35 high protein snacks for energy from AM to PM (2024)

Table of Contents
Are all high-protein snacks nutritious? Why is protein important? Why eat high protein snacks? 35 best high protein snacks UK, approved by the experts barebells Barebells Salty Peanut barebells Barebells Salty Peanut Lindahls Kvarg Vanilla 150G Pot Lindahls Kvarg Vanilla 150G Pot Fulfil Peanut & Caramel Bar 55g Fulfil Peanut & Caramel Bar 55g Holland & Barrett Whole Almonds 400g Holland & Barrett Whole Almonds 400g Total 0% Fat Greek Recipe Strained Yoghurt 450g Total 0% Fat Greek Recipe Strained Yoghurt 450g m&s Free Range Egg & Spinach Pot m&s Free Range Egg & Spinach Pot Myvegan Myprotein Protein Crisps Myvegan Myprotein Protein Crisps GRENADE Grenade Carb Killa Birthday Cake Protein Bar GRENADE Grenade Carb Killa Birthday Cake Protein Bar Myprotein Peanut Butter Pouch Myprotein Peanut Butter Pouch Kallo Protein Packed Lentil Cakes 100g Kallo Protein Packed Lentil Cakes 100g Clearspring Clearspring Organic Tamari Roasted Pumpkin Seeds 30g Clearspring Clearspring Organic Tamari Roasted Pumpkin Seeds 30g Kings Elite Snacks Black Bean Sauce Flavour Veggie Jerky Kings Elite Snacks Black Bean Sauce Flavour Veggie Jerky Tanpopo Peeled Edamame Soy Beans 85g Tanpopo Peeled Edamame Soy Beans 85g ARLA Arla Skyr Natural ARLA Arla Skyr Natural munchy seeds Munchy Seeds Mega Omega Pouch munchy seeds Munchy Seeds Mega Omega Pouch Quest Tortilla Chips for 8 packs Quest Tortilla Chips for 8 packs Holland & Barrett Mixed Nuts & Raisins 850g Holland & Barrett Mixed Nuts & Raisins 850g Myprotein Protein Brownie for box of 12 Myprotein Protein Brownie for box of 12 ufit UFIT Iced Latte 25g Protein + Coffee Milkshake ufit UFIT Iced Latte 25g Protein + Coffee Milkshake moorish Moorish Humous Snack Pack Trio moorish Moorish Humous Snack Pack Trio FAQs
35 high protein snacks for energy from AM to PM (1)

Everyone has their favourite form of protein - whether it's peanut butter, chicken or salmon (or something a little more adventurous). But having a protein snack handy, for when we're on the go or stuck in a meeting, is always a great idea. In fact, 6 out of 10 of us opt for a healthy snack at least once a day — and it's not just the classic protein shakes we're plumping for — the healthy snacks market is booming, with tons of protein drinks and bars ready to snack on.

But with so many to choose from, how can we identify a protein snack as a healthy alternative?

Are all high-protein snacks nutritious?

There are a vast number of high protein snacks to buy in the UK these days, but many contain an array of ingredients that most people will not understand or recognise, warns nutritional therapist Katie Skrine. 'These ingredients will impact the overall nutrient value of each bar, making them less healthy than the branding would appear.'

She advises checking for added sugar as some could 'contain similar levels of sugar to that of a normal chocolate bar. In addition, there can be lots of added sweeteners enhancing the taste but devaluing the benefits.'

While she says that the healthiest snacks are always homemade — making sure to use limited ingredients and no additives. 'Foods naturally high in protein, such as eggs, chicken slices, greek yoghurt, nuts and seeds, are best for your body and most are easily available in supermarkets, coffee shop chains or can easily be prepared at home. Also, try making your own protein balls. You can make them in batches from raw ingredients that will have maximum nutrient value.

Why is protein important?

Protein is the macronutrient your body uses to repair muscle tissue, build hormones and help you feel full (thanks to boosted levels of peptide YY). Plus, it's the building block of your bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood. It's essential for improving fitness and generally speeds up your training gains.

'Protein is the most important nutrient for positively changing body composition,' says Xander Pipe, fitness nutrition coach and founder of meal delivery service The Key To Food. 'Although, do note — it's important to spread your intake throughout the day in order for your body to digest it. If you eat too much in one sitting, it can place strain on your kidneys.'

While Melissa Snover, registered nutritionist and founder of Nourished adds, 'As protein helps you to feel fuller longer it can reduce hunger, potentially helping to stop snacking throughout the day and reduce the amount of calories consumed.' Therefore, it can help with supporting weight loss.

The recommended daily intake of protein for women is 45g so, for reference:

  • A standard chicken breast contains roughly 26g
  • Two large eggs contain around 12g
  • Two tbsps peanut butter contains roughly 7g

Why eat high protein snacks?

High protein snacks, particularly those with a combination of carbohydrates and other essential nutrients, can aid with recovery post-workout. And, they can also help you to reach your recommended daily intake if you struggle to incorporate enough protein into meals (which is common amongst those following a vegetarian or vegan diet).

With all of this in mind we've rounded up the best high protein snacks — which are flavoursome, rich in protein and easy to eat on the go. Keep scrolling for 35 different high protein snacks to choose from.

Remember that you should always aim to get the majority of your nutrients from whole foods — these snacks are great for convenience, but certainly no replacement for a balanced and varied nutrient dense diet.

35 best high protein snacks UK, approved by the experts

1

barebells Barebells Salty Peanut

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1

barebells Barebells Salty Peanut

Macros: 20g protein, 15g carb, 8.5g fat

Nutrition wins: 'This is my favourite protein bar going. The taste, the texture and the macros are all absolutely spot on', says Xander.

Coming in finger-licking flavours, such as salty peanut, hazelnut nougat, caramel cashew and cookies and cream, they’re also available in vegan alternatives. The latter is enriched with 15g of plant-based protein (a blend of soy, pea and rice), while the regular bars contain 20g of milk protein.

Even better? They’re a lower sugar option than most with just 1-2g per 55g serving. Chomp on.

2

Lindahls Kvarg Vanilla 150G Pot

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2

Lindahls Kvarg Vanilla 150G Pot

Macros: 15g protein, 5.3g carbs, 0.3g fat

Nutrition wins: 'A thick and creamy high protein quark option that's just like a yoghurt and will leave you feeling satiated', Xander comments.

3

Fulfil Peanut & Caramel Bar 55g

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3

Fulfil Peanut & Caramel Bar 55g

Macros: 20g protein, 8g carb, 9g fat

Nutrition wins: 'Fulfil bars are high in protein — an absolute yes from me', says Xander.

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4

Holland & Barrett Whole Almonds 400g

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4

Holland & Barrett Whole Almonds 400g

Macros: 6.3g protein, 1.6g carbs, 15g fat

Nutrition wins: 'Almonds make a great high protein snack. Just one serving provides you with healthy fats and a good amount of protein, plus they're full of essential vitamins and enough energy to keep you going', says Xander.

Macros: 10.3g protein, 3g carbs, 0g fat

Nutrition wins: 'Although this product is low in calories at only 54 calories per 100g serving, it's low fat and high in protein. Why not enjoy post-dinner for a satisfying but nutrient-dense dessert?', suggests Xander.

6

m&s Free Range Egg & Spinach Pot

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6

m&s Free Range Egg & Spinach Pot

Macros: 12g protein, 1.7g carbohydrates, 7.7g fat

Nutrition wins: 'You can't go wrong with eggs — at home, omelettes are one of my favourite go-tos', says Xander. Make up your own egg and spinach snack pot to lower costs and cut single plastic use.

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7

Myvegan Myprotein Protein Crisps

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7

Myvegan Myprotein Protein Crisps

Macros: 11g protein, 4.9g carbs, 3g fat

Nutrition wins: For the times you conclude a workout craving a bag of crisps, MyProtein's Protein Crisps (yes, really) can give you that all-important protein hit (two birds, one stone).

A 25g bag has an impressive 11g protein from soy protein concentrate – so they're vegan-friendly – and there are two flavours (barbeque and sweet chilli & sour cream) to choose from.

8

GRENADE Grenade Carb Killa Birthday Cake Protein Bar

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8

GRENADE Grenade Carb Killa Birthday Cake Protein Bar

Macros: 20g protein, 18g carbohydrates, 9.5g fat

Nutrition wins: 'Carb Killers are low in sugar and packed with protein — in my opinion, one of the tastiest ways to eat 250 calories', says Xander.

9

Myprotein Peanut Butter Pouch

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9

Myprotein Peanut Butter Pouch

Macros: 4.1g protein, 1.9g carbs, 7.6g fat/serving

Nutrition wins: What's not to love about these handy peanut butter pouches? They offer a high protein snack that's arguably the easiest of all to transport (they can slot into most legging pockets for hands-free and on-the-go refueling), while fully enabling our collective hobby of snaffling nut butter sans bread. All at under 160 calories. Win.

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10

Kallo Protein Packed Lentil Cakes 100g

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Macros: 1.6g protein, 4.9g carbs, 0.3g fat

Nutrition wins: Top these tasty lentil cakes with cheese, avo or nut butter for a high protein afternoon snack. They're gluten-free and high in fibre, too.

11

Clearspring Clearspring Organic Tamari Roasted Pumpkin Seeds 30g

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11

Clearspring Clearspring Organic Tamari Roasted Pumpkin Seeds 30g

Macros: 11g protein, 1.9g carbohydrates, 13g fat

Nutrition wins: 'An alternative high protein snack, pumpkin seeds are delicious and packed with antioxidants and minerals. Win, win', says Xander.

12

Kings Elite Snacks Black Bean Sauce Flavour Veggie Jerky

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12

Kings Elite Snacks Black Bean Sauce Flavour Veggie Jerky

Macros: 5.6g protein, 9.5g carbs, 1.7g fat

Nutrition wins: Plant-based, low in fat and high in fibre, Kings Veggie Jerky is a tasty snack that ticks all the boxes: packed with protein, flavoursome and zero risk of leaking over your gym kit. Made from soy, it's a great vegan substitute with a meat-mimicking texture.

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13

Tanpopo Peeled Edamame Soy Beans 85g

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13

Tanpopo Peeled Edamame Soy Beans 85g

Macros: 12g protein, 12.9g carbohydrates, 3.6g fat

Nutrition wins: 'The humble edamame bean is high in protein and contain loads of good fats. Top tip: I'm partial to mine with a splash of hot sauce', shares Xander

14

ARLA Arla Skyr Natural

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14

ARLA Arla Skyr Natural

Macros: 15.9g fat, 6g carbohydrates, 0.5g fat

Nutrition wins: 'One serving provides a natural yoghurt alternative without additional sugars that's full of protein. Top tip: it tastes great with a teaspoon of peanut butter', shares Xander.

15

munchy seeds Munchy Seeds Mega Omega Pouch

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15

munchy seeds Munchy Seeds Mega Omega Pouch

Now 21% Off

Macros: 5.5g protein, 4.5g carbohydrates, 12g fat

Nutrition wins: An ideal grab-and-go high protein snack, Munchy Seeds Snack Packs are simple, delicious and nutritious.

Each bag contains a combo of crunchy seeds, which are bursting with essential nutrients (including protein), coated in tasty flavourings, such as tamari, salted caramel, roasted honey and warm cinnamon.

Use them as yoghurt-toppers at home or eat straight from the bag.

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16

Quest Tortilla Chips for 8 packs

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16

Quest Tortilla Chips for 8 packs

Macros: 19g protein, 4g carbohydrates, 4.5g fat

Nutrition wins: 'When you're in the mood for a crunchy snack, these are a great go-to. They're high in protein at 19g per serving and offer a great alternative to your typical crisps, which are higher in fat and additives', says Xander.

17

Holland & Barrett Mixed Nuts & Raisins 850g

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17

Holland & Barrett Mixed Nuts & Raisins 850g

Macros: 14g protein, 28g carbohydrates, 32g fat

Nutrition wins: 'The mix of almonds, cashews, walnuts and brazil nuts offer a great mix of vitamins, minerals and proteins, all of which come from natural sources,' says Xander.

18

Myprotein Protein Brownie for box of 12

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18

Myprotein Protein Brownie for box of 12

Macros: 23g protein, 27g carbohydrates, 9.7g fat.

Nutrition wins: 'Enjoy one of these as a treat. They pack a fair protein punch and are deliciously satisfying, but do contain a fair bit of sugar, which it's important to be mindful of', says Xander

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19

ufit UFIT Iced Latte 25g Protein + Coffee Milkshake

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19

ufit UFIT Iced Latte 25g Protein + Coffee Milkshake

Macros: 25g protein, 12.7g carbohydrates, 0.3g fat.

Nutrition wins: Switch up your morning coffee for a protein-packed, post-workout iced latte. This one's made using 100% Arabica Coffee and has no added sugar. Score.

20

moorish Moorish Humous Snack Pack Trio

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20

moorish Moorish Humous Snack Pack Trio

Macros: 3.8g protein, 13g carbohydrates, 15g fat

Nutrition wins: Vegan-friendly and full of natural, plant-based ingredients, chickpea houmous is a good source of fibre (and protein, of course!). And this one is award-winning 🏆

35 high protein snacks for energy from AM to PM (2024)

FAQs

What are high-protein high energy snacks? ›

These are: all meats including lamb, beef, fish and chicken • eggs • nuts, seeds and nut spreads (such as peanut butter) • legumes, such as lentils and baked beans • milk and dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, custard, cheese and milk powder.

What is a good high-protein snack? ›

Healthy snack options that are high in protein include Greek yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, lentil salad, and nut butter on apple slices.

What is a good high-protein snack before bed? ›

The Best High-Protein Healthy Bedtime Snacks
  • ½ Cup Roasted Chickpeas. ...
  • Cottage Cheese With Berries and Nut Butter. ...
  • ½ Cup of Edamame. ...
  • Scrambled Eggs and Whole-Grain Avocado Toast. ...
  • One Ounce of Cheese or 1/4 Cup of Roasted Nuts.
Nov 6, 2019

What is a 25 g protein snack? ›

Greek Yogurt Topped With Walnuts An Apple

Top it with 2-3 tablespoons of crushed walnuts and eat it with sliced apples and you have a snack packed with 25 grams of protein.

What's the best snack for energy? ›

Jump Start Snacks
  1. Nuts. In addition to energy-extending protein and fiber, nuts are full of additional nutrients to refuel your electrolyte supply. ...
  2. Fruit. Soothe your sweet tooth while also boosting energy with the complex healthy carbs in fruit. ...
  3. Yogurt. ...
  4. Dairy. ...
  5. Edamame. ...
  6. Whole Grains. ...
  7. Beans. ...
  8. Lentils.

What are top 10 high-protein foods daily? ›

Top 10 Protein Foods
  • Fish.
  • Seafood.
  • Skinless, white-meat poultry.
  • Lean beef (including tenderloin, sirloin, eye of round)
  • Skim or low-fat milk.
  • Skim or low-fat yogurt.
  • Fat-free or low-fat cheese.
  • Eggs.
Mar 6, 2022

What is the most filling high-protein food? ›

On the satiety index, fish scores higher than all other protein-rich foods, including eggs and beef. Fish had the second highest score of all the foods tested ( 3 ). Another older study compared fish, chicken, and beef protein. The researchers found that fish protein had the strongest effect on satiety ( 25 ).

What chips have the most protein? ›

Which chips have the most protein? On our list of protein chips brands, Quest Nutrition's chips have the highest protein content, with 18 to 20 grams of protein per serving, depending on the flavor.

What can I eat in the morning with high protein? ›

  • Egg Omelet. Eggs are a beloved breakfast food in general, and an excellent healthy choice when trying to get in an extra dose of protein in the morning. ...
  • Greek Yogurt With Chia Seeds and Raspberries. ...
  • Peanut Butter and Banana Sprouted Toast. ...
  • Protein Smoothie. ...
  • Chia Pudding.
Aug 25, 2023

What to eat at 10pm? ›

Here are 14 excellent and healthy late night snack ideas.
  • Tart cherries. Add tart cherries, such as Montmorency, or their juice to your late night snack options. ...
  • Banana with almond butter. ...
  • Kiwi. ...
  • Protein smoothie. ...
  • Goji berries. ...
  • Crackers and cheese. ...
  • Hot cereal. ...
  • Trail mix.

What can I eat at night for protein? ›

What should you eat?
  • poultry.
  • fish and seafood.
  • tofu.
  • legumes, lentils, and peas.
  • Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and ricotta cheese.
  • eggs.
  • nuts.

How do I get a 30g protein snack? ›

For example, Greek yogurt and tofu can have that amount in one serving. What snacks have 30g of protein? Snacks that incorporate at least one animal-based protein or a dairy product—like yogurt or cottage cheese—can get you to 30g of protein in a snack.

What is a 20 g protein snack? ›

For instance, by combining a serving of Greek yogurt with nuts, hard-boiled eggs with cottage cheese, or tuna with edamame, you can create a snack with 20 or more grams of protein.

What foods are good for energy and protein? ›

  • Lean proteins. ...
  • Whole grains and complex carbs. ...
  • Nuts and seeds. ...
  • Water. ...
  • Vitamins and supplements. ...
  • Bananas. ...
  • Oats. ...
  • Chia seeds. While you might not be training for an endurance exercise event, chia seeds may be an excellent source of prolonged energy thanks to carb content, healthy fats, and filling fiber.

What are high energy proteins? ›

High protein foods

High energy foods. • Red meat (e.g. beef, lamb), poultry (e.g. chicken), fish or meat alternatives (e.g. tofu, falafel, seitan, TVP, Quorn) • Eggs.

What are 5 high energy foods? ›

5 Foods to Boost Your Energy
  • Whole-Wheat Bread. The body's primary source of energy is carbs. ...
  • Strawberries. Need an immediate burst of energy? ...
  • Broccoli. Believe it or not, one cooked cup of broccoli actually contains as much vitamin C as an orange. ...
  • Pork. ...
  • Water.

What is an energy dense snack? ›

Energy-dense foods are often equated with being low in nutrients, but this isn't always the case. Foods like peanut butter, hemp seeds and avocados are all higher in calories than, say, kale, but they're also great sources of vitamins, minerals and healthy fats.

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