Why is Protein Shake classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

NOVA 4 denotes foods made mostly from industrial ingredients and additives rather than whole foods; Protein Shake includes emulsifiers (mono‑ and diglycerides), stabilizers (carrageenan, cellulose gum, cellulose gel), sweeteners (sucralose, acesulfame‑K) and flavor enhancers, all of which place it in the ultra‑processed category.

How does the low sugar and salt content of this shake affect individuals with diabetes or hypertension?

The shake’s sugar level of 0.3 g per 100 g and salt level of 0.2 g per 100 g are far below typical protein‑shake averages, so it adds minimal glucose spikes for diabetics and contributes little to sodium intake, making it a relatively safe option for those managing blood sugar or blood pressure when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Is Protein Shake suitable for gluten‑free, vegan or other restrictive diets?

The product is certified gluten‑free, but it contains milk‑derived proteins (milk protein concentrate, isolate, whey and calcium caseinate) and therefore is not vegan; it also lists milk as a trace allergen, so it should be avoided by individuals with dairy allergies or those following strict vegan or dairy‑free regimens.

Makers mark

Protein shake

Dietary Supplements

Product Insights

Protein Shake is a dietary‑supplement beverage that falls within the PNNS beverage group and is marketed for bodybuilding and high‑protein nutrition. It carries a Nutri‑Score of not‑applicable (the system does not assess supplements) and is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), containing several additives such as carrageenan, cellulose gum, sucralose, acesulfame‑K and mono‑ and diglycerides. Each serving provides 30 g of protein with only 1 g of sugar, 2.0 g of total fat and 0.3 g of saturated fat and 0.7 g of salt, yet it offers modest fiber (3 g per serving) and includes milk‑derived proteins, making it unsuitable for vegans and a potential allergen for those sensitive to dairy.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Added Sugars0 g

Fruits & Vegetables3 %

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average protein‑shake (37 g protein, 6 g sugar, 3.6 g fat per 100 g), this product supplies far less protein (9.2 g), markedly lower sugar (0.3 g), fat (0.9 g) and salt (0.2 g), while also delivering only 49 kcal versus 276 kcal.

Ingredients

Water, Protein Blend (Milk Protein Concentrate, Milk Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate, Calcium Caseinate), Cocoa (Processed with Alkali), Sunflower Oil and/or Canola Oil, Inulin, Carrageenan, Cellulose Gel, Cellulose Gum, Salt, Mono and Diglycerides, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, Cholecalciferol, Calcium Phosphate, Ferric Orthophosphate, Potassium Iodide, Potassium Phosphate, Magnesium Phosphate, Zinc Gluconate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Citrate, Manganese Sulfate, Chromium Chloride, Sodium Molybdate

84%

35%

Unlock What Your Food Doesn't Tell You

Scan this and millions of other food products to discover hidden positive & negative points, scores percentage, additives, allergens, and deeper product insights with the free NutrScan app.