Ready-to-drink (RTD) protein shakes, such as Muscle Milk or EAS Myoplex drinks, have increased in popularity over the past few years. There are advantages and disadvantages to buying these beverages. As a product of the booming fitness supplement market, athletes and recreational lifters, those who are most concerned about what they put in their body, are the target audience for RTD protein products.
Are RTD shakes worth the price? Are they comparable to popular protein powders, or possibly even better? Let's break it down and find out.
About RTD protein shakes
RTD shakes are pre-mixed protein drinks that can be used post-workout and while you're on-the-go. Many people use them as meal replacements if they don't have time to cook. The drinks are undeniably quick and convenient. Unlike preparing a meal, there's no cleanup. They're available to buy individually at gas stations and convenience stores, for about $3.50 per serving, but retail supplement and large grocery stores also sell them in packs of four.
Benefits
The main advantage of RTD shakes is efficiency. They contain many of the macronutrients you would get from a complete meal. Ready-to-drink beverages are good for muscle growth. After a workout, drinking an RTD shake helps replenish muscle glycogen.
Efficiency
Many people struggle to avoid the drive-thru, where a meal can easily clear 2,000 calories, which is more than the recommended daily allowance for a healthy adult.[2] Not everyone has the time or resources to prepare a well-rounded or fit one into their time-crunched schedules. For some, the constraints of everyday life make consuming an RTD shake the most sensible choice.[1] Also, it's better than not eating anything at all.
Taste
Muscle Milk by Cytosport, has developed a fairly large following. The drinks are available in six unique flavors, such as cake batter and vanilla cr?me. There's also a version that's light in calories and one that's high in protein. EAS Nutrition's AdvantEDGE ready-to-drink beverages are available in five flavors. On a scale of one to five, users give taste an overall rating of 3.7. Comments range from, "It is delicious, filling and helps me to start my day on the right track," to "The new "flavor" is bad, so I will not be buying it again."
Muscle building
Drinking a RTD protein shake is better than nothing. You're not able to feed your muscles when you take in zero nutrients, and your body won't have fuel to operate and recover. Protein and carbohydrates are vital for muscle growth, and several RTD shakes on the market offer them.
Disadvantages
Ready-to-drink protein shakes are certainly not a quick solution to being healthy. The ingredients are inferior (even dangerous in some instances) and they're expensive.
RTD shakes vs. whey protein
There are better ways of getting the nutrients you need without consuming high-calorie, high-sugar instant "health" shakes. A scoop of whey protein added to a homemade shake or smoothie is also time efficient, but tends to contains fewer calories. The main advantage is that whey has higher quality protein, versus many gas-station-bought RTD drinks.
Ingredients
Most RTD products are not healthy, despite claims by manufacturers that they are. "Consumer Reports" initiated a third-party laboratory testing of 15 popular protein products (most were RTD shakes).[2] They also reviewed government documents, interviewed several health professionals, and concluded that the majority of people get enough protein from their diet and the protein supplements tested are not optimal for increasing protein intake. Many of the products tested revealed higher amounts of mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic. This certainly raises serious health concerns for consumers. Constant exposure to toxic minerals pose potentially dangerous health risks. While the protein may help with muscle gain, those risks are not worth the possible benefits.
Metals
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) acknowledges the dangers of mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic.[4, 5, 6, 7, 8] One noteworthy risk of mercury, specifically, is risk of fetus mortality in pregnant women. The dangers associated with either short-term or long-term consumption of these metals are very harmful, and sometimes fatal.
Flavoring agents
Many RTD protein shakes contain maltodextrin, sugar, and a wide array of chemicals and fillers, which are used to alter the taste. The sources of protein are cheaper and have a lower bioavailability compared to protein from whole food or protein powders.
A better alternative to RTD shakes is protein powder. Good options include MTS Machine Whey, Cellucor COR-Performance Whey, Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey Gold Standard, or Allmax Isoflex. The ingredients are nutritionally superior in every way. For example, a Muscle Milk RTD protein shake contains 320 calories, 16g fat, 17g carbs, 540mg sodium, 4g sugar, and 34g protein. A scoop of the leading protein powder contains 150 calories, 4g fat, 5g carbs, 2g sugar, and 25g of protein. Note that no maltodextrin is included in the protein powder blend.
Cost
The average cost of a RTD protein shake is around $3.50 per serving. Even one of the more expensive proteins on the market, a 30-serving tub of Allmax's Isoflex, costs $39.99, plus shipping. That comes to $1.33 per scoop. The investment in a bottle of protein powder is unquestionably smarter than buying dozens of RTD protein shakes.
Considerations
Many well-educated customers rate Nature's Best Cocotein and Isopure RTD highly, as well as Allmax's Isoflex Instant Protein Drink. Ultimately, you need to decide which products are a good value and contain quality ingredients.
*Note: The FDA does not regulate these products, or any dietary supplements, unless otherwise specified. The statements included in this article are not reviewed nor condoned by the FDA.
Protein shots
A lot of supplement retailers also sell protein shots, which contain a high amount of collagen protein. That's why they often come up on online searches for hair health products. But this protein is not nearly as bioavailable as whey protein. When it comes to heavy-metal content, they're not as dangerous as RTD shakes, but protein shots are just about as nutritionally inferior. As a general consensus, many people find the texture and taste of the shots unappetizing.
Where to buy
You can search our list of online retailers for your favorite RTD protein shake. We suggest reviewing and researching any vitamin or supplement before purchasing.
Here is an RTD shake buying guide. Avoid beverages that contain:
- Over 200 calories per serving
- High amount of fat or sugar
- Maltodextrin
- Unusual protein sources (those other than whey, casein, or soy)
- Heavy metals, like mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium
References
- Steve Rittmanic; U.S. Dairy Export Council; "U.S. whey proteins in ready-to-drink beverages;" 2006;"
- USDA; "Food Deserts;"
- ConsumerReports.org; "Alert: Protein drinks; You don't need the extra protein or the heavy metals our tests found;" Reviewed July 2010
- EPA; "Mercury;" Updated 2013
- OSHA; "Cadmium;" Updated 2013
- OSHA; "Arsenic;" Updated 2013
- OSHA; "Lead;" Updated 2013
- OSHA; "Mercury;" Updated 2013
RTD Protein Shake News on PricePlow
-
Nov 25, 2023 Product News
Jocko Fuel MOLK Protein RTD has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Nov 21, 2023 Product News
Performance Inspired Ready 2GO Protein has new variations:- 6 Bottles - Blueberry Lemonade
- 6 Bottles - Island Fruit Punch
- 6 Bottles - Rainbow Sherbet
- 6 Bottles - Watermelon Blast
-
Nov 05, 2023 Product News
Jocko Fuel MOLK Protein RTD has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Oct 31, 2023 YouTube Video
Dan Lourenço: The Meteoric Rise of Ghost Energy | Episode 116 -
Oct 27, 2023 Product News
Alani Nu Protein Shake has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Oct 21, 2023 Product News
Alani Nu Protein Shake has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Oct 19, 2023 Product News
Orgain Vegan Nutritional Shake has new variations: Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Oct 16, 2023 Product News
Alani Nu Protein Shake was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Oct 15, 2023 Deal
Boost High Protein Balanced Nutritional Drink hit the Hot Deals page:- 24 Bottles - Very Vanilla is on sale for $23.99 at Amazon!
-
Oct 03, 2023 Product News
Orgain KIDS Plant Protein Shake has new variations: Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Oct 01, 2023 Deal
Alani Nu Protein Coffee hit the Hot Deals page:- 1 Bottle - Mocha is on sale for $1.00 at Natural Body Inc!
- 1 Bottle - Vanilla is on sale for $1.00 at Natural Body Inc!
-
Sep 26, 2023 Product News
Core Power 2% Reduced Fat Drink was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Sep 26, 2023 Product News
Core Power Whole ultra-filtered milk Drink was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Sep 26, 2023 Product News
Core Power YUP! 2% Reduced Fat Shake was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Sep 26, 2023 Product News
Core Power Elite High Protein Shake was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Sep 26, 2023 Product News
Core Power High Protein Milk Shake was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Sep 21, 2023 Product News
Orgain KIDS Plant Protein Shake was created.
Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Sep 21, 2023 Product News
Purely Inspired Organic Protein Shake RTD was created.
Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Sep 14, 2023 YouTube Video
Jocko's Supplement Formulator: Brian Littlefield | Episode 111 -
Sep 14, 2023 Blog Post
Jocko Fuel Formulator Brian Littlefield Announces Jocko Pre-Workout | Episode #111
PricePlow visited Jocko Fuel in Maine, hosting Episode #111 of the Podcast with Brian Littlefield, the company's co-founder and product formulator. -
Aug 31, 2023 Product News
Atkins Advantage Ready-To-Drink Shakes has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Aug 14, 2023 Product News
Labrada Lean Body RTD has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Jun 11, 2023 Product News
Pure Protein Shake has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
May 21, 2023 Product News
Orgain Clean Protein Grass-Fed Shake has new variations: Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Mar 19, 2023 Product News
Alani Nu Protein Coffee has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Mar 15, 2023 Product News
Labrada Lean Body RTD has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Feb 18, 2023 Product News
Jocko Fuel MOLK Protein RTD was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Dec 30, 2022 Product News
MuscleMeds Carnivor RTD has new variations: Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Nov 03, 2022 Blog Post
GNC Announces Adventurefuls™ Girl Scout Cookie Collab in Four Products
In 2021, Girl Scouts announced a new 2022 Girl Scout Cookie: Adventurefuls™ (Caramel Brownie). This year, they're at GNC in four different products! -
Oct 17, 2022 Product News
Alani Nu Protein Coffee was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Sep 17, 2022 Product News
Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based Shake was created.
Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Sep 17, 2022 Product News
Orgain Plant Protein Shake was created.
Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Sep 17, 2022 Product News
Orgain Vegan Nutritional Shake was created.
Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Sep 17, 2022 Product News
Orgain KIDS Protein Organic Nutrition Shake was created.
Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Sep 17, 2022 Product News
Orgain Clean Protein Grass-Fed Shake was created.
Categories: Vegan RTD Protein Shakes, Vegetarian Supplements -
Jul 24, 2022 Product News
Garden of Life Sport - Grass Fed Protein RTD was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Jul 24, 2022 Product News
Garden of Life Organic Protein Plant-Based RTD was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Jul 15, 2022 Product News
Power Blendz Pure Protein Builder was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
May 04, 2022 Product News
Clif Recovery Drink was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Apr 27, 2022 Product News
CytoSport Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Apr 12, 2022 Blog Post
It’s Snack Time! 5% Nutrition’s Unique RTD Protein POUCHES!
It's Snack Time! 5% Nutrition's unique take on ready-to-drink protein shakes makes its way into the industry... by way of dairy-free POUCHES! -
Apr 06, 2022 Product News
Rich Piana 5% Nutrition Snack Time Protein was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Feb 10, 2022 Product News
Nature's Plus Ultra Energy Shake was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Feb 10, 2022 Product News
Nature's Plus Energy Shake was created.
Category: RTD Protein Shakes -
Nov 24, 2021 Blog Post
Ghost Protein Drink RTD: What’s Inside?
Ghost Protein RTD is here, and it's shaking the protein world up. 25 grams of protein, a Chips Ahoy! flavor, soy-free, and gluten-free, so get ready! -
Nov 14, 2018 Blog Post
Premier Protein LAWSUIT Settlement: Get Up to $40 Back!
The Premier Protein LAWSUIT has been settled, and you can now get up to $40 in benefits back if you ever bought the Premier Protein Shakes (RTDs)! -
Jul 20, 2018 Blog Post
EAS Supplements No More: A Myoplex Post-Mortem
The EAS Supplement line has been closed down by Abbott Laboratories. Team PricePlow conducts a post-mortem to the tune of violins playing. -
Jun 09, 2018 YouTube Video
Muscle Monster Protein Shake (AMINO SPIKED?) -
Jul 11, 2016 Blog Post
ISO100 Clear RTD – Dymatize Protein Roars Back!
Dymatize has burst back into the spotlight when it recently rebranded and announced the release of the ready to drink Protein bottle, ISO100 Clear. -
Aug 19, 2015 Blog Post
Organic Valley Organic Fuel Wants to SAVE THE BROS
Organic Valley Organic Fuel is a safe, healthy option to chemical-laden protein powders from Organic Valley.
Sign up for future RTD Protein Shake news!
Click the button below to sign up for future RTD Protein Shake news, deals, coupons, and reviews!
RTD Protein Shake Deals
The following hot deals are still active:
See our RTD Protein Shake Deals
- Oct 15, 2023Boost High Protein Balanced Nutritional Drink hit the Hot Deals page:
- 24 Bottles - Very Vanilla is on sale for $23.99 at Amazon!
- Oct 01, 2023Alani Nu Protein Coffee hit the Hot Deals page:
- 1 Bottle - Mocha is on sale for $1.00 at Natural Body Inc!
- 1 Bottle - Vanilla is on sale for $1.00 at Natural Body Inc!
RTD Protein Shake Price Alerts
The following price alerts are still active:
- Dec 06, 2023Jocko Fuel MOLK Protein RTD 12 Bottles (only Banana Cream) dropped by 25% to $29.99 at Vitamin Shoppe
- Dec 05, 2023Jocko Fuel MOLK Protein RTD 12 Bottles (only Chocolate, Vanilla) dropped by 16.7% to $29.99 at Vitamin Shoppe
- Dec 03, 2023Redcon1 MRE RTD 12 Cartons (only Vanilla Milkshake) dropped by 37.5% to $44.99 at Vitamin Shoppe
- Nov 27, 2023Orgain Organic Nutrition RTD 12 11 Oz. Cartons (only Smooth Chocolate) dropped by 6.2% to $27.74 at Vitamin Shoppe
- Nov 22, 2023Rich Piana 5% Nutrition Snack Time Protein 10 Packs dropped by 6.7% to $23.79 at DPS Nutrition
- Nov 07, 2023Rich Piana 5% Nutrition Snack Time Protein 1 Pack dropped by 14.4% to $2.55 at Rich Piana 5% Nutrition
- Nov 06, 2023Orgain Organic Nutrition RTD 1 11 Oz. Carton (only Creamy Chocolate Fudge, Strawberries & Cream) dropped by 50.1% to $2.99 at Muscle and Strength
- Nov 04, 2023Labrada Lean Body RTD 12 17 Oz. Cartons (only Mint Chocolate) dropped by 6.7% to $41.99 at AllStarHealth
- Oct 22, 2023Premier Nutrition Premier Protein RTD 12 Bottles (only Cookies & Cream) dropped by 16.7% to $34.99 at Netrition
- Oct 20, 2023Quest Nutrition Quest Protein Shake RTD 12 Bottles (only Salted Caramel, Vanilla) dropped by 10.3% to $31.49 at Best Price Nutrition
- Oct 19, 2023Alani Nu Protein Coffee 1 Bottle (only Mocha, Vanilla) dropped by 66.6% to $1.00 at Natural Body Inc
- Oct 16, 2023CytoSport Muscle Milk RTD 4 11 Oz. Cartons (only Strawberries 'N Creme) dropped by 6.9% to $14.49 at VitaCost.com
- Sep 26, 2023Core Power High Protein Milk Shake 12 Bottles (only Strawberry Banana) dropped by 6.5% to $34.99 at Wegmans
- Aug 04, 2023Boost High Protein Balanced Nutritional Drink 12 Bottles (only Rich Chocolate) dropped by 7.1% to $19.49 at VitaCost.com
- Jul 21, 2023Redcon1 MRE RTD 12 Cartons (only Cookies and Cream) dropped by 16.3% to $35.99 at Best Price Nutrition
- Jul 16, 2023Nature's Plus Energy Shake 28 Servings dropped by 15.8% to $29.60 at Best Price Nutrition
- May 03, 2023Boost High Protein Balanced Nutritional Drink 12 Bottles (only Very Vanilla) dropped by 94.5% to $23.99 at VitaCost.com
Sign up for future RTD Protein Shake deals and coupons!
Click the button below to sign up for future RTD Protein Shake deals, news, and coupons!
RTD Protein Shake Reviews & Videos
-
Oct 31, 2023Dan Lourenço: The Meteoric Rise of Ghost Energy | Episode 116
-
Sep 14, 2023Jocko's Supplement Formulator: Brian Littlefield | Episode 111
-
Jun 09, 2018Muscle Monster Protein Shake (AMINO SPIKED?)
Subscribe for more RTD Protein Shake news and alerts!
Subscribe to PricePlow on YouTube, follow PricePlow on Instagram or click the button below to sign up for our latest RTD Protein Shake news and reviews!