Protein bars have evolved from niche gym snacks into one of the fastest-growing pillars of the functional food category, appealing to everyone from athletes to wellness-minded shoppers seeking convenient, nutrient-dense options. But as the clean-label bar set becomes increasingly crowded, grocery buyers and shoppers are now asking a crucial question: what’s the next true innovation in functional snacking—and which brands meaningfully stand out?
In reality, most “healthy” protein bars promise high protein and great taste, but few deliver meaningful benefits for long-term health. This gap in the market is exactly what inspired NOVOS Labs to create the first longevity bar—a bar designed to support healthier aging, better energy, and metabolic resilience, not just satisfy macro targets. In this second part of our series comparing today’s leading protein bars, we explore how the NOVOS Bar stacks up against Barebells — and why longevity-driven formulations may become the next go-to for wellness-minded shoppers and a key growth driver for retailers expanding their better-for-you assortments.
Read part one in the series, NOVOS Bar Vs. RXBAR: Which One Truly Supports Healthy Aging?
What Is a Longevity Bar?
Traditional protein bars provide a short-term energy boost or may be designed simply to boost protein intake — whether for muscle growth or weight management. Some older adults increase protein intake to offset age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia), but that’s just one aspect of healthy aging.
Longevity bars, on the other hand, take a different approach. They’re designed for long-term wellness, supporting the biological systems that govern aging.
A longevity bar like the NOVOS Bar includes:
- Functional ingredients designed to influence inflammation, mitochondrial health, and cognition
- Antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress, a key driver of aging
- Essential nutrients that fill common aging-related nutritional gaps
- Formulations based on longevity science, not just macros
The NOVOS Bar defines this new category. Created by longevity experts, a dietitian, and a Michelin-star pastry chef, it combines flavor with evidence-based ingredients. It’s designed to help support cellular health, cognition, and aging resilience — not just physical performance.
Ready to give it a try? Head over to the NOVOS Bar page.
NOVOS Bar Vs. Barebells: Comparison at a Glance
Here’s a quick glimpse at how NOVOS Bar compares to Barebells, based on the Barebells Variety Pack.
| Feature | NOVOS Bar | Barebells |
| Calories | 190–220 | 200 |
| Protein Source | 15g complete plant protein (low in pro-aging amino acids methionine and isoleucine) | 20g milk proteins (casein, whey, collagen; high in pro-aging amino acids) |
| Sugar & Sweeteners | 4g sugar from honey + no artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols | 1g sugar, 5g sugar alcohols (maltitol, a stomach irritant), artificial sweetener sucralose |
| Longevity Ingredients | ✓ Taurine (1.5g), Astaxanthin (3mg), Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps | ✗ None |
| Micronutrient Content | ✓ 50% DV of 21 essential vitamins plus minerals | ✗ Minimal (only calcium, potassium) |
| Functional Mushrooms | ✓ Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps | ✗ None |
| Antioxidants | ✓ Astaxanthin, for skin, longevity & more | ✗ None |
| Flavorings | ✓ Real ingredients, Michelin-chef developed | ✗ Artificial and natural flavors |
| Nutrition Label | ✓ No artificial additives✓ Gluten-free✓ Science-formulated✓ Free of seed oils and fillers | ✗ Includes sucralose, glycerin, maltitol, artificial flavors, sunflower oil |
| Sourcing | ✓ U.S.-made bars with sourcing from trusted global partners | ✗ No specific sourcing disclosed other than manufactured in U.S. or EU |
| Primary Function | ✓ Healthy aging, cognition, skin, mitochondria | General snack |
| Scientific Backing | ✓ Created by longevity scientists, dietitian, Michelin-star chef | ✗ No research-supported formulation |
Ingredient Breakdown: Real Science Vs. Sweet Treat
Barebells bars may have a high protein content, but when it comes to long-term health, there’s much more to consider. From sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners to the absence of micronutrients, Barebells doesn’t measure up to NOVOS Bar as one of the healthiest protein bars.
NOVOS Bar
Designed to promote long-term health and performance, NOVOS includes ingredients found in advanced longevity supplements:
- Taurine (1.5g): Supports mitochondrial health and healthy inflammatory responses
- Astaxanthin (3mg): One of nature’s most potent antioxidants for skin, brain, and mitochondrial health
- Functional mushrooms: Lion’s mane, reishi, and cordyceps for cognitive and immune benefits
- 15g of plant protein: Low in methionine and isoleucine, which may accelerate aging through the activation of mTOR and IGF-1 pathways
- 50% daily value of 21 essential nutrients: Filling nutrient gaps common in aging populations
- Natural sweetness from honey: No artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, or additives
It’s a well-rounded, science-forward bar made to nourish both your body and your cells.
Barebells
Formulated more for mass-market appeal than long-term health, Barebells relies on several processed ingredients and lacks meaningful micronutrient support:
- Protein: 20g of protein from pro-aging milk protein blends and collagen
- 5g of sugar alcohols (maltitol): May cause gastrointestinal issues with frequent use
- Sucralose: An artificial sweetener that may negatively alter appetite signaling and the gut microbiome (as shown in animal studies)
- Artificial flavors, glycerin, polydextrose: Highly processed ingredients with vague composition; may include solvents or emulsifiers to enhance taste and texture that are not aligned with clean-label longevity standards
- Minimal micronutrient content: No meaningful additions
In contrast to NOVOS Bar, which is designed with cellular health in mind, Barebells focuses primarily on protein delivery with added sweeteners and fillers. So, while it may be marketed as one of the best-tasting protein bars, Barebells doesn’t qualify as one of the healthiest protein bars for longevity.
How a Longevity Bar Supports Healthy Aging
So, what makes NOVOS Bar a healthy protein bar? The ingredients speak for themselves:
- Per animal studies, taurine may extend lifespan and improve mitochondrial function.
- Astaxanthin reduces inflammation and oxidative stress and supports skin and brain health.
- Functional mushrooms aid cognition, immunity, and energy regulation.
- The micronutrient blend supports cellular repair, metabolic health, and overall vitality.
In contrast, Barebells’ artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols may compromise gut health, a key component of healthy aging.
NOVOS Longevity Bar Suggested Use
- One bar for a nutrient-rich, functional snack
- Two bars for workout recovery or a meal replacement
- Perfect for busy mornings, midday focus, or nutrition on the go
- Pairs well with other NOVOS products for a complete daily longevity routine
- 12 bars per carton for easy, consistent intake
The Convenience Factor: Function + Flavor
NOVOS Bar is designed to deliver both flavor and functional benefits. Its dessert-like texture was developed by a Michelin-trained chef formerly of The French Laundry. Plus, it’s available in three indulgent flavors — Mixed Berry Crunch, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Crunch, and Salted Chocolate Crunch — without the junk.
Barebells bars, while flavorful, rely heavily on artificial and processed sweeteners to achieve their taste and texture. And the packaging even includes a warning about possible laxative effects from sugar alcohols — not ideal if you’re looking for daily nourishment.
Which Is the Healthiest Protein Bar?
If your goal is short-term satiety or muscle recovery, Barebells may suffice. But if you’re seeking a daily bar that actually contributes to healthy aging, NOVOS Bar is the clear winner.
NOVOS Bar is ideal for:
- Wellness-conscious individuals
- Those focused on longevity and energy optimization
- Biohackers and busy professionals
- Anyone seeking a clean, functional snack
Barebells may satisfy a craving. But NOVOS Bar supports your cells from the inside out.
What’s in Your Daily Bar?
If you’re serious about your healthspan, not just your macros, it’s time to upgrade to a longevity bar. Remember, the best protein bars aren’t just sources of protein. With NOVOS Bar, you get functional snacks that allow you to age well on a cellular level.
Try NOVOS Bar today, and see why we believe it’s the healthiest protein bar on the market. Want to amplify your longevity results? Pair it with longevity science supplements like NOVOS Core for full-body cellular support and functional snacking you can feel good about.
FAQ: NOVOS Longevity Bar Vs. Barebells
What makes NOVOS Bar different from Barebells?
NOVOS is the only bar formulated by longevity scientists with targeted ingredients like taurine, astaxanthin, and mushrooms. Barebells ingredients lack these and include artificial sweeteners.
Is maltitol bad for your gut?
Maltitol, found in Barebells, is a sugar alcohol linked to gas, bloating, and microbiome disruption when overconsumed.
Is NOVOS Bar a snack or a meal replacement?
Both! One bar is a powerful functional snack; two can serve as a light meal, especially after workouts, and amplify your results more quickly (steady energy, fewer cravings, stronger workouts, faster recovery, and more).
Are Barebells protein bar ingredients healthy?
Barebells protein bars’ ingredients include primarily protein. However, these bars also contain artificial sweeteners, minimal micronutrients, and no ingredients shown to support long-term health.
What is the healthiest protein bar for aging?
NOVOS Bar is in a class of its own as the first and only bar designed for aging well. It features complete nutrition, antioxidants, and functional ingredients that support the body on a cellular level.
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