Ripple Protein Shake is a nutritious option, rich in plant-based protein, low in sugar, and fortified with essential vitamins, making it a healthy choice for many diets.
Ripple protein shakes have gained popularity as a plant-based alternative to traditional dairy protein drinks. But are these pea protein shakes actually healthy? Let’s examine the nutritional profile, benefits, and potential drawbacks of Ripple’s protein shakes.
What Is Ripple Protein Shake?
Ripple protein shakes are dairy-free, plant-based beverages made primarily from pea protein. The company offers chocolate and vanilla flavors in convenient ready-to-drink bottles. Each 11oz serving contains:
- 20g plant-based protein
- 9g sugar (from cane sugar)
- 30% DV iron
- No artificial sweeteners
Key Ingredients Breakdown
The main protein source comes from pea protein isolate, which provides all essential amino acids. Other notable ingredients include:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sunflower/safflower oil | Adds creaminess |
| Alkalized cocoa | Provides chocolate flavor |
| Monk fruit extract | Natural sweetener |
| Gellan gum/guar gum | Texture stabilizers |
Nutritional Benefits of Ripple Shakes
High-Quality Plant Protein
With 20g per serving, Ripple shakes provide substantial protein from peas. This makes them ideal for:
- Vegans/vegetarians
- Those with dairy allergies
- Post-workout recovery
Pea protein is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. It’s particularly rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that support muscle growth.
Added Nutrients
Ripple fortifies their shakes with:
- Iron (30% DV) – crucial for oxygen transport
- Calcium (from tricalcium phosphate)
- No artificial colors or flavors
Digestive Benefits
Unlike some dairy-based protein shakes, Ripple’s plant-based formula may be easier to digest for those sensitive to lactose. The shakes contain no common allergens like nuts, soy, or gluten.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Sugar Content
At 9g per bottle, the sugar content comes from cane sugar. While lower than many flavored protein drinks, it’s worth noting for those monitoring sugar intake. The vanilla flavor contains slightly less at 7g.
Texture Differences
Some users report the texture differs from dairy-based protein shakes. The plant-based formula can be slightly thinner. For best results, try blending with ice or chilling thoroughly before drinking.
Price Point
At about $3 per bottle, Ripple shakes cost more than some conventional protein drinks. However, they’re competitively priced versus other premium plant-based options.
How Ripple Compares to Other Protein Shakes
Compared to other popular plant-based protein shakes:
| Brand | Protein (g) | Sugar (g) | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ripple | 20 | 9 | Pea protein, allergen-free |
| OWYN | 20-32 | 4 | Lower sugar, added greens |
| Koia | 18 | 6 | Higher fiber (6g) |
For those needing a portable protein option, Ripple offers convenience without refrigeration until opened.
Who Should Try Ripple Protein Shakes?
Ripple shakes work well for:
- Vegans/plant-based eaters
- Those with dairy sensitivities
- People needing quick protein on-the-go
- Athletes seeking plant-based recovery
They may not be ideal for:
- Those avoiding any added sugars
- People preferring whey protein’s texture
- Anyone with pea protein allergies
How to Incorporate Ripple Shakes
Beyond drinking straight, try:
- Blending into smoothies with frozen fruit
- Using in overnight oats or chia pudding
- Adding to coffee as a creamer substitute
- Making protein pancakes or baked goods
For smoothie ideas, check out our guide to the best blenders for smoothies.
The Verdict
Ripple protein shakes offer a quality plant-based protein source with minimal additives. While slightly higher in sugar than some competitors, they provide complete nutrition in a convenient format. As with any protein supplement, they work best as part of a balanced diet rather than a total meal replacement.
For those seeking dairy-free protein options, Ripple stands out for its clean ingredient list and smooth texture compared to other plant proteins. The added iron makes it particularly beneficial for vegetarians and vegans who may struggle to meet their iron needs.
