PhD Smart Protein Bars
PhD Smart Protein Bars are high-protein, low-sugar snacks designed to support your fitness goals. Packed with up to 20g of protein, they’re perfect for post-workout recovery or as a guilt-free treat.
Pros
Good range of flavours
High protein content
Low sugar
Cons
Not a strong taste
Sweeteners
When it comes to protein bars, the options can feel endless.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast like me, a busy professional, or simply someone who needs a quick snack, you’ve likely come across the PhD Smart Bar.
I’ve seen them everywhere from Asda to Lidl an even B&M.
Marketed as a high-protein, low-sugar alternative, these bars promise to fuel your day while keeping your macros on point. But do they live up to the hype?
I tried two flavours: Milk Choc Hazelnut and Choc Peanut Butter.
Here’s my thoughts of them both and the bars in general.
Table of Contents
Initial Thoughts
Protein bars are a go-to for me, especially on busy days when I need something quick and convenient.
If you’ve read my other articles, you’ll know I like to try keep things as natural as possible though which is difficult with protein bars.
PhD Smart Bars immediately stand out because their packaging looks great.
At first glance, they seem like a solid option for anyone looking to up their protein intake without loading up on sugar.
Upon opening the wrapper, the bars look promising. They look as good as any other premium protein bar product.
They’re coated in chocolate and have a layered structure that suggests a mix of textures.
But as we all know, protein bars can be a hit or miss, so I was curious to see how these would stack up.
- Texture: One of the better features of these bars is their texture. They’re chewy without being overly dense, which is often a problem with protein bars. The soya crisp pieces add a bit of crunch, giving them a nice balance.
- Taste: Unfortunately, the taste didn’t quite match the visual appeal. While the flavours are pleasant enough, they don’t stand out. I couldn’t help but compare them to Bulk’s Macro Munch bars, which offer a more indulgent and satisfying experience. The sweetness in the PhD Smart Bars tastes a bit artificial.
Price: Are They Worth It?
At around £2-£2.50 per bar, they’re reasonably priced and around the same price as many other mid-range protein bars.
You can often find them in multi-packs at a discount, making them an even better deal if you’re planning to stock up.
I picked some up from Lidl on promotion at £1.79 a bar which was excellent although you’ll see these infrequently so you may wish to stock up when they do come in on offer.
I did find them on Amazon for just £1.58 per bar when you buy a pack of 12, so check them out. The offer price is limited to certain flavours though like Chocolate Brownie which sounds nice.
For the price, you’re getting a decent protein snack that’s widely available and convenient.
However, if flavour and ingredient quality are your priorities, you might want to explore other options in a slightly higher price range.
Taste: Good, But Not Great
Now let’s dive into the flavours:
- Milk Choc Hazelnut: As someone who loves hazelnut flavoured treats, I had high hopes for this one. While it attempts to mimic the Nutella experience, it doesn’t quite hit the mark. The hazelnut flavour is subtle to the point of being almost undetectable, and the chocolate coating lacks the richness you’d expect. It’s enjoyable, but not memorable.
- Choc Peanut Butter: This flavour fares slightly better, with a stronger peanut taste that complements the chocolate coating. If you’re a fan of peanut butter, you’ll likely appreciate this one. That said, it’s not as indulgent as something like a Reese’s Cup, so don’t get overly excited at the prospect.
While both flavours are decent, they lack the wow factor that would make me crave them.
If taste is a major factor for you, Bulk Macro Munch or Grenade Carb Killa bars might be a better choice.
As a peanut butter fan, I was hoping the peanut butter flavour might taste along the lines of Reese’s Cup, but sadly it was too subdued in flavour.
Protein Content and Macros
Where PhD Smart Bars excel is in their nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown:
- Protein: 21–22g per bar. This is impressive and makes them a great option for post-workout recovery or as a high-protein snack during the day.
- Carbohydrates: Around 20g, with only 2g of sugar. The low sugar content is a big win for anyone trying to avoid unnecessary sugar spikes.
- Fats: Moderate, at 8–9g depending on the flavour.
- Calories: 230–250 per bar, which is reasonable for the amount of protein you’re getting.
While the macros are solid, it’s worth noting that the bars contain sweeteners and soya pieces, which might not be to everyone’s liking.
If you’re someone who prefers more natural ingredients, this could be a drawback.
The soya pieces are a let down for me, but you’ll find them in many of these protein snacks so my disappointment isn’t solely aimed at PhD bars.
Where Can You Buy Them?
One of the best things about PhD Smart Bars is their accessibility.
You can find them in supermarkets like Lidl and Asda, as well as online through fitness retailers, Amazon, and the PhD website. They’re often included in sales or promotions, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for deals.
The widespread availability makes them a convenient choice, especially if you’re looking for a protein bar you can grab during your weekly grocery shop.
FAQ: Common Questions About PhD Smart Bars
Are PhD Smart Bars suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they’re vegetarian-friendly but not vegan, as they contain dairy-based protein.
Do they contain palm oil?
No, they are palm oil free which is highlighted on the packaging.
How do they compare to other protein bars?
In terms of macros, they’re competitive with other brands.
However, when it comes to taste and texture, options like Bulk Macro Munch or Grenade Carb Killa often come out ahead.
I much prefer Bulk’s Macro Munch as they’re more along the lines of a general chocolate bar like a mars. They too have a slight artificial aftertaste but the bar itself tastes more indulgent than PhD’s offerings.
Are they good for weight loss?
While they’re not specifically marketed for weight loss, the high protein and low sugar content make them a good snack option for those trying to manage their weight.
Summary: The Final Verdict
So, are PhD Smart Bars worth adding to your snack rotation?
It depends on what you’re looking for.
Pros:
- High protein content (21–22g)
- Low sugar (2g per bar)
- Affordable and widely available
- Decent texture with a mix of chewy and crunchy elements
Cons:
- Artificial sweetness can be off-putting
- Flavours are underwhelming compared to competitors
- Contains soya pieces, which might not appeal to everyone
Overall, PhD Smart Bars are a convenient and budget-friendly option for anyone looking to boost their protein intake.
While they don’t quite match up to Bulk’s Macro Munch in my opinion, in terms of convenience, they’re a solid choice for everyday snacking.
If you’re on the go and need a quick protein hit, these will get the job done.
My recommendation is pick them up while they’re on promotion if you’re someone who appreciates these types of protein snacks.
If you’re looking for something more natural then protein bars in general probably aren’t right for you.
For a quick visual take, check out my YouTube review.