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When it comes to on-the-go nutrition, the best protein bars can be great snacks, capable of providing well-rounded macronutrient profiles to keep you satiated in-between meals. These snacks, however, are commonly offered in sweet profiles like Chocolate, Peanut Butter, or Oatmeal Raisin, leaving savory-centric palates without many options. Epic bars from Epic Provisions, though, offer unique tastes that read like they’re right off the wall of your favorite barbecue joint. Don’t let the meat-based flavors fool you, though, this isn’t a beef jerky company.
Given their reliance on meat-based protein with few carbs per bar, Epic protein bars can be excellent picks for keto diet followers—or those just wanting a healthy snack without a sugary makeup. But can these Bison-, Beef-, Pork-, and Chicken-flavored meat bars work for everyone’s tastebuds? That’s where we come in with this Epic protein bar review.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider. GGR also recommends choosing a product that has been third-party tested for quality.
Dozens of Bars, Tested and Reviewed
Our testing roster includes certified nutrition coaches, registered dietitians, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts, among other experts. Over the years, we’ve been able to trial more than 50 different protein bars from a range of brands, covering everything from the best low-calorie protein bars to the best bars for muscle gain, meal replacement, and more. Using these past experiences for guidance, as well as our supplement testing methodology, we examined these Epic protein bars in multiple categories, rating the snacks on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Such categories include:
- Ingredients list: Do these bars have a ton of added ingredients, or are they fairly straightforward?
- Macronutrients: What do these snacks deliver in terms of protein, carbs, fat, and calories?
- Taste: Would you want to eat these Epic bars on a regular basis?
- Texture: Is it easy to get through a bar, or is it a jawline workout with little payoff?
- Side effects: How did we feel after consuming these unique meat-based protein bars?
Epic Protein Bars
Product Highlights
- Grass-fed jerky bars
- Paleo-friendly
- Whole30-compliant
- Dairy-free
- Gluten-free
- 8-15 g of protein per bar
Pros
- Very unique protein bar option
- Great to pack for outdoor hikes and activities or bring on-the-go
- Appeals to many different lifestyles including paleo, Whole30, keto, and dairy-free
- Great flavor combos
- Soft texture (not like regular beef jerky)
- 9 flavor options
- Humane grass-fed beef sources
Cons
- Have a different texture than typical protein bars
- Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
- Some flavors are kind of greasy
When you think of protein bars you might consider the word sweet, but savory and spicy probably wouldn’t normally come to mind. EPIC Nutrition is working on changing that up and improving meat-based protein options on the market while also maintaining a high level of respect for the animals and environments that they live in.
A Quick Look at Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bars
Epic Provisions produces a variety of animal-based snacks and treats. Aside from its lineup of Epic protein bars, the brand also offers protein bites, crisps, snack strips, and more along with jarred bone broth and animal fats. Additionally, the brand partners with organizations such as Stripe Climate and Land to Market to help give back and support the ecosystems their very products are sourced from.
Epic protein bars are available in 10 different flavors including Bison Bacon Cranberry, Beef Salt and Pepper, Chicken Sriracha, and more. Additionally, the seasonings (which can include such ingredients as cultured celery powder, brown sugar, and red pepper, depending on flavor) make these available profiles some of the best-tasting protein bars we’ve had in testing. “The flavors are robust and balanced—a real treat for meat eaters looking for an alternative to your standard beef jerky,” says GGR expert contributor and certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto.
While macronutrient counts vary by flavor, you can expect upwards of 12 grams of protein, 8 grams of carbs, and 12 grams of fat per bar. The low-carb makeup also makes Epic bars some of the best snacks for keto athletes. Ingredients-wise, these protein bars use whole-food sources, ideal for those following the paleo diet.
RELATED: Best Low-Carb Protein Bars
Lastly, Epic protein bars are available in 12-bar packages for roughly $32. The brand does offer variety packs, too, in case you like to mix up your tastes every now and again. While the $2.67 cost per serving is a little steep, Epic Provisions offers a “Subscribe & Save” service that can save athletes 10% on repeat orders delivered on your preferred schedule.
Before You Buy
- These protein bars are a smaller snack, so keep that in mind if you have a larger appetite.
- Only a select few flavors feature zero added sugars—be sure to read the full ingredients list if you’re looking for the best low-sugar protein bars for your diet.
- Naturally, the use of meat-based protein sources means these protein bars are not suitable for plant-based athletes.
Are Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bars Worth It?
While these keto-friendly, paleo-friendly protein bars can be worthwhile options for savory-driven athletes, they may not appeal to everyone looking for tasty protein treats. Below are a few camps we feel could benefit from Epic protein bars, as well as a handful that may be better off with a different product.
Great for:
- Athletes wanting a break from sweet-flavored protein bars
- Individuals aiming for a low-carb diet
- People who value the use of natural ingredients over artificial fillers and sweeteners
Not recommended for:
- Budget-minded individuals seeking a protein bar under $2.67 per serving
- Vegan athletes abstaining from meat-based products
- People who intend to use protein bars as a calorie-rich meal replacement
Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bar Specs
| Price Per Serving | $2.67 |
| Calories | 90-170 (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Protein Per Serving | 7-12g (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Carbs Per Serving | 1-8g (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Fat Per Serving | 5-12g (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Dietary Fiber Per Serving | <1-3g (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Protein Source | Bison, Beef, Pork, Grass-fed venison, Chicken, Grass-fed beef (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Available Flavors | Bison Bacon Cranberry, Venison Sea Salt & Pepper, Chicken Sriracha, Beef Uncured Bacon Apple, Uncured Bacon & Pork, Beef Sea Salt & Pepper, Beef Jalapeno, Beef Barbacoa-Inspired, Chicken BBQ Seasoned, Bison with Beef & Salt & Pepper |
| Suitable For | Whole 30, Keto, Gluten-free, Paleo |
Experience Trying Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bars
GGR contributor and certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto tested these Epic protein bars on a few occasions, providing her insight on each protein snack’s taste, texture, and overall effects. As a certified nutrition coach and admitted fan of Epic Provisions, I, too, weighed in on this review. Leaning on past experiences with these protein bars—and a quick Amazon order prior to writing this content—we rated Epic bars in a handful of categories, using a simplified scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).
Price Per Serving
A taste test or experimental trial can’t begin until you’ve purchased the product itself, right? Epic protein bars are currently listed on the brand’s site for $31.99 per 12-bar package. This equates to a cost per serving of roughly $2.67. In my experience, I feel this pricing is par for the course, especially given the uniqueness of the bars themselves, as well as their use of natural ingredients over artificial fillers. I also appreciate that Epic Provisions offers a “Subscribe & Save” service that knocks 10% off your order total when you sign up for repeat deliveries.
I rate the price per serving at a conservative 3.75 out of 5, though, since there are cheaper bars offering higher protein counts per serving. Plus, while the brand does offer a Variety Pack—my recommended route for Epic Provisions newcomers—the bundle doesn’t include every available taste. To try the gamut, you need to purchase a full box of each available flavor (and hope you enjoy it).
Formulation and Ingredients
In terms of the formulation, I do appreciate that each Epic protein bar features a well-rounded macronutrient profile. Fat and carb counts aren’t too staggering, and you can expect up to 12 grams of protein per handheld snack. Given the meat-centric makeup, though, you can expect some high sodium counts. For example, the listed sodium content in the Venison Sea Salt & Pepper bar is 750 milligrams, or 33% of your daily value2. This could be a detriment to those monitoring their blood pressure on a daily basis, so I score the formulation at 4 out of 5.
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Additionally, I dock points for the formulation given that these aren’t the most protein-dense bars I’ve seen. The maximum 12 grams can be fine for a midday snack, but may be less than suitable for a full-blown meal replacement. The best high protein bars can offer 20 grams or more per serving, so if you’re looking to boost your muscle-growing capacity (or just want to stay fuller for longer) I recommend opting for one of those particular treats.
Epic bars also earn high praise for the ingredients list, which I rate at 4 out of 5, as well. The listed ingredients are digestible (pun intended) and you can quickly recognize what’s actually featured in your protein bar. Spices like black pepper, cumin, paprika, and others feel like they’re straight from your kitchen cabinet. The meat options aren’t confusing, either—a Beef-flavored bar contains actual beef.
Epic protein bars also feature encapsulated lactic acid in each protein bar, which acts as a bio-based preservative to improve shelf life, according to recent studies1. According to the brand, the encapsulated lactic acid is not sourced from milk—a positive note for lactose-sensitive individuals.
Taste and Texture
Now, we’re getting somewhere. In my experience with these protein bars, I’ve yet to find a flavor I wouldn’t have again. Of course, you do need to enjoy meat-based dishes, but there is a good distinction from one meat source to the next. I’ve had some jerky brands where you can’t tell the chicken from the bison from the pork. Each taste with this Epic lineup, though, is rich and only enhanced through the natural spices.
Amanda Capritto, GGR contributor and certified personal trainer, agrees. “I love all of the available flavors with my all-time favorite being the Bison Bacon Cranberry,” she states. “I like the robust notes and don’t feel like any particular bar is overpowering.” As such, we rate the taste at a perfect 5 out of 5.
In terms of texture, these bars have a chewy mouthfeel that’s moister than your average jerky stick. I’d compare them to Jack Links Steak Strips, which is fitting given their similar appearance. Amanda adds, “There’s definitely a meat texture, but not quite like jerky. It’s not bad, just particular.”
Now, I’ve been eating jerky-like snacks for ages (and even make my own during successful hunting seasons), so I wasn’t put off by the chewy sensation. However, we’ll score the texture at 4 out of 5 and recognize that this may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you are worried of the drier texture, especially when transitioning off traditional protein bars, we recommend having your best sports drink handy as an accompanying beverage.
Side Effects
After consuming these protein bars on a regular basis—even overindulging on multiple bars after long stretches between whole-food meals—I’m happy to report no unwanted side effects. These Epic bars did a quality job of keeping me satiated, and there were no stomach rumblings post-snack. As such, I score the side effects at 5 out of 5.
Naturally, though, my experiences don’t illustrate every potential outcome with these bars. Remember, they are primarily made up of meat, so if you’re sensitive to beef, chicken, pork, venison, or bison, you may experience some GI distress. This is also a (very) apparent reason why they’re less effective for vegan athletes. Don’t worry though—we have a full round-up of the best vegan protein bars for those specific dietary restrictions.
Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bars vs Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars
Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars
Product Highlights
- Protein bar with grass-fed whey protein isolate
- 15 g of protein
- No artificial sweeteners, flavors, or preservatives
- Available in Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
Pros
- Grass-fed whey protein isolate
- No artificial sweeteners, flavors, or preservatives
- Balanced macro profile
Cons
- Pricier protein bar
- Only one flavor
- Not as much protein as other bars
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars are a protein bar with no artificial ingredients. With 15 grams of protein, the protein bar claims to have a balanced macronutrient profile—23 grams of carbs and 16 grams of fat. While the protein content could be a bit higher, the protein is high-quality, coming from grass-fed whey isolate.
Admittedly, finding a comparable product to Epic protein bars can be tricky. After all, how many protein bars do you know that are primarily meat-based? So, to offer something, we decided to compare Epic bars to one of our favorite all-around protein bars: Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars from Transparent Labs.
These Transparent Labs protein snacks are offered in four sweet flavors, which is a smaller taste roster than that of Epic Provisions. However, the calories, protein, carbs, and fat per serving may be more appealing, especially for those relying on protein bars as a full-blown meal replacement. You can find other comparable specs in the chart below.
RELATED: Transparent Labs Discount Code
| Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bars | Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars | |
| Price Per Serving | $2.67 | $3.33 |
| Calories | 90-170 (depending on chosen flavor) | 270-280 (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Protein Per Serving | 7-12 g (depending on chosen flavor) | 15-16 g (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Carbs Per Serving | 1-8 g (depending on chosen flavor) | 20-23 g (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Fat Per Serving | 5-12 g (depending on chosen flavor) | 15-17 g (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Dietary Fiber Per Serving | <1-3 g (depending on chosen flavor) | 3-4 g (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Protein Source | Bison, Beef, Pork, Grass-fed venison, Chicken, Grass-fed beef (depending on chosen flavor) | Peanut butter, Almond butter, Grass-fed whey protein isolate, Egg white protein (depending on chosen flavor) |
| Available Flavors | Bison Bacon Cranberry, Venison Sea Salt & Pepper, Chicken Sriracha, Beef Uncured Bacon Apple, Uncured Bacon & Pork, Beef Sea Salt & Pepper, Beef Jalapeno, Beef Barbacoa-Inspired, Chicken BBQ Seasoned, Bison with Beef & Salt & Pepper | Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Dark Chocolate Almond, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel |
| Suitable For | Whole 30, Keto, Gluten-free, Paleo | Gluten-free |
Customer Experience
The customer experience you have with Epic protein bars can vary depending on your retailer of choice. For example, we ordered a Variety Pack through the brand’s Amazon storefront and the next-day shipping had the tasty bars on our doorstep in 24 hours. We do appreciate, though, that Epic Provisions offers a “Find a Retailer” tab at the top of its retail site that maps out in-person and online sales locations—perfect if you can’t wait for shipping.
If you have a specific question about Epic bars, you can contact the brand using the “Contact Us” tab located at the bottom of epicprovisions.com.
Ordering Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bars
You can purchase Epic protein bars directly from the brand’s online retail site. Epic bars can also be found on select third-party retailers such as Amazon, Target, and Thrive Market, among others. In our experience, though, it may be best to look at all options prior to placing an order, especially if you’re seeking a specific flavor option.
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It can also be worthwhile to opt for purchases through Epic Provisions if you plan to utilize the brand’s “Subscribe & Save” service that can help you save 10% on repeat deliveries. We’ve found similar subscription offerings on Amazon, but the platform isn’t available for every package.
Customer Reviews
You’ll find generally positive responses when looking at customer-derived product reviews on Epic protein bars. For example, the Bar Variety Pack listed on the brand’s retail site currently holds an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 53 reviews. One customer states, “These bars are really delicious and a good snack to incorporate into a keto diet.”
Naturally, some flavors generate more buzz than others, but we’ve yet to find a product with resoundingly negative responses. The lowest overall rating was for the Bison with Beef & Salt & Pepper flavor—a 3.3-out-of-5 rating based on just 9 reviews. Overall, we score the customer responses at 4.4 out of 5.
Final Verdict of Our Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bars Review
For those wanting a savory protein snack without a trip to the deli or butcher, Epic protein bars can be an excellent option. The chewy texture and robust flavors make every bite enjoyable, and the natural ingredients leave little questions as to what’s actually in your protein bar of choice. While not for every diet plan or nutritional need, these keto-friendly, paleo-friendly treats can be a refreshing addition to your daily meal planning.
Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bars
These savory meat-based protein bars offer up unique flavors with up to 12 grams of protein per serving. Each Epic Protein Bar is loaded with natural ingredients, too, making them excellent picks for Whole 30, keto, paleo, and gluten-free athletes.
Product Brand: Epic Provisions
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 31.99
Product In-Stock: InStock
Epic Provisions Epic Protein Bar FAQs
Are Epic Protein Bars actually good for you?
Determining whether Epic protein bars are “good for you” can be subjective as it depends greatly on your current nutritional status as well as your personal food sensitivities. From a granular perspective, these bars are made from natural ingredients and can deliver upwards of 170 calories, 12 grams of protein, 8 grams of carbs, and 12 grams of fat per bar.
What are the main ingredients in Epic Protein Bars?
Epic bars can vary from flavor to flavor. In addition to the main meat source of a bar, you’ll find a variety of spices as well as encapsulated lactic acid—a bio-based polymer that’s added to help preserve the protein bar and promote freshness.
How much do Epic Protein Bars cost?
Epic protein bars are available online for $31.99 per 12-bar box. This equates to a cost per serving of roughly $2.67, although some may be able to find cheaper pricing depending on your retailer of choice.
Do Epic Protein Bars go bad?
Eventually, yes. However, due to the encapsulated lactic acid used in their formulation, Epic protein bars can have a long shelf life. Of course, though, be sure to read the “Best By” date listed on the packaging prior to eating one of these protein snacks.
References
- Ribeiro, L. L., Araújo, G. P., de Oliveira Ribeiro, K., Torres, I. M., De Martinis, E. C., Marreto, R. N., & Alves, V. F. (2021). Use of encapsulated lactic acid bacteria as bioprotective cultures in fresh Brazilian cheese. Brazilian Journal of Microbiology, 52(4), 2247–2256. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8578368/
- Program, H. F. (2024, March 5). Sodium in your diet. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-education-resources-materials/sodium-your-diet
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