Best Ready to Drink (RTD) Protein Shakes Part 2

I wrote the first installment of this series back in 2017, you can read that HERE. Since then, I’ve mainly been using traditional powders, that is until recently…

Before I start, let’s just attack some quick, digestible protein facts

• If strength training (regardless of trying to lose weight or gain muscle), aim for .6-1g per pound of bodyweight. So if you’re 150lbs x.6 = 90g/day (this would be the minimum).
• Protein shakes are used as a SUPPLEMENT. There is nothing inherently magic about them. If you’re on the go or need help hitting your daily targets, use a supplement.
• When you’re looking for a protein powder, drink, bar, etc. you’re obviously looking for PROTEIN. If there’s a ton of additional fat, sugar, carbohydrate, etc. it becomes more of a meal replacement. That’s fine, but make sure you’re looking at the labels. Usually more fat/sugar will lead to better taste (obviously).

1.) Fairlife Nutrition 30g Protein

One morning, my client brought me a new shake to try and told me it was a game-changer. I’ve tried hundreds in my day, so I figured he was all talk. It was made by Fairlife, whose products I had already been using for years (including their protein shakes). Apparently, they made a new one. 

Nutrition Facts

⇒ 150 Calories

⇒ 2.5g Fat

⇒ 3g Carbohydrates

⇒ 30g Protein

I prefer the Chocolate and Coffee flavors, but I’m just not a vanilla guy. Aside from the pretty remarkable macronutrient profile, it’s by far the best tasting RTD protein shake I’ve ever had. By having both high protein/low carb AND great flavor, it’s the easy number one.

2.) Pure Protein

Nutrition Facts

⇒ 140 Calories

⇒ 2g Fat

⇒ 6g Carbohydrates

⇒ 30g Protein

This made the list last time and still deserves a spot. You can find these almost anywhere – from Target to Rite Aid to most grocery stores. It has a solid taste and sticks with the high protein/low-carb vibe that you’re typically after.

3.) Premier Protein – Muscle Milk – Isopure

A lot of familiar names if you read the previous article. Unfortunately, not much has changed here. Isopure is still the leading zero carb protein drink, while Muscle Milk continues to win the brand recognition game. If I don’t have access to the two choices above, these are where I turn next.

If you’re looking for a vegan powder, Vega and OWYN are two popular options.

Lastly, I’m going to add one that I’ve yet to try, but will be ordering soon. Not exactly the best nutrition info I’ve seen, but it looks worth a try.

Slate Protein Chocolate Milk

Nutrition Facts

⇒ 130 Calories

⇒ 1g Fat

⇒ 12g Carbohydrates

⇒ 17g Protein