Archive · 29 May 2025
Study Finds Protein Bars May Lack Digestibility
Imagine you're eating a protein bar that claims to be super healthy and full of protein.
Scientists checked a bunch of these bars and found that even though they have a lot of protein, your body might not be able to use it all.
They tested how well your body could break down and use the protein.
They discovered that the other ingredients in the bars, like sugar and fats, can stop your body from absorbing all the good stuff.
This means that the bars might not be as nutritious as they seem, so it's important to think about what kind of protein is in the bar, not just how much.
A study analyzed over 1,600 protein bars and found 81% met the 'high in protein' standard.
Researchers tested protein digestibility using lab simulations and found reduced absorption in bars.
Even bars with high-quality proteins showed reduced digestibility compared to isolated proteins.
Ingredients like sugars, fats, and fibers may hinder amino acid absorption.
Experts suggest consumers consider protein type and digestibility beyond protein content on labels.
- Who
- Researchers from the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences
- What
- A study on the digestibility of protein in commercially available protein bars.
- When
- Published May 29, 2025
- Where
- Budapest, Hungary
- Why
- To evaluate the actual nutritional value of protein bars.
- Study Location
- Budapest, Hungary
- Number of Bars Analyzed
- Over 1,600
- % of Bars Meeting 'High in Protein' Standard
- 81%
- Protein Sources Tested
- Plant-based (pea, rice), animal-based (milk), and mixed
- Published in
- Scientific Reports
- Researchers' Suggestion
- Consider protein type and digestibility