Best Vegan
Owyn High Protein Complete Nutrition Shake
Pros
- Vegan
- 26 g of plant-based protein
- Added vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Easy-to-drink smooth, thin texture
- Free from the top 9 allergens, including dairy, soy, gluten, egg, peanuts, and tree nuts
Cons
- Only 180 calories, so may not be suitable for all as a meal replacement on its own
- Contains acacia gum and guar gum, which may cause digestive issues
Key Specs
- Type: Ready-made
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Flavors: Chocolate and vanilla
Owyn High Protein Complete Nutrition Shake is a practical vegan choice for those seeking an easy-to-drink option to support weight loss.
Everyday Health writer Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN, described the flavor as “mild, not chalky” with a sweetness that was noticeable but “not too sweet.” She found the chocolate variety to be smooth and balanced, while the vanilla was “a little thinner with a slightly sweeter aftertaste.”
Beale also noted that the texture is “thin and smooth, not super rich or creamy,” which may be appealing to those who prefer something lighter.
Nutritionally, it offers 26 grams (g) of plant-based protein (a blend of pea, flax, and pumpkin), providing all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein.
At 180 calories and only 3 g of carbohydrates per bottle, the shake may fall short as a complete meal replacement for some people, but it can serve as a helpful option for those aiming for a calorie deficit or needing a quick, nutrient-rich snack.
Best Low-Carb
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Pros
- 28 g of protein for 130 calories, ideal for low-carb, high-protein diets
- Third-party tested
- Available in 18 flavors
- Can be customized with healthy fats, fiber, or low-carb additions to make it more complete
Cons
- Minimal carbs, fat, and fiber, so additional nutrients may be needed for satiety and completeness
- Tester noted a slight sweetener aftertaste
Key Specs
- Type: Powder
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 28 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Flavors: 18, including unflavored, milk chocolate, French vanilla, chocolate peanut butter, butterscotch pecan, dark chocolate, and strawberry milkshake
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate stands out as a top pick for a low-carb meal replacement shake for weight loss due to its high protein content, low calorie count, and strong third-party testing credentials.
The whey protein powder is sourced exclusively from grass-fed cattle without added artificial sweeteners, food dyes, or fillers. Each serving provides 28 g of protein, 130 calories, 1 g of carbohydrate, and 1 g of fat. This makes it suitable for individuals seeking to maintain or build lean muscle while following a calorie-restricted, low-carb diet.
Katie Tuttle, an Everyday Health editor who tested this shake, noted that the flavor is “mild and not too sweet, with a smooth, slightly creamy texture.”
While it provides substantial protein, the shake alone may not be filling enough for a complete meal. “Without the addition of something solid, I would be hungry again within an hour or so,” Tuttle says.
It would likely work best as a meal replacement when paired with additional fiber, healthy fats, or other low-carb options to make it more satisfying.
The powder is available in 18 flavors, ranging from classics like milk chocolate, French vanilla, and strawberry milkshake to more creative options such as s’mores, cinnamon French toast, and mint chocolate chip.
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate undergoes third-party testing through Informed Choice and Informed Sport, providing reassurance about ingredient quality and the absence of banned substances. Its clean formulation, high protein content, minimal carbs and fat, and versatility for smoothies or shakes make it a reliable choice for people focused on weight loss and low-carb nutrition.
Best Keto-Friendly
Vega Performance Protein + Recovery
Pros
- 30 g of protein and 170 calories per serving
- NSF certified
- Non-GMO, vegan, no added sugar or artificial ingredients
- Includes BCAAs, tart cherry extract, and probiotics for recovery and gut health
Cons
- Certain flavors can be chalky
- A frother or blender may be needed to avoid clumpiness
Key Specs
- Type: Powder
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Flavors: 5, including chocolate, berry, mocha, peanut butter and vanilla
Vega Performance Protein + Recovery powder stands out as a keto-friendly, plant-based meal replacement for weight loss and post-workout recovery.
Beale described the flavor as “sweet with a slightly chalky finish.” She “appreciated the product’s simple, straightforward ingredient list,” making it a reliable choice for athletes, gym enthusiasts, vegans, or those with dairy sensitivities.
The formula is NSF certified, non-GMO, vegan, and free from added sugar and artificial flavors.
Best Organic
Kos Organic Superfood Plant Protein
Pros
- USDA Organic and certified CCOF Organic
- 20 g of complete plant-based protein per serving
- Free from dairy, gluten, and sugar alcohols
- Blends easily into smoothies
- Sweet, natural flavor
Cons
- Tester noted some flavors to be very sweet
- Contains inulin, which may cause bloating for sensitive individuals
Key Specs
- Type: Powder
- Calories: 140–160, depending on flavor
- Protein: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Flavors: 7, including strawberries and cream, blueberry muffin, chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, salted caramel, unflavored, and vanilla
KOS Organic Superfood Plant Protein is a strong option for people seeking an organic, plant-based meal replacement to support weight loss.
The powder features a superfood fruit-and-vegetable blend tht includes apple, carrot, cranberry, broccoli, shiitake mushroom, and tomato, along with digestive enzymes and prebiotic fibers like acacia gum and inulin.
Beale noted it “blended easily into smoothies with fruit and almond milk” and that the flavor was “sweet but not artificial tasting,” making it enjoyable as a meal replacement when paired with other organic ingredients.
KOS is USDA Organic and certified CCOF Organic. It’s free from dairy, gluten, and sugar alcohols. However, it does contain some components to be mindful of.
Overall, KOS Organic Plant Protein is a convenient, nutrient-dense option for weight loss when used as part of a balanced diet. It can serve as a satisfying addition to smoothies or shakes, particularly for those prioritizing organic, plant-based ingredients.
Best Plant-Based Protein
Kate Farms Nutrition Shake
Pros
- Plant-based, organic, gluten-free
- Free from common allergens
- Includes prebiotic fiber and phytonutrient blend (broccoli, green tea, acai, and turmeric)
- Higher calorie and macronutrient-dense to keep you full for longer
Cons
- Includes 18 g of added sugar
- Slightly lower protein load than other meal replacement options
Key Specs
- Type: Ready-made
- Calories: 330
- Protein: 16 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Flavors: 4, including vanilla, chocolate, coffee, and strawberry
Kate Farms Nutrition Shake is a plant-based option that provides a blend of organic pea protein, vitamins, minerals, prebiotic fiber, and a phytonutrient blend with ingredients such as broccoli, green tea extract, acai, and turmeric.
At 330 calories, 16 g of protein, 38 g of carbohydrates (including 6 g of fiber), and 12 g of fat, it offers more substance than some other shakes in this category.
Beale described the flavor as “mild and slightly sweet, almost like cold vanilla almond milk.”
Because it’s free from common allergens and carries certifications such as USDA Organic and gluten-free from the Gluten-Free Food Program, it can be a useful choice for individuals with dietary restrictions who still want a balanced option.
Something to make note of: This shake contains 18 g of added sugar, the highest amount among all the shakes in this list. As Beale noted, “I like the calories, fat, and fiber for meal replacement, but the added sugar would give me pause.”
Overall, Kate Farms Nutrition Shake may be a suitable option for those seeking a plant-based meal replacement that offers good flavor and solid nutrition from a reputable brand. However, if limiting sugar is a priority, this may not be the best fit.
Best for Women
Wavelength Superfood Protein Powder
Pros
- Includes adaptogens and mushrooms that may support stress relief, energy, and immunity
- Organic, plant-based, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO
- 20 g of protein with a complete amino acid profile
- Filling despite its low calorie count
Cons
- 120 calories (vanilla flavor) per serving is likely not enough for a full meal on its own
- Chalky texture noted in the chocolate flavor
Key Specs
- Type: Powder
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Flavors: Vanilla and chocolate
Each serving of vanilla provides 20 g of protein from yellow peas and pumpkin seeds, along with 120 calories, 3 g of fat, and 7 g of carbohydrates. The chocolate is slightly higher at 170 calories, 4 g of fat, and 14 g of carbohydrates.
As the tester for this product, I found the vanilla to have a nice spice (cinnamon), yet a nutty or earthy undertone. The chocolate, while a bit chalky for my taste, reminded me of a rich hot cocoa.
As a meal replacement for weight loss, Wavelength works best when added to smoothies or paired with other nutrient-dense foods, as it contains only 120 calories per serving. It’s worth noting that, despite its low calorie content, this product proved more filling than expected and stayed with me longer than anticipated.
Overall, this protein powder is well suited for women seeking a clean, functional supplement to add to their meals, supporting both nutrition and resilience during busy or high-stress periods of life.
Best for Men
Huel Black Edition High-Protein Complete Meal Ready to Drink
Pros
- 35 g of protein per serving
- Higher calorie than many others to better satiate those with a greater caloric need
- Vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free of artificial sweeteners
- Added vitamins and minerals to help prevent nutrient gaps
- Ready-to-drink and powder options
Cons
- Slightly grainy consistency
- Stevia-sweetened; some report a slight aftertaste
Key Specs
- Type: Ready-to-drink
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 35 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Flavors: 6, including chocolate, iced coffee, strawberry banana, vanilla, cookies and cream, and chocolate peanut butter
For men looking to lose weight without sacrificing muscle mass, Huel Black Edition Ready-to-Drink is a strong option.
In addition to protein, Huel Black Edition provides 29 g of carbohydrates, 6 g of fiber, 17 g of fat (sourced from flax, sunflower, and coconut oil), as well as a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, iron, and choline, to name a few.
Another benefit for men managing busy schedules is the convenience factor. Huel Black Edition is premade, portable, and shelf-stable. It’s available in six flavors, including chocolate, iced coffee, and strawberry banana.
For those who prefer to make their own shakes with specific additions, Huel Black is also available in a powder option, giving variety beyond standard protein shakes.
Still, for men seeking a straightforward, plant-based, high-protein meal replacement to support weight management, Huel Black offers nutrition, convenience, and satiety better than many alternatives.
Best Budget-Friendly
Soylent Complete Meal Powder
Pros
- Budget-friendly at less than $2 per serving
- Balanced macronutrient profile
- 20+ vitamins and minerals providing 20% of daily needs
- 6 g of fiber
Cons
- Not suitable for those with soy allergies
- 16 g of added sugar in addition to sucralose
Key Specs
- Type: Powder
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 20 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Flavors: Original and chocolate
For people looking to manage weight loss on a budget, Soylent Complete Meal Powder is one of the most affordable meal replacement options available. At less than $2 per 8-ounce (oz) serving, or $3 per 12-oz serving, it costs significantly less than most ready-to-drink shakes while still offering a balanced nutritional profile.
While not as convenient as grab-and-go bottles, the powder mixes easily with water and is generally well liked for its smooth texture.
Still, for people seeking a budget-friendly way to incorporate meal replacements into a weight loss plan, Soylent Complete could be a good choice.
Best High-Protein
Koia Elite
Pros
- 32 g of protein per bottle
- 6 g of fiber
- Plant-based, soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, Kosher
- Creamy texture and natural-tasting flavors
Cons
- Too light on carbs, fats, and added vitamins and minerals to be a complete, balanced meal
- Chicory root fiber can cause digestive discomfort for some
Key Specs
- Type: Ready-made
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 32 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Flavors: Vanilla and chocolate
For people who are focused on weight loss but still want to prioritize protein, Koia Elite stands out as a plant-based shake with 32 g of protein and only 210 calories.
Beale noted “the texture is thick and creamier than many other ready-to-drink shakes” and described the vanilla as “smooth and milkshake-like, while the chocolate was less sweet.”
Koia Elite utilizes a non-GMO pea protein base that’s free from soy and gluten. It’s paired with avocado oil for added creaminess and a source of healthy fats.
That said, Koia Elite is not a complete meal on its own. While it provides plenty of protein and a good amount of fiber, its low calorie count, along with limited carbs, fat, and micronutrients, place it more in the snack category.
To function as a true meal replacement, it can be used as a smoothie base or paired with other foods to create a more well-rounded meal option.
Still, for those who need a convenient, high-protein, low-sugar option without artificial sweeteners, Koia Elite is a solid choice.
Best Subscription
Ka’Chava All-In-One
Pros
- Flexible monthly subscription options (flavor changes, cancel anytime)
- Comprehensive formula with protein, fiber, adaptogens, probiotics, superfoods, and digestive enzymes
- Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, no artificial additives
- Third-party ingredient testing for safety and quality
Cons
- Higher cost per serving than many other meal replacements
- Ingredient-dense, which may be unnecessary if the diet is already well rounded
Key Specs
- Type: Powder
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 25 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Flavors: 6, including chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, coconut acai, matcha, and chai
If you’re looking to simplify weight loss while maintaining a consistent nutrition plan, Ka’Chava All-In-One offers a subscription-based solution that delivers a nutrient-dense shake directly to your door each month.
Each serving combines organic plant-based protein (yellow pea, brown rice, sacha inchi, amaranth, and quinoa) with fiber, greens, omega-fatty acids, MCTs, adaptogen herbs, probiotics, mushrooms, fruits, and digestive enzymes. The shake is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners. This makes it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
The subscription model provides convenience and flexibility for individuals who regularly rely on meal replacements. The company offers savings per bag, pre-shipment reminders, adjustable flavors or quantities, and the option to cancel at any time.
Ka’Chava also utilizes third-party labs to test its ingredients for quality and safety, which may provide reassurance to those who want more transparency in what they consume.
These features come with a trade-off, though, as the cost per serving is higher than many other shakes. And for people who already eat a well-rounded diet, the extensive ingredient list may be unnecessary.
Still, for those who want a plant-based, all-in-one shake with the ease of a subscription system, it can be a practical choice.
Why Trust Everyday Health
Brittany Scanniello, RD
Author
Brittany Scanniello is a freelance writer, registered dietitian-nutritionist, and owner of Eat Simply Nutrition, a Colorado-based integrative nutrition company and private practice.
As a lifelong and collegiate athlete, Brittany has always kept fitness and nutrition a top priority. Her expertise lies in pediatrics, sports, and functional nutrition, though she is experienced in all nutrition-related matters. She strongly believes that food has the power to reduce the risk of chronic disease and help people feel energized so she works hard to make nutrition information accessible and easy to understand for all.
Brittany received her undergraduate degree in human nutrition and dietetics from University of North Carolina in Greensboro. She also completed a dietetic internship to become a registered dietitian at UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, California.
As a freelance nutrition and fitness writer, her work has been published in Eat This Not That, PopSugar, and other outlets. She is the author of The Complete Macro Cookbook.
When Brittany is not counseling clients or writing, she enjoys working on her family's farm, golfing, playing with her three kids, and baking.
Reyna Franco, RDN
Reyna Franco, RDN, is a New York City–based dietitian-nutritionist, certified specialist in sports dietetics, and certified personal trainer. She is a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and has a master's degree in nutrition and exercise physiology from Columbia University.
In her private practice, she provides medical nutrition therapy for weight management, sports nutrition, diabetes, cardiac disease, renal disease, gastrointestinal disorders, cancer, food allergies, eating disorders, and childhood nutrition. To serve her diverse patients, she demonstrates cultural sensitivity and knowledge of customary food practices. She applies the tenets of lifestyle medicine to reduce the risk of chronic disease and improve health outcomes for her patients.
Franco is also a corporate wellness consultant who conducts wellness counseling and seminars for organizations of every size. She taught sports nutrition to medical students at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, taught life cycle nutrition and nutrition counseling to undergraduate students at LaGuardia Community College, and precepts nutrition students and interns. She created the sports nutrition rotation for the New York Distance Dietetic Internship program.
She is the chair of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine's Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist Member Interest Group. She is also the treasurer and secretary of the New York State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, having previously served in many other leadership roles for the organization, including as past president, awards committee chair, and grant committee chair, among others. She is active in the local Greater New York Dietetic Association and Long Island Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, too.
Orlando de Guzman
Fact-Checker
Orlando de Guzman is a writer and editor with expertise in health and environmental news. He has a background in investigative and science journalism and has worked on documentary films about war and trauma, health, sanitation, and the changing climate around the world. His interest in health and medicine started after an early career as a medical and legal translator.
De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. He participates in endurance sports and cross-trains in several traditions of martial arts from Southeast Asia. De Guzman is interested in how the progressively complex movements of martial arts training can improve cognition and mental well-being, especially for those with PTSD and for those approaching middle age and beyond.
De Guzman has a dual B.A. in communications and international studies from the University of Washington in Seattle. He is committed to factual storytelling and evidence-based reporting on critical choices that affect our planet.
Nicole Bonaccorso
Editor
Nicole Bonaccorso is a writer and editor with more than 12 years of journalism experience. She has been writing for Everyday Health since 2025, and has also been published on NBCNews.com, Treehugger, Verywell, Mashable, and Upworthy, among other publications.
Nicole was also a senior editor at Weather.com for more than 11 years, covering everything from weather and climate change to health, science, and travel.
In addition to writing, Nicole has also found a passion in helping new parents reach their breastfeeding goals and is working towards becoming a certified breastfeeding specialist.
In her free time, Nicole enjoys hiking, camping, cooking, reading, and spending time outdoors with her two young sons, husband, and dog.
Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN
Tester
Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian and freelance health writer with experience in clinical nutrition, education, research, and private practice. Caitlin’s special interests include women's health, gut health, autoimmunity, and reproductive health. Committed to the belief that health information should be accessible to all, she is passionate about empowering individuals to make positive changes for their well-being. Caitlin holds advanced training certificates in women's health and integrative and functional nutrition.
Caitlin was born and raised in northern California, where she resides with her family. An avid lover of sunshine and the outdoors, she finds joy in activities such as visiting the beach, exercising, cooking, and indulging in a good read. You can find Caitlin’s writing in a variety of outlets and brands, including Motherly, Nourish, Signos, Greatest, Pure Encapsulations, Abbott, and Clue, among others.
Katie Tuttle
Tester
Katie Tuttle is an editor and writer specializing in food, nutrition, and product testing. Her work has appeared in EatingWell, Food & Wine, The Spruce Eats, and Real Simple. She has written about meal kits, kitchen tools, fitness, and wellness, and has tested and reviewed a wide range of products, with a particular focus on meal delivery services and their impact on nutrition and convenience.
Beyond food, Katie has covered fitness and wellness topics, drawing from her own experience as a powerlifter and an occasional runner. She’s always interested in how products and services can make healthy living more accessible and practical.
When she’s not researching or writing, Katie is usually surrounded by houseplants or spending time with a foster dog. She firmly believes there’s no such thing as too many books or too much coffee.
Brittany Scanniello, RD
Tester
Brittany Scanniello is a freelance writer, registered dietitian-nutritionist, and owner of Eat Simply Nutrition, a Colorado-based integrative nutrition company and private practice.
As a lifelong and collegiate athlete, Brittany has always kept fitness and nutrition a top priority. Her expertise lies in pediatrics, sports, and functional nutrition, though she is experienced in all nutrition-related matters. She strongly believes that food has the power to reduce the risk of chronic disease and help people feel energized so she works hard to make nutrition information accessible and easy to understand for all.
Brittany received her undergraduate degree in human nutrition and dietetics from University of North Carolina in Greensboro. She also completed a dietetic internship to become a registered dietitian at UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, California.
As a freelance nutrition and fitness writer, her work has been published in Eat This Not That, PopSugar, and other outlets. She is the author of The Complete Macro Cookbook.
When Brittany is not counseling clients or writing, she enjoys working on her family's farm, golfing, playing with her three kids, and baking.
Raki Swanson
Tester
Raki Swanson is a Minnesota-based freelance health writer and married mother to two adult children. She has experience covering mental health, fitness, food, and lifestyle topics, as well as significant experience reviewing and testing products for the Marketplace team, including online therapy, fitness gear, and food.
She received a bachelor's degree in applied psychology from St. Cloud University in Minnesota. She has also worked as a business development manager at a Fortune 500 company in Minnesota, and spent several years living in the south of France while growing up, which inspired her love of travel and food.
When she's not writing, you can find her reading, blogging, and enjoying being an empty nester with her husband, two dogs, and tabby cat named Kevin.
Tori Martinet, MS, RD
Tester
Tori Martinet is an Intuitive Eating dietitian, food writer, recipe developer, and food photographer based in Southern California. She received a master's degree in nutrition from Columbia University Teachers College and spent nearly a decade as the director of wellness and sustainability for a premier food service contractor based in New York City. In her time there she crafted wellness and sustainability programming for clients like Google, Citigroup, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Harvard Business School, and the U.S. Open Tennis Tournament.
She has been a dietitian for nearly 10 years and currently works in private practice, dedicated to helping people pursue health without restriction and dieting. She also writes freelance food and nutrition content and has been featured in publications like Eating Well, Food & Wine, Shape, The Spruce Eats, U.S. News 360 Reviews, Verywell Health, and many more.
Brittany Vargas
Tester
Brittany Elyse Vargas has been a professional writer and journalist for over a decade and has been exploring topics around mental health, mind-body medicine, health, wellness, and psycho-spiritual development for the past 20 years.
As a trauma-informed health journalist, she is a regular contributor to Everyday Health, Medscape and Verywell Mind. Her byline has also appeared in Yahoo Life, Shape, Integrative Practitioner, Business Insider, and BBC Travel, among others.
Brittany is also a certified Reiki Master who has been practicing since 2010.
She received her bachelor's degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara and is a proud Californian. In her spare time, she loves practicing yoga, dancing, hiking, and traveling.