Analysis of protein content in protein bars, mixed and vegetable, and animal origin from labeling to legislation.

Introduction: Protein-based bars have gained prominence among practitioners of physical activity. Despite its popularity, it is necessary to investigate the labeling to verify if the amount of protein instituted on the label matches the amount analyzed in the laboratory, also analyzing whether the proposed requirements for the labeling of this value are within the specifications intended for these products. Objective: To determine the amount of proteins through the Kjeldahl method and to analyze if the proposed requirements for the labeling are within the specifications intended for these products. Materials and methods: The protein bars were purchased in specialized stores located in the Americana-SP region, with six different brands. The samples were analyzed in quintuplicates, by the Kjeldahl method, at the laboratory of the FAM American College. Labeling analysis was carried out based on current legislation, using SPSS software version 26.0, with Anova One Way test. Results: In the quantitative analysis, two bars did not reach the protein tolerance limit, and in the qualitative analysis, three labels did not meet the labeling specifications. Conclusion: All bars had similar amounts of protein, regardless of origin: vegetable, mixed or animal. However, irregularities were detected regarding the protein content analyzed and the labeling specifications, not having satisfactory research results in all analyzed brands.