The 6 Best Protein Snacks to Always Have On Hand

We all have those days; one minute you’re a little hungry, and the next minute, you need a snack ASAP. When hunger strikes while you’re out and about, it’s tempting to head for the nearest vending machine, but most of those snacks don’t give you enough to satiate you and keep you full. The key to curbing hunger is to have a snack high in protein — like these best protein snacks!

Of the three macronutrients, protein is by far the most satiating, and eating it throughout the day can help keep you fuller for longer, stabilize your blood sugar, boost your energy, and increase muscle mass and strength. But as with any pre-packaged snack, some are far more nutritious than others. Here’s a short list of the best protein snacks to keep on hand so you always have a healthy option in a pinch.

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1. Paleovalley Superfood Bars

These organic snack bars boast an impressive list of nutrient-dense ingredients, including pumpkin seeds, broccoli, spinach, spirulina, and 9 grams of grass-fed beef bone broth protein. And despite their desert-themed flavors (hello red velvet), they have no added sugar or artificial sweeteners.

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2. Sakara Life Energy Protein Super Bars

Courtesy of Sakara Life

Unlike other plant-based bars, these are a complete source of protein, with 12 grams coming from peas and rice (which contain all nine essential amino acids when combined). They’re also made with cordyceps mushrooms, which give your body a natural energy boost.

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3. Chomps Meat Sticks

If you’re a savory snacker, these all-natural meat sticks will definitely hit the spot. They pack 9 to 10 grams of high-quality protein from either grass-fed beef or free-range turkey. And unlike other packaged meat snacks, these have zero added hormones, nitrites, or nitrates.

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4. Remedy Organics Wellness Shake

Sometimes that late afternoon chocolate craving cannot be ignored, and this plant-based shake is a super satisfying swap. Made with Peruvian cacao and maca, it’s loaded with prebiotic fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants — plus 16 grams of hunger-crushing protein.

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5. Akua Kelp Jerky

Courtesy of Akua

This plant-based jerky gets all of that protein from kelp — yes, the plants of the sea. Unbeknownst to many, kelp is a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and protein. With 10 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber per serving, this jerky is guaranteed to tide you over until your next meal. Plus, you can get 50% off your first order with a WellzyPerks membership!

Buy it now: Akua Kelp Jerky

6. Promix Whey Protein Puff Bars

Courtesy of Promix

Perfect for a pre- or post-workout, these bars have 15 grams of grass-fed whey protein, a quick-absorbing protein that’s ideal for building muscle mass. The best part: they look, feel, and taste just like rice Krispy treats, but they have only 4 grams of sugar and no artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, or gluten.

Buy it now: Promix Whey Protein Puff Bars

Read next: 8 Easy Plant-Based Recipes That Are Packed With Protein