Trader Joe's is known for its unique and affordable food options, and its protein bar selection is no exception. Shoppers can find a mix of the store's exclusive brand products alongside a curated assortment of popular national brands. This variety ensures that whether you're looking for a low-sugar option, a high-protein bar for muscle building, or a vegan-friendly snack, there's a good chance you'll find it on their shelves.
The Trader Joe's Store Brand Bars
Trader Joe's offers several in-house branded bars that cater to different preferences. The most prominent is the Chewy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Protein Bar, a budget-friendly option sold in boxes of five. With 10 grams of protein, it's a solid choice for a quick snack or pre-workout fuel. The protein comes from soy and brown rice, and the flavor is a classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
For those who prefer a nuttier profile, the Trader Joe's Simply Nutty Bars offer a mix of dark chocolate, nuts, and sea salt. While these might be more on the energy bar side, the nut content contributes to their protein and overall nutritional value.
National and Third-Party Brands at Trader Joe's
Beyond its own brand, Trader Joe's also stocks a wide selection of protein bars from other companies. This allows them to offer a broader range of flavors, ingredients, and dietary attributes.
Barebells
Barebells protein bars are a fan favorite at Trader Joe's, often praised for their candy bar-like taste and high protein content. Available in flavors like Salty Peanut, Chocolate Dough, and Cookies & Cream, these bars typically pack around 20 grams of protein. However, some consumers note that the use of sugar alcohols can cause digestive discomfort for those not accustomed to them.
RxBar
For shoppers seeking a bar with a simple, transparent ingredient list, RxBars are an excellent choice. They are made with a combination of egg whites, dates, and nuts, and are dairy-free, making them suitable for those with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. Flavors often found include Peanut Butter Chocolate and Blueberry.
GoMacro
GoMacro bars are a top contender for those following a vegan or allergen-free diet. These plant-based protein bars are free of the top nine allergens, utilizing pea and rice protein to provide up to 12 grams of protein per bar. Additionally, several GoMacro flavors are certified FODMAP-friendly, a benefit for individuals with certain digestive sensitivities.
Think High Protein Bar
Think bars are a popular option for those focused on a high protein, low sugar ratio. With 20 grams of protein and zero added sugars, they are ideal for minimizing the carbohydrate load while staying full. They use a blend of whey and soy protein isolates, and popular flavors include Brownie Crunch and Creamy Peanut Butter.
Other Notable Mentions
Trader Joe's also carries other brands like Clif Bar, Power Crunch, and the vegan, gluten-free Misfits bars, which are known for their dessert-like flavors and high protein content. The availability of these brands can vary by location.
Comparing Trader Joe's Protein Bars
| Brand | Protein (approx.) | Dietary Note | Key Flavors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trader Joe's Chewy Chocolate & Peanut Butter | 10g | Soy protein | Chocolate & Peanut Butter |
| Barebells | 20g | Low sugar, may cause digestive issues | Salty Peanut, Chocolate Dough |
| RxBar | 10-12g | Dairy-free, whole ingredients | Peanut Butter Chocolate, Blueberry |
| GoMacro | 12g | Vegan, allergen-free, often FODMAP-friendly | Dark Chocolate + Almonds, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip |
| Think High Protein Bar | 20g | Zero added sugar | Brownie Crunch, Creamy Peanut Butter |
| Misfits | 15g | Vegan, gluten-free, low sugar | Cookie Butter, Caramel Fudge |
Choosing the Right Protein Bar for You
With so many choices, finding the right protein bar at Trader Joe's depends on your specific needs. Consider these factors before you buy:
- Dietary Restrictions: If you are vegan or have allergies, GoMacro or Misfits are safer options. For dairy-free but not strictly vegan, RxBar is a solid choice. Always check the ingredients list.
- Protein Amount: For a substantial, muscle-supporting boost, Barebells and Think bars offer 20 grams. For a lighter snack to bridge meals, the Trader Joe's Chewy bar or RxBar can suffice.
- Ingredients: If you prioritize whole foods and minimal processing, RxBars are hard to beat. If you are comfortable with whey and soy isolates for higher protein, Think bars are effective.
- Sugar Content: For a low-sugar snack, Barebells, Think, and Misfits are all good choices. Be mindful of sugar alcohols in Barebells if you have a sensitive stomach.
Conclusion: What Protein Bars Does Trader Joe's Carry? A Balanced Selection
Trader Joe's has cultivated a well-rounded selection of protein bars to satisfy a variety of customers. From its own affordable and reliably tasty store-brand options to carefully chosen national brands like Barebells and RxBar, the assortment reflects a balance of value, dietary consideration, and flavor. By understanding the different offerings and their unique attributes, you can quickly find the perfect protein-packed snack to meet your needs on your next shopping trip. The variety ensures that whether your priority is clean ingredients, a high protein count, or a specific dietary restriction, there's a bar waiting for you in the snack aisle.
