What is the difference between Huel white and black nutrition?

January 6, 2026 •

4 min read

Huel Black Edition contains 33% more protein and 50% fewer carbohydrates than the standard Huel Powder, addressing a key aspect of the difference between Huel white and black nutrition. Choosing between these two popular formulations depends on your specific dietary goals, whether they focus on high protein, low carb, or balanced nutrition.

Quick Summary

Huel Black Edition is higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates, while Huel White Edition offers a more balanced macro split. Black uses stevia for sweetness and is gluten-free, with White utilizing sucralose and containing gluten-free oats.

Key Points

Macro Split: Huel Black Edition is high-protein and low-carb, while Huel White Edition is more balanced with higher carbohydrates.
Protein Content: A 400kcal serving of Huel Black provides 40g of protein, 10g more than a serving of Huel White.
Carb Source: Huel White uses gluten-free oats, contributing to its carb content, whereas Huel Black uses tapioca starch.
Sweetener Type: Huel Black is naturally sweetened with stevia, catering to those who prefer natural sweeteners, while Huel White uses sucralose.
Gluten-Free Status: Huel Black Edition is naturally gluten-free, a key benefit for individuals with sensitivities.
Dietary Goals: Huel Black is often preferred by those aiming for muscle gain or weight management through high-protein, low-carb intake.

Core Nutritional Differences

At its heart, the distinction between Huel White and Black Edition is about the macronutrient composition. While both are nutritionally complete and provide a balanced profile of vitamins and minerals, they cater to different dietary preferences. Huel White, the classic formula (version 3.1 is referenced in search results), has a more traditional macro split that is higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein and fat. Huel Black Edition flips this ratio, featuring a significantly higher protein content, lower carbohydrates, and higher fat content. This fundamental difference is the most critical factor for users deciding between the two products, as it directly impacts how the shake fits into a specific diet plan.

Macro Breakdown

The macronutrient ratio, or macro split, of Huel Black is approximately 40% protein, 40% fat, and 20% carbohydrates per 400-calorie serving. This is a very different profile compared to Huel White (v3.1), which has a macro split of approximately 30% protein, 40% carbohydrates, and 30% fat, though versions can vary. The source of these macronutrients also differs. The carbohydrate content in Huel White is predominantly from oats, while in Huel Black, it's from gluten-free tapioca starch. This ingredient change also makes Huel Black naturally gluten-free, a key consideration for those with sensitivities or celiac disease. Both utilize plant-based protein sources like pea and brown rice, with Black Edition potentially also using faba bean protein for its higher protein goal.

Who is Huel White For?

Huel White is the ideal choice for individuals seeking a balanced, all-around meal replacement. Its higher carbohydrate content provides a steady release of energy, which can be beneficial for those with a high-energy lifestyle or those who prefer to have carbs as their primary fuel source. The oat base also gives it a thicker, porridge-like consistency that some users find more satiating. Huel White's formula is a cost-effective and accessible entry point for anyone new to meal replacements and looking for a general nutritional boost. It's suitable for a broad audience, including those who simply want a convenient, nutritionally complete meal without specific macro-counting requirements.

Who is Huel Black For?

In contrast, Huel Black Edition is formulated for a more targeted audience, specifically those who follow low-carb or high-protein diets. The higher protein content makes it an excellent choice for individuals focused on muscle gain and recovery, providing 40g of protein per 400-calorie serving compared to White's 30g. It also features lower carbs and a slightly higher fat percentage, which can aid in satiety and is aligned with fitness-oriented goals. Huel Black is naturally gluten-free due to its tapioca starch base, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. It appeals to fitness enthusiasts, individuals managing their weight through low-carb approaches, and anyone looking for a more significant protein boost.

Comparing Key Ingredients

Beyond the macro split, the ingredient profiles and sourcing methods differ. Huel White is made with gluten-free oats, which provide a slower-release source of carbohydrates. Huel Black swaps these oats for tapioca starch to achieve its gluten-free status, resulting in a slightly different texture and faster digestion. The sweeteners used are also different: Huel Black uses natural sweeteners like stevia, while Huel White contains sucralose, a synthetic sweetener. This can be a deciding factor for users who prefer to avoid artificial ingredients.

Sweetener Differences

Huel White: Contains sucralose, a commonly used artificial sweetener.
Huel Black: Contains steviol glycosides from stevia, a natural plant-based sweetener.

Protein Sources

Both Huel White and Black use plant-based protein, with Black featuring a more robust blend to achieve its higher protein goals. Both are excellent vegan protein sources. An important note is that both are nutritionally complete, containing all 26 essential vitamins and minerals.

Taste and Texture

Subjective factors like taste and texture are also considerations when choosing between the two. Huel White, with its oat content, tends to have a thicker, grainier consistency that reminds some users of overnight oats. Huel Black, using tapioca starch, often has a smoother texture that is easier to mix and drink. The flavor profiles can also vary, partly due to the different sweeteners. Some users find the sucralose in Huel White to have a slightly more intense sweetness, while the stevia in Black is more natural. Personal preference will play a significant role here, and it may be worthwhile to try both if you are unsure.

Conclusion: Which Huel is Right for You?

The choice between Huel White and Black depends entirely on your personal dietary goals and preferences. For those seeking a general, balanced meal replacement that provides sustained energy, Huel White is the classic, reliable choice. Its higher carb content is great for energy, and it's a cost-effective option. For individuals with more specific goals, such as building muscle, following a low-carb diet, or avoiding gluten, Huel Black is the better option. It provides a higher protein punch and a different sweetness profile. Ultimately, both are nutritionally complete vegan meal replacements, and a user's decision should be based on their desired macro ratio, dietary restrictions, and taste preferences. As the Huel website notes, there are many options to find the perfect Huel for you.


Feature	Huel White (v3.1)	Huel Black Edition
Carbohydrates	Higher (approx. 40%)	Lower (approx. 20%)
Protein	Lower (approx. 30%)	Higher (approx. 40%)
Fat	Lower (approx. 30%)	Higher (approx. 40%)
Sweetener	Sucralose	Stevia (Steviol Glycosides)
Key Ingredient	Gluten-free Oats	Tapioca Starch
Gluten-Free	Yes (contains gluten-free oats)	Yes (naturally)
Texture	Thicker, potentially grainier	Smoother

Comparison Table

Note: The values in the table are approximate macro splits based on a standard 400-calorie serving. Actual percentages and specific nutritional data can vary slightly by flavor and product version. Always consult the packaging for the most accurate information.

Huel Official Website: For more detailed information, visit the Huel website: https://huel.com/.

Frequently Asked Questions

Huel Black's higher protein and fiber content may increase satiety, potentially aiding in weight loss by keeping you fuller longer. However, as both are 400kcal per serving, the choice depends on which macro split best fits your overall diet and helps you maintain a calorie deficit.

Huel Black is generally considered better for muscle gain due to its higher protein content (40g per serving) compared to Huel White's 30g. The additional protein supports muscle repair and growth, especially when paired with an exercise routine.

No, Huel Black Edition uses stevia, a natural, plant-based sweetener, and contains no artificial sweeteners.

Yes, Huel Black Edition is naturally gluten-free. It uses tapioca starch as its primary carbohydrate source instead of oats, which are present in Huel White.

Huel White has a thicker, sometimes grainier texture due to its oat content, while Huel Black, which uses tapioca starch, is generally smoother and less gritty.

The macro splits differ to cater to distinct dietary needs. Huel Black is designed for those seeking more protein and fewer carbs, often for fitness or weight management, while Huel White offers a more classic, balanced nutritional profile.

Yes, many users mix Huel White and Black powder to customize their macronutrient ratios and find a balance that suits their taste and dietary needs. Mixing can help you achieve a desired protein-to-carb ratio.

Yes, both Huel White and Huel Black are nutritionally complete, providing all 26 essential vitamins and minerals in each serving.