Muscle Nation Pistachio Papi Cheesecake Protein Bar Reviewed & Taste Tested
- Jess Nehme
- Jan 23
- 8 min read
Welcome to the latest instalment of my 52 Bars in 52 Weeks Protein Bar Review series. This week I taste-tested the very uniquely flavoured Muscle Nation Pistachio Cheesecake Protein Bar.
What started as a fitness clothing brand from a single desk in the founder's house in 2016 has grown into a leading Australian sports supplement brand (that still makes clothing!). It's not often I come across a food brand that didn't start in food, and I actually wasn't aware of this until I went digging through their website.
Muscle Nation produces a wide range of products now including protein powders, greens supplements, energy drinks, frozen desserts, and of course, protein bars. I really love that they offer a wide range of sample packs for people to test out their flavours before committing to a bulk amount they might not like.
They have multiple ranges of protein bars and you'll often find these on sale in Coles, Woolworths, and Chemist Warehouse. Plus, you can grab them off the Muscle Nation website.
Enough about the brand, let's take a look at this Muscle Nation Pistachio Papi Cheesecake Protein Bar!
Muscle Nation Pistachio Papi Cheesecake Protein Bar First Impressions
Protein Bar Quick Details
Price
RRP: $4.50 per bar, available at Coles, Woolies, Chemist Warehouse & the Muscle Nation website.
Flavours available
Muscle Nation have a wide range of protein bars, and this Pistachio flavoured one falls under their range of cheesecake flavours. Other bars in the range include Zesty Lemon, Strawberry Dream, and Caramel
Protein Bar Packaging
This is probably the most attention-grabbing protein bar packaging that I've seen in quite awhile. The reason? That garish green colour. It sure fits the brief for pistachio but it also makes the bar stand out really well. Turns out lime green isn't the most common colour for protein bars.
The bar pictured on the packet looks exactly like the bar contained within, so that's great. Other good things are that both the nutrition information panel and ingredients list are on the back of the packet, without being hidden under the fold. Warnings are printed in tall letters that are easy to read and it's not too busy.
What I don't love is that they've employed the sneaky trick of writing the protein content as a percentage rather than grams. It's not 24g of protein guys, it's 24%. Per serve you get 12g of protein.
I find this really tricky and annoying for people who don't know how to read food labels. The truth is in the nutrition information panel anyway – just be upfront about it!
Protein Bar Nutritional Claims
24% protein (aka 12g protein)
6.3g fibre
Australian-made & Made in Australia (mentioned twice!)
177 calories
None of these nutritional claims on the packaging are particularly groundbreaking – and that's ok. What I did find interesting was that they mentioned the bar was 'made in Australia' and 'Australian-made' on the front side of the bar.
I know Muscle Nation is very proud of being Aussie, but this was a bit much. We get it. That space could have been used to promote another aspect of the bar so it's a wasted opportunity.
Protein Bar Taste Test
Protein Bar Appearance
This bar looks GOOD. It's probably the most appetising looking bar I've seen in awhile, but it's also very different to most of the milk chocolate covered or nutty bars so novelty might be playing into my reaction.
While it looks artificial – that Shrek-green sure doesn't look natural – it still manages to look delicious and is consistent in texture across the exterior with no melting at room temp.
Protein Bar Aroma
This smells creamy, like a coconut vanilla cookie. I could almost be convinced that my nose was hovering over a bowl of custard. It smells mouth-wateringly sweet – in a good way.
Protein Bar Texture
The bar is very soft until you hit the middle, green layer. The top and bottom layers are creamy and light and melt away quickly. This initially made me think that my mouthful would be gone very soon, but the middle layer is more dense than expected and you'll need a few chews to get through the rubbery crunch.
The pops of honeycomb-like crunch on the top of the bar are delightful.
Protein Bar Flavour
I haven't tasted any bar with this flavour before, and frankly, it's delicious. It's extremely sweet but someone not overly sickly. The pistachio flavour builds in your palate with each bite but the buttery coconut flavour is slightly more dominant overall, with just a hint of white chocolate moonlighting in the back.
The aftertaste is of nutty pistachio and I'm not left feeling like I've had an overly sugary treat as a result. It's a very interesting effect.
Overall it tastes like a cheesecake in the form of a protein bar. Taste-wise, it's an excellent option for a trail dessert. Awesome to see a brand opt for a unique flavour and pull it off so darn well.
Rating out of 5 (0= terrible, 5= amazing): 5/5
Have I ever raved so highly about the flavour of a protein bar before – that'd be a no. This was divine. But I have a feeling that's down to a whole bunch of ingredients that I'd rather not consume on the regular. Let's take a look.
Protein Bar Nutritional Analysis
Ingredients List
Muscle Nation Pistachio Flavoured Custard 33% (Muscle Nation Pistachio Flavoured Custard Powder (Milk Protein Isolate (72.5%), Skim Milk Powder, Flavours, Inulin, Coconut MCT Oil Powder, Anticaking Agent (551), Thickener (Carboxymethyl Cellulose), Sweetener (Sucralose), Salt, Colours (102, 133, 110, 129)), Sweetener (Maltitol), Isomalto-Oligosaccharide (Soluble Fibre), Humectant (Glycerol), Pistachio Paste 5%), No Added Sugar White Choc 20% (Vegetable Fat, Sweetener (968), Milk Solids 15%, Inulin, Corn Fibre, Emulsifier (Soy 322), Natural Flavour, Intense Sweetener (960), Monk Fruit Sweetener), Vanilla Paste 12% (Invert Sugar, Humectant (Sorbitol, Glycerol), Concentrated Pear Puree, Bulking Agent (Polydextrose), Sunflower Oil, Citrus Fibre, Natural Flavour, Gelling Agent (Pectin), Firming Agent (Calcium Lactate), Natural Colour (Titanium Dioxide)), Milk Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Concentrate (Milk), Isomalto-Oligosaccharide (Soluble Fibre), Humectant (Glycerol), Soy Protein Crisps, Sunflower Oil, Pistachio Flavoured Kibble 2%, Natural Flavour, No Added Sugar White Choc Chip (Milk, Soy), Hydrolysed Collagen, Salt, Emulsifier (Soy Lecithin), Natural Colour (Caramel I), Antioxidant (Vitamin E).
Allergens: Contains Milk, Soy, Pistachio.
Protein sources: Milk Protein Isolate (72.5%), Skim Milk Powder, Milk Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Concentrate (Milk), Soy Protein Crisps, Hydrolysed Collagen.
Fibre source: Inulin, Isomalto-Oligosaccharide (Soluble Fibre), Corn Fibre, Citrus Fibre.
Carbs source: Skim Milk Powder, Sweetener (Maltitol), Invert Sugar, Concentrated Pear Puree, Bulking Agent (Polydextrose), No Added Sugar White Choc Chips (contains milk and some carbs)
Fats: Coconut MCT Oil Powder, Sunflower Oil, Vegetable Fat, Pistachio Paste.
Artificial Ingredients: Anticaking Agent (551), Thickener (Carboxymethyl Cellulose), Sweetener (Sucralose), Colours (102, 133, 110, 129), Sweetener (968), Emulsifier (Soy 322), Intense Sweetener (960), Gelling Agent (Pectin), Firming Agent (Calcium Lactate), Natural Colour (Titanium Dioxide), Emulsifier (Soy Lecithin).
Ingredients that should be avoided:
Artificial Colours (102, 133, 110, 129): These synthetic dyes have been linked to potential hyperactivity and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Artificial Sweeteners (Sucralose, Maltitol, Monk Fruit Sweetener, Intense Sweetener (960)): While low-calorie, some people experience digestive discomfort and recent research has found blood sugar responses occur in about 50% of people. Stevia or table sugar would be better.
Titanium Dioxide (Natural Colour): While approved for use, it has raised concerns in recent health studies regarding potential long-term effects.
Nutrition Information Panel
Protein
With 12g of protein, this bar provides a moderate amount of high-quality protein sourced from milk protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and soy protein crisps. Hydrolysed collagen is also included.
This makes it suitable for post-hike recovery by aiding muscle repair and promoting satiety. However, higher protein levels would be better for sustained hiking performance and optimum recovery. Based on the protein content, this bar is more suitable for shorter day hikes.
Carbohydrates & Sugars
The bar’s low carbohydrate content may limit its immediate energy availability for hikers during extended activity. While 5g of sugar comes from natural sources like pistachio paste and pear puree, artificial sweeteners are also present, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals. This is a pretty important factor to be mindful of on the trail because most of us already experience stomach upset, without adding in more potential causes.
For tough hikes a bar with a higher ratio of complex carbohydrates would better sustain endurance. That said, the sugars included could offer a quick energy boost during a hike snack break.
Fats
The fat content, primarily from coconut MCT oil and pistachio paste, provides a valuable energy source for long-duration activities, especially where glycogen stores may deplete.
However, the high saturated fat content (4.2g) raises some concerns about heart health for frequent consumption. For hikers, this fat composition is advantageous for slow-burning energy but should be balanced with unsaturated fats from other dietary sources.
Sodium
With only 63mg of sodium, this bar has a low sodium content, which may be insufficient for replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat during intense hikes.
Sodium is vital for hydration and muscle function during prolonged outdoor activities. While the bar is low in salt, it's not a problem as hikers should drink electrolytes daily anyway.
Fibre
This bar excels in fibre content, offering over 25% of the daily recommendation. Fibre from inulin and isomalto-oligosaccharides supports digestive health and sustains energy release. However, the high fibre level, combined with artificial ingredients like sweeteners, might cause bloating or discomfort for those with sensitive digestion.
For hikers, the fibre is a bonus for maintaining gut health on the trail (and I bloody love to see it!) but it should be tested during training hikes to assess tolerance.
Calories
At 177 calories, the bar provides a modest energy boost, making it suitable as a light snack rather than a meal replacement. For shorter hikes or low-intensity activities, this calorie count may suffice. However, for endurance hikers or those trekking for multiple days, the energy density could be higher, especially if relying on bars as a primary energy source.
Key Takeaways Muscle Nation Pistachio Papi Cheesecake Protein Bar
Protein Bar (50g)
Cost per bar: $4.50
Cost per 100g: $9.00
Cost per gram of protein: $0.38
Flavour
5/5
Final Thoughts
This bar is moderately suitable for hikers, offering a decent balance of protein, fibre, and fats for recovery and sustained energy. However, the low calorie and protein content limit it's effectiveness on longer/tougher hikes.
For optimal use, hikers should pair it with high-carb snacks and electrolytes to ensure their body is getting the nutrients it needs to perform.
The use of so many artificial ingredients and sweeteners is a big drawback, particularly for those prioritizing whole, natural foods. It's frustrating to see so many ingredients that may cause gut distress paired together in one product. If you've got a sensitive tummy, I'd steer clear of this one.
FAQs Muscle Nation Pistachio Papi Cheesecake Protein Bar
Does this bar provide enough protein for hikers?
At 12g of protein per bar, this isn't bad by any means, but for hiking and optimal recovery, I generally aim for at least 15g, ideally 20g of protein per bar. Anything below this I'd try to ensure has higher carbohydrate content too so that I can use it as a general energy bar. It'll help, but you'd need more protein-rich snacks in your day than just this one bar.
What is Pistachio Papi?
Pistachio Papi is an Australian brand specializing in pistachio-based spreads – admittedly this was brand-new information for me! Their signature product is the Pistachio Papi Spread – a creamy, sweet, and nutty spread made with pistachio nuts, giving it a distinctive pale green colour. Looks like this bar was a collab to capitalise on the success of that flavour.
What is maltitol?
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol often used in 'sugar-free' protein bars. While it has fewer calories than sugar, it can lead to tummy troubles like bloating and gas if consumed in large amounts. Look for bars with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit instead! A good rule of thumb? Less than 10g per 100g of malitol should keep your gut happy.
What are Isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMOs)?
IMOs are a fibre that doubles as a sweetener, but they’re not always gut-friendly in large amounts. Aim for less than 10g per 100g and choose bars with chicory root fibre or psyllium husk for smoother digestion and steady energy.
Disclaimer
I purchased this green protein bar from Woolworths when it was 50% off - because, hello, bargain! Muscle Nation wasn't remotely involved in this review. I protect my ability to provide you with my honest opinion because I value my integrity far more than a free snack. I'll never accept payment for reviews, or free products on the contingency that I say what a brand wants.
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