The awareness of protein amongst the general public has increased significantly. The use of the phrase “added protein” included in well-known branded products ranging from cereal, milk, bread, and pasta is immediately indicative of being healthy in the current mindset of consumers and it is this aspect that is being exploited by marketing companies.
“Protein takes more energy for you to digest than refined carbohydrates, and also gives your body a feeling of satiety which equals weight loss or weight control”
People are seeking protein rich foods for different reasons including weight loss with protein rich foods promising to keep you fuller for longer. The problem is that consumers can be blindsided by the labelling and not focusing on the carbohydrate, fat, sugar or even salt content which are equally as important when choosing your snack or meal.
The most common protein snack is probably the protein bar and whilst some are healthy options some might as well be a snickers bar because of the sugar content!
- It is an appealing product that you can eat on the run, the problem is that when eaten as a snack you need to check the calorie content, some can be high enough to be viewed as a meal replacement rather than just a snack!
- Always check the sugar content, some can have up to 30g of sugar which is more than an average chocolate bar.
- A good general rule is if a bar is more than 200 calories it is not a snack but a meal replacement
- Check ingredients list, a long list of unreadable ingredients is most likely not the healthiest of options.
- Ingredients like hemp, brown rice or whey protein are a good indicator of a healthier choice.
The bottom line is always read the packaging and make an informed decision!