What’s Really in Your Protein Bars? Breaking Down the Ingredients

Ever flipped over a protein bar wrapper and thought: Wait… what even is this stuff? You’re not alone. Some bars are full of fillers and unpronounceable additives that make them look more like a chemistry set than a snack.

At Betty, we think your bar should be as real as your life — made with natural, functional ingredients that actually do something good for you.

The Problem With Mainstream Protein Bars

Many mainstream protein bars (think Musashi, Quest, Athena, and more) often boast impressive macros: 20g+ protein, low (0–5g) sugar, or low calories. But these claims often come with a cost — unrecognisable ingredients that can do more harm than good.

Whey or Soy Protein Isolate: Whey protein isolate (from milk) and soy protein isolate (from soybeans) are cheap, highly processed proteins. They’re effective for boosting protein content but are stripped of natural nutrients during processing. Whey can cause bloating or digestive upset, while soy isolate is rich in isoflavones that mimic estrogen; excessive intake has been linked to hormonal effects.

Sugar Alcohols (Maltitol, Sorbitol, Erythritol): These low-calorie sweeteners look and taste like sugar but aren’t fully absorbed. While they reduce calories and blunt blood sugar spikes, they ferment in the colon and frequently cause gas, bloating, cramps, and laxative effects when eaten in larger amounts. Maltitol in particular raises blood sugar more than other sugar alcohols.

Corn Syrup Solids, Glucose Syrup, Dextrose: Refined sugars from cornstarch, used to sweeten, bind, and soften bars. They provide quick energy but cause rapid blood sugar spikes and crashes. Regular consumption is linked to insulin resistance, weight gain, and higher risk of type 2 diabetes.

Artificial Sweeteners (Sucralose, Aspartame, Acesulfame K): Synthetic sweeteners that are hundreds of times sweeter than sugar and calorie-free. They keep sugar content low, but research suggests they may disrupt gut bacteria and glucose regulation. Aspartame has also been linked to headaches and mood changes in sensitive individuals.

Palm Oil & Canola Oil: Cheap fats that improve texture and shelf life. Palm oil is high in saturated fat and raises LDL cholesterol. Refined canola oil is rich in omega-6 fatty acids which, in excess, may promote inflammation. Palm oil also raises serious environmental concerns.

Artificial Flavours & Colours: Used to make bars taste like “birthday cake” or “cookies & cream” without real ingredients. Some artificial dyes, like Red 40 and Yellow 5, have been associated with hyperactivity in children. They add no nutritional value and can trigger sensitivities in some people.

Gums & Fillers (Xanthan Gum, Soy Lecithin, Polydextrose): Additives that bulk up volume, thicken, or emulsify. While safe in small amounts, large doses of polydextrose or xanthan gum may cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea. Soy lecithin is harmless for most but offers no nutritional benefit.

The Betty Difference: Ingredients You Can Trust

Every single ingredient in a Betty Bar has a job to do - both for texture and for your health. Here’s what makes us different.

Pea Protein: Made from yellow split peas, pea protein is highly digestible (~94%) and rich in BCAAs for muscle recovery and energy. Studies show it performs comparably to whey for building muscle, but without the dairy, making it a gut-friendly choice.

Soluble Fibre (tapioca): Our fibre comes from chicory root in the form of inulin, a soluble fibre that supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria. It also regulates blood sugar and digestion. Research shows chicory fibre is more effective than corn fibre at increasing Bifidobacteria in the gut.

Coconut Oil: Instead of palm or canola oil, we use coconut oil for binding and creaminess. It’s rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are rapidly absorbed and used for energy. MCTs may support satiety and metabolism. Unlike palm oil, coconut oil avoids environmental and cardiovascular risks.

Almond Butter: Almond butter provides creaminess and nutrients far beyond flavour. Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants. Studies show they reduce LDL cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health.

Sunflower Lecithin: A natural emulsifier that keeps bars smooth and cohesive. Sunflower lecithin contains phosphatidylcholine, important for brain health and cell structure. It may also help lower cholesterol and support liver health.

Vegetable Glycerine: A plant-derived liquid that keeps bars moist and chewy. Glycerine has a low glycaemic index and doesn’t spike blood sugar. It also helps retain hydration - particularly useful for active lifestyles.

Brown Rice Syrup: A natural sweetener that provides mild sweetness and helps bind ingredients. Unlike refined sugar, it has a lower glycaemic index and creates a gradual rise in blood sugar.

Natural Flavours: Plant-derived extracts used to enhance taste without artificial additives. Derived from fruits, plants, and spices, they’re a cleaner alternative to synthetic flavourings.

Monkfruit & Stevia: Natural sweeteners from plants. Monkfruit contains mogrosides, antioxidants responsible for its sweetness, while stevia is derived from the stevia leaf. Both have little to no impact on blood glucose and do not disrupt the gut microbiome like some artificial sweeteners.

Probiotics (Bacillus Coagulans): Each Betty Bar contains 500 million CFU of Bacillus coagulans, a spore-forming probiotic that survives stomach acid and reaches the gut intact. Studies show it supports digestion, reduces bloating, and boosts immunity.

Zinc (Mineral Salt): Each bar provides 25% of your daily zinc needs. Zinc supports hormone balance, immune health, wound healing, skin repair, and fertility. Many women don’t get enough zinc through diet alone, so this addition makes Betty Bars even more functional.

Why Clean Ingredients Matter

Protein bars aren’t just snacks — they’re often daily staples. And what you eat every day adds up.

Betty Bars are designed to:

• Keep you replenished and fuller for longer - no blood sugar spike.
• Support gut health with fibre and probiotics
• Balance hormones and energy with zinc
• Avoid bloating by skipping sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners
• Deliver real nutrition with every bite

When it comes to protein bars, ingredients don’t lie. Betty keeps it clean, simple

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