Search our database for specific granola bars products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Granola Bars products →Granola Bars vs Protein Bars Comparison
Both categories are predominantly ultra-processed despite healthy marketing. Granola bars use corn syrup binders; protein bars use industrial protein isolates. Simple exceptions exist in both categories.
SnacksQuick Answer
Both average Level 4. Exceptions: Larabars (Level 2 granola bar) and RXBARs (Level 2 protein bar) use whole food ingredients. The category name doesn't determine processing level — ingredients do.
Granola Bars vs Protein Bars
Granola Bars
Protein Bars
Search our database for specific protein bars products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Protein Bars products →Our Verdict
Both average Level 4. Exceptions: Larabars (Level 2 granola bar) and RXBARs (Level 2 protein bar) use whole food ingredients. The category name doesn't determine processing level — ingredients do.
Important Note
Processing levels can vary significantly between brands and specific products within each category. Always check the ingredient list of the specific product you are considering. Use our product search to look up exact processing scores.
Related Food Guides
Learn more about the individual foods in this comparison.