I can't remember who started it, but someone tweeted about Amrita (perhaps @ZenTriathlon?), who was then followed by @CaratunkGirl, then @Tristachelete...all raving about how wonderful they were and what chaos ensued when they ran out. Always in search of a REAL FOOD fueling option, I decided to check them out (the bars, not the athletes!).
As a Paleo endurance athlete, I've always been on the lookout for a convenience food for training and racing that was made from real food. More recently I've concentrated on becoming more fat-adapted and gave up commercial sports drinks, bars and gels (virtually all of which are NOT Paleo) in favor of coconut oil, almond butter, some fruit, coconut water and salt stick caps. I still needed something with a little more carbs to sprinkle throughout long rides and training sessions, and Amrita Bars fit the bill!
I LOVE the fact that these bars are dairy, gluten and soy free. I also LOVE that they are Plant-Based Nutrition (a nod to ultra-endurance athlete and vegan Rich Roll for making me more aware of the benefits of a plant-based diet) and suitable for vegan or raw athletes as well. The protein comes from raw sprouted brown rice protein and there is a tiny bit of agave in there, but in some Paleo/Primal camps these can be acceptable. And really, if that's the worst thing in these bars, what's there to worry about?
I originally ordered a small package of Pineapple Chia, Mango Coconut, and the Chocolate Maca Recovery bars. At first I thought the taste of the pineapple chia was a bit odd, but it has come to be one of my favorites. The mango coconut is divine. My coach is getting on me about fueling enough during longer rides, so I will usually break up two bars (one of each flavor for variety) and put the pieces in a ziploc in my bento box to grab easily (I am not coordinated enough to open a packaged bar mid-ride...seriously). They are satisfying and sit well on my stomach. Back them up with a little coconut water and you have a great nutrition option!
Last weekend, I went to grab a bar for a ride and they were all gone. Now I know what the fuss is about. They very quickly became my go-to fuel, and I about had a fit when I ran out. So I ordered 36 this time - 12 each of the Cranberry Raisin, Apple Cinnamon, and my new fave, Pineapple Chia. Mango coconut will make it back into the rotation next time. Amrita offers a sample pack as well - so if you are on the fence or don't know what flavor to get, start with the sampler and go from there.
A couple of words on their customer service - freaking amazing. Orders are processed at lightning speed, and they ship via Priority Mail which means I will get my order in Hawaii in just a few days (THANK YOU FOR THAT AMRITA- shipping to Hawaii is almost always a nightmare or ridiculously expensive - I really appreciate that you use USPS Priority).
Now...cost. Yes, these are a little bit more expensive than your average endurance bar or fuel, but it is worth every penny. It's REAL FOOD, folks, and REALLY GOOD. Since I'm not buying other sports drinks or gels I feel like the cost evens out. And you want to put quality food in your body - not something you cannot pronounce or makes you feel like crap.
Get some and see for yourself! AMRITA HEALTH FOODS
Amrita Health Foods did not supply any products or request this review. I am just a very happy customer and want to help them get the word out.
