The 5 Best Packaged Snack Bars for Kids, According to a Dietitian

With so many snack bars available to parents it’s hard to know which to choose, but I’ve found a few faves that are big on flavor and pack a nutritional punch

As soon as kids get into their snack-monster phase, the word “bar” becomes a staple in their vocabulary—and a request parents hear a dizzying amount. That being said, there are lots of reasons for families to love snack bars: they’re packed with nutrition, undeniably delicious, convenient to carry on the go, and fit perfectly in lunchboxes and diaper bags. But navigating the snack bar aisle at the grocery store can be overwhelming and it’s easy to get lost among all the choices, from granola bars and protein bars to breakfast bars, seed bars, and fruit bars. How is a parent to choose, and which bars are actually healthy?

As a dietitian, I’m a fan of snack bars that are loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They’re the perfect bridge between meals and keep my kids energized and full (goodbye, hangry tantrums!). So here’s a little shortcut: grab snack bars that are a mix of nuts and seeds, whole grains, and a hint of sweetness from dried fruit. This combo provides the right balance of protein, fats, and fiber-filled carbs to keep your kiddos fueled until the inevitable “Can I have another snack?” moment hits.

Check out these 5 nutritious kid-approved snack bars that are also dietitian-approved:

1. Skout Organic Kids Snack Bar

Plant-based and gluten-free Skout Bars come in a variety of fun flavors like french toast, chocolate brownie, and cookie dough. Don’t miss the nut-free alternatives made with sunflower seeds, perfect for school lunches and kids with allergies.

2. LÄRABAR Minis

Crafted with just a handful of ingredients, LÄRABARs are loaded with protein and healthy fats from nuts and sweetened with dates and chocolate chips. The pocked-sized version features larger chunks of nuts so they are best for older kiddos (age 4 and up).

3. Once Upon A Farm Organic Refrigerated Oat Bar

Once Upon A Farm’s refrigerated oat bars boast zero added sugar and 4 grams of protein per bar. They’re wonderfully soft and super chewy and each bar is made with a blend of fruit and veggies, delivering an extra kick of vitamins and minerals in every bite.

4. Cerebelly Smart Bar

A nutrient-dense option, not only are Cerebelly Smart Bars nut-free but they’re also rich in brain-supporting omega-3s, making them an ideal addition to snack bags or on-the-go adventures. With no added sugar, Smart Bars come in a variety of delicious flavors like strawberry beet, apple kale, sweet potato blueberry, and carrot date.

5. Peanut Butter Perfect Bar

Loaded with good-for-you calories, the refrigerated Perfect Bar is, well, perfect for boosting nutrition in picky eaters or filling in the gaps. Though it does contain added sugar from honey (a tad more than I’d like), it boasts an impressive 17 grams of protein per bar. If you’re into bite-sized snacking, it also comes in a mini version. Our other favorite flavors are the yummy coconut-peanut butter and cozy pumpkin pie.

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