What Protein Shakes Do Not Have Artificial Sweeteners?

An estimated 41% of U.S. adults regularly consume protein supplements, with a growing number seeking products free from synthetic additives like sucralose and aspartame. Fortunately, a wide variety of what protein shakes do not have artificial sweeteners, relying on natural alternatives or being unsweetened altogether.

Quick Summary

This guide examines protein shakes without artificial sweeteners, detailing brands that use natural alternatives like stevia or monk fruit, as well as unflavored options. It helps consumers identify healthier choices by highlighting ingredient transparency and outlining common alternatives to synthetic additives.

Key Points

• Natural Sweeteners: Many brands use natural sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or fruit-derived sugars instead of artificial additives.

• Unsweetened Options: Unflavored protein powders offer the cleanest choice, containing only the protein source without any added sweeteners or flavors.

• Plant-Based Variety: The vegan market is a strong source for clean protein, with brands like Orgain, OWYN, and Koia providing shakes without artificial sweeteners.

• Read the Label: The best way to identify a clean shake is to carefully read the ingredients list and look for a short, recognizable list of components.

• Third-Party Certified: Look for certifications from organizations like Informed-Sport or Clean Label Project to ensure products are tested for purity and quality.

Why Choose a Protein Shake Without Artificial Sweeteners?

Choosing a protein shake that does not have artificial sweeteners can benefit your health and palate. Many people report an unpleasant aftertaste from synthetic additives like sucralose and acesulfame potassium. Furthermore, some studies suggest a link between high consumption of artificial sweeteners and certain health concerns, though research is ongoing. Opting for shakes naturally sweetened with ingredients like stevia or monk fruit, or choosing unflavored versions, offers a cleaner, more natural taste and fewer potentially controversial ingredients. This choice supports a preference for whole-food ingredients and can help manage sugar intake from other sources, as natural sweeteners often provide an alternative without the blood sugar spike of added sugars.

Types of Naturally Sweetened and Unsweetened Protein Shakes

• Naturally Sweetened: These shakes replace synthetic chemicals with extracts from plants or natural sugars. Common natural sweeteners include stevia leaf extract, monk fruit extract, and organic cane sugar. While these still provide sweetness, they are often less processed and perceived as a cleaner option. Brands like Transparent Labs and Legion often use stevia, while OWYN and Koia use monk fruit.
• Unflavored and Unsweetened: For those who want complete control over their flavor and sugar intake, unflavored and unsweetened powders are the best option. Brands like Naked Nutrition and Isopure offer options with just a single ingredient, such as whey protein concentrate or isolate. These are highly versatile and can be mixed with fruits, juices, or spices for natural flavor.
• Plant-Based Options: Many vegan and plant-based protein shakes avoid artificial sweeteners to maintain a clean ingredient profile. Sources like pea, brown rice, and pumpkin seed protein are common. Brands like Orgain, Aloha, and Kate Farms offer ready-to-drink and powder varieties with naturally occurring sugars or simple, clean sweeteners.

Comparison Table: Protein Shakes Without Artificial Sweeteners

Brand	Protein Source	Sweetener Type	Format	Key Features
Naked Whey	Grass-fed Whey Concentrate	Unflavored/Unsweetened	Powder	1 ingredient, GMO-free
Transparent Labs	Grass-fed Whey Isolate	Stevia Extract	Powder	28g protein per serving, third-party tested
OWYN	Plant-Based Blend	Monk Fruit Extract	Ready-to-Drink	All-in-one, free of top 9 allergens
Orgain	Plant-Based Blend	Organic Cane Sugar	Ready-to-Drink/Powder	Organic ingredients, added superfoods
Koia	Plant-Based Blend	Monk Fruit Extract, Cane Sugar	Ready-to-Drink	Higher fiber, prebiotic blend
Jocko Mölk	Grass-fed Milk Protein	Monk Fruit Extract	Ready-to-Drink	30g protein, keto-friendly
Iconic Protein	Milk Protein	Monk Fruit & Stevia	Ready-to-Drink	20g protein, 0g added sugar

How to Find a Clean Protein Shake

Navigating the supplement market can be tricky, but several strategies can help you find a high-quality protein shake without artificial sweeteners. Always read the ingredient list carefully, as artificial additives can be disguised. Look for brands that prioritize transparency and provide clear sourcing information. Third-party testing certifications, such as those from Informed-Sport or Clean Label Project, verify a product's integrity and ensure it is free from contaminants and accurately labeled. Consider the type of protein that works best for your body, whether it's whey, casein, or a plant-based alternative. Finally, taste preferences are personal, so experimenting with a few naturally sweetened or unsweetened products is a good idea. Blending unflavored protein powders with natural ingredients like frozen fruit, cocoa powder, or a dash of cinnamon can also yield a delicious and healthy result.

Conclusion

For those wondering what protein shakes do not have artificial sweeteners, the market offers many cleaner options than ever before. From versatile unflavored powders to convenient ready-to-drink options sweetened with monk fruit or stevia, consumers have a variety of choices to support their health and fitness goals. By prioritizing clean ingredients, checking for third-party certifications, and choosing natural alternatives, you can find a protein shake that tastes great and aligns with a healthier lifestyle. The demand for cleaner supplements continues to grow, ensuring that more options without synthetic additives will become available over time. For more information on identifying quality supplements, consult resources from organizations like the Clean Label Project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which specific artificial sweeteners should I look out for?

When reading labels, be vigilant for sucralose, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), aspartame, and saccharin. These are the most common synthetic sweeteners used in protein shakes.

Are 'natural flavors' in protein shakes a red flag?

While not as concerning as artificial sweeteners, 'natural flavors' can be a vague term that masks undisclosed additives. For absolute transparency, some people prefer products that list specific ingredients rather than using this general term.

Can I add my own natural sweetener to an unflavored protein powder?

Yes, this is an excellent strategy for flavor control. You can add fruit, honey, maple syrup, or a few drops of liquid stevia or monk fruit to an unflavored powder to customize the sweetness to your liking.

Which brands offer ready-to-drink protein shakes without artificial sweeteners?

Brands like OWYN, Koia, and Iconic Protein offer ready-to-drink shakes that rely on natural sweeteners such as monk fruit, cane sugar, or agave. Jocko Mölk also offers a naturally sweetened, ready-to-drink shake.

Is stevia or monk fruit a better natural sweetener?

Choosing between stevia and monk fruit is largely a matter of personal taste preference. Monk fruit is often noted for having less of an aftertaste than stevia, but both are excellent zero-calorie natural options.

Are there protein powders with no sweeteners at all?

Yes, many brands offer unflavored and unsweetened powders, which are the purest option available. Naked Whey and Isopure Zero Carb are well-known examples that contain just one or very few ingredients.

Are protein shakes with natural sweeteners safe for those with dietary restrictions?

For those with specific dietary concerns, such as diabetes or certain gut sensitivities, monitoring the type and amount of both natural and added sugars is important. Opting for unflavored varieties or consulting a healthcare provider can help make the best choice.