In today's health-conscious world, protein bars have become a staple for those seeking a quick and convenient source of fuel. With the rising popularity of the ketogenic diet, the demand for keto-friendly protein bars has surged. This article delves into the world of CORE Keto Bars, examining their nutritional value, ingredients, taste, and overall value proposition, while also comparing them to other top keto protein bars on the market.
Introduction to CORE Keto Bars
CORE Keto Bars are marketed as carb-crushing, plant-based keto bars designed for individuals following a low-carb lifestyle. These bars are formulated with prebiotic fiber and plant-based protein, boasting only 3g of net carbs per bar. CORE Foods emphasizes the use of real ingredients and non-GMO allulose, a non-artificial sweetener that mimics the taste of sugar without being absorbed by the body in the same way.
Key Features and Benefits
CORE Keto Bars are Keto Certified, Non-GMO, Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Kosher, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions. CORE Foods is also a certified B-Corp, highlighting their commitment to using business as a force for good.
The bars are designed to provide a convenient and healthy snack option, fitting seamlessly into a ketogenic diet. They are made with real food and contain probiotics that can help boost immunity.
Nutritional Information
A CORE Keto Bar typically contains 160-170 calories, 6-7 grams of protein, and 3 grams of net carbs. The exact nutritional breakdown varies slightly depending on the flavor.For example, the Peanut Butter Chocolate CORE Keto Bar contains 170 calories per serving size of 1 bar (40g).
Read also: Nutritional Breakdown of CORE Foods Keto Bites
Ingredients
CORE Keto Bars are made with ingredients like peanuts, prebiotic fibers (resistant maltodextrin, inulin), allulose, dried coconut, coconut oil, vegetable glycerin, almonds, pea protein, protein crisp (pea protein, rice flour, rice starch), sunflower seeds, dates, chocolate (chocolate liquor, cane sugar, cocoa butter), water, citrus fiber, sea salt, natural flavors, sunflower lecithin, Bacillus coagulans GBI-30 6086, vitamin E (for freshness), monk fruit extract, and cashews.
Taste and Texture
According to reviews, CORE Keto Bars have a chewy texture with small chunks, providing a satisfying bite. The Peanut Butter Chocolate flavor is reported to have a strong peanut butter taste, although some reviewers noted they didn't get much chocolate flavor.
Storage
Due to the use of real food ingredients and the inclusion of probiotics, CORE Keto Bars require refrigeration. However, they can be stored at room temperature for up to a week without spoiling.
Price and Value
CORE Keto Bars are priced at around $30 for a box of 10, making them approximately $3 per bar. A subscription option is available, offering a 15% discount, which reduces the price to $25.50 per box.
CORE Keto Bar Flavors
CORE Keto bars come in the following flavors:
Read also: Weight Loss with Core Power
- Peanut Butter Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate Sea Salt
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Comparison with Other Keto Protein Bars
When evaluating CORE Keto Bars, it's essential to compare them with other keto-friendly protein bars available on the market. Here's a look at some of the top contenders and how they stack up against CORE Keto Bars:
1. MariGold Protein Bars
- Protein Source: Whey isolate from grass-fed cow's milk
- Net Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Calories: 226
- Sweeteners: Stevia extract
- Unique Features: Free of sugar alcohols
MariGold Protein Bars stand out for their high protein content and use of whey isolate from grass-fed cow's milk. They are also free of sugar alcohols, which can cause digestive issues for some individuals.
2. EPIC Bars
- Protein Source: Meat-based (e.g., venison, beef, chicken)
- Net Carbs: 0g
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 10g
- Calories: 150
- Unique Features: Made with simple, real meat ingredients
EPIC Bars offer a unique, savory option for those seeking a meat-based protein bar. They are very low in carbs but also high in sodium.
3. Keto Bars
- Protein Source: Nut butter
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Calories: 240
- Sweeteners: Stevia and erythritol
- Unique Features: Vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and soy-free
Keto Bars are designed to be allergy-friendly, catering to individuals with various dietary restrictions. They are high in fat and low in net carbs, making them a suitable option for the keto diet.
4. BHU Keto Bars
- Protein Source: Pea protein
- Net Carbs: 0g
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 20g
- Calories: 250
- Sweeteners: Monk fruit
- Unique Features: Organic ingredients, fudgy texture, requires refrigeration
BHU Keto Bars are known for their delicious taste and fudgy texture. They are made with organic ingredients and are free of artificial sweeteners and preservatives.
Read also: Daily Spray for Keto: A Closer Look
5. Dang Bars
- Protein Source: Pea protein, nuts, seeds
- Net Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 15g
- Calories: 210
- Sweeteners: Stevia extract
- Unique Features: Vegan-friendly, contains chicory root fiber
Dang Bars are a plant-based option that incorporates nutritious ingredients like nuts, pea protein, and seeds. They also contain chicory root fiber, which is a prebiotic.
6. No Cow Dipped Bars
- Protein Source: Brown rice and pea protein blend
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Calories: 200
- Sweeteners: Monk fruit, stevia extract, and erythritol
- Unique Features: Very high in fiber (11-15g per bar), vegan, gluten-free, kosher, soy-free, and Non-GMO Project verified
No Cow Dipped Bars stand out for their high fiber content, which can promote satiety and support digestive health.
7. CanDo Keto Krisp Bars
- Protein Source: Varies (collagen in Butter & Salt flavor, otherwise plant-based)
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 19g
- Calories: 240
- Sweeteners: Stevia and erythritol
- Unique Features: Crispy texture, contains MCT oil
CanDo Keto Krisp Bars offer a unique crispy texture and come in a variety of flavors. They also contain MCT oil, which may be beneficial for weight loss.
8. think! Keto Protein Bars
- Protein Source: Milk protein
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Calories: 180
- Sweeteners: Erythritol and stevia
- Unique Features: Widely available in grocery stores
think! Keto Protein Bars are a convenient option due to their widespread availability. They come in dessert-like flavors and are highly rated for taste.
CORE Keto Bars Strengths
- Plant-based: Suitable for vegans and those preferring plant-based protein sources.
- Probiotics: Contains Bacillus coagulans GBI-30 6086, which may aid protein absorption and gut health.
- Real food ingredients: Made with recognizable, organic ingredients.
CORE Keto Bars Weaknesses
- Price: Slightly more expensive compared to some other keto bar options.
- Flavor Variety: Limited flavor options compared to some competitors.
Choosing the Right Keto Protein Bar
When selecting a keto protein bar, consider the following factors:
- Macronutrient Ratio: Aim for a bar that aligns with the ketogenic diet's macronutrient breakdown (typically 70% fat, 20% protein, and 10% carbs).
- Ingredients: Opt for bars made with whole foods, healthy fats (nuts, seeds, MCT oil), and natural sweeteners. Avoid artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and excessive fillers.
- Dietary Restrictions: Choose bars that meet your specific dietary needs, such as vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free.
- Taste and Texture: Select a bar that you enjoy eating, as this will increase the likelihood of sticking to your healthy eating plan.
- Price: Consider your budget and compare the cost per bar across different brands.