Best Lactose-Free Protein Drinks of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026

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Lactose-free protein drinks have become increasingly popular among fitness enthusiasts and individuals with lactose intolerance. These drinks are formulated with protein from sources such as pea, soy, or rice, making them an excellent alternative for those who cannot consume dairy-based protein drinks. They come in various flavors and are often enriched with vitamins and minerals to provide a complete nutrition profile. Lactose-free protein drinks are convenient for on-the-go consumption and can be an excellent post-workout beverage to support muscle recovery and growth.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Core Power Elite High Protein Shake Cover #TOP 1
Core Power Elite High Protein Shake
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Nurri 30g Protein Vanilla Milk Shake Cover #TOP 2
Nurri 30g Protein Vanilla Milk Shake
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Orgain Simple Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Vanilla Cover #TOP 3
Orgain Simple Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Vanilla
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lactose-Free Protein Drinks

Core Power Elite High Protein Shake

Chocolate
Core Power Elite High Protein Shake Cover
Core Power Elite High Protein Shake, Chocolate, 42g Bottle, 14oz, 12 Pack

Core Power Elite High Protein Shakes (42g), Chocolate, Ready to Drink for Workout Recovery, 14 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) is a great choice for those looking for a high protein meal replacement shake. It contains Fairlife Core Power Elite 42g high protein milk shakes with all nine essential amino acids, calcium, vitamin D, and electrolytes. It has a great flavor, is easy to drink, and is lactose free. The only downside is that it is a bit pricy.

What We Like
High protein content
Great chocolate taste
Low sugar and calories
Easy on stomach
Convenient and portable
What We Don't Like
Higher price than competitors
Limited vitamins and minerals

Nurri 30g Protein Vanilla Milk Shake

nurri
Blue
Nurri 30g Protein Vanilla Milk Shake Cover
Nurri - 30g Protein Ultra Filtered Milk Shake – Vanilla - Lactose Free, Low Sugar, 150 Calories, 10 Vitamins and Minerals - 11 fl oz, 10 Cans

The Nurri Protein Vanilla Shake is a convenient way to get 30 grams of high-quality protein with just 150 calories and only 1 gram of sugar. This shake uses ultra-filtered milk, which means it has more protein and nutrients like calcium, while being lactose-free and easier on your digestion. Made with real, lactose-free milk, it also provides 10 essential vitamins and minerals, helping you stay healthy and energized. Whether you need a quick breakfast boost, want to meet your daily protein goals, or need recovery after a workout, this ready-to-drink shake fits easily into your routine.

What We Like
High protein content
Great taste and flavor variety
Light, not overly sweet
Convenient ready-to-drink
Low sugar, low calorie
What We Don't Like
Limited availability in some areas
Some artificial flavor notes

Orgain Simple Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Vanilla

0851770007481
Vanilla
Orgain Simple Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Vanilla Cover
Orgain Organic Simple Vegan Protein Powder, Vanilla - 20g Plant Based Protein, Made with less Ingredients, No Artificial Sweeteners, Gluten Free, No Dairy or Lactose, 1.25 lb (Packaging May Vary)

Orgain Simple Organic Vegan Protein Powder is a plant-based protein powder that includes 20 grams of protein from high-quality ingredients such as almonds, peanuts, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and golden peas. It is USDA organic, certified vegan, dairy, gluten, soy & lactose-free, non-GMO, and kosher. You can mix it with water, milk, or your favorite shake recipe for a quick breakfast or snack drink. It is great for meal replacement, as smoothie boosters, and building lean muscle.

What We Like
No artificial sweeteners
Easy to dissolve
Natural ingredients
Multiple protein sources
Low sugar content
What We Don't Like
Coconut sugar may cause headaches
Slight nut taste present

Kozy Home Nutrition Protein Shakes - Chocolate Flavor

Kozy Home Nutrition Protein Shakes - Chocolate Flavor Cover
Fairlife Nutrition Protein Shakes - Pack of 12 | 30g Protein, Low Sugar, Lactose-Free | Delicious chocolate Flavors 11.5 fl., oz. (In KozyHome Packaging) (Chocolate)

Kozy Protein Shakes by Kozy Home are packed with 30g of protein to fuel your body. Low in sugar, lactose-free, they cater to various dietary needs. Indulge in enticing vanilla, chocolate, caramel, and strawberry flavors. With only 150 calories per bottle, they are perfect for calorie-conscious individuals. Ideal for muscle building, these shakes offer a delicious taste and creamy texture.

What We Like
Excellent chocolate flavor
High protein content
Smooth texture
Low sugar
Lactose free
What We Don't Like
Bottle difficult to open
Somewhat pricey

Spylt High Protein Milk Variety Pack

Spylt
Variety Pack 6
Spylt High Protein Milk Variety Pack Cover
Spylt High Protein Milk - 6 Flavor Variety Pack with 60mg Caffeine & 20g Protein - 90 Calories, Ready to Drink, Sugar Free, Lactose Free Milk, Perfect for Workout Recovery & Afternoon Pick Me Up - 12 Count

The Spylt Protein Milk offers a great way to boost your energy and nutrition throughout the day. With 60mg of caffeine in most flavors, it gives you a gentle lift to help you stay alert, especially during afternoon slumps. Each bottle packs 20 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for recovering after workouts or building muscle. Plus, it’s low in calories and keto-friendly, so it fits well with many diet plans. The drink is smooth, creamy, and completely free of sugar and lactose, so it’s easy on your stomach and tastes delicious. Ready to drink straight from the bottle, it’s a convenient and tasty option to keep you going.

What We Like
High protein, low calorie
Delicious flavor variety
No chalky aftertaste
Smooth and convenient
Sugar-free, lactose-free
What We Don't Like
Slightly higher price
Minor shipping box issues

Orgain Vegan Nutritional Shake

851770003223
Vanilla
Orgain Vegan Nutritional Shake Cover
Orgain Organic Nutritional Vegan Protein Shake, Vanilla Bean - 16g Plant Based Protein, Meal Replacement, 21 Vitamins & Minerals, Fruits & Vegetables, Gluten Free, Non-GMO, 11 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

Get all-in-one nutrition with Orgain's organic vegan nutritional shake. Each ready-to-drink shake provides 16g of plant-based protein, 2g of fiber, and 22 essential vitamins and minerals. With 10 fruits and vegetables and only 220 calories per serving, this shake is an ideal meal replacement, quick breakfast or snack drink, and pre or post-workout fuel. Whether you're on-the-go or looking to supplement your daily nutrition, Orgain's shake is a convenient and delicious way to get the nutrients you need. Plus, it's USDA organic, gluten-free, non-GMO, and diabetic friendly.

What We Like
Plant-based protein source
Convenient ready-to-drink
Organic and clean ingredients
Supports dietary restrictions
Satisfying and filling
What We Don't Like
Some flavors less tasty
Higher price point
#TOP 7

Slate Milk Ultra Protein Shake Chocolate

Slate Milk Ultra Protein Shake Chocolate Cover
Slate Milk - Ultra Protein Shake - Chocolate - 42g Protein, 2g Sugar, 190 Calories, 4g Net Carbs - Lactose Free, No Added Sugar - Made with Ultra Filtered Milk - Breakfast Boost, Post Workout - 15 fl oz, 12 Cans

The Slate Ultra Protein Shake offers a powerful 42 grams of protein while keeping calories low at just 190, making it a great choice for anyone needing a nutritious boost without extra calories. It's designed to taste like a rich chocolate treat, so you can enjoy your protein without a heavy or chalky feel. This shake is made from ultrafiltered real milk, which means it naturally removes lactose and provides a smooth, clean flavor that’s easier on your stomach. Plus, it’s keto-friendly and free from added sugars and artificial ingredients, helping you stay on track with your health goals while getting essential vitamins and minerals.

What We Like
High protein content
Great taste and flavor variety
Convenient grab-and-go
Smooth, non-chalky texture
Low carbs and calories
What We Don't Like
Somewhat pricey
Slightly artificial aftertaste

Slate Milk - High Protein Shake, Energy Variety Pack

Slate Milk - High Protein Shake, Energy Variety Pack Cover
Slate Milk - High Protein Iced Coffee - Energy Variety Pack - Caramel Latte, Mocha Latte, Vanilla Latte - 175mg Caffeine, Lactose Free - 20g Protein, 1g Sugar - Protein Coffee - 11 fl oz, 12 Cans

Slate Milk's Energy Variety Pack is perfect for those who want to indulge in the double espresso flavor with 175mg of caffeine while getting 20g of muscle-building protein without the added sugar. It's also lactose-free and shelf-stable, so you don't need to refrigerate it. This product is environmentally friendly as it uses aluminum cans that can be recycled.

What We Like
Excellent taste and flavors
High protein content
Convenient meal replacement
Not overly sweet
Good energy boost
What We Don't Like
Packaging could be improved
Price slightly high

Ripple Vegan Protein Shake

Ripple Vegan Protein Shake Cover
Ripple Vegan Protein Shake | Chocolate | 20g Nutritious Plant Based Pea Protein | Shelf Stable | No GMOs, Soy, Nut, Gluten, Lactose | 12 Oz, 12 Pack

Ripple Protein Shake is a delicious and nutritious plant-based protein shake that provides 20 grams of pea protein. It is a better alternative to other plant-based proteins as it has higher nutritional value, tastes better, and is more sustainable. With 30% of your daily recommended value of iron and being an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus, iron, and potassium, it offers a convenient way to meet your nutritional needs. The ready-to-drink bottles make it perfect for on-the-go nutrition, whether it's for breakfast, post-workout, or a light meal replacement. Plus, it is low calorie and low sugar, making it a healthy choice. The shelf-stable feature allows you to enjoy it at your own pace, making it a super convenient option. As a Public Benefit Corporation and a Certified B Corp company, Ripple is committed to sustainability and high standards across all areas of their business.

What We Like
Smooth, creamy texture
Rich chocolate flavor
20g plant-based protein
Free from common allergens
No chalky aftertaste
What We Don't Like
Some added sugar
Contains sunflower oil

Orgain Vegan Protein Shakes

Orgain Vegan Protein Shakes Cover
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Shake, Creamy Chocolate - 20g Plant Based Protein, Ready to Drink, Fruits & Vegetables, Gluten Free, Kosher, No Soy or Dairy Ingredients, 11 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

Orgain Vegan Protein Shakes are a great way to get your daily dose of protein and vitamins. Each 11-ounce bottle contains 20 grams of plant-based protein, 1 gram of dietary fiber, 1 gram of sugar, 10 organic fruits and vegetables, and 150 calories per serving. It is gluten-free, vegetarian, non-GMO, soy-free, and dairy-free with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Customers love the creamy chocolate flavor and appreciate the convenience of the ready-to-drink bottles.

What We Like
High protein content
Dairy-free and vegan
Good taste and texture
No artificial sweeteners
Convenient for on-the-go
What We Don't Like
Occasional packaging leaks
Rare batch flavor issues
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Selecting the Best Lactose-Free Protein Drinks

Introduction

Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair tissues in the body. It is also an important component of muscles, organs, and hormones. Protein drinks are a convenient way to get protein, especially for individuals who are looking to increase their protein intake or who have difficulty getting enough protein from their diet. However, some people may have lactose intolerance, which means they cannot digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk-based products. For these individuals, lactose-free protein drinks are a great option. In this article, we will discuss how to choose lactose-free protein drinks and some of the best options available on the market.

Understanding Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It occurs when the body does not produce enough lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose, the sugar found in milk and milk-based products. As a result, lactose is not properly digested and can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Lactose intolerance is different from a milk allergy, which is an immune system reaction to proteins found in milk. A milk allergy can cause severe symptoms such as swelling of the lips, face, and throat, difficulty breathing, and vomiting. It is important to distinguish between lactose intolerance and a milk allergy because the two conditions require different approaches to treatment and dietary management.

Choosing Lactose-Free Protein Drinks

When choosing lactose-free protein drinks, there are several factors to consider. First, it is important to look for protein drinks that are specifically labeled as lactose-free. This will ensure that the product does not contain lactose or any milk-based ingredients.

Another factor to consider is the type of protein used in the drink. Some common types of protein used in protein drinks include whey, casein, soy, pea, and hemp. Each type of protein has its own unique characteristics and benefits. For example, whey protein is a fast-digesting protein that is rich in essential amino acids and is commonly used for muscle building and recovery. Casein protein, on the other hand, is a slow-digesting protein that can help promote muscle growth and repair overnight. Soy protein is a plant-based protein that is a good source of essential amino acids and is suitable for individuals who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. Pea protein is another plant-based protein that is easy to digest and has a neutral flavor, making it a popular choice for protein drinks. Hemp protein is a high-fiber protein that is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is suitable for individuals who follow a gluten-free or paleo diet.

In addition to the type of protein, it is also important to consider the other ingredients in the protein drink. Some protein drinks may contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners, flavorings, and preservatives, which can affect the taste and nutritional value of the product. It is best to choose protein drinks that have minimal ingredients and are free from artificial additives.

Best Lactose-Free Protein Drinks

Here are some of the best lactose-free protein drinks available on the market:

  1. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein: This protein drink is made with whey protein and is specifically formulated to be lactose-free. It is also free from artificial sweeteners and flavorings and has a delicious taste.

  2. Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein Powder: This protein drink is made with hydrolyzed whey protein, which is broken down into smaller peptides for faster absorption 3. NAKED Nutrition Pea Protein Powder: This protein drink is made with pea protein and is free from lactose, dairy, gluten, soy, and GMOs. It has a neutral flavor and can be easily added to smoothies, oatmeal, and other dishes.

  3. Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder: This protein drink is made with a blend of pea, brown rice, and chia seed proteins and is free from lactose, dairy, soy, and gluten. It is also certified organic and contains no added sugars or artificial ingredients.

  4. Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah! Max Fiber Protein Powder: This protein drink is made with hemp protein and is free from lactose, dairy, soy, and gluten. It is also high in fiber and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

In conclusion, lactose-free protein drinks are a great option for individuals who are lactose intolerant or who want to avoid milk-based products. When choosing lactose-free protein drinks, it is important to look for products that are specifically labeled as lactose-free and to consider the type of protein and other ingredients used in the drink. Some of the best lactose-free protein drinks available on the market include Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein, Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein Powder, NAKED Nutrition Pea Protein Powder, Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder, and Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah! Max Fiber Protein Powder.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you get lactose free protein shakes?

Yes, there are lactose-free protein shakes available in the market. For example, Core Power® Elite Chocolate is a lactose-free milkshake that provides 42 grams of protein per bottle. These lactose-free protein shakes are a great option for individuals who are lactose intolerant but still want to incorporate protein into their diet.

2. Is Boost or Ensure lactose free?

Most products from Boost and Ensure are suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. However, it is important to note that they are not safe for those with galactosemia, a genetic disorder. If you have lactose intolerance, you can consider lactose-free protein shakes as an alternative.

3. How do you get protein if you are lactose intolerant?

If you are lactose intolerant, there are several alternative sources of protein you can include in your diet. These include seeds, nuts, fish, poultry, eggs, quinoa, beans, and soy. These foods provide a good amount of protein and can be incorporated into various meals and snacks to meet your protein needs.

4. Can I drink Fairlife protein if I'm lactose intolerant?

Yes, you can drink Fairlife protein if you're lactose intolerant. Fairlife uses a filtration process to remove most of the lactose naturally found in milk. They also add a lactase enzyme to convert any remaining lactose, ensuring that their products are lactose-free. This makes Fairlife protein shakes a suitable option for individuals with lactose intolerance.

5. Are Fairlife protein shakes good for lactose intolerance?

Yes, Fairlife protein shakes are a good option for individuals with lactose intolerance. They are made with ultra-filtered milk, which gives them a smooth and creamy texture. Unlike some other protein shakes, Fairlife shakes are lactose-free, making them suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

Editor's Notes

During our lactose-free protein drink research, we found 24 lactose-free protein drink products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 307,348 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lactose-free protein drinks list. We found that most customers choose lactose-free protein drinks with an average price of $32.04.

The lactose-free protein drinks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lactose-free protein drinks, including Core Power, nurri, Orgain, Fairlife, Spylt. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Lactose-Free Protein Drinks Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Core Power nurri Orgain Fairlife Spylt Orgain Slate Slate Ripple Orgain
Flavor Chocolate Vanilla Vanilla Chocolate 6 Flavor Variety Pack Vanilla Chocolate Energy Variety Pack Chocolate Chocolate
Units 168 Fluid Ounces 110 Fluid Ounces - 138 Fluid Ounces 132.00 Fluid Ounces - 180.0 Fluid Ounces 132.00 Fluid Ounces 144 Fluid Ounces -
Protein Source Whey Casein, Whey - - - Pea - Whey Pea -
Allergen Information Allergen-Free Lactose Free - - Milk - - Lactose Free Gluten Free, Lactose Free, Nut Free, Soy Free -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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