While hustle culture has bitterly taken over our lives, even when some of us are working from home, the energy bar market has boomed. Hustle culture advertises an (unhealthy) lifestyle of accomplishing everything constantly, yet there are often critical things that fall by the wayside—meals included.
While deliciously nutrient-rich meals have been replaced with 200-something calorie-packed brick-shaped bars, there is a silver lining, and it’s the packaging. Energy bars exist to convince you of something, whether it’s how delicious they are, how protein-packed they are, or how you won’t even miss your typical, delightful lunch. Each bar’s packaging exists to share the brand’s message quickly, and I’d argue that protein bars, of all products, have the most convincing to do as meal replacement is not an easy sell.
I’ve rounded up twenty energy bars that each feature gorgeous, compelling, if not convincing, packaging designs. In addition, each is unique, creating a comprehensive list highlighting the importance of storytelling through packaging design.
