The short answer is a resounding yes: Bolthouse Farms Protein Plus coffee contains a noticeable amount of caffeine. The popular protein shake is specifically formulated to include real coffee, providing both a protein boost and an energy kick in a single, convenient bottle. This makes it a multi-functional beverage for morning energy or a pre-workout fuel.
The Caffeine Breakdown: What to Expect
Bolthouse Farms is transparent about the caffeine content in its Coffee Protein Plus shake, clearly stating the amount on their product pages and nutritional labels. Each 15.2 fl oz bottle delivers a specific and reliable dosage of energy.
- 80 mg of Caffeine: This is the key figure for the Protein Plus Coffee shake. Bolthouse Farms states that this amount is comparable to a standard cup of coffee. A typical 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee can contain anywhere from 80-100 mg, placing this shake squarely in that category.
- Source of Caffeine: The caffeine comes directly from coffee extract, an ingredient listed alongside reduced-fat milk, cane sugar, and a blend of whey and soy proteins. The use of real coffee extract ensures that the caffeine is naturally occurring and not synthetically added.
- Comparison to Other Varieties: It's important to note that only the coffee-flavored protein shakes from Bolthouse Farms are caffeinated. Other flavors, such as Vanilla Bean or Strawberry, do not contain caffeine unless explicitly stated. Bolthouse also offers a Protein Keto Coffee with an even higher caffeine content of 140mg per bottle, so it's crucial to read the label carefully.
Comparing Bolthouse Protein Shakes
To better understand the options, here is a comparison table of different Bolthouse Farms protein drinks.
| Feature | Protein Plus Coffee Shake | Protein Keto Coffee Shake | Vanilla Bean Protein Plus | Standard Brewed Coffee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein (per 15.2 oz) | 30g | 15g | 30g | ~0g |
| Caffeine Content (per 15.2 oz) | ~80mg | ~140mg | 0mg | ~80-100mg |
| Sugar | 49g Total, 36g Added | 1g | 38g Total, 25g Added | 0g (black) |
| Key Ingredients | Coffee, milk, whey/soy protein | Coffee, milk protein, MCT oil | Milk, soy/whey protein, vanilla | Water, coffee grounds |
| Keto Friendly | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Primary Use | Energy and muscle support | Keto diet support | General protein intake | Energy boost |
Benefits and Considerations of the Shake
The inclusion of caffeine along with a significant amount of protein offers several benefits, but also requires some consideration depending on individual needs.
Key Benefits of the Blended Coffee Shake
- Dual-Purpose Fuel: The combination of caffeine and 30 grams of protein makes this an effective pre-workout drink or mid-day pick-me-up. The caffeine provides immediate energy, while the protein helps with muscle repair and satiety.
- Rich in Nutrients: Each bottle is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, including 5 B vitamins and a high percentage of the daily value for Vitamin A, C, and Calcium.
- Convenience: As a ready-to-drink shake, it saves time for those on the go, eliminating the need for brewing coffee or mixing powders.
Potential Considerations
- Sugar Content: The Protein Plus Coffee shake is notably high in sugar, with 36g of added sugar per 15.2 oz serving, which is a consideration for those monitoring their sugar intake.
- Caffeine Sensitivity: For individuals who are sensitive to caffeine, 80mg may be too much, especially later in the day. Be mindful of timing when consuming this beverage.
- Allergens: The product contains both milk and soy, which are common allergens. Individuals with these allergies should avoid this shake.
A Deeper Look at Ingredients
The Bolthouse Farms Protein Plus Coffee shake's formula includes more than just coffee and protein. The full list of ingredients includes a blend of several components designed for flavor, texture, and nutritional value:
- Reduced Fat Milk
- Coffee (Water, Coffee Extract)
- Cane Sugar
- Whey Protein Concentrate
- Soy Protein Concentrate
- Soy Protein Isolate
- Natural Flavors
- Thickeners (Acacia Gum, Carrageenan)
- Vitamins (A, C, B-vitamins)
- Minerals (Calcium, Potassium)
Conclusion
In summary, the Bolthouse Farms Protein Plus coffee shake absolutely contains caffeine, providing approximately 80mg per bottle, an amount comparable to a regular cup of coffee. This makes it a dual-purpose beverage offering both a stimulating energy boost and a substantial protein supply for muscle support. While its convenience and nutritional fortification are significant benefits, consumers should be aware of the high sugar content and the presence of common allergens like milk and soy. For those who need a different caffeine level or are following a different diet, like keto, Bolthouse Farms also offers other specific coffee-flavored products. Always check the label to ensure you are selecting the product that best fits your dietary and energy needs. For more information, you can visit the official Bolthouse Farms website(https://www.bolthouse.com/product/protein-plus-coffee/).
Key Takeaways
- Caffeine Confirmed: The Protein Plus Coffee shake from Bolthouse Farms is explicitly caffeinated.
- 80mg Caffeine: Each 15.2 fl oz bottle contains approximately 80 milligrams of caffeine, equivalent to a regular cup of coffee.
- Coffee Extract Source: The caffeine and flavor are derived from coffee extract, which is listed in the ingredients.
- Nutritional Boost: In addition to caffeine, each shake provides 30 grams of protein and a boost of 5 B vitamins.
- Not All Shakes are Caffeinated: Not all Bolthouse protein shakes contain caffeine; it is specific to the coffee-flavored varieties.
- Higher-Caffeine Option: Bolthouse Farms offers a Protein Keto Coffee with a higher 140mg of caffeine per bottle.
