L360’s Evelyn Richards taste-tests five top-selling protein drinks to discover which should be your new workout buddy, and the ones you should shake off.
When a hormone expert told me that I needed to boost my diet with at least 65 grams of protein daily, I was ready to take the plunge.
As a vegetarian, I knew the best way to up my protein intake was through protein shakes.
I set off on a mission: find a protein powder that ticks all the boxes — taste, texture, protein-packed and, (hopefully) won’t break the bank.
Armed with a trusty shaker that I’ve had since my university days, I embarked on a journey to find the perfect protein powder, one scoop at a time.
From silky smooth vanilla blends to unexpected McDonald’s comparisons, join me as I sip, stir and rate my way to find the best (and the ones that are best left on the shelf).
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Best protein powders:
- Best taste: Hermosa grass-fed whey protein powder (vanilla) and Warrior whey protein powder (strawberry crème)
- Best value for money: Warrior whey protein powder
- Most protein per serving: Protein Works whey protein
- Best for women: Hermosa grass-fed whey protein powder
Hermosa Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder
This brand knows she’s expensive — and she acts like it. This vanilla-flavoured beauty delivers a luxe, velvety texture, which actually feels like a treat. I’d even go as far as to say it’s like dessert with benefits.
Sales and brand partnerships director Amy Caplan explains: “Hermosa is made with high-quality natural ingredients, no casein, no artificial flavouring. This helps it balance hormones by supporting muscle mass, regulating blood sugar levels, controlling appetite and aiding recovery.”
What I also love about Hermosa is that the texture is silky smooth, with no traces of the chalkiness or graininess that typically comes with protein powders. It makes for a great addition to your morning iced latte if you want a delicious way to up your protein intake.
I’d want a little more of a protein boost for the price, since there is only 22g per scoop.
But for those looking to level up in the taste department, Hermosa might just be worth the splurge.
- Protein per serving: 20g
- Price: £67 for 1kg
- Taste rating: 5/5
Read more: How protein powder impacts women’s hormones — what to look out for
Warrior Whey Protein Powder
I had heard that this protein powder tasted just like a McDonald’s strawberry milkshake, so to say I was excited to sample it was an understatement.
I can officially say that it lives up to the hype. The strawberry crème flavour bursts with the delicious taste of that beloved Maccie’s shake.
This product isn’t quite as silky as Hermosa, but it’s notably less grainy than typical protein powders, making it a great option for beginners.
- Protein per serving: 36g
- Price: £24.99 for 1kg
- Taste rating: 5/5
Read more: The founder of Myprotein reveals the truth about supplements
Rejuvenated Protein Smoothie
I was incredibly excited to try the banana flavour, I had visions of it pairing nicely with some berries and oranges to create some sort of tropical extravaganza that would instantly jet me off to a white-sand beach.
However, unfortunately, the flavour was lacking. I had to add a lot of powder just to taste anything.
The serving suggestion is one scoop in 300ml in water but, when doing this, I just wasn’t getting anything.
The powder is chock-full of nutrients including inulin (a prebiotic that nourishes gut microbes), glucomannan (high in fibre) and green tea (an antioxidant that promotes your metabolism), so what it lacks in taste it makes up for in goodness.
- Protein per serving: 21g
- Price: £21.50 for 420g
- Taste rating: 1/5
Buy from Rejuvenated for £21.50.
Read more: Health benefits of high-protein breakfasts plus easy recipes
MyVegan Impact Powder
Affordable and eco-conscious? Count me in!
MyVegan’s Impact Powder was a pleasant surprise. The vanilla flavour isn’t overly intense and has a fresh, slightly sweet taste that doesn’t feel artificial.
While 21g of protein per scoop isn’t the highest, it’s solid, and it’s easy on the budget.
My only real complaint? The texture is a bit thin, so I’d recommend blending it with some ice or a half banana for a smoother experience.
- Protein per serving: 24g
- Price: £29.99 for 1kg
- Taste rating: 3/5
Buy from MyProtein for £29.99.
Protein Works Whey Protein 360
This brand has a solid reputation and its Salted Caramel Whey didn’t disappoint.
With 21g of protein per scoop, it’s a nice bang for your buck.
The flavour is just the right level of sweet without being overpowering, with 10 different flavours to choose from. I’m keen to try the Speculoos Biscuit Heaven version next.
The powder also mixes really well with just water — perfect for busy mornings or if you’re trying to cut down on calories.
While it’s a bit pricier than some, I found it was worth the price for both the protein content and the flavour.
- Protein per serving: 21g
- Price: £59.99 for 1.2kg
- Taste rating: 4/5
