Vanilla Protein Shake

Common questions

Is Vanilla Protein Shake healthy?

Vanilla Protein Shake scores 85/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the stronger scores in Scout's catalog. This vanilla protein shake features ultrafiltered skim milk, which provides a good source of protein and calcium with reduced lactose content.

How processed is Vanilla Protein Shake?

Vanilla Protein Shake is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Vanilla Protein Shake's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Ultrafiltered Skim Milk, Monk Fruit Extract count in its favor; Natural Flavors is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Vanilla Protein Shake

Darigold
85 Excellent

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Northwest Dairy Association
Category Protein Powders
Summary

This vanilla protein shake features ultrafiltered skim milk, which provides a good source of protein and calcium with reduced lactose content. The use of natural sweeteners like allulose and monk fruit extract is a positive aspect, avoiding artificial sweeteners. However, the inclusion of natural flavors, which can be highly processed and lack transparency, slightly detracts from the overall formulation quality.

Key ingredients 9

Ultrafiltered Skim Milk
Good

Ultrafiltered skim milk is a good source of protein and calcium with reduced fat content. The ultrafiltration process concentrates the protein and removes some lactose, making it suitable for those with mild lactose intolerance. It provides essential nutrients without the added calories from fat.

Benefits

Rich in protein and calcium, supporting muscle maintenance and bone health.

Monk Fruit Extract
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Offers natural sweetness without impacting blood sugar levels.

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Allulose
Neutral

Allulose is a low-calorie sweetener that provides sweetness without the calories of sugar. It is not metabolized by the body, thus having minimal impact on blood sugar levels. However, it may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals when consumed in large amounts.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Provides sweetness with minimal calories and does not significantly impact blood sugar levels.

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Monk Fruit Juice Concentrate
Neutral

Monk fruit juice concentrate is a natural sweetener derived from monk fruit, offering sweetness without calories. It is generally considered safe and does not affect blood sugar levels. However, it may be mixed with other sweeteners or fillers in some products.

Benefits

Provides natural sweetness without calories, suitable for low-calorie diets.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. While necessary for bodily functions, excessive intake can lead to health issues such as hypertension. It is important to consume in moderation.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

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Gellan Gum
Neutral

Gellan gum is a gelling agent used to stabilize and thicken products. It is derived from bacterial fermentation and is generally recognized as safe. It can cause digestive issues in some individuals when consumed in large quantities.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort such as gas or bloating in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Helps maintain product consistency and texture without significant health impacts.

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Stevia Leaf Extract
Neutral

Stevia leaf extract is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It is widely used as a sugar substitute and does not affect blood sugar levels. It is considered safe for most people.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories, making it suitable for low-calorie diets.

See more about Stevia Leaf Extract →
Lactase Enzyme
Neutral

Lactase enzyme is added to help break down lactose, making the product more digestible for lactose-intolerant individuals. It is beneficial for those who have difficulty digesting lactose. It does not provide additional nutritional benefits beyond aiding digestion.

Benefits

Aids in the digestion of lactose, beneficial for lactose-intolerant individuals.

See more about Lactase Enzyme →
Natural Flavors
Bad

Natural flavors are a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources but can be highly processed. They may contain additives or preservatives that are not disclosed. The lack of transparency in their composition can be concerning for those with allergies or sensitivities.

Risks

Potential for undisclosed additives or allergens, which may cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

See more about Natural Flavors →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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