Recently, the protein gnome was ’round our way and dropped off a surprisingly dense package from his friends and ours at Clif. Inside, we found an intimidating stack of the Californian company’s new Builder’s Protein Bars. Despite a number of tasty-sounding flavors (Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies ‘n’ Cream, Crunchy Peanut Butter, S’mores, and Vanilla Almond) it would be a lie to say that we dove right in. After all, recovery food isn’t expected to be tasty, is it?
Well, we needn’t have worried. The bars–now available in 10g, 20g, and 30g sizes–are pretty darn tasty. Especially the Chocolate Mint. Hit the jump to find out more.
Taking on some protein and carbohydrates post-ride is never a bad idea. It helps the body to recover and the rider to be ready for the next day’s ride. That said, not everyone is looking to maximize muscle growth or is even particularly hungry after riding. 
As a result, Clif have broken the Builder’s line into three sizes:
- The 10g Builder’s Snack Size: when you want something smaller that also packs a protein punch, CLIF BUILDER’S Snack Size delivers with 130-140 calories, 10 grams of complete protein, and the vitamins and minerals you need to boost protein metabolism. 10 bars for $10
- The 20g Builder’s Protein Bar has 20g of complete protein, the vitamins and minerals you need to boost protein metabolism, and carbohydrates for sustained energy. BUILDER’S never contains ingredients like artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols or trans fats. $2 apiece
- The 30g Builder’s Max has 30g of TriBuild Protein Blend, crafted to promote muscle growth and available from April. $2.70 apiece.
So there you have it. Three different protein bars to help you recover or, if like me you tire of your arms being mocked by preteen girls, to build muscle. In keeping with their usual approach, Clif maximizes organic content wherever it makes sense and the ingredients are few and pronounceable. Best of all, eating them isn’t a chore.
marc
