Is Nurri the Same as Fairlife? Unpacking the Protein Shake Differences

January 4, 2026 •

3 min read

According to recent consumer reviews, Fairlife is described as sweeter and thicker, while Nurri is noted for its thinner consistency. This initial observation reveals that Nurri and Fairlife are not the same product, despite both being popular ultra-filtered, high-protein milk shakes.

Quick Summary

This comparison details the differences between Nurri and Fairlife protein shakes, including variations in taste, texture, ingredients, packaging, and availability, to help consumers choose the right product for their needs.

Key Points

Different Companies: Nurri is manufactured by Trilliant Food & Nutrition, while Fairlife is a Coca-Cola owned company.
Taste and Texture: Fairlife is generally sweeter and thicker, whereas Nurri is thinner and has a different flavor profile, with chocolate resembling Yoo-hoo.
Packaging Differences: Nurri is sold in non-resealable aluminum cans, which can sometimes cause a metallic aftertaste, unlike Fairlife's resealable plastic bottles.
Price Point: Nurri is often the more budget-friendly option when purchased at big-box retailers like Costco, though pricing can vary.
Ingredients: While both use ultra-filtered milk, ingredient differences exist; for example, Nurri lists pectin, while some Fairlife varieties contain carrageenan.
Ideal Usage: Nurri's thinner consistency is better for mixing with protein powders, whereas Fairlife's creamier texture is often preferred for standalone drinking.

Is Nurri the same as Fairlife? The Core Differences Explained

While both Nurri and Fairlife offer high-protein, lactose-free, ultra-filtered milk shakes, they are distinct products from different manufacturers. Fairlife is a Coca-Cola owned company, whereas Nurri is a Wisconsin-based brand manufactured by Trilliant Food & Nutrition. Their core similarity lies in the ultra-filtration process, which removes lactose and some sugar while concentrating protein and calcium. However, as customer reviews and ingredient lists show, the two brands are far from identical in other key areas.

Comparing Taste, Texture, and Ingredients

One of the most noticeable differences between Nurri and Fairlife, especially concerning their chocolate protein shakes, is the taste and texture. Reddit users and other reviewers frequently comment on these variations.

Nurri's Texture and Flavor Profile: Nurri shakes are described as having a thinner, less viscous consistency compared to Fairlife. Some compare the chocolate flavor to Yoo-hoo, while the vanilla is likened to melted vanilla ice cream. A potential drawback noted by some is a metallic aftertaste that can occur from the aluminum can packaging. The thinner texture makes it a potential favorite for mixing with protein powders, as it doesn't become overly thick.
Fairlife's Texture and Flavor Profile: Fairlife is generally considered sweeter and thicker than Nurri, providing a richer, more traditional chocolate milk-like taste. Its creamy texture is a major selling point for many consumers. However, some users have noted the inclusion of carrageenan as a thickener in some varieties, which Nurri does not use.

Packaging and Availability Differences

Another significant distinction is the product packaging, which influences both convenience and taste perceptions.

Nurri Packaging: Nurri protein shakes come in recyclable, shelf-stable aluminum cans. While this is a sustainable choice, a common complaint is that the cans are not resealable, and some users have reported a metallic taste. Nurri products are notably found at retailers like Costco and Sam's Club.
Fairlife Packaging: Fairlife's products, including its Nutrition Plan and Core Power shakes, are typically sold in resealable plastic bottles. Many of their smaller-sized products are also shelf-stable. Fairlife products are widely available at numerous retailers, including Costco and Sam's Club.

Comparative Nutrition and Price Analysis

While the nutritional breakdown is very similar for comparable products from both brands, especially for the 30g protein shakes, there can be minor variations in specific vitamins and minerals. The price point is another differentiating factor.


Feature	Nurri Protein Shake (30g)	Fairlife Protein Shake (30g)
Manufacturer	Trilliant Food & Nutrition	Coca-Cola Company
Base Ingredient	Ultra-Filtered Skim Milk	Ultra-Filtered Milk
Protein	30g	30g (Nutrition Plan)
Sugar	1g	2g (Nutrition Plan)
Calories	150	150 (Nutrition Plan)
Lactose-Free	Yes	Yes
Packaging	Aluminum can	Plastic bottle
Texture	Thinner consistency	Thicker, creamier
Typical Price (12-pack)	~$20 at Costco	~$22.50 at Sam's Club

Which one is the better choice?

The choice between Nurri and Fairlife ultimately depends on individual preferences for taste, texture, and convenience. Nurri's thinner consistency might appeal to those who prefer a lighter drink, and its generally lower price point makes it an attractive budget-friendly option. Fairlife, with its creamier texture and resealable bottles, offers a more premium, convenient experience, though often at a slightly higher cost. For those who prioritize a richer, dessert-like flavor, Fairlife is often the preferred choice, while Nurri's thinner profile is ideal for mixing.

Is Nurri the Same as Fairlife? Conclusion

To conclude, Nurri is not the same as Fairlife, although they compete in the same market space using similar ultra-filtration technology. While both brands offer high-protein, low-sugar, lactose-free milk shakes, they differ in several significant ways. Fairlife is known for its thicker, sweeter taste and comes in resealable plastic bottles, while Nurri has a thinner texture, potentially different flavor profiles (chocolate tastes like Yoo-hoo), and is packaged in non-resealable aluminum cans. The final decision rests on consumer preference for texture, taste, packaging convenience, and price. A consumer's choice may be influenced by whether they prefer the rich, creamy flavor of Fairlife or the lighter, more budget-friendly profile of Nurri.

For more detailed information on Fairlife's products and company practices, you can visit their official website [https://fairlife.com/].

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Nurri is a Wisconsin-based brand that sources its milk from Midwestern farms, while Fairlife, owned by Coca-Cola, uses milk from a cooperative of dairy farms across North America.

Fairlife protein shakes are generally thicker and creamier than Nurri's, which are described by consumers as having a thinner consistency.

The flavor profiles differ significantly. While Fairlife has a sweeter, richer taste often compared to traditional milk, Nurri's flavors are distinct, with chocolate sometimes compared to a Yoo-hoo drink.

No, like Fairlife, Nurri protein shakes are made with ultra-filtered milk, which makes them lactose-free and easier to digest for those with lactose sensitivities.

Nurri protein shakes come in recyclable aluminum cans, which are not resealable, unlike Fairlife's plastic bottles.

A consumer might choose Nurri for its potentially lower price point, thinner consistency (which is preferred by some, especially for mixing), and recyclable can packaging.

No, while the key stats like 30g protein and 150 calories are often the same for comparable products, there are slight differences in vitamins, minerals, and sugar content.