What's the Difference Between Fairlife and Fairlife Core Protein Shakes?

Fairlife's ultra-filtered milk products, like Core Power and Fairlife Nutrition Plan, are known for higher protein and less sugar compared to regular milk. This guide explains what's the difference between Fairlife and Fairlife Core to help you make an informed choice for your nutritional needs.

Quick Summary

Fairlife and Core Power protein shakes differ mainly in their protein levels, caloric density, and intended use. Core Power targets post-workout recovery, while Fairlife's Nutrition Plan functions as a satisfying everyday snack or nutritional boost.

Key Points

• Fairlife Nutrition Plan is for daily wellness: It offers a lower calorie, 30g protein option ideal for general nutrition and snacking.

• Core Power is for workout recovery: Formulated with electrolytes and higher protein options (26g or 42g) for post-exercise muscle repair.

• Protein levels differ significantly: The standard Fairlife provides 30g, while Core Power offers 26g (standard) or 42g (Elite) depending on recovery needs.

• Both use ultra-filtered milk: All Fairlife products are made using a proprietary filtration process that removes lactose and concentrates natural protein and calcium.

• Consistency varies by product: Fairlife Nutrition Plan has a thinner, smoother texture, whereas Core Power is generally thicker and richer.

• Purpose dictates the choice: Your activity level and nutritional goals determine whether the everyday Fairlife or the recovery-focused Core Power is better suited for you.

Fairlife's Filtration Technology: The Foundation

All Fairlife products, including Core Power, utilize Fairlife's patented ultra-filtration process. This technology separates milk into its basic components – water, butterfat, protein, vitamins, minerals, and lactose – which are then re-blended to create a specific nutritional profile. This results in lactose-free milk products with enhanced protein and calcium, and reduced sugar compared to conventional milk. This process provides both Fairlife Nutrition Plan and Core Power their nutritional benefits.

Fairlife Nutrition Plan: The Everyday Nutritional Shake

The Fairlife Nutrition Plan is often considered the standard Fairlife protein shake, designed for general wellness and as a convenient snack.

Key Features of Fairlife Nutrition Plan

• Protein and Calories: It provides 30g of protein and approximately 150 calories per shake, making it suitable for calorie management or boosting daily protein intake.
• Consistency: It's known for a smoother, thinner texture than Core Power.
• Versatility: Its balanced profile makes it suitable for various uses throughout the day.

Core Power: The Workout Recovery Shake

Core Power is formulated specifically for post-workout recovery, aiding in muscle repair and replenishment with protein and electrolytes.

Key Features of Core Power

• Recovery Focus: It contains complete protein and electrolytes to support recovery after exercise.
• Protein Options: Available in different protein amounts: 26g for the standard and 42g for Core Power Elite, catering to different workout intensities.
• Electrolytes: Includes electrolytes to assist with rehydration.
• Texture: Typically has a thicker, richer consistency, particularly the Elite version.

Comparison: Fairlife Nutrition Plan vs. Core Power

The table below highlights the key differences to help determine which product aligns with your needs.

Feature	Fairlife Nutrition Plan	Core Power
Primary Goal	Everyday nutritional snack	Post-workout recovery
Protein Content	30g per bottle	26g or 42g (Elite) per bottle
Calorie Count	~150 calories	Higher (~170+ for 26g, higher for 42g)
Electrolytes	Less emphasized	Added for rehydration
Consistency	Smoother, thinner	Thicker, richer
Best For...	Daily protein boost, snack	Athletes, intense workouts

Choosing the Right Fairlife Shake

The selection between Fairlife Nutrition Plan and Core Power depends on your individual goals. The Nutrition Plan is ideal for daily protein intake and general health due to its lower calorie count and smooth texture. Core Power is better suited for athletes and those engaging in strenuous exercise, offering higher protein options and electrolytes for effective recovery. Both products provide high-quality protein from ultra-filtered milk. Consider the following points when making your choice:

Choose Fairlife Nutrition Plan if you:

• Desire a daily protein boost.
• Need a low-calorie snack option.
• Prefer a lighter shake consistency.
• Are managing your calorie intake.

Choose Core Power if you:

• Require a post-workout recovery drink.
• Are an athlete or have intense training sessions.
• Seek high protein content (especially the Elite version).
• Need added electrolytes for hydration.
• Prefer a thicker protein shake.

Conclusion

The primary difference between Fairlife Nutrition Plan and Core Power lies in their intended use and nutritional makeup. The Nutrition Plan serves as a general wellness drink and snack with fewer calories, while Core Power is a performance-oriented shake designed for muscle recovery with higher protein and electrolytes. Understanding these distinctions allows consumers to select the product best suited for their health and fitness objectives. Both products benefit from Fairlife's ultra-filtration technology, providing a superior lactose-free milk-based protein source. You can find more information about Fairlife's practices on their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are both Fairlife and Core Power lactose-free?

Yes, both Fairlife and Core Power are made with ultra-filtered milk, and a lactase enzyme is added to ensure they are completely lactose-free.

Which shake has more protein, Fairlife or Core Power?

This depends on the specific product. The standard Fairlife Nutrition Plan has 30g of protein, while the standard Core Power has 26g. However, Core Power Elite offers an even higher 42g of protein per serving.

Is Core Power only for post-workout use?

While Core Power is optimized for post-workout recovery due to its specific protein and electrolyte content, it can be consumed anytime for a protein boost. However, Fairlife Nutrition Plan is formulated specifically for general, all-day nutrition.

Which Fairlife shake is lower in calories?

The Fairlife Nutrition Plan is generally lower in calories, with approximately 150 calories per shake compared to Core Power shakes, which have a higher calorie count depending on the protein level.

Why is Core Power more expensive than the Fairlife Nutrition Plan?

Core Power's price can be higher due to its formulation for athletic performance, which includes additional ingredients like higher protein levels and electrolytes. The cost per gram of protein is often different between the two products.

Can I use Fairlife Core Power as a meal replacement?

Core Power is primarily designed for post-workout recovery and is not a complete meal replacement. While it provides a significant amount of protein, it lacks the full spectrum of calories and nutrients found in a balanced meal.

Are the ingredients in both shakes the same?

No, while both are made from Fairlife's ultra-filtered milk, the final formulations differ. Core Power contains added electrolytes for hydration and has different protein concentrations, while Fairlife Nutrition Plan has a more balanced nutritional profile for general use.