Protein products take over grocery store shelves

When trying for a healthy lifestyle, a lot of people might want to up their protein intake. An easy way to do this is to reach for a protein bar, but not everyone wants to choke down a chalky block of pure protein. In response to these problems companies have expanded their products past just bars and shakes. The protein market now covers almost every part of the food industry. Everything from cereal to ice cream has a high protein alternative.

Companies who specialize in protein alternatives like Barbells have gotten creative with the products they produce. Their new “protein soda” is peaking the interest of many consumers. At first, it sounds like a good idea. A product that is a high protein option of a common drink. On the other hand, it raises some questions about whether or not every food or drink needs to be high in protein.

When you give consumers a “healthier option” for food, it will lead people away from the original product. It seems like a good idea in theory, that people get away from “junk food” or overly sugary products, but these products aren’t as healthy as companies are pushing them to be. Protein companies know that when people see high protein on the label, the consumer will automatically believe that the item is healthier than its original.

These protein products tend to have large amounts of added sugar, high calories, and overall are very processed. When looking at protein products, compared to their originals, the nutritional value isn’t that different . The protein version of products might seem healthier just from the label, however it is more common for people to be consuming these versions on a daily basis. When comparing this to people having a treat once a week, the high protein version might not be the healthier option.

It’s not to say that protein products shouldn’t exist, and people should only consume regular products. But rather, take a step back, and pay attention to how these products are consumed. People should be more aware that these products are not meant to replace the originals, and should be consumed with just as much care as any other food.