Is 20 g Protein Chocolate Fudge Flavored Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always start with the ingredient label to determine the source of a product. For this specific protein shake, the vegan status is compromised immediately by the protein sources used. The primary ingredients listed are WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE and MILK PROTEIN CONCENTRATE.

Whey is a byproduct of the cheese-making process; it is the liquid remaining after milk has been curdled and strained. It is inherently dairy and therefore not vegan. Similarly, milk protein concentrate is exactly what it sounds like—concentrated protein derived from cow's milk. These two ingredients form the backbone of the product's 20-gram protein claim.

While the rest of the ingredients like ALKALIZED COCOA, SUNFLOWER OIL, and sweeteners like REB M and MONK FRUIT EXTRACT are plant-derived, the presence of dairy makes the entire formulation non-vegan. There is no mention of potential cross-contamination warnings here; the ingredients themselves are the culprits.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this shake offers a convenient 20 grams of protein, which is excellent for muscle recovery. However, the inclusion of SUGAR adds to the carbohydrate count, which those on strict keto or low-carb diets might want to monitor. The fat content is relatively low, derived mostly from SUNFLOWER OIL, making the calorie count manageable for most diets.

If you are looking for a post-workout drink that fits within a specific dietary limit, this product is standard. However, if you are strictly vegan or lactose intolerant, the nutritional benefits do not outweigh the ingredient incompatibility. The texture is likely aided by CELLULOSE GEL, a plant-based thickener, which is a nice touch, but it doesn't save the product's vegan status.