Is ULTRA PROTEIN high protein milk shake Halal?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look at the label to determine the source of ingredients. For ULTRA PROTEIN, the base is ultrafiltered skim milk blend. This is simply concentrated dairy protein, which is perfectly Halal. The sweeteners, sucralose and stevia leaf (reb m), are synthetic or plant-based, posing no religious issues.

The controversy lies in the lactase enzyme. Lactase is added to break down lactose, making the shake easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance. Enzymes can be sourced from fungi (Halal) or from the stomach lining of calves (questionable). Since manufacturers rarely disclose the specific fermentation source of their enzymes, strict Halal observers often flag this ingredient as a potential risk.

Other ingredients like cellulose gel, pectin, and cellulose gum are plant-derived thickeners and stabilizers. Tripotassium citrate is a mineral salt used for pH balance. None of these carry Halal concerns. Therefore, the entire ingredient list is clean except for that single, ambiguous enzyme.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this product is designed for high protein intake with low sugar. It uses artificial sweeteners like sucralose to keep the calorie count down while providing a sweet taste. The inclusion of vitamins A and D is a standard fortification practice to ensure the shake serves as a complete meal replacement or supplement.

Because it is ultrafiltered, the fat content is likely low, focusing on the protein solids. This makes it a viable option for muscle recovery or a low-carb diet. However, the presence of artificial sweeteners may be a dealbreaker for those seeking a 'clean label' or whole-food approach to nutrition.