Essentialmeal Meal Replacement Protein Shake Coffee Flavor
Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This meal replacement shake features a blend of high-quality plant-based proteins such as pea, hemp, pumpkin seed, and quinoa, which are minimally processed and provide a complete amino acid profile. The inclusion of avocado oil adds healthy fats, while the use of natural flavors and cane sugar introduces some concerns due to their processing and potential health impacts. The product contains a moderate number of additives, including xanthan and guar gum, which are common in such formulations but still warrant a slight deduction.
Key ingredients 36
Pea Protein IsolateGood
Pea protein isolate is a plant-based protein source with a good amino acid profile. It is minimally processed and provides a sustainable protein option. It is hypoallergenic and suitable for those avoiding dairy or soy.
Benefits
Rich in essential amino acids and supports muscle growth and repair.
Hemp Seed ProteinGood
Hemp seed protein is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids. It is derived from whole hemp seeds and is minimally processed. It also provides omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a healthy ratio.
Benefits
Provides essential fatty acids and supports heart health.
Pumpkin Seed ProteinGood
Pumpkin seed protein is a plant-based protein rich in magnesium, zinc, and other nutrients. It is derived from whole pumpkin seeds and is minimally processed. It supports muscle health and provides additional micronutrients.
Benefits
Rich in magnesium and zinc, supporting muscle and immune health.
Quinoa ProteinGood
Quinoa protein is a complete protein source with all essential amino acids. It is derived from quinoa seeds and is minimally processed. It is gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Benefits
Provides a complete amino acid profile and is gluten-free.
Avocado OilGood
Avocado oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, supporting heart health. It is minimally processed and retains beneficial nutrients. It also has a high smoke point, making it stable for cooking.
Benefits
Supports heart health and provides anti-inflammatory properties.
CocoaGood
Cocoa is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, supporting heart health. It is minimally processed and provides a natural source of caffeine. It also enhances mood and cognitive function.
Benefits
Rich in antioxidants and supports heart health.
Ascorbic AcidGood
Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is an essential nutrient and antioxidant. It supports immune function and collagen synthesis. It is commonly added to foods to enhance nutritional value.
Benefits
Supports immune health and acts as an antioxidant.
UV-treated MushroomsGood
UV-treated mushrooms are a natural source of vitamin D. The UV treatment enhances their vitamin D content, supporting bone health. They provide a plant-based source of this essential nutrient.
Benefits
Rich in vitamin D, supporting bone health.
D-alpha-tocopherolGood
D-alpha-tocopherol is a form of vitamin E, an essential antioxidant. It protects cells from oxidative damage and supports skin health. It is often added to supplements to enhance antioxidant intake.
Benefits
Acts as an antioxidant and supports skin health.
NiacinamideGood
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, supports energy metabolism and skin health. It is water-soluble and easily absorbed by the body. It is often included in supplements for its wide range of health benefits.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and skin health.
Zinc OxideGood
Zinc oxide is a source of zinc, an essential mineral for immune function and wound healing. It is often used in supplements to prevent zinc deficiency. It also supports skin health and has antioxidant properties.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to zinc toxicity.
Benefits
Supports immune function and skin health.
Copper GluconateGood
Copper gluconate is a source of copper, an essential trace mineral. It supports iron metabolism and the formation of red blood cells. It is often included in supplements to ensure adequate copper intake.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to copper toxicity.
Benefits
Supports iron metabolism and red blood cell formation.
Manganese SulfateGood
Manganese sulfate is a source of manganese, an essential mineral for bone health and metabolism. It is often used in supplements to prevent manganese deficiency. It also supports enzyme function and antioxidant defense.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to manganese toxicity.
Benefits
Supports bone health and enzyme function.
Beta-caroteneGood
Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A and acts as an antioxidant. It supports vision health and immune function. It is often included in supplements for its antioxidant properties and vitamin A conversion.
Benefits
Supports vision health and acts as an antioxidant.
D-calcium PantothenateGood
D-calcium pantothenate is a form of vitamin B5, essential for energy metabolism. It supports the synthesis of coenzyme A and fatty acids. It is often included in supplements for its role in energy production.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and fatty acid synthesis.
Pyridoxine HydrochlorideGood
Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a form of vitamin B6, essential for protein metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. It supports brain health and immune function. It is often included in supplements for its wide range of health benefits.
Benefits
Supports brain health and protein metabolism.
Thiamin HydrochlorideGood
Thiamin hydrochloride is a form of vitamin B1, essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. It supports carbohydrate metabolism and is crucial for nervous system health. It is often included in supplements to prevent thiamin deficiency.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and nerve function.
RiboflavinGood
Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is essential for energy production and cellular function. It supports the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids. It is often included in supplements for its role in energy metabolism.
Benefits
Supports energy production and cellular function.
5-methyltetrahydrofolic AcidGood
5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid is an active form of folate, essential for DNA synthesis and repair. It supports cell division and is crucial during pregnancy for fetal development. It is often included in supplements for its bioavailability and effectiveness.
Benefits
Supports DNA synthesis and fetal development.
Chromium ChlorideGood
Chromium chloride is a source of chromium, an essential trace mineral for glucose metabolism. It supports insulin function and helps regulate blood sugar levels. It is often included in supplements for its role in metabolic health.
Benefits
Supports glucose metabolism and insulin function.
Potassium IodideGood
Potassium iodide is a source of iodine, essential for thyroid function. It supports the production of thyroid hormones and is crucial for metabolic regulation. It is often included in supplements to prevent iodine deficiency.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to thyroid dysfunction.
Benefits
Supports thyroid function and metabolic regulation.
BiotinGood
Biotin, or vitamin B7, is essential for carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. It supports hair, skin, and nail health. It is often included in supplements for its role in metabolic processes and beauty benefits.
Benefits
Supports metabolism and promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails.
Sodium SeleniteGood
Sodium selenite is a source of selenium, an essential trace mineral with antioxidant properties. It supports immune function and thyroid health. It is often included in supplements to prevent selenium deficiency.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to selenium toxicity.
Benefits
Supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant.
MethylcobalaminGood
Methylcobalamin is an active form of vitamin B12, essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation. It supports energy production and is crucial for neurological health. It is often included in supplements for its bioavailability and effectiveness.
Benefits
Supports nerve function and red blood cell formation.
Rice ProteinNeutral
Rice protein is a plant-based protein that is hypoallergenic and easily digestible. It is often combined with other proteins to improve amino acid profile. It is a good option for those with dietary restrictions.
Benefits
Easily digestible and hypoallergenic, suitable for sensitive individuals.
Potassium CitrateNeutral
Potassium citrate is used to regulate acidity and provide potassium, an essential mineral. It is generally recognized as safe when used in moderation. It helps maintain electrolyte balance in the body.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to hyperkalemia, especially in those with kidney issues.
Benefits
Helps maintain electrolyte balance and supports nerve function.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used as a flavor enhancer and preservative. It is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. However, excessive consumption can lead to hypertension.
Risks
High intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Essential for fluid balance and nerve function.
Magnesium OxideNeutral
Magnesium oxide is a source of magnesium, an essential mineral for muscle and nerve function. It is often used in supplements to prevent magnesium deficiency. However, it has lower bioavailability compared to other forms of magnesium.
Risks
Excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Benefits
Supports muscle and nerve function, preventing deficiency.
Sodium CitrateNeutral
Sodium citrate is used as an acidity regulator and emulsifier. It is generally recognized as safe and helps maintain pH balance in foods. It also acts as a preservative in some products.
Risks
Excessive intake may contribute to sodium-related health issues.
Benefits
Helps maintain pH balance and acts as a preservative.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan gum is a thickening agent used to improve texture and stability. It is derived from fermented sugars and is generally recognized as safe. It is commonly used in gluten-free products to mimic the texture of gluten.
Risks
May cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves texture and stability in food products.
Guar GumNeutral
Guar gum is a thickening agent derived from guar beans. It is used to improve texture and consistency in food products. It is generally recognized as safe and is often used in gluten-free formulations.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in large amounts.
Benefits
Improves texture and consistency in food products.
Steviol GlycosidesNeutral
Steviol glycosides are natural sweeteners derived from the stevia plant. They provide sweetness without calories and are considered safe for consumption. They are a popular alternative to artificial sweeteners.
Benefits
Provides sweetness without adding calories.
Potassium SaltNeutral
Potassium salt is used as a salt substitute to reduce sodium intake. It provides potassium, an essential mineral for heart and muscle function. It is beneficial for those needing to manage sodium levels.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to hyperkalemia, especially in those with kidney issues.
Benefits
Helps reduce sodium intake and provides essential potassium.
Calcium SaltNeutral
Calcium salt is used to provide calcium, an essential mineral for bone health. It is often used in supplements to prevent calcium deficiency. It supports bone density and muscle function.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia.
Benefits
Supports bone health and muscle function.
Cane SugarBad
Cane sugar is a simple carbohydrate that can contribute to increased blood sugar levels. It is a refined sugar with no significant nutritional benefits. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes.
Risks
High intake can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
Benefits
Provides quick energy but lacks nutritional value.
Natural FlavorsBad
Natural flavors are a catch-all term for flavoring agents that can include a variety of substances. They are often highly processed and lack transparency in their composition. This can be concerning for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Risks
Potential allergen risk due to undisclosed ingredients.
Benefits
Enhances taste but provides no nutritional benefits.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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