Top 5 Best Dairy Free Protein Shakes (According to Reviews)
Finding the perfect protein shake can be challenging, especially if you’re looking for dairy-free options. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or just trying to avoid dairy, there are plenty of fantastic shakes that deliver all the protein without the milk.
Based on reviews from fitness enthusiasts, vegans, and everyday people, here are the top 5 dairy free protein shakes that you’ll want to add to your routine.
What are Dairy Free Protein Shakes?
Dairy free protein shakes are nutritional beverages formulated to provide high-quality protein without any dairy ingredients. Instead of using traditional whey or casein (both derived from milk), these shakes often rely on plant-based proteins like pea, rice, soy, and hemp.
This makes them suitable for people who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or anyone looking to avoid dairy for health or ethical reasons. These protein shakes often come ready-to-drink or in powder form, which you can blend with water, almond milk, or another dairy-free option.
Why Choose Dairy Free Protein Shakes?
For many people, dairy is not an option due to lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy. Even those without intolerances may avoid dairy due to ethical or dietary choices.
Choosing a dairy free protein shake can help support muscle recovery and growth, maintain healthy body composition, and provide sustained energy—all without the discomfort that dairy products can cause in some people.
What are the Health Benefits of Protein Shakes?
Protein shakes, whether dairy-based or dairy-free, are an excellent way to supplement your daily protein intake, especially for those with an active lifestyle.
Here are a few key benefits of including them in your diet:
- Muscle Recovery: Protein is essential for repairing and rebuilding muscles after exercise. Dairy free protein shakes provide a convenient post-workout solution to aid in recovery.
- Weight Management: High-protein diets are often linked to improved metabolism and reduced appetite. A protein shake can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially supporting weight loss or maintenance.
- Nutrient-Dense: Many dairy free protein shakes are packed with added vitamins, minerals, and even greens like spinach or kale, helping to fill nutritional gaps.
- Convenience: For busy individuals, grabbing a dairy free protein shake is an easy and quick way to ensure you’re getting enough protein without having to prepare a full meal.
How to Choose the Best Dairy Free Protein Shakes?
Selecting the right dairy free protein shake can be overwhelming with so many options available. Here's what to consider:
- Protein Source: Look for plant-based proteins such as pea, brown rice, or hemp, which are easier to digest than soy for many people.
- Taste and Texture: Reviews often highlight the taste and texture of protein shakes. Pay attention to whether the shake has a creamy, smooth consistency or if it’s chalky or gritty.
- Added Nutrients: Some shakes are fortified with additional vitamins, minerals, or even probiotics. If you’re looking for an all-in-one option, choose one that provides more than just protein.
- Dietary Restrictions: Ensure the shake meets other dietary needs you might have—such as being gluten-free, soy-free, or sugar-free.
Top 5 Dairy Free Protein Shakes (According to Reviews)
1. Orgain Organic Protein Shake
Orgain consistently ranks as a favorite in the world of dairy free protein shakes, and it's easy to see why. This shake is plant-based, made from pea, brown rice, and chia seeds, offering 20g of protein per serving.
What makes Orgain stand out in the reviews is its smooth, creamy texture, which many compare to traditional dairy-based shakes. I’ve read countless reviews praising its flavor—especially the vanilla and chocolate varieties.
Most people love that it doesn’t have that gritty texture common in some plant-based shakes. Plus, it’s soy-free, gluten-free, and certified organic.
Pros:
- Great flavor variety
- No gritty aftertaste
- Certified organic
Cons:
- Some people find it a bit sweet
2. Ripple Vegan Protein Shake
Ripple is a game-changer for those seeking high protein in a dairy free protein shake. With 20g of protein per serving, it's made from pea protein, which many reviewers say is much easier on the stomach than soy-based options.
I came across many reviews where people raved about the thickness and richness of the shake—it’s more substantial than many others on the market. The chocolate flavor seems to be the fan favorite, often described as "decadent" and "indulgent," which is rare for a protein shake!
The only downside, based on reviews, is the slight aftertaste that a few people noticed, though it's not a dealbreaker for most.
Pros:
- Thick and filling
- High protein content
- Great chocolate flavor
Cons:
- Slight aftertaste for some people
3. OWYN Plant-Based Protein Shake
OWYN (short for "Only What You Need") has made a name for itself in the dairy free protein shake world thanks to its clean ingredients and allergen-friendly formulation.
Each shake provides 20g of protein sourced from peas, pumpkin seeds, and flax, making it rich in omega-3s too.
A lot of reviewers appreciate that OWYN doesn't just focus on protein—it also packs in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it more than just a post-workout drink. People who’ve tried it often comment on how light it feels despite being filling.
The variety of flavors, including dark chocolate and cold brew coffee, also get rave reviews.
Pros:
- Packed with additional nutrients
- Allergen-friendly (free from top 8 allergens)
- Light but filling
Cons:
- Some people prefer a stronger flavor
4. ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Shake
ALOHA's dairy free protein shake is one of the best-reviewed shakes for its organic ingredients and rich, smooth taste. It’s made from pea and brown rice proteins and offers 18g of protein per serving.
What really caught my attention while going through reviews is how much people love the flavor. Both the vanilla and chocolate options are described as “clean” and “natural,” without that synthetic aftertaste that some shakes have.
It’s also free from artificial sweeteners, and many people noted they feel great after drinking it—no bloating or heaviness. ALOHA’s environmental focus also appeals to a lot of users who appreciate sustainable packaging.
Pros:
- Organic and clean ingredients
- No bloating or heaviness
- Environmentally friendly packaging
Cons:
- Slightly lower in protein compared to other options
5. Vega Protein Nutrition Shake
Vega has long been a trusted name in the plant-based protein world, and their dairy free protein shakes are no exception. Packed with 20g of plant-based protein (from peas and hemp), it also includes veggies like kale and spinach, making it more nutrient-dense than your average shake.
Reviewers love that it’s not just a protein hit—it’s a full-on nutrition shake. I’ve seen plenty of reviews that highlight its smooth, balanced flavor without the chalky texture that often comes with plant proteins. The berry flavor, in particular, seems to have a devoted fan base.
However, a few reviewers noted that it can be a bit thick for some people's taste.
Pros:
- Nutrient-packed with added veggies
- Smooth and balanced flavor
- No chalky texture
Cons:
- Can be a bit thick for some people
If you're on the hunt for the best dairy free protein shakes, the five options above have been tried and tested by countless users, and they all come highly recommended.
From Orgain’s creamy consistency to OWYN’s nutrient-packed shake, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re avoiding dairy for health reasons or personal preference.
Based on reviews, these shakes deliver on taste, texture, and nutritional value, making them worthy additions to your routine.