Evaluation of the Ingredients of Protein Bars from the Perspective of Family Medicine

Canan Tuz, Gökçe İşcan

Keywords: protein bars, family medicine, ingredients

Background:

Family members often rely on fast or snack foods due to limited time for nutrition. Despite the availability of natural protein sources, one in five individuals in the United States uses protein bars, believing they meet daily protein needs. The World Health Organization recommends a daily protein intake of 0.8–1 gram per kilogram of body weight, averaging 56–70 grams per day for adults. Considering the protein content, sugar levels, and saturated fat in protein bars, it is crucial to examine their health impacts. This study aims to evaluate the ingredients of protein bars to assess their potential effects on health.

Research questions:

1. Should family physicians recommend protein bars to individuals?
2. What are the contents of protein bars important for primary care?

Method:

This cross-sectional, descriptive study examined protein bars available for online sale in January 2024. The study included brands from Turkey's top three highest-grossing online supermarkets. Data were collected using an evaluation form and analyzed with SPSS software.

Results:

The study included 100 healthy snack bars from 16 brands, with 98 bars analyzed after excluding two brands lacking energy content tables. Of these, 46.9% (n=46) were high-protein bars, while 53.1% (n=53) were non-protein-rich snack bars. High-protein bars had equal plant-based and animal-based sources (50% each, n=23). The average weight was 39.60 grams, with an energy content of 382.789 kcal per 100 grams. The average fat content was 14.35 grams, saturated fat 6.32 grams, carbohydrates 39.6 grams, fiber 10.38 grams, and protein 21.34 grams. Protein bars had significantly higher protein content (p<0.01) and lower carbohydrate levels (p=0.02) compared to non-protein bars.

Conclusions:

While protein bars are used as healthy snacks or meal replacements, their average carbohydrate and protein content approach daily recommended amounts. Individuals should pay attention to labels and consult with family physicians when consuming protein bars.

Points for discussion:

Shall we add the other "protein-riched" snacks to this study?

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