SOYJOY Gluten-Free Snack Bar: Travels Well

We're fortunate to have a wide range of tasty gluten-free snack bars to choose from these days. Personally, I'm a big fan of Larabars and Kind fruit and nut bars, and my son likes all the EnviroKidz crispy rice snack bars. I hadn't tried SOYJOY bars until recently, when a company representative sent me their new Pineapple flavor to try. 

They are very different from any snack bar I've ever had...a very different consistency. Not better, not worse...just different. It's hard to explain, so I'd encourage you to try one of their seven flavors for yourself if you have the opportunity. You'll know with the first bite or two if you're a fan. Chances are, you'll like the flavor (choices are blueberry, banana, strawberry, apple, berry, mango coconut, and the new pineapple). It's the texture and consistency that you might have to get used to...perhaps an acquired taste...at least it was for me. It's a small bar and somewhat dry, but flavorful. The thing I liked is that they don't get crushed like some softer snack bars or melt on the outside like others coated or drizzled in chocolate. In other words, they travel well, and that's important...because after all, what gluten-free guy or girl on-the-go doesn't carry a small snack or two with them at all times? 

And SOYSOY seems healthier than most other bars. It's baked with whole soy and real fruit -- and minimally processed -- so you get an all-natural and powerful combination of protein, fiber and other nutrients, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. That's a lot better than some other snack bars which are more like glorified desserts, full of sugar and carbs but not much in the way of nutritional value. The pineapple bar I tried has 4 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, and only 140 calories. I like that SOYJOY does not contain any artificial colors, flavors, or trans fats -- all of which I try to avoid. But one word of warning for any of you with peanut allergies: While the bars do not contain peanuts, the label clearly states that SOYJOY is manufactured on equipment that also processed peanuts and tree nuts.

SOYJOY is not the most filling snack, because it's small...but it still did a good job of tying me over to my next meal, probably because of the high amount of protein and fiber. I'd recommend trying one of the bars for a new taste and new healthy snack option. SOYJOY bars are relatively easy to find, too. They're sold at various grocery, health, and natural food stores around the country for $1.29 per bar. There's a handy store locator on the top right of their home page. 

I'd love to know what YOU think -- if and when you try a SOYJOY bar. Let me know your favorite flavor and when you enjoy them...breakfast?...mid-afternoon snack?...when traveling?...or as a meal substitute when you're stuck without gluten-free options?