Understanding What are the cons of Fairlife protein shakes?

October 24, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a Consumer Reports study, Fairlife's Core Power High Protein Chocolate Milk Shake had among the highest levels of phthalates, or plastic chemicals, in its testing. Delving into the details reveals that beyond potential contaminants, other factors constitute what are the cons of Fairlife protein shakes.

Quick Summary

This article examines the drawbacks of Fairlife protein shakes, addressing the potential presence of phthalates and artificial ingredients. It covers reported digestive issues, high cost, and conventional dairy sourcing, offering a balanced perspective for consumers considering these supplements.

Key Points

Chemical Contaminants: A Consumer Reports study found high levels of phthalates, or plastic chemicals, in Fairlife Core Power shakes.
Artificial Ingredients: Shakes contain artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, and the thickener carrageenan, which some link to gut health issues.
Digestive Issues: Despite being lactose-free, some users report stomach discomfort, possibly due to the high protein load or other ingredients.
Higher Cost: Fairlife shakes are a more expensive protein option compared to many competitors and protein powders, with fluctuating prices depending on the retailer.
Conventional Dairy: The product uses conventional dairy, which may not appeal to consumers who prefer organic or grass-fed sources.
Not a Meal Replacement: These shakes are not nutritionally balanced enough to serve as a meal replacement and are intended for supplemental protein.

Potential Chemical Contaminants: The Phthalate Concern

One of the most significant and alarming cons of Fairlife protein shakes stems from a Consumer Reports study published in February 2024. The study revealed that certain Fairlife Core Power shakes contained notably high levels of phthalates. Phthalates are plasticizing chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and durable. These chemicals have been linked to a variety of health issues, including hormone disruption, reproductive problems, and an increased risk of certain cancers, even at low levels of exposure. While the source of the contamination could be packaging or processing equipment, the presence of these compounds raises serious questions about product safety and quality control.

Consumer Reports wrote a letter to Fairlife urging the company to take action to protect consumers, but according to reports, Fairlife did not respond.
This lack of response adds to the concern, as it leaves consumers in the dark regarding what corrective actions, if any, the company intends to take.

Artificial Ingredients and their Potential Health Impact

Fairlife shakes, while promoting a high-protein profile, use a number of artificial ingredients that concern some health-conscious consumers. For example, they are sweetened with sucralose and acesulfame potassium. While these are approved artificial sweeteners, some research suggests they can have negative effects on the gut microbiome. Furthermore, some shakes contain carrageenan, a thickening agent derived from seaweed. Although often listed as a lower-risk additive, it has been associated with potential gut inflammation and irritation in sensitive individuals. 'Natural flavors' are also included, a term that can encompass a wide range of undisclosed chemical additives.

Digestive Issues and Individual Sensitivity

Despite being labeled as lactose-free due to a special ultra-filtration process, some individuals still report experiencing digestive discomfort after consuming Fairlife shakes. Symptoms can include bloating, gas, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. This can happen for several reasons:

High Protein Load: The high concentration of protein in a single serving can sometimes overwhelm the digestive system, leading to discomfort.
Other Ingredients: Sensitivities to other ingredients, such as certain thickeners or sweeteners, can trigger adverse reactions. Some users on social media have reported GI upset linked specifically to the shakes, despite having no issues with other lactose-free dairy.

Higher Cost and Unsuitability as a Meal Replacement

Compared to purchasing protein powder and mixing it at home, Fairlife shakes are a more expensive option, and the price can fluctuate significantly depending on the retailer. While convenient for on-the-go consumption, this added cost is a deterrent for budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, Fairlife shakes are not designed to be a complete meal replacement. They lack sufficient carbohydrates, fats, and the full spectrum of micronutrients found in a balanced meal, making them suitable only as a supplement or high-protein snack.

Conventional Dairy Sourcing

Critics of Fairlife also point to the fact that the company uses conventional dairy, which means the milk comes from cows that may be fed GMO corn and soy. For those who prefer to consume only organic or grass-fed dairy products, this is a significant drawback. This concern is linked to preferences for sustainable, ethical, and more 'natural' food sources, which Fairlife's current sourcing practices do not align with.

Fairlife vs. Premier Protein: A Comparison

To highlight some of the differences, here's a comparison table between Fairlife Nutrition Plan shakes and Premier Protein shakes based on available information.


Feature	Fairlife Nutrition Plan	Premier Protein Shakes
Protein Source	Filtered lowfat milk	Milk protein concentrate
Protein per Serving	30g	30g
Common Ingredients	Ultra-filtered milk, natural flavors, artificial sweeteners, thickeners	Protein concentrate, water, artificial sweeteners, flavors
Cost per Serving	Higher price point, variable	Usually cheaper than Fairlife
Flavors Available	Fewer flavors	Many flavors
Ingredient Concerns	Potential phthalates (Core Power), artificial ingredients, carrageenan	Long list of ingredients, artificial sweeteners

Conclusion: Weighing the Trade-offs

While Fairlife protein shakes offer convenience and a high dose of protein, consumers must consider the drawbacks before making them a regular part of their diet. Concerns range from serious potential chemical contaminants like phthalates, to the inclusion of artificial sweeteners and thickeners that could affect gut health. The higher price point and use of conventional dairy are also significant considerations for some. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual priorities, budget, and tolerance for artificial ingredients. Exploring alternatives, including other brands or whole-food protein sources, may be a better option for those seeking a cleaner, more affordable, or more natural protein supplement. A balanced diet from whole food sources remains the gold standard for optimal nutrition.

For more information on phthalates and other contaminants in food, visit the Consumer Reports advocacy page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phthalates are plastic-softening chemicals identified in a Consumer Reports study on Fairlife Core Power shakes. They are a health concern because they have been linked to potential hormone disruption and other adverse health effects.

Yes, Fairlife shakes, including the Nutrition Plan and Core Power varieties, are sweetened with artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium.

Yes, some individuals report stomach upset from Fairlife shakes despite their lactose-free claim. This could be due to the high protein concentration, individual sensitivity to other ingredients like thickeners, or artificial sweeteners.

Fairlife shakes are generally more expensive than many other ready-to-drink protein shakes and DIY protein powder mixes. The price also varies significantly by retailer.

No, Fairlife protein shakes are made with conventional dairy. Critics note that the milk comes from conventionally raised cows that may be fed GMO corn and soy.

Fairlife shakes are not suitable as a meal replacement. They lack the necessary balance of carbohydrates, fats, and micronutrients for a complete meal and should be used as a protein supplement.

Carrageenan, an ingredient in some Fairlife shakes, has been linked to potential gut inflammation and irritation in certain people, prompting some to avoid it.