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Top Meal Replacement Shakes for 2025: Recommended by Dietitians

Christina SnyderBy Christina SnyderHealth Staff Writer
Christina SnyderHealth Staff Writer

    With over ten years of experience creating compelling digital content, Christina serves as a health staff writer for Fortune.

    Meal replacement shakes have become a go-to for busy, high-achieving executives and professionals seeking simple methods to maintain their nutritional intake amidst demanding schedules. For individuals juggling consecutive meetings, extensive business trips, or demanding deal-making schedules that preclude a midday meal, an appropriate shake offers focused nourishment, blending high-quality protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals for Sustained focus and consistent vitality throughout the day. 

    TL;DR

    • Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal is the top overall meal replacement shake.
    • Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder is the best budget-friendly option.
    • Ora Organic So Lean So Clean is the top organic meal replacement shake.
    • Transparent Labs Mass Gainer is recommended for weight gain.

    Working alongside a certified nutrition coach, we thoroughly evaluated and chose the top meal replacement shakes for 2025, designed to keep decision-makers, leaders, and innovators well-fed, sharp, and prepared to excel. Their best, wherever your business may lead.

    Why You Can Rely on Fortune

    Our expert testers have evaluated numerous top-selling supplements available now, employing our thorough supplement testing methodology to find the best products for all folks.

    Top Meal Replacement Shakes for 2025

    Comparison of Top Meal Replacement Shakes

    Meal ReplacementProtein Per ServingCarbs Per ServingFat per Per ServingSweeteners UsedThird-Party Testing
    Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal25 g20 g6 gMonk fruit extractYes
    Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder20 g20 g7 gAgave and steviaYes
    Ora Organic So Lean So Clean23 g3 g3 gMonk fruit extractYes
    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer53 g110 g15 g SteviaYes
    Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla20 g37 g19 gSucraloseYes
    HLTH Code Complete Meal27 g21 g27 gFermented sugarcane and monk fruit extractYes
    SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake15 g7 g4.5 gStevia and monk fruit extractYes
    Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal
    Protein Per Serving25 g
    Carbs Per Serving20 g
    Fat per Per Serving6 g
    Sweeteners UsedMonk fruit extract
    Third-Party TestingYes
    Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder
    Protein Per Serving20 g
    Carbs Per Serving20 g
    Fat per Per Serving7 g
    Sweeteners UsedAgave and stevia
    Third-Party TestingYes
    Ora Organic So Lean So Clean
    Protein Per Serving23 g
    Carbs Per Serving3 g
    Fat per Per Serving3 g
    Sweeteners UsedMonk fruit extract
    Third-Party TestingYes
    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
    Protein Per Serving53 g
    Carbs Per Serving110 g
    Fat per Per Serving15 g
    Sweeteners UsedStevia
    Third-Party TestingYes
    Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla
    Protein Per Serving20 g
    Carbs Per Serving37 g
    Fat per Per Serving19 g
    Sweeteners UsedSucralose
    Third-Party TestingYes
    HLTH Code Complete Meal
    Protein Per Serving27 g
    Carbs Per Serving21 g
    Fat per Per Serving27 g
    Sweeteners UsedFermented sugarcane and monk fruit extract
    Third-Party TestingYes
    SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake
    Protein Per Serving15 g
    Carbs Per Serving7 g
    Fat per Per Serving4.5 g
    Sweeteners UsedStevia and monk fruit extract
    Third-Party TestingYes

    Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal is the top choice for a meal replacement shake.

    Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal

    A comprehensive vegan meal replacement
    Fortune score 4.5/5
    Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal
    Check Price

    at Ka’Chava

    • Our reviewer thoroughly enjoyed the taste and smooth consistency of this shake.
    • Calories per serving: 240
    • Flavor options: Six flavors
    • Ideal for individuals seeking a plant-based, comprehensive shake devoid of gluten, dairy, and soy.
    • It's unique because it includes more than 85 complete food items.

    Pros

    • No artificial flavors or sweeteners
    • Certified vegan
    • Includes digestive enzymes and probiotics

    Cons

    • These meal replacement shakes contain fewer calories than competing products.
    • More expensive than other options on our list
    • Contains proprietary blends

    Reflections on Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal

    Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal stands out as our top choice for a meal replacement shake due to its nutrient-rich composition, which provides more than just protein. This formulation offers a balanced mix of macronutrients, including 25 grams of premium plant-based protein, beneficial fats, and dietary fiber, all designed to enhance satiety. Moreover, it contains no artificial additives and is naturally sweetened using monk fruit extract.

    Kayla gave this meal replacement shake a perfect 5 out of 5 score upon her initial try. Ka’Chava recently redid their branding, and Kayla loves how it looks: “It’s colorful, playful, and looks inviting.” She likes the new pull tab to open the bag, which helps to avoid having a ragged, raw edge at the top Starting with a standard tear-off top.

    Ka'Chava as best meal replacement shake

    She found the instructions “easy to read and very straightforward,” rating Ka’Chava a 5 out of 5 in this category. To achieve optimal solubility, the instructions advise vigorously shaking the product with two scoops in 12 ounces of water. Kayla stated that this was the ideal quantity of water to combine with the item. 

    “It was more of a thick consistency, like a smoothie, and the texture was slightly gritty in the glass, but tasted smooth overall,” Kayla said. She appreciated its thinner consistency compared to standard protein beverages, finding it suitable for daily consumption and awarding it a perfect 5 for how well it mixed.

    Ka'chava as best meal replacement shake

    “The flavor is subtle overall, and the texture is nice and creamy,” Kayla said. The sweetness was perfectly balanced, neither overly sweet nor bitter. “It tastes more like a smoothie, not like a juice or a milkshake,” she said, rating it a 3 out of 5 for sweetness and a 5 out of 5 for taste. She was pleased that the greens powders' flavor was undetectable, given her dislike for them. “The coconut is the most bold of all the flavors, but the acai is present as well, offering a nice subtle sweetness,” Kayla said.

    Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder is the top choice for a budget-friendly meal replacement shake.

    Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder

    A certified USDA organic, vegan meal replacement
    Fortune score 4/5
    Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder
    Check Price

    at Nutricost

    • We appreciate the smooth consistency of this shake.
    • Calories per serving: 200 calories
    • Flavor options: Chocolate and chocolate pb
    • Ideal for those on a budget seeking an organic, vegan-certified item.
    • What makes it different: Contains no added sugar

    Pros

    • 60-day money back guarantee
    • Includes 10 grams of fiber
    • Made in a GMP-certified facility

    Cons

    • Only available in two chocolate flavors
    • May have a stevia aftertaste
    • Does not contain any superfoods

    A Review of Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder

    Nutricost Organic Vegan Meal Replacement stands out as our top choice for an affordable meal replacement shake, offering 20 grams of plant protein, organic certification, a gluten-free and non-GMO formulation, and no Grams of added sugar, all at a remarkably affordable price and without any superfluous extras. Each serving is approximately $2.03, making it a more budget-friendly choice compared to many alternatives we've reviewed, yet it still provides an excellent balance of macronutrients.

    Nutricost meal replacement powder as best meal replacement shake

    Nutrition coach Pete gave this meal replacement a perfect 5 out of 5 score upon his initial assessment. “The product comes in a medium-sized white plastic container with a blue screw top lid,” he said. Pete observed that this particular supplement is distinctive among Nutricost offerings, identified by the “Nutricost Organic” marking on its label, which features a light brown hue rather than their usual white. “The label is easy to read, the lid opens and closes easily, and a scoop is provided,” he added.

    Nutricost received a score of 3 out of 5 for its mixability. “The product is fully dissolved after 60 seconds of shaking,” Pete said. The powder is completely smooth, without any lumps or clumps. However, you'll notice it possesses a somewhat rough texture. 

    Nutricost meal replacement powder as best meal replacement shake

    Pete also gave the product's flavor a score of 3 out of 5. “I didn’t love the taste of this shake,” he said. “The vanilla flavor is extremely subtle, and it has a very earthy flavor profile.” Pete notes that this is likely due to the organic mushroom blend included in the formula. “The sweetness level is balanced and has a slightly gritty texture, but overall, it mixes pretty well and has a smooth consistency.” He thinks it’s a fairly light shake and the recommended mixing directions are Suitable, two measures in twelve ounces of water.

    The top organic meal replacement shake is Ora Organic's So Lean So Clean.

    Ora Organic So Lean So Clean

    A USDA organic certified vegan protein powder
    Fortune score 3.75/5
    Ora Organic So Lean So Clean
    Check Price

    at Amazon

    • Our thoughts: This is a great plant-based option
    • Calories per serving: 130 calories
    • Choices available: Four, with unsweetened and unflavored among them.
    • This is for individuals seeking an organic, plant-derived protein supplement.
    • Its distinction lies in being naturally sweetened with organic monk fruit extract, rather than stevia.

    Pros

    • Plant-based formula
    • Subscribe and save 20% on each order
    • HSA/FSA eligible

    Cons

    • This meal replacement powder has fewer calories than many other options.
    • Free shipping is offered, with a minimum purchase requirement of $75 for subscriptions or $125 for regular orders.
    • Priced higher than other protein powders featured here

    Our Perspective on Ora Organic's So Lean So Clean

    Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean stands out as our top choice for an organic meal replacement shake due to its complete absence of sugar, a feature seldom found in vegan powder supplements. The So Lean & So Clean formulation from Ora incorporates complementary protein sources, including pea and rice protein, alongside cranberry, sacha inchi, amaranth, and sprouted quinoa to complete its amino acid makeup. 

    Those interested in health will find value in the more than twelve ingredients derived from whole foods, including acai, blueberry, broccoli, turmeric, pomegranate, and others. It’s important to mention that plant proteins generally have lower bioavailability than animal sources, so “you may not get all 23 grams in the way that you would with a whey,” per our certified nutrition coach Pete. He still likes that “pea protein offers the highest quality essential amino acids—basically, it’s among the highest-quality plant protein available.”

    Ora Organic as best meal replacement shake

    Pete reviewed this item and assigned it a rating of “a 5 out of 5 for first impressions, thanks to its clean and easy-to-read design.” During his evaluation, he observed that "the product completely breaks down within 60 seconds." This protein powder has a somewhat gritty feel, which is quite common for those formulated with pea protein. He observed no visible clumps in the shake post-mixing. However, Pete remarked, "This product settled extremely fast after the first mix, necessitating constant shaking before each drink to prevent it from fully The powder settled at the shaker bottle's base, leading him to give Ora a 3 out of 5 for how well it mixed.  

    Pete took a few sips and realized the drink contained vegan protein powder, not whey. “It’s not very sweet (scoring a 2/10) and has a very natural and clean flavor profile,” he said. “Nothing tastes artificial, it’s a super subtle vanilla flavor.” He felt the taste represented the brand well, but added, “most consumers probably wouldn’t like the taste of this product. A lingering taste, as if the pea protein remains in your mouth for a while. Nevertheless, Pete consistently consumed this shake, stating, "I appreciate the natural flavor and the pure ingredients." When combined with chilled water, it offers a light and invigorating sensation.

    Ora Organic as best meal replacement shake

    Beyond its rapid dissolution, Pete found this protein powder agreeable, experiencing no digestive discomfort or peculiar lingering flavor, thus awarding it a perfect score of 5/5 for its absence of adverse reactions.

    The top choice for a meal replacement shake to support weight gain is Transparent Labs Mass Gainer.

    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer

    A calorie-dense supplement featuring a balanced macronutrient profile.
    Fortune score 4.5/5
    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
    Check Price

    at Transparent Labs

    • We recommend a blender for thoroughly combining this beverage.
    • Calories per serving: 770 calories
    • Flavor options: Three options
    • This is intended for athletes and individuals seeking to increase their calorie intake beyond what they can get from food by itself.
    • Its distinction lies in its use of grass-fed whey and genuine food-based carbohydrate ingredients such as tapioca, oat flour, and sweet potato.

    Pros

    • Free from synthetic sweeteners, artificial coloring, and preservatives.
    • Includes creatine
    • Balanced macro ratio

    Cons

    • More expensive than other options on our list
    • Only a few flavor options available
    • Higher sodium content per serving

    A Look at Transparent Labs Mass Gainer

    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer stands out as our top choice for a meal replacement shake aimed at weight gain, as it's precisely engineered as a mass gainer, a product type intended to elevate calorie and protein consumption for individuals seeking to Having difficulty putting on weight. This mass gainer differs from standard complete meal replacement shakes by not offering a comprehensive range of daily vitamins and minerals. It's advisable to consume this alongside a well-rounded meal.

    In our mass gainers roundup, we showcase Transparent Labs' dedication to superior quality and clear labeling practices. A single serving provides approximately 770 calories, featuring over 50 grams of grass-fed whey protein, alongside wholesome carbohydrates derived from oats, tapioca, and sweet potatoes. It's a great option for individuals seeking to increase their calorie and protein intake without consuming excessive sugars or low-quality ingredients. 

    Transparent Labs mass gainer as best mass gainer

    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer received a 5 out of 5 rating from Pete for his initial impressions. “It comes in a very large white plastic container which is about twice as large as your standard two-pound protein powder tub.” He highlighted the clear, informative label and how easily the lid opens and closes, though the oversized tub means it may require extra pantry space.

    When mixed with water, the powder didn’t fully dissolve within 60 seconds, leading to a 1 out of 5 mixability score. “The texture was very clumpy and there were visible chunks,” he said. Even after another 60 seconds of shaking, it remained undissolved. Because mass gainers are dense and the serving is two scoops, using a blender is the recommended approach for a smoother shake.

    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer as best mass gainer.

    Pete rated flavor a 3 out of 5 and sweetness a 5 out of 5. “The flavor I tested was sweet vanilla, and it was true to its name—the supplement was very sweet,” he said. “The shake was thick, and I would compare the taste to a melted vanilla ice cream,” he said. He cited a noticeable stevia taste and wouldn’t pick this flavor for daily use but still values it as a mass gainer thanks to the 700+ calories and 50+ grams of protein per serving.

    Best Vegan Meal Replacement Shake: Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla

    Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla

    A ready-to-drink shake to support your nutrient needs
    Fortune score 4/5
    Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla
    Check Price

    at Huel

    • Our thoughts: We like that it contains 27 vitamins and minerals
    • Calories per serving: 200 calories per serving, 400 calories per bottle
    • Flavor options: Over eight flavors
    • Who it’s for: Folks looking for a pre-mixed drink to take on the go
    • What makes it different: It’s Kosher certified

    Pros

    • Plant-based protein from brown rice and pea protein
    • Includes essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids
    • Gluten-free

    Cons

    • Flavor may be too sweet for some folks
    • More expensive than other options on our list
    • A minimum spend of $65 for free shipping

    Our Thoughts on Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla

    Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla is our pick for the best vegan meal replacement shake because it offers convenience along with complete plant-based nutrition in a portable bottle. Each serving contains macronutrients from oats, peas, and brown rice, along with 27 essential vitamins and minerals, making it nutritionally comprehensive for vegans and anyone seeking a dairy- and gluten-free option. 

    Pete tested Huel’s Ready to Drink, rating it a 5 out of 5 for first impressions. “This is a ready-to-drink protein supplement that comes in a 16.9 fluid ounce clear plastic bottle,” Pete said. “The label is mostly black with a white mosaic pattern at the top to denote the vanilla flavor.” He thinks it would be easy to take with you on the go, and the bottle has a screw top that’s easy to open and close.

    He rated both taste and sweetness as 3 out of 5. “The taste of this product is decent,” Pete said. “You can definitely tell that it’s a plant-based protein (pea protein, fava bean protein) powder, which tastes significantly different from a whey.” He notes that the vanilla flavor is subtle, and he tasted a moderate The coconut sugar's level of sweetness. “The mouth feel is totally smooth, and it has a creamy consistency,” Pete says.

    When testing this product, Pete reported no side effects or lingering taste, giving it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for this aspect. He believes Huel Ready to Drink is effective as a meal replacement shake, offering 400 calories and 35 grams of protein per bottle. 

    “Some potential benefits of this shake are that it’s vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and kosher certified, which will appeal to some consumers,” he says. Our testing team also appreciates that it's a pre-made drink, perfect for quickly packing into a bag or backpack for a trip to the gym or office.

    The top-rated meal replacement shake for taste is the HLTH Code Plant Based.

    HLTH Code Plant Based

    Features specially fermented proteins to enhance absorption
    Fortune score 4.5/5
    HLTH Code Plant Based
    Check Price

    at Amazon

    • We appreciate the inclusion of digestive enzymes, probiotics, and fiber, which are beneficial for gut health.
    • Calories per serving: 200 calories
    • Flavor options: Two flavors
    • This plant-based shake is designed for individuals seeking a comprehensive nutritional profile, encompassing both macronutrients and micronutrients.
    • Its unique characteristic is its equal balance of protein and beneficial fats, sourced from avocado and coconut oils.

    Pros

    • Includes digestive and metabolic support
    • Non-GMO certified
    • Fermented protein blend helps with absorption

    Cons

    • More expensive than other options on our list
    • Only two flavors
    • Contains coconut oil, caution for allergies

    Our Perspective on the HLTH Code Complete Meal

    HLTH Complete Meal stands out as our top choice for the most delicious meal replacement shake, offering a decadent, velvety taste and a smooth consistency that's uncommon among vegan options. Its uniqueness comes from specially fermented plant proteins, offering excellent bioavailability and very little grittiness. Our reviewer discovered this shake to be among the most pleasant-tasting plant-based beverages they tried. Beyond its flavor, the formulation provides a well-rounded macronutrient distribution, delivering 400 calories per serving, along with beneficial ingredients for digestive health such as probiotics, enzymes, and fiber, thus creating a fulfilling, all-in-one meal replacement.

    Pete tested HLTH’s Complete Meal, rating it a 5 out of 5 for first impressions: “This product comes in a bag, not a plastic container, which I think is a positive because it saves space in your cabinets,” he said. The label's appearance appeals to him, and its readability is excellent. “The bag has a resealable seal that was easy to open and close, and a scoop,” Pete said. He feels the bag's size likely disqualifies it as being convenient for travel.

    HLTH Code meal replacement powder as best meal replacement shake

    The instructions were rated a perfect 5 out of 5 for clarity, while mixability received a 3 out of 5. “The product was almost fully dissolved after 60 seconds of shaking,” he said. A couple of tiny clusters rose to the shaker's surface. "Even after shaking them for an additional 60 seconds, they hadn't completely disappeared," Pete commented. The consistency was generally smooth.

    Pete also gave the taste a perfect score of 5 out of 5. “This product tasted very good for a plant-based protein powder,” he said. “It has a smooth and creamy consistency.” When he followed the recommended directions of two scoops with 12 ounces of water, it produced a thick shake. “For those who prefer a thinner consistency, I’d suggest bumping up to 16 ounces of water,” he said. “The vanilla flavor comes through, and it has a very mild sweetness level.” This shake is sweetened with fermented sugarcane and monk fruit extract.

    HLTH Code meal replacement powder as best meal replacement shake

    Pete believes this product functions effectively as a substitute for meals. A two-scoop portion contains 400 calories, 27 grams of fat, 19 grams of carbohydrates, and 27 grams of protein. "Given this macronutrient breakdown, it could be a suitable choice for individuals adhering to a ketogenic diet," he stated. “I also like that the two-scoop serving size has 15 grams of dietary fiber, which is about half of the recommended daily fiber intake for most people.”

    SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake: The Top Meal Replacement Shake for Weight Loss

    SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake

    An organic, fermented pea protein shake that's a plant-based superfood.
    Fortune score 3.75/5
    SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake
    Check Price

    at Amazon

    • We appreciate that this shake is low in calories and high in protein.
    • Calories per serving: 130 calories
    • Flavor options: Two flavors
    • This is ideal for individuals seeking a straightforward, low-calorie option to substitute meals.
    • Its distinction lies in the inclusion of MCT oil powder, which aids metabolic support.

    Pros

    • Low calorie and high protein
    • Zero added sugar
    • Vegan and keto friendly

    Cons

    • More expensive than other options on our list
    • Contains proprietary blends
    • Contains tree nuts (coconut); those with allergies should exercise caution.

    SunWarrior's Lean Superfood Shake: Our Perspective

    For effective and healthy weight reduction, SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake stands out as our premier choice for a meal replacement shake, as it's designed to aid in secure, long-term weight control while ensuring essential nutrients aren't compromised. This shake offers a blend of organic plant protein, superfoods, adaptogens, functional mushrooms, and digestive probiotics, all while containing just 120–140 calories per serving. 

    Sunwarrior meal replacement powder as best meal replacement shake

    Pete gave SunWarrior’s Lean Superfood Shake a perfect 5 out of 5 score upon his initial trial. “The container stands out since it’s a square plastic container as opposed to the standard circular design,” he said. “The label looks nice, it’s easy to read and has a simple, clean design.” He thinks the container would potentially be travel-friendly, though it’d probably be smarter to put a few scoops into a plastic bag if you wanted To take it along. “The container has a screw top lid that’s easy to open and close, and a scoop is provided,” Pete said.

    Sunwarrior meal replacement powder as best meal replacement shake

    This shake received a 3 out of 5 for how well it mixed. The product has completely dissolved, with no powder clumps or chunks remaining. "However, it does have a somewhat coarse texture," Pete remarked. He rated both the taste and sweetness as 3 out of 5: “I didn’t love the taste of this shake,” he said. The vanilla taste is quite understated, offering a distinctly earthy flavor. "This is probably because of the natural mushroom mix that's part of the formula," Pete commented. “The sweetness level is balanced and it has a very slight gritty texture, but overall it mixes pretty well and has a smooth consistency,” he said. He considers this a rather mild shake, and the suggested mixing directions are suitable: two scoops per 12 ounces of water.

    Additional Meal Replacement Drinks We Evaluated

    Our lab conducted hands-on testing of numerous meal replacement shakes. Below are some that we evaluated but ultimately excluded from our top selections, along with the reasons for their exclusion.

    • Although we tested Instant Knockout’s Complete Shred, we decided against adding it to our recommendations due to its sticky and messy nature, even prior to hydration.
    • We also tested Prolon’s Fasting Shake, but it didn't make our list due to its poor mixability, which resulted in noticeable clumps and a gritty feel.

    A meal replacement shake is a pre-packaged beverage designed to substitute a full meal.

    A meal replacement shake offers a convenient, well-balanced nutritional option, delivering protein, carbs, healthy fats, and vital vitamins and minerals equivalent to a full meal in a single, simple-to-drink format. For those with packed schedules who may not always have the opportunity to prepare or consume a complete meal, these shakes provide a convenient, portable option for breakfast, lunch, or a satisfying snack while out and about. Some arrive pre-mixed for immediate consumption, while others come as powders that can be rapidly combined with water or milk, rendering them perfect partners for journeys, demanding work schedules, or workouts.

    Sunwarrior meal replacement powder as best meal replacement shake

    Meal replacement shakes can aid in maintaining a steady diet, whether one aims for weight loss, weight gain, or just to guarantee sufficient nourishment during busy periods. These options typically offer measured calorie counts and are frequently rich in protein and fiber. Though meal replacement shakes can serve as a helpful addition to a balanced diet, it's generally preferable to consume whole foods whenever feasible, as these beverages might not contain all the nutrients present in actual food. If you have any pre-existing health issues, we advise consulting a physician prior to making a decision about regularly incorporating meal replacement shakes into your diet.

    Our Methodology for Choosing Top Meal Replacement Shakes

    We assessed and reviewed meal replacement shakes, rating them from 1 to 5 based on criteria including initial perceptions, clarity of instructions, flavor, how well they blended, any adverse reactions, and overall worth. Product evaluations are conducted by our testers, reflecting their personal experiences and individual tastes. We then examine their testing feedback and data to present our findings and suggestions to you.

    Flavor and Mouthfeel

    Taste is a significant aspect of how we evaluate products. Testers are requested to share their opinions on the taste, texture, and overall flavor appeal of each protein powder. We assess sweetness intensity on a scale from 1 to 5. The best taste is rated 5, while a rating of 1 indicates it's undrinkable. We also evaluate texture, instructing our tester to note any grittiness, clumps, frothiness, or conversely, smoothness and creaminess, experienced while sampling the meal replacement beverage.

    Formula

    We work hand-in-hand with a certified nutrition coach when choosing and evaluating meal replacement shakes, making sure every formula is both safe and beneficial. Our approach prioritizes nutrient amounts in shakes that are guided by clinical evidence, focusing on protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals aligning with or nearing the recommended daily values (RDVs). We also scrutinize ingredient quality, prioritizing formulas that eschew artificial sweeteners, colors, and proprietary blends, opting instead for natural, whole-food-based alternatives whenever feasible.

    Nutricost mass gainer as best mass gainer

    When it comes to meal replacement beverages, our priority is on items that provide a wide array of crucial vitamins and minerals, enabling them to serve as a dependable substitute for a balanced meal when necessary. This requires a balanced intake of macronutrients, including carbohydrates, beneficial fats, and proteins. While we still advocate for whole foods as the primary method for consuming your meals, expertly prepared shakes offer a convenient and beneficial substitute when you're busy, traveling, or experiencing high levels of stress.

    How well it blends 

    To prepare a meal replacement powder with liquid, we follow the brand's precise instructions. We then pay close attention to how well the powder dissolves, wanting to avoid grittiness in the taste and odd textures, like chunks.

    Independent Verification

    Meal replacement powders that underwent third-party testing were chosen. Independent verification of safety, purity, and nutrition label accuracy is guaranteed through third-party testing. This aids in lowering the chance of incorrect dosages or underdosing. Independent evaluations also screen for dangerous compounds like heavy metals and pesticides to ensure safety. 

    For athletes, independent verification is crucial to ensure their chosen protein powder is free from prohibited substances. They should look for products that are certified for sport. Independent testing and certifications help to build consumer trust. The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) does not regulate supplements, so it’s vital to have independent testing done to ensure safety, accuracy, and quality.

    Value

    We prioritize brands that source their ingredients domestically and possess certifications like Informed Choice or USDA-certified organic when evaluating value.

    Protein PowderProtein per servingCost per serving
    Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal25 g$4.66
    Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder20 g$2.03
    Ora Organic So Lean So Clean23 g$2.50
    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer53 g$5.33
    Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla20 g$5.54
    HLTH Code Complete Meal27 g$4.33
    SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake15 g$2.70
    Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal
    Protein per serving25 g
    Cost per serving$4.66
    Nutricost Meal Replacement Powder
    Protein per serving20 g
    Cost per serving$2.03
    Ora Organic So Lean So Clean
    Protein per serving23 g
    Cost per serving$2.50
    Transparent Labs Mass Gainer
    Protein per serving53 g
    Cost per serving$5.33
    Huel Ready to Drink Vanilla
    Protein per serving20 g
    Cost per serving$5.54
    HLTH Code Complete Meal
    Protein per serving27 g
    Cost per serving$4.33
    SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake
    Protein per serving15 g
    Cost per serving$2.70

    Need Help Choosing a Product?

    We recommend choosing a meal replacement shake that is high in protein and fiber, with minimal added sugars and artificial ingredients

    How to Find the Best Meal Replacement Shake for You

    Selecting the best meal replacement shake is a highly individualized process, since nutritional needs can vary depending on your fitness goals, dietary preferences, allergies, and any underlying health conditions. People’s regular diets also differ in terms of protein, carbohydrate, and fat intake, meaning some may require more of one macronutrient than another.

    Achieving Your Fitness Aspirations

    Your fitness goals play a key role in choosing the right meal replacement shake, as different people need different nutrients to fuel their routines and reach their objectives. Athletes might look for higher protein and calorie content to support muscle growth and recovery, while those aiming for weight loss usually benefit from shakes that are lower in calories and sugars but high in fiber and protein to help you feel fuller for longer. 

    HLTH Complete Meal as best meal replacement

    Flavors

    It’s important to choose a meal replacement shake flavor that you genuinely enjoy, because sipping it regularly makes it easier to meet your daily macronutrient goals and stick to your routine. A tasty flavor also ensures your meal replacement supplement feels more like a treat than a chore, which will support you long term.

    Formula

    When choosing a meal replacement shake, it’s important to consider the formula based on your goals. We look for shakes that offer clinically backed dosages or meet recommended daily values (RDVs) for essential nutrients to ensure you get the vitamins and minerals needed to truly replace a meal. Paying attention to ingredients like the protein source, fiber content, added sugars, and sweeteners helps you pick a formula that supports your health without unnecessary extra ingredients.

    Cost

    Meal replacement drinks can be pricey, so you may want to consider your budget when selecting a product for everyday use. Cleaner formulations, meaning those without artificial sweeteners or additives, may cost more because of their higher quality and ingredient sourcing.

    Independent Verification

    Third-party testing independently verifies the safety, purity, and label accuracy of protein powders since the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements. This process safeguards you from misidentification, contamination, and prohibited substances, fostering trust and ensuring product usage with assurance. To verify product excellence and protect your well-being, independent testing is crucial.

    Nutritional Supplement Drinks

    For individuals aiming for convenient nutrition and a balanced diet, meal replacement shakes present a number of advantages:

    • Packed with protein to help you feel full and keep your muscles in good shape.
    • Fortified with vital vitamins and minerals to enhance general well-being.
    • May aid in weight reduction; studies indicate that meal replacements result in better outcomes
    • decreases in body fat and Body Mass Index when contrasted with standard eating plans
    • Meal replacement shakes offer significant convenience because they're usually shelf-stable and simple to consume while traveling.

    Key considerations for meal replacement shakes include avoiding excessive sugar, artificial sweeteners, and unhealthy fats. Opt for shakes with a balanced macronutrient profile, including adequate protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Be mindful of added sugars and artificial ingredients, as these can detract from the health benefits.

    When selecting a meal replacement shake, it's crucial to steer clear of specific ingredients that could adversely affect your well-being or the nutritional value of your meal.

    Commonly posed questions

    To achieve weight loss, which meal replacement shake is most effective?

    We've selected SunWarrior Lean Superfood Shake as the top meal replacement shake for shedding pounds, as its carefully crafted composition supports healthy, sustainable weight control while providing essential nutrients. A single serving offers 120–140 calories and includes a well-rounded mix of organic plant protein, superfoods, adaptogens, functional mushrooms, and probiotics.

    Can you safely consume meal replacement shakes daily?

    For the most part, individuals can safely consume meal replacement shakes on a daily basis. We also suggest consuming whole foods, fruits, and vegetables to fulfill your nutrient requirements, as meal replacement shakes aren't a replacement for actual food, though they can be an excellent addition to supplement. Your nutritional requirements and aspirations. We also advise against shakes with overly high sugar levels or those containing ingredients such as artificial sweeteners or inflammatory oils.

    Meal replacement shakes can have several drawbacks. They might lack essential nutrients and fiber found in whole foods, potentially leading to digestive issues or nutrient deficiencies over time. Some shakes are also high in sugar and artificial ingredients, which can be detrimental to health. Furthermore, relying solely on shakes may not foster sustainable healthy eating habits, and they can be expensive compared to preparing meals from scratch. The lack of chewing and the sensory experience of eating real food can also leave individuals feeling unsatisfied.

    While convenient, meal replacement shakes come with a number of disadvantages that should be taken into account. Many commercially available shakes undergo extensive processing and might include synthetic sweeteners, added sugars, or inferior protein, potentially causing digestive unease, swelling, or similar problems with regular consumption. 

    Excessive dependence on meal replacement products may lead to a deficiency in the inherent variety of nutrients, fibers, and phytochemicals present in unprocessed foods, potentially affecting one's health over time.

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