Do protein shakes have eggs in them? Understanding Protein Sources

January 10, 2026 •

4 min read

Protein powders come from a wide variety of sources, including milk, plants, and eggs. The question, 'Do protein shakes have eggs in them?' is therefore best answered by examining the product's ingredient list, as formulations differ widely between brands and product types.

Quick Summary

The inclusion of egg in protein shakes is not universal and depends on the specific powder's formulation. While some products utilize egg white protein, many common shakes rely on dairy-based whey or plant-based alternatives. Always check the ingredient list to confirm the protein source and avoid potential allergens.

Key Points

Not all protein shakes contain eggs: The inclusion of egg protein is specific to certain brands and formulas, particularly those marketed as dairy-free or egg-based.
Always check the ingredients label: The most reliable way to know if a protein shake has eggs is to read the ingredient list for terms like 'egg protein' or 'egg albumin'.
Egg protein is a complete protein: Egg white protein powder is a high-quality, complete protein source containing all essential amino acids.
Different sources have different benefits: Protein powders can come from various sources, including whey (fast absorption), casein (slow absorption), and egg (medium absorption), each offering unique benefits for recovery or sustained nutrition.
Avoid adding raw eggs to homemade shakes: For health and safety reasons, do not use raw eggs in homemade shakes due to the risk of Salmonella contamination.
Alternatives are widely available: Plant-based protein powders from sources like soy, pea, and rice are excellent options for those avoiding animal products or with egg and dairy allergies.

Common Protein Sources in Shakes

Protein shakes are dietary supplements designed to provide a concentrated source of protein, but the origin of that protein varies significantly. While many people associate protein shakes with dairy (whey or casein), numerous other options exist, including egg-based and plant-based proteins.

Dairy-Based Proteins

Whey protein is perhaps the most common type of protein powder. It is a byproduct of the cheese-making process and is known for its fast absorption rate, making it ideal for post-workout recovery. Casein is another dairy protein, but it is digested more slowly, providing a sustained release of amino acids.

Egg-Based Proteins

Yes, some protein shakes have eggs in them, or more specifically, egg protein powder. This protein is typically derived from egg whites, which are separated, pasteurized, and then dried into a powder. Egg protein is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It is a popular choice for individuals with dairy sensitivities or those seeking an alternative to milk-based products. Some manufacturers may also use egg protein in blended formulations to achieve a specific nutritional profile.

Plant-Based Proteins

For those following a vegan diet or avoiding animal products altogether, plant-based proteins are widely available. Common sources include:

Soy: A complete protein source derived from soybeans.
Pea: Often used for its mild taste and high-protein content.
Rice: Frequently combined with other plant proteins to create a complete amino acid profile.
Hemp: Provides a good source of fiber, healthy fats, and minerals in addition to protein.

Ingredient Blends

Some protein shakes utilize a blend of multiple protein sources, such as whey, casein, and egg protein, to provide a mix of fast and slow-digesting proteins. This can be beneficial for providing a sustained release of amino acids to the muscles over a longer period.

How to Check for Egg in Your Protein Shake

To determine if your protein shake has egg in it, it is essential to check the product's label carefully. Manufacturers are required to list all ingredients and major allergens. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Read the 'Ingredients' list: This is the most direct way to identify the protein source. Look for terms like 'egg protein,' 'egg white protein,' or 'egg albumin'.
Look for allergen information: Many products will explicitly state if they contain common allergens. Check for a bolded 'Contains: Egg' warning on the packaging.
Review the 'Protein Source' section: Some products may specify the protein sources used on the front or back of the packaging for marketing purposes, but the ingredients list remains the most reliable source of information.
Visit the manufacturer's website: If you are unsure, the product page on the brand's official website will often provide detailed ingredient and allergen information.

Raw Eggs in Protein Shakes: A Warning

While protein powder made from pasteurized egg whites is safe, adding raw eggs to homemade protein shakes is risky and strongly discouraged due to the potential for Salmonella food poisoning. Symptoms can include fever, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea, and severe cases may require hospitalization. If you want to boost your protein with whole eggs, cooking them first is the safest approach.

Comparison Table: Common Protein Sources


Protein Source	Typical Digestibility	Allergens	Best Used For	Notes
Whey	Fast	Dairy (Lactose, Milk)	Post-workout recovery	High in BCAAs, popular, many flavors
Casein	Slow	Dairy (Milk)	Sustained protein release, pre-bedtime	Keeps you full longer
Egg	Medium	Egg	Dairy-free alternative	Complete protein, no lactose
Soy	Medium	Soy	Vegan, vegetarian	Complete protein, plant-based
Pea	Medium	None (major allergens)	Vegan, vegetarian	Hypoallergenic, often blended
Hemp	Medium	None (major allergens)	Vegan, vegetarian	Good source of fiber and fats

Choosing the Right Protein Shake for You

Selecting a protein shake involves considering your dietary needs, health goals, and any allergies. If you are allergic to eggs, knowing that some protein shakes do have eggs is critical for your safety. For those with a dairy intolerance, an egg-based or plant-based protein powder offers a suitable alternative. If you have no dietary restrictions, your choice may come down to taste, texture, and absorption rate. For instance, a blend with fast-acting whey and medium-release egg protein could be a great all-around option for muscle maintenance and recovery.

Conclusion

In summary, the presence of eggs in a protein shake is entirely dependent on the manufacturer and the specific product. While many popular shakes are dairy-based, egg protein powder is a well-established and high-quality option used in various formulations. To stay informed and make the best choice for your health and dietary preferences, always read the ingredient label and allergen warnings. This practice is especially important for those with egg allergies, who must avoid certain products. For those exploring alternatives to dairy, egg-based or plant-based powders offer excellent nutritional benefits. For further reading on nutritional information, consider exploring reputable health resources like Harvard Health.

Note: While some historical practices involved adding raw eggs to shakes, modern nutrition and safety guidelines strongly advise against this due to the risk of salmonella contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, egg protein powder is a suitable alternative for people with dairy allergies. It is derived from egg whites, making it free from the milk proteins found in whey and casein powders.

Whey protein is derived from milk and is digested quickly, while egg protein is made from egg whites and has a medium digestion rate. Both are complete proteins, but their source and absorption time differ significantly.

No, it is not safe to add raw eggs to a protein shake due to the risk of Salmonella food poisoning. Only consume pasteurized egg protein powder or cooked eggs.

You can determine if a protein shake is plant-based or animal-based by checking the ingredients list. Animal-based proteins will list ingredients like whey, casein, or egg. Plant-based powders will list sources like pea, soy, or hemp.

Some mass gainer supplements may contain egg protein, often as part of a protein blend. For example, some brands, like Optimum Nutrition's Serious Mass, have included egg protein in their formulation. It is important to check the label for specific ingredients.

A 'may contain eggs' warning indicates that the product was manufactured in a facility that also processes egg products. For individuals with a severe egg allergy, this poses a risk of cross-contamination and is best avoided.

Yes, pure egg protein powder is naturally lactose-free because it is sourced from eggs, not dairy. This makes it a great option for people who are lactose intolerant.