Protein is the cornerstone of a nutritious diet, and it's particularly important as we age. For those of us in the over-60s bracket, maintaining muscle mass and supporting a healthy metabolism are crucial for overall well-being. Whether you're looking to maintain your weight, manage changes during peri-menopause, or simply ensure you're getting enough of this vital nutrient, protein is your dietary ally.

With the buzz around protein, supermarkets have been quick to jump on the bandwagon, offering a plethora of protein-enriched foods. From bread to ice-cream, it seems like every product now boasts a high-protein version. But are these protein-packed supermarket finds truly beneficial for your health?


Let's break down a dietitian's guide to six protein-rich foods and discover the top picks in each category, so you can make informed choices that align with your health goals.


Protein Bread

Gone are the days when bread was a no-go on a low-carb diet. Now, the shelves are stocked with high-protein bread options, some offering as much as 20 g of protein per two slices. These breads are often dense with grains and seeds and may include ingredients like bamboo and soy protein to increase protein content. While they can be a nutrient-rich addition to your diet, they're also higher in calories and have a chewier texture that might not be ideal for your favourite sandwich. If you're a bread lover, try these top choices:

• Burgen Lower Carb High Protein Sunflower & Linseed Bread
• ALDI Bakers Life Lower Carb Higher Protein Bread

Protein Wraps

While protein breads may have cleaner ingredient lists, protein wraps are a different story. Many contain a mix of highly processed ingredients, including added proteins like wheat fibre and soy protein, as well as emulsifiers and preservatives for texture and shelf life. For a healthier wrap, opt for wholegrain bases and minimal ingredients. Top picks include:

• ALDI Bakers Life Mini White or Wholegrain Wraps
• Coles Wholemeal & Grain Soft Wraps

Protein Yoghurt

Protein yoghurts are generally a win when it comes to minimally processed, nutrient-rich options. Made with concentrated dairy bases, they often provide over 15 g of natural dairy protein per serving, with minimal additives. Even fruit-flavoured varieties tend to be nutritionally sound, using natural fruit sugars instead of added ones. Enjoy these protein and calcium-rich yoghurts:

• YoPRO Perform High Protein Yoghurt No Added Sugar Mixed Berries
• YoPRO Danone High Protein Yoghurt No Added Sugar Vanilla

Protein Chips

Beware of chips that claim to be healthy just because they have added protein. Natural sources of protein are always preferable, and adding protein to chips often results in a high-calorie, costly snack with little protein payoff. Instead, try The Happy Snack Company Roasted Fava Beans (Lightly Salted).

Protein Bars

While they're ultra-processed, protein bars can be a convenient snack, especially when you're on the go. Look for bars with fewer than 150-200 calories that provide at least 10 g of protein per serving. Avoid bars that are high in calories and low in protein. Here are some better options:

• BC Snacks Dark Chocolate Almond High Protein Bar
• Carman’s Protein Bars Low Sugar Dark Choc & Roasted Nut

Protein Ice-Cream

Protein-rich desserts, like puddings and frozen treats, are not exactly 'ice-cream,' but they can be a satisfying way to meet your protein needs. Choose options with a dairy or soy base and less than 5 g of sugar per serving to avoid added sugars. While they can be pricey, they're worth it for those with specific dietary goals. Indulge in these treats:

• Wicked Sister High Protein Chocolate Pudding
• Twisted Protein Frozen Dessert Butter Caramel Cookie

Remember, the key to a healthy diet is balance and variety. While these protein-rich foods can be a great addition to your diet, they should complement a range of other nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

We'd love to hear from you, our Seniors Discount Club members! Have you tried any of these protein-rich products? Do you have any favourites or recipes to share? Drop us a comment below and let's chat about the power of protein in our diets.