4 min readWHETHER YOU’RE BULKING up, leaning out, or simply in need of a nutritious snack between meals, you might have encountered a variety of protein shakes. As a registered dietitian, I wholly support their inclusion in a balanced diet.
However, after an intense run, a milk-based shake often sounds unappealing to me. That’s where clear protein drinks come into play.
Clear protein drinks not only provide an alternative texture and flavor compared to traditional offerings, but they often boast a different nutritional profile. Especially, they tend to be lower in calories, carbohydrates, and fat, making them easier to digest, particularly for those with lactose intolerance.
But what is clear protein exactly? And do products ranging from powders to pre-mixed beverages taste good? I experimented with numerous options to identify some clear favorites.
How I Tested Clear Protein
I TRIED EIGHT of the most popular clear protein drinks available so you can select the one that aligns best with your fitness goals and flavor preferences. After analyzing each product’s ingredients and protein content, I prepared each drink according to the manufacturer’s instructions and chilled it over ice.
Here’s what I considered:
Protein Type and Content
Most clear protein drinks are made from whey protein isolate, which offers the most concentrated, lowest lactose whey protein. There are also options available that are plant-based. The protein content per serving generally ranges from 10 grams to 30 grams.
Your daily protein requirements typically fall between 1.2 and 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight, with slightly higher amounts during intense training phases. (If you’re uncertain about your protein needs, consulting a registered dietitian can be beneficial.) A drink containing 10 grams of protein is suitable for enhancing the nutritional profile of a meal or snack, whereas a drink with 20 to 30 grams is ideal for post-workout recovery.
Sweeteners
Most clear protein drinks incorporate no-calorie or low-calorie sweeteners, such as stevia, monk fruit, or sucralose, to achieve sweetness without adding extra calories or carbs. Some might prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners, while others dislike the aftertaste associated with stevia or monk fruit, so I highlighted which sweeteners are used in each drink. Every option listed below contains 5 grams of carbohydrates or fewer.
Flavor and Texture
In 2026, we’ve moved on from forcing ourselves to endure chalky, unpleasant drinks for the sake of protein. While taste is subjective, I sampled the top-selling flavors from each product to provide my honest feedback on the texture, flavor, and overall experience.
Best Overall Clear Protein Drink: MindBodyGreen Clear Whey Protein+
For those who find dense, overly-flavored drinks hard to enjoy after a workout, this clear grass-fed whey protein isolate stands out. Each serving offers 22 grams of whey protein isolate, along with 2.5 grams of leucine to facilitate muscle growth and recovery.
Mixed with a shaker, this powder blends seamlessly, leaving no residue or chalkiness. Its flavor is light and not overly sweet, providing a texture akin to water—ideal for anyone seeking a refreshing protein option.
Key Specs:
- Protein per serving: 22 grams
- Protein source: whey protein isolate
- Sweeteners: stevia, fermented rebaudioside M (OnoSweet)
- Flavors available: pink lemonade
- Cost per serving: $3.45
Best Tasting: Clean Simple Eats Clear Protein Soda
Available in both 12-ounce and 16-ounce cans, this option provides either 10 or 20 grams of whey protein isolate to help you meet your protein targets. The soda is effervescent and refreshing, offering a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness. Although it is more expensive than many powders, it is ready to drink with zero settling or clumping.
Key Specs:
- Protein per serving: 10 grams (in a 12-ounce can) or 20 grams (in a 16-ounce can)
- Protein source: grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Sweeteners: reb M (OnoSweet), stevia leaf extract
- Flavors available: sour green apple, cherry lime, frosted lemonade, classic grape
- Cost per serving: $2.99 for a 12-ounce can, $3.58 for a 16-ounce can
Best for Digestion: Bloom Clear Protein
This powder combines 15 grams of whey protein isolate with 5 grams of collagen peptides for a fruity drink featuring 20 grams of protein. In addition to protein, it has a blend of eight digestive enzymes totaling 25 milligrams, which, while not specifically studied in this combination, has similarities to blends that have demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating issues like bloating, heartburn, and gas for some individuals.
The higher collagen content does create a slightly thicker drink than other varieties, but the powder dissolves well, resulting in a smooth texture with a light frothy layer on top. It has a light, sweet flavor, although it can leave a mildly chalky, astringent aftertaste.
Key Specs:
- Protein per serving: 20 grams
- Protein source: whey protein isolate, collagen peptides
- Sweeteners: sucralose
- Flavors available: raspberry lemon, strawberry watermelon
- Cost per serving: $2.99
Best Plant-Based: PlantFusion Clear Protein
PlantFusion’s clear protein powder is crafted from pea protein instead of whey, making it a vegan-friendly and allergen-safe option packed with 20 grams of protein. This product also includes coconut oil, which adds 2 grams of fat and contributes to a slightly cloudier appearance, but it remains smooth and well-mixed even after being left out for a while.
The fruit punch flavor features a vibrant mix, while the pineapple coconut flavor offers a milder, naturally sweet taste, which I found to be my favorite.
Key Specs:
- Protein per serving: 20 grams
- Protein source: pea protein isolate
- Sweeteners: stevia leaf extract, monk fruit
- Flavors available: tropical punch, pineapple coconut
- Cost per serving: $5.33
Kelsey Kunik, RDN, is a registered dietician and health writer focused on nutrition for Men’s Health and Women’s Health.
