A detailed look at Huel RTD v1 and v2
Huel's Ready-to-drink (RTD) line offers a convenient, nutritionally complete meal in a bottle, perfect for people with busy lifestyles. The company released a major update, version 2 (v2), to replace the original version 1 (v1), incorporating several key improvements based on customer feedback and advancements in nutritional science. While both formulas deliver a balanced macro split and all 26 essential vitamins and minerals, the specific ingredients and nutritional values underwent important changes that impact taste, texture, and overall nutritional quality.
Core ingredient and nutritional changes
The most notable shift from v1 to v2 is the change in the protein source. The original v1 formula relied on a combination of pea and brown rice protein to provide its complete amino acid profile. With v2, Huel replaced the brown rice protein with hemp protein. This was done for several reasons, including the fact that hemp has a lower environmental impact and can grow quickly without needing extensive pesticides. Beyond protein, the sweetener profile was overhauled, moving away from artificial sucralose to a natural blend of stevia and coconut sugar. These ingredient swaps directly influence the flavor profile and overall nutritional composition.
Refined sweeteners and flavor
The move away from sucralose to natural sweeteners was a direct result of user feedback and Huel's commitment to using more natural ingredients. This change gives Huel RTD v2 a more naturally sweet taste, which some users prefer over the potentially artificial aftertaste of sucralose found in v1. The updated formula also led to improved and more natural-tasting flavors across the board. For example, the v1 chocolate flavor was described as rich and indulgent, while the v2 offers a range of refreshed flavor profiles.
Protein and fiber variations
Beyond the change in protein source, the protein content itself saw a modest but meaningful increase. Huel RTD v2 contains 22g of protein per bottle, up from 20g in the v1 formula. This offers a slightly higher protein dose for muscle maintenance and satiety. The fiber source was also updated, with v2 using soluble glucofibre instead of oligofructose. Both contribute to a healthy digestive system, but the specific type of fiber can affect how it is processed by the body and its prebiotic effects.
Comparison table: Huel RTD v1 vs v2
| Feature | Huel RTD v1 | Huel RTD v2 |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Pea and Brown Rice Protein | Pea and Hemp Protein |
| Protein Content | 20g per 500ml bottle | 22g per 500ml bottle |
| Sweeteners | Sucralose | Stevia and Coconut Sugar |
| Sweetener Type | Artificial | Natural |
| Fiber Source | Oligofructose | Soluble Glucofibre |
| Flavors | Earlier versions, generally with artificial flavorings | Improved, all-natural flavorings |
| Texture | Generally reported to have a good texture | May have a slightly different mouthfeel due to ingredient changes |
Other notable changes
In addition to the main updates, the Huel team has consistently tweaked their formulas to improve the overall product. While not specific to the v1 to v2 RTD change, Huel's version history includes other upgrades to their vitamin and mineral blend over time. These continuous improvements demonstrate Huel's commitment to delivering optimal nutrition and responding to user feedback. The company also maintains its commitment to being a vegan, gluten-free, and GMO-free product across both versions.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between Huel RTD v1 and v2 depends on a user's preference for ingredients and taste. While the overall goal of providing a nutritionally complete meal remains consistent, v2 represents an iterative improvement with cleaner ingredients and a slightly higher protein content. The move to natural sweeteners and hemp protein is a clear win for those seeking a less artificial product. For fans of the original formula, the changes offer a fresh take on a familiar product, aligning with modern nutritional preferences for more natural and sustainably sourced ingredients. With the introduction of the Black Edition and other variations, Huel continues to offer a diverse range of products to meet different dietary needs and preferences.
For more detailed nutritional information on Huel products, you can visit the official Huel website, which provides comprehensive breakdowns for each formula.
