2 doctors created these Toronto-made protein bars for long shifts and we put them to the test

We all have busy days, and while we try our very best to stay energized, hydrated, and rested, sometimes we need something convenient to help keep us going.

I know this is true for me. My weeks are packed from start to finish with work, social plans, and everything in between. More often than I’d like, I’m rushing between commitments and looking for something convenient to bridge the gap between meals.

That’s why I was curious to give On-Call a try. The Toronto-made protein bar was created by two doctors who knew the reality of long, unpredictable shifts and wanted a convenient, satisfying option for demanding days. While the idea was born from life on call, the bars were created for anyone whose schedule doesn’t always leave much time to slow down.

What followed was my On-Call protein bar week, I put all three dessert-inspired flavours to the test during some of my busiest moments.

Monday surprise

Sabrina Gamrot

My week started pretty hectic with a Monday afternoon surprise that called for an easy snack on-the-go.

Imagine my reaction when my phone reminded me that a Pilates class I had signed up for was about to start in 20 minutes. I had just finished my workday, and needed something quick to tide me over before class.

Cue my first On-Call bar. I opted for the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip and sank my teeth in. It was exactly what I needed in that moment: a smooth peanut butter taste, sprinkled with chocolate for the perfect savoury-sweet combo. 

Unlike other bars I’ve tried, this one didn’t have the chalky texture I often expect. I found On-Call to be easily snackable. Plus, it genuinely reminded me of a peanut butter cookie.

With 18g of protein and 8g of fibre, it helped keep me satisfied, and I was on my way to class without a rumbling stomach!

Midweek car snack 

Sabrina Gamrot/Daily Hive

On Wednesday, I packed the Blueberry Vanilla On-Call bar in my bag and headed out for my busiest day of the week.

This is a common scenario for me; my weekly baking class starts at 6:15 p.m., and I finish the work day at 5 p.m. That means I have to battle traffic across the city in very little time, without a proper meal and right around when I’d usually eat dinner.

Because of that, a tasty snack is always my handy sidekick on the journey, and the Blueberry Vanilla On-Call bar was easily the star of the week. The first bite burst with flavours straight from a bakeshop — bold berry and aromatic vanilla. The real blueberries took the bar to the next level, quickly making it my favourite flavour and reminding me of a blueberry muffin.

It helped me bridge the gap between meals, so I could focus on my class instead of wondering what I’d be grabbing for dinner on the drive home. 

Weekend treat 

Sabrina Gamrot/Daily Hive

Finishing off my week, I enjoyed my final On-Call bar on a jam-packed Saturday afternoon.   Loads of sunshine means trips to the farmers’ market, afternoon bike rides, and park hangouts, all of which were on my weekend to-do list.

Walking through the stalls of the farmers’ market, I unwrapped a Chocolate Brownie On-Call bar and dug in. Another slam-dunk here; I absolutely loved the deep chocolate flavour, which was clearly inspired by a classic brownie.

Equally chewy and fudgy, it felt like a treat and helped keep me satisfied as I moved through a busy afternoon under the hot sun.

Fuel your busiest days with On-Call 

Sabrina Gamrot/Daily Hive

After a week of putting On-Call to the test, it was easy to see the thinking behind the brand.

Inspired by the realities of long shifts and demanding schedules, the bars fit seamlessly into the moments when life gets busy; there isn’t always time for a proper meal. Ready to try them for yourself?

Shop the On-Call starter pack to taste all three flavours.