Does FUNCTIONAL PROTEIN BAR COOKIES 'N CREAM contain dairy or gluten?

It contains dairy (whey, milk protein) but is gluten-free. It uses rice flour and tapioca starch rather than wheat.

Is FUNCTIONAL PROTEIN BAR COOKIES 'N CREAM good for weight loss?

It is high in calories and fat, so it may not fit into a strict calorie-deficit diet. It is better suited for muscle gain or active lifestyles.

Where can I buy FUNCTIONAL PROTEIN BAR COOKIES 'N CREAM?

This product is typically available at health fitness retailers, supplement stores, and online marketplaces like Amazon.

Is FUNCTIONAL PROTEIN BAR COOKIES 'N CREAM safe for kids?

While it is gluten-free, it contains caffeine from guarana seed and high levels of sugar alcohols (maltitol), so it is generally not recommended for young children.

Is FUNCTIONAL PROTEIN BAR COOKIES 'N CREAM Gluten Free?

Yes, the FUNCTIONAL PROTEIN BAR COOKIES 'N CREAM is gluten-free. After a thorough analysis of the ingredient list, we found no wheat, barley, rye, or hidden gluten sources. However, while it passes the gluten test, there are other ingredients of note for those with specific dietary restrictions.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed snack is safe for a gluten-free diet, we have to look beyond just the obvious. As a food scientist, I look for the usual suspects: wheat flour, malt flavoring, and oats that might be cross-contaminated. In the case of the FUNCTIONAL PROTEIN BAR COOKIES 'N CREAM, the manufacturer has used a smart substitution strategy to achieve that classic crunch without gluten.

The primary structure of the bar relies on SOY PROTEIN CRISP (made from isolated soy protein and tapioca starch) and a CHOCOLATE COOKIE CRUMB. Crucially, that cookie crumb uses TAPIOCA STARCH and RICE FLOUR as its base rather than wheat flour. This is a deliberate choice to keep the bar safe for those with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Rice flour is naturally gluten-free, and tapioca starch is a clean, safe thickener derived from cassava root.

However, it is important to note that this bar is not free from all major allergens. It contains WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE and MILK PROTEIN, making it unsuitable for dairy-free or vegan diets. It also contains SOY LECITHIN and SOY PROTEIN, which are common processing aids. Finally, the presence of PEANUTS is significant, as they are listed both as a distinct ingredient and within the PEANUT BUTTER. While the gluten verdict is positive, this is strictly an option for omnivores who are okay with dairy and soy.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this bar is engineered for density. It packs a significant caloric punch for its size, largely due to the inclusion of MCT OIL and PALM OIL. These fats provide quick energy and help with the texture, but they drive up the total fat content. If you are strictly counting calories for weight loss, this bar is more of a meal replacement or a post-workout refuel than a light snack.

Regarding carbohydrates, the bar uses MALTITOL as a sweetener. Maltitol is a sugar alcohol that provides sweetness with fewer calories than table sugar, but it has a high glycemic index compared to other sugar alcohols like erythritol. It can also cause digestive distress in some individuals if consumed in large quantities. The protein content is robust, thanks to the blend of soy, whey, and milk proteins, making it excellent for muscle recovery. However, if you are watching your sugar intake or have a sensitive stomach, the maltitol content is something to monitor.