like texture of the Puffs, gelatin is an animal by-product. This makes Built Bars unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians.
- Other Additives: Ingredients like digestion-resistant maltodextrin and glycerin are included to enhance texture, moisture, and shelf life. These are food additives that many health-conscious consumers prefer to limit.
Are Built Bars a Good Fit for Your Goals?
To decide if Built Bars are right for you, consider your personal dietary needs and fitness objectives. They can be a convenient, low-calorie snack with a substantial protein count, but they are not a whole-food product.
- For the Casual Snacker: If you need a tasty, low-sugar treat that provides a protein boost to help with satiety, Built Bars can be an excellent choice. The 17g claim is true, and the bar serves its purpose as a functional snack.
- For Muscle Building: If your primary goal is muscle repair and growth, especially after a workout, be aware of the protein source. While the whey isolate is beneficial, the inclusion of incomplete collagen in the Puffs means you might be better off with a bar containing a higher concentration of complete protein, or simply opting for a different source of protein altogether.
- For Those with Sensitivities: Individuals sensitive to dairy, soy, or sugar alcohols should approach with caution. While some Built Bars are gluten-free, they are not dairy-free, and some people react poorly to sugar alcohols.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on the 17g Claim
In conclusion, the claim that Built Bars have 17g of protein is technically true for many of their product lines. However, the whole story is more complex and resides in the ingredients list. Specifically, the heavy reliance on collagen in the popular 'Puff' series means that not all 17g of that protein is equally beneficial for muscle-building purposes, as collagen is not a complete protein. For a convenient, high-protein, low-calorie snack, Built Bars deliver on their promise. But for serious athletic pursuits, consumers should be mindful of the protein source and consider whether an incomplete protein is sufficient for their recovery needs.
For more information on the pros and cons of Built Bars, you can review some detailed nutritional critiques.
