We Ate Over 50 Granola Bars to Find the Healthiest Options for You

We updated this article in March 2023 based on extensive testing done by the Good Housekeeping Institute and to make sure that all picks are currently in-stock.

Delicious and perfectly portable, granola bars can be a convenient snack when you're in a pinch. Typically made with a mixture of whole grains, nuts and dried fruit, they are a shelf-stable option that can be incredibly nutritious. But, granola bars aren't always synonymous with healthy. In fact, some varieties can have even more sugar than a candy bar.

That's why our team of registered dietitians at the Good Housekeeping Institute evaluated dozens of granola bars on the market, zoning in on ingredients, nutrition facts and flavor profiles. To make the cut, the best granola bars had to have a first ingredient made from a whole grain or whole food (i.e. oats, bran, legumes, etc). The ingredients list as a whole is important, as well as where any sweeteners are coming from. We prioritized options with 300 calories or less, with most ranging in the 150 to 250 calories range, and a cap of 8 grams of added sugar per bar (the equivalent of two teaspoons). Granola bars aren't known for high fiber and protein counts, but our nutrition pros say that it's important to aim for a good source of each, which is about 3 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein per serving to keep you full and satisfied.

You can learn more about how we evaluate granola bars at the end of this guide. Looking for other nutritious items to add to your grocery list? Check out our favorite high protein snacks and our top picks for the best protein bars.