One of the most common questions we get about our Macro Mike Indulgence Bars is:
“Why do they have more sugar than other protein bars?”
And honestly? We love when you ask this.
It gives us the chance to explain exactly why our bars aren’t your average protein snack, and why a little bit of the right kind of sugar makes a big difference.
Let’s Clear It Up: Protein Bar vs. Chocolate Bar
Our Indulgence Bars are crafted to be a better-for-you alternative to your classic chocolate bar. They’re designed to hit all the same sweet spots, just with real ingredients, plant-based power, and zero compromises on flavour.
They’re not those dry, chalky, artificial-tasting protein bricks. The Macro Mike Indulgence Bars are the kind of bars that taste indulgent, because they are. Just in a clean, functional, feel-good way.
Where Does the Sugar Come From?
The sweetness in our bars comes from natural, slow-releasing sources like date syrup and brown rice syrup, not refined, ultra-processed sugars like high fructose corn syrup or cane sugar.
Let’s break these down:
🌴 Date Syrup: What it is:
A natural sweetener made by boiling and blending whole dates. It's rich, caramel-like, and made from just one ingredient, dates.
Benefits:
- High in fibre: Supports digestion and slows down sugar absorption, leading to steadier energy.
- Rich in nutrients: Contains potassium, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants, unlike empty-calorie refined sugars.
- Low-to-moderate GI: Provides slower-releasing energy, making it ideal for sustained fuel.
- Natural sweetness, no processing: Since it uses whole fruit, you get all the benefits of the dates in syrup form.
🍯 Rice Brown Sugar: What it is:
Often a less processed alternative to white sugar, derived from rice or simply raw cane sugar with molasses still intact.
Benefits:
- Less refined: Retains some trace minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.
- More flavour depth: Has a richer taste than white sugar, making it satisfying in smaller quantities.
- Natural energy source: Like other wholefood-based sugars, it offers steady energy without the crash.
Why These Sweeteners Matter in a Protein Bar
Using wholefood-derived, low-GI sweeteners like brown rice syrup and date syrup means:
- You avoid the gut issues that come with artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols
- You’re consuming real ingredients with added nutritional value, not just empty calories
But It’s Not Just About Sugar
Sure, our bars have some sugar, but they’ve also got a whole lot more:
✅ 12–13g of complete, plant-based protein
Perfect for recovery, muscle support, or just keeping hunger at bay.
✅ Good fats from real ingredients
Think cashew butter, peanut protein, and other wholesome plant-based sources.
✅ No artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, or fake fibres
Nothing that messes with your gut or leaves a weird aftertaste.
✅ 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and totally plant-based
For any lifestyle, dietary need, or preference.
✅ A treat-like flavour and texture experience
So good it feels like a cheat meal, without being one.
So... How Is It Different from a Chocolate Bar?
The Final Word:
We didn’t set out to make your average “gym bro” protein bar. We created the Macro Mike Indulgence Bar to be something more:
A feel-good, indulgent treat that’s backed by real nutrition.
So yes, there’s sugar, but it’s the good kind. The kind that fuels you, satisfies your cravings, and tastes amazing without relying on artificial junk.
Next time you're reaching for a chocolate bar but want something that nourishes your body, reach for one of our Macro Mike Indulgence Bars instead.