Review: Yubi’s Dark Choc Matcha protein bar

Reviewing a new protein bar is always a highlight for me. I have a long-standing addiction to these snacks because they offer a handy, rewarding treat that just happens to be packed with protein. When Yubi sent customers an email about a limited-edition Matcha Dark Chocolate bar, I did not hesitate. This bar features genuine Japanese matcha wrapped in a dark chocolate coating, promising a more sophisticated experience than the usual overly sweet alternatives.

The Golden Ratio

The first thing to note about these bars is their size. At 35 grams, they are relatively small compared to some of the heavyweights on the market. However, the nutritional profile is where they truly shine. For every 35-gram bar, you get 10 grams of protein for only 99 calories. While this might not reach the 20-gram threshold some look for in a meal replacement, it hits the golden ratio of 1 gram of protein per 10 calories perfectly. It is a macro-smashing snack that fits easily into a calorie-controlled diet.

The taste is where Yubi really separates itself from the competition. I have been quite critical of certain high-profile vegan protein bars recently, but I have nothing to grumble about here. The Matcha Dark Chocolate bar is genuinely tasty and moreish. The combination of matcha and dark chocolate creates a sophisticated, earthy flavour profile. There is no tricking your brain into thinking you have not had a treat; the taste stimulation is distinct and satisfying.

The Brains Behind the Boom

If you look at the Yubi website, you might notice a lack of a traditional about us page. There is little information about the founders or the company’s history. However, the contact details indicate that Yubi is part of Bar1 Brands, which is in turn part of the Nutreelife family. Nutreelife is a significant player in the UK plant-based protein market, manufacturing a wide variety of diet, keto, and meal-replacement bars.

Knowing this manufacturer connection explains why these bars are of such high quality. It feels as though we have bypassed the middlemen and gone straight to the brains behind the current plant-based protein boom in the UK. They clearly have the science of the protein bar down to a fine art. While I would love to see Yubi double the bar’s size to create a 200-calorie version with 20 grams of protein, these 99-calorie versions are a clear success.

I have more analysis on macros and sizes on our longstanding “Which is best?” page.

Overall

Yubi’s Matcha Dark Chocolate bar is a triumph for the brand and a great reason to join their mailing list. It is a clever, well-executed snack that proves vegan protein does not have to be chalky or bland. Definitely a brand to check out.