Is Core Power Protein Shake Healthy? A Deep Dive into Nutrition and Ingredients

November 14, 2025 •

2 min read

According to reports, sales of protein and meal-replacement drinks surged 11.1% last year, showing the widespread popularity of convenient protein sources. This growth has left many consumers asking: is Core Power protein shake healthy, and is it truly a good option for post-workout recovery or a dietary supplement?

Quick Summary

Core Power protein shakes offer high protein content from ultra-filtered milk, aiding muscle recovery and providing essential amino acids. However, some nutrition experts and reviews raise concerns about the presence of artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, as well as the thickener carrageenan, which may have potential health drawbacks. The healthiness of Core Power depends on individual dietary needs and health sensitivities.

Key Points

High Protein Content: Core Power shakes provide a substantial amount of high-quality, complete protein derived from ultra-filtered milk, which aids muscle recovery.
Contains Artificial Ingredients: The shakes use artificial sweeteners (sucralose, acesulfame potassium) and thickeners (carrageenan), which are points of concern for some health experts.
Lactose-Free Milk Base: The ultra-filtration process removes most of the lactose, making the shake easier for many individuals with lactose sensitivity to digest.
Highly Processed Nature: As a ready-to-drink product with multiple additives, Core Power is considered a highly-processed food by some, which is a consideration for those focused on a 'clean' diet.
Potential for Gut Inflammation: Some studies suggest that carrageenan, a common ingredient, may contribute to gut inflammation in sensitive individuals.
Convenience vs. Cleanliness: Core Power offers unparalleled convenience for a quick protein fix, but this comes at the cost of potential artificial additives that might not suit everyone's health philosophy.

Core Power: The Nutritional Breakdown

Core Power is a popular ready-to-drink protein shake made by Fairlife using ultra-filtered milk. This process concentrates the milk's protein and calcium while reducing lactose, making it easier to digest for some. Core Power shakes are known for their high protein content, with standard shakes containing 26g and the Elite version providing 42g. This protein is beneficial for muscle repair and rebuilding after exercise. The shakes also contain electrolytes, calcium, and Vitamin D3.

The Good: High-Quality Protein

Core Power provides a complete protein source from milk, containing all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth. The ultra-filtered milk base is also suitable for many with lactose sensitivity.

The Not-So-Good: Controversial Ingredients

Some ingredients in Core Power have raised concerns among experts and consumers. These include artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which some studies link to potential health issues such as altered gut microbiome and weakened insulin sensitivity. The thickener carrageenan, while FDA-approved, is also present and some research suggests it may contribute to gut inflammation. Additionally, the term "natural flavors" can encompass various chemical additives, raising transparency concerns.

Core Power vs. Fairlife Nutrition Plan Shakes

It's useful to compare Core Power with similar products like Fairlife's Nutrition Plan Shakes. The table below highlights key differences:


Feature	Core Power	Fairlife Nutrition Plan	Whole Food Sources (e.g., Greek yogurt)
Protein per serving (approx.)	26g or 42g	30g	Varies widely
Calories per serving (approx.)	170-230	150	Varies
Artificial Sweeteners	Yes (sucralose, acesulfame potassium)	No (some sources indicate none)	No
Controversial Additives	Yes (carrageenan, 'natural flavors')	Less common (varies by flavor)	No
Primary Goal	Post-workout recovery	General protein boost/snack	Overall nutrient intake
Taste	Often described as creamy and flavorful	Often described as very palatable	Natural, can be blended with fruits

Considering Your Personal Needs

The healthiness of Core Power depends on individual health goals and dietary preferences. For those prioritizing high protein intake and convenience for post-workout recovery, it can be effective. However, if a clean diet without artificial additives is the goal, Core Power might not be suitable. High-intensity athletes may benefit from the high protein. Those managing weight should consider the calories and potential effects of artificial sweeteners on cravings. Individuals focused on gut health might prefer avoiding carrageenan.

Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective

Is Core Power protein shake healthy? It offers high-quality protein and nutrients from ultra-filtered, lactose-free milk, which is beneficial for muscle building and recovery. However, the presence of artificial sweeteners and thickeners like carrageenan can be a concern for those avoiding processed foods. It can fit into a balanced diet for convenient protein, but alternatives should be considered for a cleaner option.

The Final Verdict

Weigh the pros (high protein, convenience, low sugar in some) and cons (artificial additives, processing) of Core Power against your personal health goals. While effective for a quick protein boost, consider other options for a cleaner diet. Resources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) can provide more information on food additives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Core Power is effective for building muscle because it contains a high concentration of complete, high-quality milk protein, which provides all the essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth after exercise.

Core Power can be part of a weight loss plan due to its high protein content promoting satiety and helping manage hunger. However, individuals should monitor their calorie and sugar intake from the shakes, and be mindful of the potential negative effects of artificial sweeteners.

No, Core Power protein shakes are not dairy-free or vegan as they are made from ultra-filtered milk, and therefore contain milk protein. They are, however, lactose-free.

Ultra-filtered milk is milk that has been passed through a series of fine filters to concentrate protein and calcium while filtering out lactose and some sugar. This process is what allows Core Power to offer higher protein content with less sugar than traditional milk-based shakes.

Core Power contains sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which are approved by the FDA. However, some research has raised concerns about their long-term health effects, including potential links to altered gut health and insulin sensitivity.

Carrageenan is a thickener used to improve the shake's texture and consistency. Although derived from seaweed, some studies have linked it to digestive issues and inflammation, which is why it is a controversial ingredient for some.

Core Power is positioned for post-workout recovery with higher protein (up to 42g) and calories in some variants, while Fairlife Nutrition Plan is often lighter (30g protein, 150 calories) and positioned more as a meal replacement or snack. Fairlife Nutrition Plan shakes may also be formulated with fewer additives.