Invest With Caution: MET-Rx Big 100

MET-Rx is one of those supplement companies we’ve all heard of. They are one of the big boys in the industry, so it’s no surprise they are able to find ways to produce tasty merchandise. In fact, of all the supplements I’ve tried, I’m partial to MET-Rx items simply because their stuff doesn’t taste like tree bark.

I recently tried their “new and improved” Big 100 Colossal bar. This is a meal replacement supplement, not to be confused with a post-workout protein bar. Unfortunately, Met-Rx does little to let the consumer know about this. That is, of course, unless you consider the 4 millimeter wide by 1.5 inch long fine print message reading “Meal Replacement Bar” near the side bend of the wrapper to be an adequate signal.

Here’s my problem with this product: 6 grams of saturated fat, 570 milligrams of sodium, 30 milligrams of cholesterol, and it’s marketed with the other MET-Rx protein supplements. For what it is–a meal replacement bar–this is not such an unhealthy item. The problem is that many people will see this big bar from a reputable company positioned next to all the other protein bars, and the first thing to catch their eye will be the 31 grams of protein versus 0 grams of trans fat clearly noted on the wrapper. And before we blame GNC for improper placement, it should be noted that MET-Rx’s website also lists this item under its “Muscle Mass and Strength” category.

The Big 100 does, however, taste good. It also provides a nice combination of protein and carbohydrates, in addition to decent amounts of vitamins A, C, E, B-6, and B-12, calcium, iron, and phosphorous, as well as other minerals. Therefore, if a consumer is on a diet that includes substituting a meal for a replacement bar, this would probably be a good one.

Take Away: Weightlifters who are just looking for additional protein should look for a protein bar without the saturated fat, cholesterol, or sodium of this one. But, if a meal replacement bar is what you need, this is certainly one that won’t discourage the taste buds. Individual bars run around $2.60, with boxes going for $34, give or take.