The Keto Brick is a high-calorie, ketogenic food product designed for individuals following a ketogenic diet and needing a convenient and substantial source of fuel. It is marketed towards athletes, hikers, and anyone needing a quick and easy meal replacement or snack. This article delves into a comprehensive review of the Keto Brick, covering its ingredients, nutritional information, flavors, cost, and overall user experience, incorporating insights from user reviews and product information.
What is a Keto Brick?
The Keto Brick is a product created by Keto Savage (Robert Sikes) and his wife, Crystal. It is designed as a truly ketogenic food, providing a convenient and calorie-dense option for those adhering to a ketogenic lifestyle. Unlike many products marketed as "keto" in regular stores, Keto Brick emphasizes high-quality ingredients and a specific macronutrient profile suitable for ketosis.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
The Keto Brick is composed of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, with fat providing the most calories per gram compared to protein and carbohydrates. While the precise macronutrient ratios can vary slightly, the Keto Brick is formulated to be high in fat, moderate in protein, and very low in carbohydrates, aligning with the principles of a ketogenic diet.
Protein Sources
Keto Bricks utilize a variety of protein powders. The protein powder makes up less than one-third of the brick's total composition. Some flavors contain 100% Grassfed Whey Protein Concentrate, sourced from US manufacturers. The whey is derived from grass-fed and pastured cows, maintained on a diet of grasses, hays, and silage, without hormones, antibiotics, steroids, or vaccines. The whey protein undergoes cold-water microfiltration to retain bioactive protein subfractions and minimize denaturation.
Many Keto Bricks are vegan, using a high-quality, easily absorbed pea protein, and containing no soy. Some flavors contain trace amounts of sunflower lecithin, which is non-allergenic and extracted mechanically via cold pressing.
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Natural Flavors
The inclusion of "natural flavors" in Keto Bricks is a topic of transparency. Natural flavors constitute a small percentage of the overall formula, residing within the protein powder component. According to the protein supplier, "Natural Flavors" aligns with FDA guidelines, encompassing flavoring ingredients and incidental ingredients used in flavor creation. This includes botanical extracts like cocoa powder or vanilla extract, along with carriers or gums like gum acacia, rice flour, or maltodextrin. The term "With Other Natural Flavors" indicates the use of multiple natural flavors to achieve a rounded, complex flavor profile. No MSG or other unwanted ingredients are used.
The essential oils used in flavoring powders require a carrier, typically a carbohydrate powder like maltodextrin, rice powder, or gum. This is common across flavored protein powders, electrolytes, amino acids, and pre-workouts.
Sweeteners
Keto Bricks do not contain added sweeteners. However, some protein powders used in the formulation contain small amounts of Stevia and Monk fruit.
Allergens
Keto Brick takes allergen concerns seriously. While some flavors like Peanut Butter and Toasted Almond Coconut contain nut butters, the company is mindful of potential allergens.
Calorie Calculation
Keto Brick calculates calorie values using standard conversion factors (the 4-4-9 formula) and more specific Atwater factors based on food type. These calculations strive for accuracy in macronutrient numbers and calorie listings on the packaging.
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Flavors and Availability
Keto Brick offers a variety of flavors, including seasonal options around the Fall/Christmas season. Currently, there are 10 different flavors available. Some flavors include Chocolate, Coconut, Cookies n Cream, Peanut Butter, and Toasted Almond Coconut.
Cost and Purchasing Options
Keto Bricks are priced at $12 per brick. Discounts are available when purchasing in bulk, with free shipping offered.
User Reviews and Experiences
User reviews offer varied perspectives on Keto Brick. Some users find them to be a convenient and effective way to maintain their ketogenic diet, especially during activities like hiking or long workdays. The high-calorie content and portability are often cited as benefits. Some users have found the taste of Keto Bricks to be initially palatable but can become monotonous over time. Some users have also noted that the texture can be crumbly, making them slightly messy to consume.
Positive Feedback
- Convenient for ketogenic diets.
- High-calorie content is ideal for endurance activities.
- Portable and easy to carry.
- Helpful for staying on track with nutritional goals.
Negative Feedback
- The taste can become repetitive.
- The texture can be crumbly.
- Can be hard to bite into.
Tips for Consumption
To improve the eating experience, some users have suggested melting the Keto Brick and reshaping it into smaller, more manageable bars using silicone molds. Others have recommended slicing the brick into smaller pieces and storing them in sandwich bags.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-Quality Ingredients: Keto Brick uses high-quality protein sources and avoids fillers.
- Convenience: Provides a quick and easy source of nutrition for those on the go.
- Ketogenic-Friendly: Formulated to align with the macronutrient requirements of a ketogenic diet.
- Variety of Flavors: Offers a range of flavors to suit different preferences.
Cons:
- Cost: The price per brick can be a barrier for some consumers.
- Taste Fatigue: The taste may become monotonous over time.
- Texture: The crumbly texture can be inconvenient.
- Return Policy: No returns or exchanges are offered for taste/texture dissatisfaction.
Who Would Benefit from Keto Brick?
Keto Brick is suitable for individuals who:
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- Follow a ketogenic diet.
- Need a high-calorie, convenient food source.
- Engage in endurance activities like hiking, biking, or running.
- Want a meal replacement or snack option that aligns with their dietary goals.
How Long Do Keto Bricks Last?
The shelf life of Keto Bricks ranges from 9 to 18 months, depending on the flavor.
Keto Brick vs. Other Protein Bars
The Keto Brick distinguishes itself from typical protein bars through its focus on high-quality ingredients, ketogenic macronutrient ratios, and calorie density. While the average protein bar may contain 200-250 calories and cost $2-3, Keto Brick offers a significantly higher caloric content and a more specific macronutrient profile tailored for ketosis.
Disclaimer
It's important to note that individual experiences with Keto Brick may vary. Taste preferences, dietary needs, and activity levels can all influence the overall satisfaction with the product.