A few weeks back, I was scrolling Instagram and stumbled upon @vukoobar. Actually, I don’t remember if they stumbled upon me, or if I stumbled upon them but nonetheless, we connected and I’m so glad we did!
My first question? What the heck is Vukoo. Obviously, I was intrigued but honestly thought it was just another word someone created to 1) pique the interest of IG-ers like myself (it worked ha!) and 2) to distinguish themselves from the candy protein bar giants flooding IG feeds everywhere. Not the case -
Vukoo, v.: For You to Recognize and Act Upon Your Greatness and Potential from Within.
My interest was piqued, but I still wanted to learn more and so meandered over to their site, where I read this:
“… a bar that encompasses who you are as a person and what you stand for.”
Instantly captivated. Thoughts? I want to learn more about this Aspen-based company and the brains behind it.
Enter: Christopher. He’s done fitness shows and shoots, but that’s not what drew me to his brand. Sure, we share in wanting to “take care of our bodies, look after [and achieve optimal] health, get lean & build muscle and nourish ourselves with the best quality foods and premium ingredients.” What’s more is that Vukoo is his PASSION, his DREAM, his whole LIFE (says he), and I love being able to connect with people with the shared value of chasing their meaning and creating both value beyond themselves and the life they dream of living. He appreciates balancing your physique with your health and lifestyle but acknowledges that it’s not the former the brings you happiness. Basically, his mindset is bomb (as evidenced by the unique flavor names of his bars - see below) in that he embraces that of a champion, which is key, because champions always win.
Christopher kindly offered to send me a sample of bars, of which Vukoo offers three (3) varieties:
- SIGBU (Success Is Getting Back Up): organic coconut & toasted carob
- NEGU (Never, Ever Give Up): Colorado Wildflower honey & almond
- BIYU (Believe In Yourself, Understand?): organic dark chocolate, almond & organic coconut
A little bit more about the bars…
- Gluten Free
- High in protein with >19 grams per bar
- Have only the highest-grade whey protein
- Soy- and lactose-free
- 10g+ fiber per bar
- Free of added sugars & sweeteners
- Preservative-free & perishable- this is a good thing! It means you are eating real food. #JERF
- Keep refrigerated and/or frozen for optimal freshness.
I received a sample of the SIGBU bars. Verdict? Delish. And that’s coming from a protein bar snob ha.
My pro/con list for things tends to be decently well-balanced; I know what I like and what I don’t. But, I liked loved everything about these bars! I was super impressed with the label; not just the quality ingredients, but a good balance of carbs/fat/protein without tons of unnecessary fat, sugar and cals. The SIGBU bar is a ME Label Rule win at just 7g net carbs and just 5g of fat. Total carbs - dietary fiber (incl. sugar alcohols, when applicable) - protein should be less than 10 for fat loss; also <15g fat. A great option for post-workout, a quickie breakfast or… anytime!
Texture is en pointe and Vukoo nailed it with the flavor. I loved the texture from the shredded coconut, but am admittedly not a chocolate person so thought I’d like NEGU better. I haven’t tried NEGU yet so cannot say if that’ll be the case, but loved the subtle not too sweet flavor of SIGBU. Think rich, decadent cocoa vs. super sweet chocolate that leaves your teeth feeling sugar-coated, your belly feeling ‘blah,’ an artificial aftertaste and insatiable cravings for more. I tend to not like sweets and hate how mass-manufactured protein bars have really just become glorified candy bars, but Vukoo has definitely hit a home run with these.
Let’s move onto the 100% recyclable packaging, which itself is worth a review. Vukoo is the first “boxed” protein bar comprised of two pieces that pull out from each other. It’s super cute and I love their meaningful logo! A hand with a heart in the palm, it stands for applying ACTION and working towards what is within you; pursuing greatness.
As you know, I love supporting #foodwithamission. Like NuttZo & Project Left Behind, Vukoo has partnered with The A21 Campaign to help fight human trafficking, and gives $0.21 per bar to the cause.
Before wrapping things up, I want to address cost because that will inevitably come up. The bars are expensive, yes. Good food is expensive yes, but also worth it. Because while there is certainly a time and a place for traditional medicine, so much can be prevented through and helped by lifestyle choices including your diet (and exercise). You choose what you put into your mouth. I always say I’d rather spend money on good food now than on medical bills later. And I also always say do your best with what you can afford, and with what’s available to you. I’m on a budget, too. I get it. I do. But before you turn your nose up at the price tag, realize that these bars can serve as a meal replacement. That’s just $5/meal. Maybe you don’t have one every day, or you save them for #convenienceeating on-the-go. But with a 365-day money back guarantee, you have nothing to lose.
Thank you Vukoo for sending me the bars to try out! These were a freebie but, as always, all opinions are my own. 
Experience Vukoo bars here. Enjoy!