Which protein shakes do not have artificial sweeteners? Your guide to cleaner options

October 19, 2025 •

4 min read

While artificial sweeteners are used in many popular protein powders to achieve a sweet taste without calories, a growing number of consumers are seeking clean alternatives for various health reasons. For those asking, "Which protein shakes do not have artificial sweeteners?", the market offers several high-quality, naturally sweetened or completely unsweetened options to suit specific dietary preferences. This shift reflects a broader trend toward label transparency and mindful eating.

Quick Summary

This article explores the reasons for avoiding artificial sweeteners in protein powder, including potential impacts on digestion and metabolism. It details natural alternatives like stevia and monk fruit, and provides examples of clean, naturally sweetened, and unflavored protein powder brands. Readers will learn how to read labels and find the best shakes for their health and wellness goals.

Key Points

Avoid Artificial Sweeteners: Many people choose protein shakes without artificial sweeteners to prevent potential digestive issues and avoid synthetic chemicals.
Seek Natural Sweeteners: Good alternatives include plant-based extracts like stevia and monk fruit, which provide sweetness with fewer calories and less processing.
Opt for Unflavored Powder: For maximum control over ingredients, choose an unflavored protein powder and sweeten it yourself using natural ingredients like fruit, honey, or spices.
Read Labels Carefully: Look for a simple, short ingredient list and be cautious of generic "natural flavors" which may still be highly processed.
Verify Purity with Third-Party Certifications: Always check for certifications from reputable organizations like Clean Label Project or NSF to ensure the product is free from heavy metals and contaminants.
Consider Digestive Needs: If you have a sensitive stomach, consider plant-based proteins like pea or hemp, or high-quality hydrolyzed whey isolate, which can be easier to digest.

The Growing Preference for Clean-Label Protein

The protein supplement industry has long relied on artificial sweeteners, such as sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame potassium, to deliver intensely sweet flavors without adding calories. However, health-conscious consumers are increasingly scrutinizing these additives. Reasons for avoiding artificial sweeteners range from concerns about long-term health effects to experiencing unpleasant digestive symptoms like bloating and gas. Some research even suggests that these zero-calorie sweeteners may paradoxically lead to increased food intake and weight gain by altering taste preferences and gut microbiome composition. As a result, the demand for protein shakes featuring cleaner, more natural ingredients is surging.

Why People Are Ditching Artificial Sweeteners

Digestive Discomfort: Many individuals report digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, and stomach cramps, after consuming products with artificial sweeteners or fillers like xanthan gum and carrageenan.
Flavor Overload: Artificial sweeteners can be hundreds of times sweeter than table sugar, leading to a lingering, unnatural aftertaste that some find unappealing. Consuming them regularly can overstimulate taste buds, making naturally sweet foods like fruit taste bland.
Health Concerns: Certain artificial sweeteners have faced controversy regarding their potential effects on metabolic health, gut bacteria, and other long-term risks. Although most are approved by regulatory bodies, many consumers prefer to err on the side of caution.

Unsweetened and Naturally Sweetened Alternatives

For those who prefer to avoid synthetic additives, several natural options are available. These can be categorized into unsweetened varieties, which offer a neutral base, and naturally sweetened options, which use plant-derived extracts.

Brands with Natural Sweeteners

These protein powders rely on plant-based extracts to provide sweetness without resorting to artificial compounds. Stevia and monk fruit are the most common alternatives.

Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate: This brand uses stevia extract for sweetness and is known for its high-quality, grass-fed whey. It is also third-party certified for banned substances.
Truvani Plant Based Protein Powder: Sweetened with monk fruit extract, this USDA-certified organic powder has a simple, clean ingredient list. It undergoes rigorous testing for heavy metals and other contaminants.
Legion Whey+: This product is also sweetened with stevia extract and sourced from grass-fed cattle.
AboutTime Whey Protein Isolate: This brand offers several flavors of its whey protein isolate, including vanilla and chocolate, that are sweetened with stevia.

Unflavored and Unsweetened Brands

For ultimate control over ingredients, unflavored and unsweetened powders are the best choice. These contain pure protein, allowing you to add your own natural flavors.

Naked Whey: This is a clean, single-ingredient protein powder (whey protein concentrate) derived from grass-fed cows. They also offer a vegan pea-based option.
Isopure Zero Carb Protein - Unflavored: A whey protein isolate with minimal processing, making it a favorite for those seeking a pure, unflavored option.
Promix Whey Protein Powder: Known for its simplicity and clean label, this is another unflavored option for those who want to avoid all additives.
Nutrova Pea Protein Powder: An unflavored pea protein isolate with no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

Comparison Table: Brands Without Artificial Sweeteners


Brand	Protein Source	Sweetener Type	Key Features
Transparent Labs Whey Isolate	Grass-Fed Whey	Stevia Extract	Third-party tested, high protein isolate, variety of flavors.
Truvani Plant Based Protein	Pea, Pumpkin, Chia	Monk Fruit Extract	USDA organic, vegan, rigorously tested for heavy metals.
Naked Whey	Grass-Fed Whey	Unsweetened	Single-ingredient, versatile, Informed Choice certified.
Orgain Organic Protein	Pea, Brown Rice, Chia	Monk Fruit or Erythritol	Plant-based, affordable, includes superfoods (check label for sweetener).
Drink Wholesome	Egg White, Almond, Pea	Unsweetened	Minimal ingredients, made for sensitive stomachs, no fillers.

How to Find a Clean Protein Shake

Choosing a protein shake free from artificial sweeteners requires careful consideration of the label. Here are key factors to consider:

Read the Ingredient List: A shorter, simpler ingredient list is generally better. Look for natural sweeteners like stevia leaf extract or monk fruit extract, or opt for an unflavored version. Be wary of proprietary "natural flavors," which can sometimes be highly processed or contain undisclosed ingredients.
Seek Third-Party Certifications: Because protein supplements are not tightly regulated, third-party testing is crucial for ensuring purity and potency. Look for certifications from organizations like the Clean Label Project, NSF Certified for Sport, or Informed Sport. These certifications verify that the product has been tested for heavy metals, contaminants, and banned substances.
Consider the Protein Source: For those with sensitive stomachs, the protein source itself can be a factor. Whey protein isolate has less lactose than concentrate, but some individuals may still react. Plant-based proteins like pea and hemp are naturally dairy-free and can be easier to digest for some.

DIY Sweetening for Unflavored Protein Powder

If you choose an unflavored protein powder, you have complete control over the sweetness and flavor. This allows you to add extra nutrition along with the flavor.

Fruits: Blend in frozen banana, berries, or mango for natural sweetness, fiber, and nutrients.
Natural Syrups: A small amount of pure maple syrup or raw honey can add a hint of sweetness and other beneficial compounds, but use sparingly due to the sugar content.
Spices and Extracts: Add warmth and complexity with a dash of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or cocoa powder.
Nut Butters: Peanut or almond butter adds healthy fats, protein, and a creamy texture along with a mild sweetness.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

While artificially sweetened protein shakes are widely available, a wealth of options exist for those who want a cleaner, more natural product. By choosing unflavored powders or those sweetened with plant-based extracts like stevia and monk fruit, you can avoid synthetic additives and reduce the risk of digestive issues. Remember to read labels carefully, prioritize brands with third-party testing, and consider your body's specific needs and sensitivities. Whether you opt for a pre-sweetened natural product or a simple unflavored powder you can customize, making an informed choice is key to fueling your body effectively and mindfully. For more insights on supplement purity, visit the Clean Label Project online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Artificial sweeteners like sucralose and aspartame are synthetically produced, while natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit are derived from plants. Natural sweeteners are often perceived as a cleaner option by consumers concerned about processed additives.

Yes, unflavored protein powders generally contain no added sweeteners, natural or artificial. This makes them the best choice for people who want to control the exact flavor and sweetness of their shake.

Several plant-based options avoid artificial sweeteners, including brands like Truvani (monk fruit), OWYN (monk fruit), and unflavored versions from brands like Naked Nutrition and Drink Wholesome. Look for certifications like USDA Organic.

Yes, a small amount of raw honey or maple syrup can be used to naturally sweeten a protein shake. It's important to use it in moderation as it still contains sugar.

Digestive issues can stem from various sources. Some people are sensitive to artificial sweeteners or added fillers like gums and fibers, while others may be lactose intolerant and react to whey protein concentrate.

Brands such as Transparent Labs and Legion offer grass-fed whey protein isolates that are sweetened with stevia extract, providing a cleaner alternative to artificial sweeteners.

Look for third-party certifications on the product label from organizations like the Clean Label Project, NSF Certified for Sport, or Informed Sport. These verify that the product has been tested for heavy metals and other contaminants.