Is Pro Elite 32g Dairy-Free Protein Shake - Chocolate Vegan?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look past the marketing claims and go straight to the formulation. The base of this shake is actually quite impressive from a plant-based standpoint. The OWYN Protein Blend is a robust combination of Pea Protein and Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein. These are excellent sources of amino acids and are fully vegan. Similarly, the inclusion of Flaxseed Oil and Greens Blend (Spinach, Kale, Broccoli) adds nutritional value without any animal derivatives.

However, the investigation hits a snag with the Natural Flavor ingredient. In the food industry, 'natural flavor' is a protected term, but it is not a transparent one. While it is chemically distinct from 'artificial flavor,' the source material can be either plant-derived or animal-derived. For example, natural chocolate flavoring can sometimes utilize castoreum (a secretion from beavers), though this is rare. More commonly, natural flavors are processed using alcohol that may not be vegan-friendly. Without the manufacturer explicitly stating that the natural flavor is 100% plant-derived, we cannot classify this as strictly vegan.

Finally, we must address the texture agents. Gellan Gum is a bacterial polysaccharide used to stabilize the shake, and it is perfectly vegan. The sweeteners, Monk Fruit Extract and Stevia Leaf Extract, are also plant-based. Therefore, the only hurdle remaining is the ambiguity of that flavoring system.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this shake is a powerhouse. Delivering 32 grams of protein is significant for a ready-to-drink (RTD) format, especially one that relies solely on plants. The Soluble Fiber content is a bonus, aiding in digestion and satiety. Regarding fats, the use of Sunflower Oil and Flaxseed Oil provides essential fatty acids, keeping the saturated fat content low compared to dairy-based shakes.

If you are monitoring your sugar intake, this product performs well. By relying on Monk Fruit and Stevia, it avoids adding refined sugars, keeping the calorie count reasonable for a meal replacement. It fits well within the limits of a high-protein, low-sugar diet, making it a solid option for post-workout recovery or a hunger-curbing snack.