Once targeted mainly at athletes, protein bars have become a mainstream snack choice for a wide range of consumers, from busy professionals to wellness-focused individuals and families. The expectations placed on these products have evolved significantly as they grow in popularity. Today’s consumers want more than just high protein content—they’re looking for clean-label ingredients, reduced sugar, added fiber, and a genuinely enjoyable eating experience.

Flavor and texture are no longer negotiable. Consumers expect indulgent, satisfying snacks that taste as good as traditional treats, without the guilt. At the same time, nutrition remains front and center. This has led to a surge in demand for products that support broader health goals, like digestive wellness, balanced blood sugar, and longer-lasting satiety.

The Fiber Factor: A Nutritional Gap with Big Potential

One of the most important—and often overlooked—components of a healthy diet is dietary fiber. Fiber plays a key role in digestive health, blood sugar management, cholesterol regulation, and even weight control. Despite these well-documented benefits, fiber intake remains consistently low across most populations.

According to the Institute of Medicine, the recommended daily fiber intake is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men. Yet studies show that the average American consumes only about 15 grams per day (WebMD). This gap, commonly referred to as the “fiber gap,” has been linked to increased risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers (Medical News Today).

In response, consumers and brands alike are turning toward “fibermaxxing”—the trend of intentionally increasing fiber intake as part of a proactive approach to long-term health (Real Simple). However, adding fiber to a product like a protein bar isn’t always easy. Many fiber sources can compromise taste or texture, making it difficult to deliver the right balance of functionality and flavor.

GOFOS™: A Modern Ingredient for Smarter Snacking

GOFOS™ is a sweet prebiotic fiber that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and health benefits, replacing sugar without compromising taste or texture. It masks the aftertaste from other sweeteners and provides dietary fiber that supports gut health, an area of increasing interest for consumers focused on overall wellness and immunity.

In protein bars, GOFOS™ (short-chain fructooligosaccharides, or sc-FOS) enhances chocolate coatings, caramel fillings, and base layers, delivering a smooth mouthfeel and clean flavor. It also contributes to bar softness and stability over time, solving common issues like hardening and dryness that affect shelf life.

For formulators, GOFOS™ offers an efficient, multifunctional solution. It supports sugar reduction targets, contributes to digestive health claims, and adds fiber—all while keeping the sensory experience intact. Whether used in high-protein, low-sugar, plant-based, or indulgent bar formats, GOFOS™ helps brands stand out in a crowded and competitive space.

Photo: ““©Galam ,NatalyaBond” “© Shutterstock

As consumers continue to prioritize health and functionality in their food choices, ingredients like GOFOS™ will play a key role in shaping the next generation of protein bars—products that truly deliver on both performance and pleasure.

GOFOS™ is produced by Galam, recognized as the world’s largest manufacturer of fructo-oligosaccharides. Founded in 1940, Galam operates production sites in Europe and the Middle East and also has a US distribution center. Renowned for supplying high-quality functional ingredients, the company maintains a commitment to research-driven innovation, sustainability, and consistent product excellence.  

Interested in trying a sample? Visit the Galam booth at the IFT exhibition, booth number S3842.

www.galamgroup.com