5. CORE Foods Plant-Based Bars, Dark Chocolate Cherry (Pack of 16)
BEST REFRIGERATED GRANOLA BARS
PROS
- Contains prebiotics and probiotics
- USDA Organic, Certified Vegan and Certified Gluten-Free
- Can stay outside refrigeration for up to one week
CONS
- Not shelf stable
Essentially overnight oats in bar form, we love that this refrigerated granola bar has 6 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein, plus a dose of gut-healthy probiotics. Since the bar is cold, we found it very refreshing and satisfying. CORE says you can also enjoy the bars on-the-go outside of the fridge for up to one week.
Not only is the bar USDA Organic, Certified Vegan and Certified Gluten-Free, but the flavor profile is off the charts. “It had a great flavor and texture,” one tester commented. “This bar was easy to eat. It also gave me a boost of energy after my work day,” another said. Dark chocolate cherry was a crowd-pleaser, but other yummy flavors include blueberry banana almond, coconut chocolate chip and peanut butter crunch.
6. KIND Cereal Bars, Variety Pack (18 Count)
BEST CEREAL GRANOLA BARS
PROS
- Plant-based and naturally gluten-free
- Excellent source of fiber
- Non-GMO Project Verified
CONS
- Not suitable for individuals with peanuts and/or tree nut allergies
These bars strike the perfect balance of wanting a bowl of cereal to start the day but need a portable on-the-go solution. They have a light and airy texture and feature oats and brown rice as the base with a new plant-based oat milk drizzle. Available in peanut butter, cinnamon with almonds and chocolate with almonds, these chewy cereal bars from KIND are all naturally gluten-free and packed with whole grains.
Our nutrition pros love that the non-GMO project verified choice has 5 to 6 grams of fiber, making them a filling way to start the day or ideal mid-afternoon snacking solution. “Perfect! Not too hard, not too soft. Just right,” one tester said regarding the texture. “Sweet but enjoyable. Definitely taste the cinnamon flavor but not overpowering,” another tested noted of the cinnamon with almonds flavor.