Health score
0
/ 100Verdict: moderate
Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate earns a 65/100 health score. It is a convenient protein source but relies on processed additives and sweeteners.
Key takeaways
- Provides 7.8g of protein per 100ml
- Low sugar content at only 3.2g
- Contains artificial sweetener sucralose
- Features dairy-based protein concentrate
- High environmental footprint due to dairy
Our read on this product
This shake provides 7.8g of protein per 100ml through milk protein concentrate and skimmed milk, which is excellent for muscle recovery. While the 65/100 health score reflects its decent protein-to-calorie ratio, the inclusion of sucralose and dipotassium phosphate keeps it from a higher rating. The formulation is optimized for shelf stability, but those looking for clean-label nutrition may find the ingredient list excessive. Ultimately, it functions well as a supplementary tool rather than a dietary staple.
Best for
This is ideal for athletes and busy professionals needing a quick, high-protein snack to support muscle recovery.
Approach with care
Individuals with dairy allergies, kidney issues sensitive to high phosphate intake, or those avoiding artificial sweeteners like sucralose should avoid this.
Ingredient breakdown
Good ingredients
Neutral ingredients
Water
Used as the primary liquid base for the drink. It is essential for hydration and carries other ingredients.
Skimmed Milk
Provides protein and calcium while maintaining a low fat content. It is a common dairy base in fitness shakes.
Milk Protein Concentrate
A concentrated source of whey and casein proteins used to boost protein content. It provides sustained amino acid release.
Fat-Reduced Cocoa Powder
Adds chocolate flavor and provides antioxidants like flavonoids. It is processed to minimize added fat.
Flavorings
Used to enhance the taste profile of the beverage. These are generally chemically synthesized or natural extracts.
Stabilizers (Gellan Gum, Cellulose)
Used to maintain texture and prevent ingredient separation. They are generally recognized as safe but may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
Nutrition facts
Values shown per 100ml
Energy
62 kcal
Protein
7.8g
Carbs
3.4g
Fat
1.5g
Fiber
0.5g
Sugar
3.2g
Sodium
45mg
Saturated fat
0.8g
Fiber
0.5g
How it scores against your goal
Mood Effect
Avoids sugar crashes, but lacks the complex nutrients that directly support neurological health.
Muscle Gain
The milk protein concentrate provides a solid amino acid profile suitable for muscle maintenance.
Weight Loss
Low in calories and sugar, making it a satiating snack for calorie-controlled diets.
Flu Recovery
Lacks the vitamins and minerals necessary to actively fight viral infections effectively.
Fever Recovery
Provides hydration and protein, but is less ideal than nutrient-dense whole foods for immune support.
Pcos Management
Artificial sweeteners like sucralose may impact gut health, which is a consideration for insulin resistance.
Diabetes Management
Low sugar and carb content minimizes blood glucose impact compared to sugary sodas.
Myth busters
Contains no added sugar
True, it uses sucralose for sweetness and contains only 3.2g of naturally occurring sugars per 100ml.
The protein comes purely from whey
It uses milk protein concentrate, which is a blend of both casein and whey proteins.
Highly processed additives are absent
It contains stabilizers and acidity regulators like dipotassium phosphate for texture and stability.
Frequently asked questions
Is Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate healthy?
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Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate scores 65/100, making it a moderate choice. It offers decent protein content for muscle support but includes processed additives like dipotassium phosphate and sucralose that prevent it from being a strictly healthy, whole-food option.
What is the main concern with Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate?
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Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate primary concerns are the use of artificial sweeteners and stabilizers, alongside a significant environmental footprint due to dairy production and plastic packaging.
What is the key protein ingredient in Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate?
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Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate utilizes milk protein concentrate as its primary protein source, providing a blend of whey and casein for amino acid support.
Does Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate fit a low-carb diet?
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Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate contains 3.4g of carbohydrates per 100ml, which allows it to fit into many low-carb or weight-management protocols.
Is there a better alternative to Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate?
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Optimum Nutrition High Protein Shake Chocolate can be swapped for homemade shakes using plain whey protein isolate and unsweetened almond milk to avoid the stabilizers and sweeteners found in this commercial version.