What's Actually In Built Bar?

Exact ingredients in Built Bar differ based on flavor. However, most of the major components are consistent across variations. Here, we've broken down the ingredient list for one of the brand's most popular flavors, German Chocolate Cake.

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Full Ingredient List: Protein Blend (Whey Protein Isolate, Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate), Water, Dark Chocolate (Sugar, Chocolate Liquor, Cocoa Butter, Milkfat, Soy Lecithin, Vanilla), Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin, Glycerin, Erythritol, Gelatin, Natural Flavor, Citric Acid.

Ingredient Breakdown

Below, we've listed out each ingredient in Built Bar and its purpose in the bar.

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Whey Protein Isolate + Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate

There are two kinds of whey protein in Built Bar: whey protein isolate and partially hydrolyzed whey protein. 

Whey protein isolate is a milk by-product that, through processing, has a reduced amount of lactose (under 1%) and an increased amount of protein (around 90% pure protein) compared to other forms of whey. Because of the lower levels of lactose and increased protein content, whey protein isolate is thought of as a more "pure" protein source. Although whey protein isolate still contains milk, it is often better tolerated by those with allergies or sensitivities to lactose. 

On the other hand, partially hydrolyzed whey is a form of protein that is partially digested, causing the protein to be broken into smaller fragments and absorbed by the body faster. This form of whey is more easily digestible and is often used in infant formula because of its similar protein structure to human milk. In comparison to whey protein isolate, hydrolyzed whey has been shown to spur muscle recovery more quickly. It is also more expensive than the two other forms of whey, which is why it’s often combined with other types of whey, like in Built Bar. 

Water

Good ol’ H2O. We’re big fans of the stuff over here at Supwell. But why is water in a Built Bar might you ask?

Water is added to products like protein bars in an effort to keep the bar soft between the time it is produced in a factory and the moment you rip open the wrapper to take a bite. 

Dark Chocolate (Sugar, Chocolate Liquor, Cocoa Butter, Milkfat, Soy Lecithin, Vanilla)

Chocolatey goodness. The German Chocolate Built Bar is covered in a layer of chocolate promising to taste just as good as your favorite piece of German chocolate cake. Almost. 

The dark chocolate in Built Bar contains typical dark chocolate ingredients like cocoa butter and sugar, but adds in milkfat, likely for a more widely palatable milk-chocolate taste. Vanilla is also added, again, to enhance the flavor and reduce the bitterness of dark chocolate. 

Soy lecithin is a soy-derived food additive common in chocolate that helps bind the ingredients together to achieve a melt-in-your mouth chocolatey texture. It also helps extend the shelf-life of the chocolate product. 

Digestion Resistant Maltodextrin

Digestion resistant maltodextrin is a type of non-digestible fiber commonly derived from wheat or corn. Because it’s the non-digestible form of maltodextrin, it doesn’t contain any carbs or calories, but functions instead as a fiber supplement. Hint: it helps keep you regular and increases satiety (i.e., helping you feel fuller).  

Glycerin

Glycerin is a plant derivative commonly obtained from soybeans. It’s used primarily as a preservative in food products. In Built Bar, it’s likely used to retain moisture and preserve shelf-life. 

Pecans, Cocoa + Coconut

German chocolate cake is a traditional chocolate cake layered between swirls of coconut pecan custard. Kudos to Built Bar for including real pecans, cocoa and coconut to capture that unique German chocolate cake flavor. 

Fun fact: German chocolate cake isn’t German. It’s named after Sam German, an Englishman, who invented sweetened chocolate for baking. 

Erythritol

Erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener and food additive popular in diet and health foods. It has been known to cause some digestive upset so beware if you have a sensitive tummy. 

Gelatin

Gelatin, an animal derivative, used to enhance texture in food is often added to protein bars like Built Bar in an effort to add moisture. The addition of gelatin makes Built Bar unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans and those who adhere to a kosher diet. 

Natural Flavor

According to the FDA, natural flavors are substances that derive their aroma or flavor from plant or animal sources. Your guess is as good as ours. 

Citric Acid 

A derivative of citrus fruits, citric acid is a flavoring and preservative used in food. Here, we expect it’s the latter. 

Key Takeaway

Built Bar contains a mixture of functional and flavor-oriented ingredients. While it does contain additives and preservatives like erythritol and glycerin, this product still has its place on the shelf of a health-concious eater.

If you're trying to cut calories, Built Bar might not be for you. However, if you're looking to bulk up or fuel a high intensity workout quickly, Built Bar may be a good choice. For the calorie conscious, consider lighter options like Aloha. Vegan eaters should also look for alternatives, as Built Bar contains dairy and other animal by-products.