Quest Protein Bar Caramel Chocolate Chunk
Quest Protein Bar Caramel Chocolate Chunk: independently scored 10.0/10 on Protein Score and 8.0/10 on Clean Score by ProteinScore.
20g protein per serve · 179 cal · 0.9g sugar · 303mg sodium · 60g serve.
Overview
This Caramel Chocolate Chunk bar sits right in the heartland of the Quest range, offering a slight variation on a proven formula. Compared with the brand's Choc Chip Cookie Dough flavour, it dials protein back a fraction (by 2.0g per 100g) for a near-identical sugar count. The difference is academic; both are high-performance bars. The ingredient list is built around a milk and whey protein isolate blend, which is typical for the brand. What sets Quest bars apart is the heavy use of soluble prebiotic fibres like polydextrose and corn fibre. These, along with sweeteners erythritol, sucralose and stevia, create a sweet, satisfyingly dense chew while keeping sugar to less than a gram per bar. It's a highly formulated product, but every one of its 18 ingredients is doing a job. Against the broader protein snack category, this bar is a standout. It packs more protein and dramatically less sugar than the average bar we track, signalling its place as a tool for the nutritionally-aware rather than a casual treat. We see it as a benchmark product that forces other brands to be honest about their numbers. Practically, it's a glovebox or gym-bag staple. The trade-off for the excellent macros is a texture that can be dense and a reliance on sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners that won't suit everyone. For those chasing a serious protein dose in a convenient format, it's one of the best in the aisle.
Protein Score: 10.0/10
The trade-off for such a high protein load is a moderate sodium hit, clocking in at 303mg per bar. That aside, the protein story is in the expected range, with 20g per 60g serve powering it to a 10/10 score. It delivers an efficient 11g of protein for every 100 calories consumed. This performance places it well above the category average for protein bars. It's a purpose-built product designed to deliver a substantial protein dose, sitting comfortably in the 20-30g range typical of dedicated protein bars, not the 2-5g you'd find in a standard muesli bar. On the shelf, this means you're getting a bar that functions closer to a small protein shake in terms of raw protein delivery. For anyone tracking their intake closely, it offers a reliable and convenient way to hit their daily targets without a significant calorie or sugar penalty.
Clean Score: 8.0/10
This is a highly formulated product, but it scores well within the context of the modern protein bar aisle. The ingredient list is engineered to deliver specific macros and a long shelf life, earning a Clean Score/10 that clears the category average. The final recipe uses 18 ingredients, which is actually fewer than the typical protein snack we analyse. The score is mainly influenced by the presence of five additives, including the emulsifier lecithin and a trio of sweeteners: erythritol (E968), sucralose (E955), and steviol glycosides (E960). These ingredients are the compromise for getting a sweet, chewy bar with less than a gram of sugar. While shoppers preferring whole foods might pause, the list contains no artificial colours or preservatives. It's a clear trade-off: a higher level of processing in exchange for market-leading protein and ultra-low sugar.
Wins
- A full 20g of protein from a milk and whey isolate blend.
- Less than 1g of sugar in the entire 60g bar.
- High in fibre, providing 25g per 100g from prebiotic sources.
Watch outs
- Contains the sugar alcohol erythritol and sweetener sucralose.
- A lengthy list of 18 ingredients to achieve its texture.
- Sodium is moderate at 303mg per 60g bar.
Ingredients
Protein Blend (36%) (Milk Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate (Milk)), Polydextrose (Prebiotic Fibre), Water, Almonds, Soluble Corn Fibre (Prebiotic Fibre), Sweeteners (Erythritol, Sucralose, Steviol Glycosides), Chocolate Liquor (4%), Glycerin, Natural Flavours, Cocoa Butter (1%), Sea Salt, Butter (Milk), Emulsifier (Lecithin (Sunflower, or Soybean*)), Raising Agent (Sodium Bicarbonate). *genetically modified.
18 ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
- Will the sweeteners in this bar cause stomach issues?
- For some people, yes. This bar contains the sugar alcohol erythritol (E968), which can cause digestive upset like bloating or gas in sensitive individuals, especially when consumed in large amounts. It also contains sucralose and stevia. Most people tolerate them fine, but if you know you react to sugar alcohols, it might be one to approach with caution. We'd suggest trying one and seeing how you feel before committing to a full box.
- Is this a good bar for after a workout?
- Yes, it's an excellent choice for post-workout recovery. The bar delivers a solid 20g of protein, primarily from fast-absorbing whey protein isolate and milk protein isolate, which is ideal for muscle repair after exercise. This amount is comparable to what you'd find in many dedicated protein shakes. For a convenient option you can keep in your gym bag, it provides the protein hit you need on the go.
- How does this flavour compare to others in the Quest range?
- This Caramel Chocolate Chunk bar is nutritionally very similar to other popular flavours. Compared to the brand's Choc Chip Cookie Dough version, for instance, it has fractionally less protein (33g vs 35g per 100g) and a near-identical sugar count. The core formula of high protein, high fibre, and very low sugar is consistent across the lineup. In our view, choosing between them comes down to flavour preference rather than any significant nutritional difference.
- Where can I buy Quest Protein Bars in Australia?
- Quest bars are widely available in major Australian supermarkets. They are typically stocked at both Coles and Woolworths, usually in the health food or snack bar aisle. You may also find them in supplement stores and pharmacies. While they are listed at these retailers, stock can vary by location, and the brand may also sell direct from their own website.
- Is this bar filling enough for a snack?
- Yes, most people find it quite satisfying for a snack. It packs 20g of protein and a high amount of fibre (25g per 100g), both of which are known to contribute to feelings of fullness. The dense, chewy texture also makes it feel more substantial than a lighter, crispier bar. While it's not designed to replace a full meal, it's very effective at curbing hunger between meals.