Startup CPG Newswire:
READYBAR featured on NPR, fueling national launch of high-performance meal bars

PRESS RELEASE — NEWS PROVIDED BY Forrest Ryan Dowdy for READYBAR

OAKLAND, CA (2025) — READYBAR, a high-performance meal bar originally developed for astronauts, has officially launched nationwide direct-to-consumer following a feature on NPR. With 500 calories, less than 10% of calories from sugar, and a 2-year shelf life, READYBAR delivers mission-ready fuel for first responders, wildland firefighters, and other professionals working in extreme environments.

Founder Ryan Dowdy, a former NASA food scientist, developed READYBAR after years managing the food system for the International Space Station. “These bars were born from the question: How do you fuel people who can’t afford to crash?” said Dowdy. “We took what worked in space—stability, nutrient density, and clean formulation—and adapted it for use on Earth’s front lines.”

READYBAR’s initial product lineup includes Peanut Butter & Jelly, Blueberry Corn Muffin, Chocolate Peanut Caramel, and Oatmeal Creme, with each bar designed to meet the energy and endurance needs of high-stakes emergency personnel. The company is building early traction with wildland fire crews, urban search and rescue teams, and SAR communities, with endorsements from registered dietitians and spaceflight professionals.

Following strong demand after its NPR debut, READYBAR is scaling production and fulfilling orders nationwide through its website at getREADYBAR.com.

About READYBAR

READYBAR is a high-performance food brand offering shelf-stable, low-sugar meal bars originally developed for astronauts during deep space missions. Each bar delivers 500 calories with less than 10% from sugar for sustained energy without the crash.

Founded by NASA food scientist Ryan Dowdy, READYBAR turns spaceflight research into real-world fuel for first responders and others in high-stakes roles. Based in California, the company recently received a USDA SBIR grant to advance shelf life and nutrient stability of foods for emergency personnel.

READYBAR donates 1% of all bars to active duty first responders. Learn more at getREADYBAR.com.

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