What is a protein drink?
It’s all in the name!
They’re an additional way you can incorporate protein into your diet and are a good way to add more protein into your diet if you’re just not getting enough from food sources.
There are also many different varieties, like protein juice drinks, ready-to-drink protein shakes, and clear protein drinks, such as flavoured water.
Handpicked content: Should I be using protein supplements?
9 of the best protein drinks for 2021
Now you know what protein drinks are, read on to find out our top picks.
Customer rating: N/A – it’s new to Holland & Barrett!
Vegan: No
This new drink is designed for those with a busy lifestyle, making sure they get all the protein they need.
It contains 25g of protein with added fibre, vitamins, and minerals with no added sugar and is fat-free—perfect for those who want to feel strong and healthy while on the go.
You can have it whenever you’d like, but just make sure to drink within 24 hours once it’s opened.
Customer reviews: 5/5
Vegan: Yes
This delicious plant-based alternative to UFIT’s usual drinks is not only great for vegans, but also for anyone intolerant to lactose.
If you’re busy but still need a healthy way to bring more protein into your diet, this is a good option, with 15g of protein!
You can drink it at any time of day, but once it is opened it should be kept refrigerated and used within 24 hours.
Customer reviews: 5/5
Vegan: No
If you’re craving a smooth and creamy milkshake but need to bring more protein into your day, then this might be the drink for you.
At 24g of protein and under 200 calories per bottle, you can increase your protein intake and satisfy any sweet cravings at the same time without feeling naughty.
Best served chilled and shaken, at any time of day. Once opened, keep refrigerated and drink within 24 hours.
Customer Review: 4.5/5
Vegan: No
Packing a whopping 50g of protein and 50g of carbs, this drink is designed for high-intensity training, supporting muscle growth, mass, and recovery.
It’s best to drink it after working out when there’s a greater demand for energy and repair.
Recommended by Holland & Barrett nutritionist, Isabel Tarrant!
Customer reviews: N/A – it’s new to Holland & Barrett!
Vegan: No
New on the shelves, USN Diet Fuel Ultralean Vanilla is part of USN’s range that contains 25g of protein and is fat-free.
You can drink it whenever you’d like and it tastes best when chilled and should be consumed within 12 hours once opened.
Customer review: N/A – it’s new to Holland & Barrett!
Vegan: Yes
This newly-released protein shake is packed full of plant-based nutrients.
The Pulsin Cacao & Maca Protein Shake contains 15g of protein, cacao, maca, Vitamin B complex, and only 2g of sugar.
It tastes best when chilled, and once opened should be consumed within 24 hours.
Recommended by Holland & Barrett nutritionist, Isabel Tarrant!
Customer review: Between 3/5-5/5 – if you have a sweet tooth, this one’s for you!
Vegan: Yes
The USN 100% Plant Protein is ideal for individuals who struggle to digest soya and follow a plant-based diet.
This vegan protein contains a blend of pea, rice and hemp, and is 100% soya free.
This product is also free from sugar, artificial flavours and colourants to support a healthy vegan diet.
Mix one 30g scoop with 300ml of water and shake well for 30 seconds in a hand-held shaker.
Recommended by Holland & Barrett nutritionist, Isabel Tarrant!
Customer review: Between 3/5-5/5, depending on the flavour – as another sweet-flavoured option, we’d recommend if you have a sweet tooth!
Vegan: Yes
MYO Plant Nutrition aim to create vegan supplements with clean ingredients and minimal additives.
The MYO Vegan Rebuild Protein contains a blend of natural pea, rice and hemp proteins providing a complete range of amino acids to support a vegan diet.
This clean protein provides 25g of protein and less than 2g of fat per serving to promote lean muscle growth and allow you to reach your fitness goals.
Add two heaped scoops (40g) to 350ml of water, plant milk, or smoothie in a shaker before, during, or after exercise and consume immediately.
Recommended by Holland & Barrett nutritionist, Isabel Tarrant!
Customer review: 5/5
Vegan: Yes
This plant-based protein contains a blend of pea protein, soy protein and amino acids.
This protein is low in sugar with only 92 calories per serving and this vegan protein also contains added green tea extract, l-carnitine and flaxseed.
9 of the best protein drinks for 2021: The summary
You’re probably feeling bulked up on all the best protein drinks for 2021!
Of course, if you’re still trying to get more protein knowledge into your day, you might like to read “How to get enough protein,” “The best protein powder for you,” “Should I be using protein supplements?”
Last updated: 20 October 2021
