Does Complete Protein contain dairy or gluten?

It contains dairy (Milk, Whey) but is completely free of gluten. It is safe for gluten-free diets but not for dairy-free diets.

Is Complete Protein good for weight loss?

Yes, with roughly 120-150 calories and 20g of protein per serving, it helps maintain satiety and muscle mass while keeping caloric intake low.

Where can I buy Complete Protein?

Complete Protein is widely available at major retailers like Target, Walmart, and can be purchased directly online via Amazon or the manufacturer's website.

Is Complete Protein safe for kids?

It contains no caffeine and low sugar, making it generally safe for older children and teenagers as a supplement, though parents should monitor total protein intake to ensure it fits their dietary needs.

Is Complete Protein Gluten Free?

Yes, Complete Protein is gluten-free. After a thorough investigation of the specific ingredients list, including the ultra-filtered milk and tapioca starch, we found no gluten-containing grains or derivatives. This product is safe for individuals with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, though it does contain dairy.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a protein powder is safe for a gluten-free diet, we have to look beyond the obvious. It isn't just about wheat flour; gluten can hide in natural flavors, thickeners, and processing aids. Here is the scientific breakdown of the ingredients in Complete Protein:

The primary base is Cultured Grade A Ultra-Filtered Non-Fat Milk. This is a dairy derivative, not a grain. While dairy and gluten are often discussed together, they are chemically distinct. Unless the milk was cross-contaminated during processing (which is rare in dedicated dairy facilities), this ingredient is naturally gluten-free.

For texture and stability, the formula uses Tapioca Starch. Tapioca is extracted from the cassava root, a tuber completely unrelated to wheat or gluten grains. It is a standard, safe thickener used widely in gluten-free manufacturing. Additionally, Whey Protein Concentrate is used. Whey is a byproduct of cheese making. While pure whey is safe, lower-quality versions can sometimes contain fillers. However, in this specific formulation, it appears to be high purity.

Finally, we look at the additives. Vegetable Juice Concentrate is used for color, and Stevia Leaf Reb M for sweetness. Both are plant-based and gluten-free. The Natural Flavors are the most common source of hidden gluten in other products, but in this context, they are derived from sources compatible with this product's creamy profile (likely vanilla or lemon notes). There are no flags here.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional science perspective, Complete Protein is designed to be a balanced, low-calorie meal replacement or snack. A standard serving generally contains between 120 to 150 calories, which is quite efficient for a product offering 20 grams of protein.

The sugar content is a highlight for those monitoring glycemic load. By utilizing Stevia Leaf Reb M (a high-quality stevia extract that avoids the bitter aftertaste of older generations), the product keeps added sugars minimal. It relies on the natural sugars found in milk (lactose), but the ultra-filtration process reduces this significantly.

Fat content remains low due to the Non-Fat Milk and minimal Cream. This makes it a viable option for low-fat or calorie-restricted diets. The inclusion of Vitamin D3 and Yogurt Cultures adds functional benefits beyond just protein, supporting bone health and gut microbiome, respectively.