Does Equate Performance Protein Shake contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains dairy (Milk Protein Concentrate, Whey) but it is gluten-free. It does not contain wheat or other gluten grains.

Is Equate Performance Protein Shake good for weight loss?

It can be used for weight loss as a meal replacement due to its protein content helping with satiety, but watch the sugar content which adds calories.

Where can I buy Equate Performance Protein Shake?

Equate is Walmart's store brand, so it is primarily available at Walmart stores and on Walmart.com.

Is Equate Performance Protein Shake safe for kids?

It is formulated for adults and contains a high amount of vitamins and minerals. It is generally not recommended for children unless directed by a pediatrician.

Is Equate Performance Protein Shake Gluten Free?

Yes, Equate Performance Protein Shake is gluten-free. Based on the ingredient list provided by the manufacturer, there are no wheat, barley, rye, or oat ingredients included. This makes it a safe option for those avoiding gluten, though it is important to note that it does contain dairy.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a product is safe for a gluten-free diet, we look for the obvious culprits and the hidden risks. In the case of Equate Performance Protein Shake, the formula relies heavily on dairy-based proteins. The Protein Blend consists of Milk Protein Concentrate, Milk Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate, and Calcium Caseinate. All of these are derived strictly from milk and contain no gluten.

Next, we examined the additives and flavorings. The Cocoa (processed with alkali) is naturally gluten-free. The Vitamin and Mineral Blend is extensive, listing ingredients like Sodium Ascorbate and Ferric Orthophosphate, which are mineral salts and vitamins, not gluten grains. Additionally, thickeners and stabilizers like Carrageenan, Cellulose Gel, and Cellulose Gum are plant-derived but are not sourced from gluten-containing grains. There are no ingredients like malt flavoring or hydrolyzed wheat protein, which are common in other nutritional drinks.

While the ingredients are clean, the manufacturing process is the final hurdle. However, the manufacturer has not flagged this product with a 'gluten warning' (such as 'processed in a facility that also processes wheat'). Therefore, based on the strict ingredient analysis, it is considered gluten-free.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this shake is designed as a high-protein supplement. A single bottle typically provides around 30 grams of protein, which is excellent for muscle recovery or as a meal replacement. However, consumers should be mindful of the sugar content. The product contains Sugar and artificial sweeteners like Sucralose and Acesulfame Potassium. While the calorie count is moderate (usually around 180-200 calories), the presence of added sugars means it isn't a 'clean' diet product.

The fat content comes primarily from Sunflower Oil, which is a standard source of lipids in nutritional shakes. If you are on a strict low-carb or ketogenic diet, the sugar content might be a concern, but for general fitness and weight maintenance, it fits well within daily limits. It provides a solid balance of macros—protein, fats, and carbohydrates—making it a convenient option for post-workout recovery or a quick breakfast.