Grenade Protein Bar Salted Caramel
Grenade Protein Bar Salted Caramel: independently scored 9.8/10 on Protein Score and 8.9/10 on Clean Score by ProteinScore.
21g protein per serve · 222 cal · 1.3g sugar · 132mg sodium · 60g serve.
Overview
This is a chocolate bar first, a protein bar second. Or is it the other way around? With its soft caramel core, milk chocolate coating and 21 grams of protein, the Grenade Salted Caramel bar deliberately blurs the line between a treat and a tool for hitting your numbers. It's one of the most visible bars in the supermarket aisle for a reason: it nails the indulgent texture and taste many crave, without the high sugar load. Looking at the numbers, its protein density is well above the category average for protein bars we track, while its sugar content is drastically lower. The ingredient list is shorter than the typical bar in this category, coming in at 17 ingredients. The protein comes from a blend of milk proteins (casein and whey isolate) and bovine collagen, and the sweetness is achieved using maltitol, a sugar alcohol. We see this as a smart, convenient option for those who prioritise taste and texture alongside a high protein count. It's not trying to be a whole-food bar, but a satisfying snack that feels like a treat while still delivering a substantial protein hit. For the person who might otherwise grab a standard chocolate bar, this is a far more functional choice.
Protein Score: 9.8/10
This bar lands firmly in dedicated protein bar territory with a protein density that clears the category average. The 21 grams of protein in a 60-gram bar is a solid contribution to daily targets, earning an 8.8/10. At 9.2g of protein for every 100 calories, its efficiency is strong for a product with such an indulgent format. That 21-gram protein hit is significant, placing it on par with many serious sports nutrition products and well ahead of standard snack bars. It's enough to support muscle recovery after a workout, making it a genuinely functional choice, not just a snack with a sprinkle of protein. The protein itself is a blend of calcium caseinate, whey protein isolate, and bovine collagen hydrolysate. This multi-source approach contributes to the bar's unique texture and staged digestion, though shoppers looking purely for fast-acting whey isolate should take note of the blend.
Clean Score: 8.9/10
A single emulsifier, soy lecithin, is the main additive noted on the list that moves the score. With a total of 17 ingredients, the list is shorter than the average protein bar, and it avoids artificial colours and preservatives entirely, helping it to a very respectable 8.9/10. The sweetness comes from maltitol, a sugar alcohol, which keeps the sugar content down to just 1.3g per bar without resorting to artificial sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame. This is a common strategy in low-sugar confectionery and protein products to deliver sweetness and bulk. Ultimately, the ingredient list reflects the product's goal: to create a shelf-stable, multi-layered, candy-bar-like experience. The use of humectants like glycerol, palm fat, and emulsifiers is what delivers that characteristic soft texture. It's a processed product, but one that keeps its additive list relatively contained for the category.
Wins
- A hefty 21g of protein per 60g bar.
- Very low sugar content at only 1.3g per bar.
- Fewer ingredients (17) than the typical bar in this category.
Watch outs
- Contains maltitol, which can cause digestive upset in some people.
- Uses palm fat in its formulation.
- Protein blend includes bovine collagen, not just milk proteins.
Ingredients
Protein Blend (Calcium Caseinate (Milk), Whey Protein Isolate (Milk)), Humectant: Glycerol; Sweetener: Maltitol; Bovine Collagen Hydrolysate, Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Mass, Whole Milk Powder, Water, Dietary Fibre: Polydextrose; Palm Fat, Fat- reduced Cocoa Powder, Flavouring, Sea Salt, Natural Flavouring, Emulsifier: Lecithins (Soy).
17 ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
- Where can I buy the Grenade Salted Caramel protein bar in Australia?
- This bar is widely available in major Australian supermarkets. It is catalogued at both Coles and Woolworths, making it a convenient option to pick up with your regular groceries. It may also be available from other supplement retailers or direct from the brand's website. We'd suggest checking the chiller or health food aisle of your local supermarket first.
- Will the sugar alcohols in this bar cause stomach issues?
- It's possible for some people. This bar uses maltitol as a sweetener to keep the sugar content low. Maltitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) which can have a laxative effect, especially when consumed in large quantities. If you know you're sensitive to sugar alcohols or have a sensitive stomach, you might experience some bloating or discomfort. For most people, one bar is unlikely to be an issue, but we'd advise against eating several in one day.
- Is this bar better for pre or post-workout?
- With 21 grams of protein, this bar is most suitable as a post-workout snack. The protein, from a blend of casein, whey and collagen, helps support muscle repair and growth after exercise. While you could eat it pre-workout, some might find the fats and fibre make it a little slow to digest for a pre-session energy boost. We think it fits best in your gym bag for the trip home.
- Is this bar filling enough to be a meal replacement?
- No, we wouldn't consider this a meal replacement. At 222 calories, it's firmly in the snack category. While the high protein content makes it more satisfying and filling than a standard chocolate bar, it doesn't provide the balanced nutrition or calorie load of a complete meal. It's a great option for bridging the gap between meals or for a post-workout refuel, but it won't replace your lunch.
- Who owns the Grenade brand?
- Grenade is a British sports nutrition brand that was founded in 2010. It has since grown into a global company with products sold in many countries, including Australia. The company is now owned by Mondelez International, the multinational food and beverage company. For more detailed company history, the brand's own website is the best source of information.