Do Built Protein Bars Contain Soy?
The short and direct answer is yes, most Built protein bars contain soy. The primary form of soy found in these products is soy lecithin, an emulsifier often used to stabilize ingredients and create a smoother texture, especially within the chocolate coating. For individuals with a soy allergy or intolerance, this is a critical detail that makes the product unsafe for consumption. The company provides a transparent allergen warning on its packaging and website for each flavor, which is the most reliable source of information for consumers.
Decoding the Ingredients: The Role of Soy Lecithin
To better understand why a product with a whey and collagen protein base contains soy, it's helpful to look at the ingredients list. Soy lecithin is a fatty substance derived from soybeans and is a common food additive. In Built bars, it serves several key functions:
- Emulsification: It helps blend ingredients that don't mix naturally, like oil and water, ensuring a consistent texture and mouthfeel, particularly in the chocolate coating.
- Extending Shelf Life: As a natural antioxidant, it helps prevent fats from spoiling, contributing to the product's longevity.
- Texture and Flavor: It gives the chocolate coating a smooth, glossy appearance and a desirable texture, preventing it from becoming grainy.
While soy lecithin is typically used in small amounts, it is still derived from soy and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Therefore, for anyone avoiding soy, it is essential to consider even trace amounts.
Key Ingredients in Built Bars
Beyond the soy component, Built bars are made with several other ingredients that define their nutritional profile and taste. A typical Built bar or puff includes:
- Protein Blend: Primarily uses a combination of whey protein isolate and collagen. Whey protein isolate provides a high concentration of protein with low lactose, while collagen supports hair, skin, and joint health.
- Sweeteners: Sweetness is achieved using a mix of ingredients. Sugar is often present, along with sugar alcohols like erythritol and glycerin, to reduce the overall net carb count.
- Coatings and Fillings: The famous chocolate coating often contains cocoa butter, chocolate liquor, and, as mentioned, soy lecithin. Additional flavors may feature ingredients like cookie dough pieces or fruit extracts.
- Gelatin: Provides the chewy texture unique to the puff varieties.
Comparing Built Bars with Soy-Free Protein Options
For those who must avoid soy, exploring alternatives is necessary. Here is a comparison highlighting key differences between Built bars and other potential soy-free protein bar options:
| Feature | Built Bar | Potential Soy-Free Alternative (e.g., some brands) |
|---|---|---|
| Soy Content | Yes (contains soy lecithin) | No (check labels carefully) |
| Protein Source | Whey protein isolate and collagen | Whey protein isolate, egg white protein, plant-based (pea, rice) |
| Main Allergen | Milk, Soy | Varies by brand; may contain nuts, eggs, or dairy |
| Texture | Chewy, marshmallow-like or standard bar | Wide variety, often denser or nut-based |
| Sweeteners | Sugar, Erythritol, Glycerin | Varies; may use monk fruit, stevia, dates, or other sweeteners |
| Common Use | Post-workout recovery, snack replacement | Meal replacement, snack, pre-workout energy |
Considerations for Soy Allergies and Intolerances
For individuals with dietary sensitivities, making an informed choice is paramount. Soy allergies can range from mild to severe and require strict avoidance of all soy-derived products. While soy lecithin might not cause a reaction in some individuals with sensitivities, it is not a risk worth taking for those with a diagnosed allergy. Even if the protein source is whey, the soy lecithin in the coating or mix is a complete deterrent.
For those with general soy intolerance, symptoms can vary. Even then, avoiding all forms of soy is the safest approach. The best practice is to always read the ingredients list and, for products like Built bars, trust the official allergen warnings provided by the manufacturer.
For additional guidance on managing food allergies, the Mayo Clinic offers an excellent resource on the topic.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
In conclusion, the question of "do built protein bars have soy in them?" is definitively answered with a yes. While the soy is typically present as soy lecithin and the main protein is whey, the allergen is clearly declared on the packaging and is a significant factor for anyone with a soy allergy or intolerance. For consumers managing these dietary needs, the presence of soy in Built bars means they are not a safe option. Thankfully, the market offers numerous alternatives that are entirely soy-free, providing safe and healthy options for everyone. Always prioritize checking the ingredient list and allergen warnings before consuming any packaged snack.
