Does Nutritional Shake Plus + Chocolate contain dairy or gluten?

It is gluten-free but contains dairy. Ingredients like milk protein and calcium caseinate confirm the presence of dairy derivatives.

Is Nutritional Shake Plus + Chocolate good for weight loss?

It can be used for weight management as a meal replacement to control calorie intake, but be mindful that it contains added sugar (sucrose) which adds to the total calorie count.

Where can I buy Nutritional Shake Plus + Chocolate?

Nutritional shakes of this type are generally available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, CVS, and Walgreens, as well as online through Amazon.

Is Nutritional Shake Plus + Chocolate safe for kids?

While generally safe, these shakes are formulated for adult nutritional needs. They contain high levels of vitamins and minerals that may exceed the daily recommended intake for small children. Consult a pediatrician before giving adult nutritional shakes to kids.

Is Nutritional Shake Plus + Chocolate Gluten Free?

Yes, Nutritional Shake Plus + Chocolate is gluten-free. Based on the ingredient list provided, there are no gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, or rye present. This makes it a safe option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, though other allergens like milk and soy are present.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is safe for a gluten-free diet, we have to look beyond just the obvious wheat flour. Gluten can hide in flavorings, thickeners, and processing aids. Fortunately, for Nutritional Shake Plus + Chocolate, the news is good. The primary carbohydrate source listed is maltodextrin. While maltodextrin can sometimes be derived from wheat, in the food industry, it is overwhelmingly sourced from corn or potato in the United States unless specified otherwise. Since the label explicitly states maltodextrin (corn), it is confirmed gluten-free.

The protein sources are also safe from a gluten perspective. The product relies on milk protein, soy protein isolate, and calcium caseinate. None of these ingredients contain gluten. However, it is crucial to note that this shake is not dairy-free. The presence of milk protein and calcium caseinate confirms it contains dairy derivatives. Additionally, soy lecithin and soy protein isolate indicate the presence of soy, a common allergen.

Finally, looking at the vitamins and minerals section, we see standard fortifications like ferric orthophosphate (iron) and zinc sulfate. These are synthetic or mineral-based ingredients and do not pose a gluten risk. The thickening agent carrageenan is derived from seaweed and is naturally gluten-free. There are no red flags for gluten in this formulation.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Nutritional Shake Plus + Chocolate is designed as a meal replacement or supplement, meaning it is calorie-dense. A standard serving typically contains between 200 and 300 calories, depending on the specific formulation size. The fat content is moderate, derived from canola oil, corn oil, and soy oil. These are vegetable-based fats, which are generally considered heart-healthier than saturated animal fats, though they are still processed oils.

The sugar content is an area to watch. The second ingredient listed is sugar (sucrose). While this provides energy and taste, it adds 'empty calories' and can spike blood sugar levels. For those strictly monitoring glycemic index, this is a consideration. However, the product is fortified with a comprehensive spectrum of vitamins and minerals, making it nutritionally complete for a single meal. It fits well into a diet where convenience is a priority, provided you account for the sugar and carbohydrate load elsewhere in your day.