6 Best Dairy Free Meal Replacement Shakes
[Updated 2023]
6
Meal Shakes Reviewed
63
Hours of Research
84
Reviews Examined
3
Experts Interviewed
Published by David Williams
As an engineer, David loves technical product comparison and analyzing the data to assess top products.
If you have certain diet preferences or medical conditions, you might be looking for the best dairy-free meal replacement shakes. Lactose intolerance is one of the most common problems among Americans and globally. Most individuals with this condition face challenges eating a complete meal, and it can be difficult to maintain a balanced diet schedule. As a result, you might miss essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, possibly affecting your health and overall fitness goals.
Fortunately, you don’t have to go through this process, as you can leverage top dairy-free meal replacement shakes. Currently, the market is filled with lactose-free, nutritious products with the proper nutrients to fill up the gap. Dairy-free meal replacement shakes are a solid option in this case.
But which are the best dairy free meal replacement shakes currently on the market? And how do you choose the best dairy-free meal replacement for you? This guide will break them down for you and answer your questions.
But first, let’s understand how these revolutionary remedies work.
Table of Contents
What to Look For When Buying Dairy Free Meal Replacement Shakes
Always have the following questions as you skim through the different options of dairy-free meal replacement shakes.
Total Calories
Whether you aim to gain or lose weight, you want to ensure you consume the right calories. The best dairy-free meal replacement shakes should provide sufficient calories to help you stay energized all day. About 300-600 is enough; ensure you’re within the recommended 2,000 calories.
Protein Content
Another primary consideration is the meal replacement’s protein content. Ideally, choose meal replacement shakes with sufficient proteins for your muscle goals. About 15-35 grams of proteins per serving is enough. Such quantities are mostly available in products that contain pea protein, whey protein, and other natural sources.
Net Carb Content
Carbs intake is a major concern for most dairy-free meal replacement shakes users. Although they may lack the potential milk allergens, these meal replacement shakes may contain unhealthy carbs, so you must be aware. At the same time, be sure to distinguish between the actual carbs and fiber.
How Much Fat It Contains
Since you want to keep your carbs intake as low as possible, your only energy source will be fat. So make sure your product contains just the right amount to keep your body on ketosis.
Other Nutrients the Product Contain
A meal replacement shake must contain all the essential nutrients that make up a balanced meal. So apart from proteins, also make sure the product you choose has everything you need to aid muscle recovery, optimal health, and fitness performance. Examples include:
- Magnesium
- Hydroxymethyl butyrate
- Creatine
- Fish oil
- Chromium
- Essential vitamins
- Beta-hydroxybutyric acid
- Carnitine amino acid
- Sodium
- Potassium
Taste
Finally, you want a dairy-free meal replacement shake that tastes right. Whether it contains healthy whey protein or is sourced from pea protein isolate, a poor taste choice can demotivate you from regular consumption; hence, you can easily return to unhealthy food choices. Therefore, find one that tastes awesome or comes in multiple enticing flavors.
6 Best Dairy-Free Meal Replacement Shakes
- Rootana Meal Replacement Shake
- Instant Knockout Complete Meal Replacement Shake
- Lyfefuel Daily Essentials
- Orgain Organic Meal Replacement Shake
- Vegan Complete 360 Meal
- Soylent Original Plant Protein Meal Replacement Shake
Rootana
Ingredient Quality
Taste
Price
Overall Score
Instant Knockout
Ingredient Quality
Taste
Price
Overall Score
Lyfefuel
Ingredient Quality
Taste
Price
Overall Score
1.Rootana Meal Replacement Shake
Brand Overview
Rootana is slowly becoming a big name among meal replacement shakes and, more so, dairy-free replacement shakes. The Rootana Meal Replacement Shake is affordable for many looking for this option while offering various nutrients, including plant-based vitamins, minerals, and fibers.
Robert, Rootana’s founder, established the dairy-free meal replacement to help others going through the same challenge as him: being too preoccupied to sit down for a nutritious meal. Rootana is a product of extensive research, and the manufacturer aims to serve a perfectly balanced, dairy-free, high-protein meal for vegans.
Highlighted Features
- Protein: 21 grams
- Calories: 421
- Fat: 16 grams
- Carbs: 44 grams
- Flavors: Cacao and Original
Features
Rootana Meal Shake is better than its other alternatives regarding its high-calorie content. Thus, it’s perfect for lactose sensitivity. You’ll fancy the meal replacement’s 44 grams of oat carbohydrates, maintaining a good calorie surplus at low blood sugar levels.
Rootana meal replacement provides essential calories and raw fatty acids like Omega-3, 6, and 9. So if you’re aiming to grow muscle, you’re covered.
The meal replacement delivers a complete amino acid profile—up to 20 grams of protein extracted from flaxseeds and containing pea protein isolate. Rootana includes 7-9 grams of dietary fiber that optimizes your digestive system for optimal nutrient absorption to enhance digestion further and expedite weight gain.
Pros
- It leaves you feeling full
- Extensively researched recipe
- Dairy-free, vegan, and sustainable
- A nutritionally complete, high-protein shake
- Aids weight loss
- No stevia or sucralose, so it tastes like food
Cons
- Relatively higher sugar content
- Just two flavors
Price
All the above attributes make Rootana an excellent option, especially considering you’ll pay only ~$2.65 for every 400kcal of the product.
User Experience
Rootana is relatively new, but customers already have much to say about it. Generally, the dairy-free meal shake boasts many positive reviews, and most users appreciate its unforgettable taste and sustainability.
One user commented on Trustpilot, “I have found Rootana to be the best tasting brand with the healthiest ingredients and mixes thoroughly with just a shaker.”
However, some users complain about its sugar content and lack of multiple flavors.
2. Instant Knockout Complete Meal Replacement Shake
Brand Overview
Introducing Instant Knockout Complete, the ultimate dairy-free meal replacement shake that stands out. It’s not just your average shake; it doubles as a high-quality fat burner to help you lose weight. Packed with all the essential nutrients, it’s perfect for lactose-intolerant people seeking a wholesome shake experience.
Instant Knockout came from humble beginnings to join reputable names in fitness. This manufacturer specializes in fitness products that optimize metabolism, suppress cravings, and optimize energy levels. The company’s meal replacement shakes are among its most popular products.
Highlighted Features
- Protein: 35 grams
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 13 grams
- Carbs: 35 grams
- Available flavors: Vanilla
Features
The standout feature of Instant Knockout Complete is its exceptional nutritional value. It offers a generous amount of high-quality protein and a good dose of fiber to keep you satisfied and full. This combination helps curb hunger and supports muscle growth, making it a valuable find for individuals with lactose intolerance who struggle to find suitable protein powders for muscle development.
But what sets it apart is the addition of golden flax seeds, chia seeds, organic brown rice protein, and more. These ingredients provide essential vitamins, a complete amino acid profile, and healthy fats, contributing to overall well-being and muscle growth. The nutritional balance in Instant Knockout Complete is truly remarkable, offering an abundance of everything you need.
One serving of Instant Knockout Complete is all you need to give your daily goals a significant boost. Made with wholesome ingredients and tailored for weight loss, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to avoid dairy, shed pounds, and maintain a healthy body while building muscles.
Pros
- Slowly releases carbs to keep you full for several hours
- Lots of soy protein, pea, and brown rice protein
- Ideal for regular exercise and helps you lose weight
- It contains 26 essential minerals and vitamins
- Low-calorie rating
- Gluten-free
Cons
- It comes in vanilla flavor only
Price
An Instant Knockout Complete dairy-free meal shake pouch costs $59.00, equal to $4.21 per serving. That is sufficient for two weeks. In addition, the manufacturer promises free shipping for the monthly supply costing $94.40.
Customer Experience
The product’s reviews will tell you that Instant Knockout is a favorite for professional athletes. Most users praise the product’s weight-loss capabilities.
One review state, “A good product and even better customer service.”
However, it’s only in one flavor, which some users may not fancy. Also, some reviews on Trustpilot do not flatter the brand. Overall, it’s a healthy meal replacement with great nutritional value.
3. LyfeFuel Daily Essentials
Brand Overview
Consider Lyfefuel your all-in-one super fuel and the ultimate metabolic health and daily wellness solution. This nutritionally complete, plant-based meal replacement is simple and takes only a minute to prepare.
LyfeFuel is among the most reputable meal replacement brands. Besides the manufacturer’s belief in supplying optimal nutritional benefits, the company also emphasizes sustainable sourced inputs and packaging. In addition, LyfeFuel manufactures its product inside an eco-certified facility.
Highlighted Features
- Protein: 18 grams
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 6 grams
- Carbs: 6 grams
- Flavors: Vanilla and Chocolate
Features
LyfeFuel Daily Essentials combines cutting-edge science with ancient plant wisdom for a stronger body and sharper mind. The product’s valuable ingredients will energize mornings, hinder cravings, and optimize metabolism.
The manufacturer sources sustainably and gently dry natural whole foods to create this complete solution, preserving vital nutrients. This meticulous process creates a complete nutrition shake that is easy to absorb and digest.
By matching the components of a fully balanced diet, the brand promotes peak health performance and minimizes environmental impact. Thus, you have all reasons to experience the power of the “superfuel.”
Pros
- An impressive micronutrient profile
- Ideal meal replacement for ketosis
- Aids weight loss
- Low sugar content and gluten-free
- Limits cravings
- The manufacturer offers a money-back satisfaction guarantee
Cons
- Fewer fats, carbs, and calories make it less filling
Price
With its host of valuable features, there’s no doubt LyfeFuel Daily Essential meal replacement can make a great option, especially when a 24-meal supply costs just $70 or $2.91 per serving. Moreover, the manufacturer backs the meal replacement shake with a money-back guarantee, so you’re sure you’re not taking chances.
User Experience
LyfeFuel boasts many positive reviews from past and current users thanks to its high-quality, organic ingredients. The most outstanding aspect of these reviews is that the brand contains a healthy science-based formulation. As a result, it delivers more nutrients than most other brands in the same category.
One user commented, “Easy to mix, did not separate from liquid in my lunch bag and tasted better than many other shakes I’ve had.”
Users also appreciate the manufacturer’s 100% money-back guarantee. That means you can try it out risk-free to decide if it’s the proper remedy for you.
4. Orgain Organic Meal Replacement Shake
Brand Overview
Another great meal replacement with desirable results, the Orgain Organic meal replacement shake has all it takes to rank among the best dairy-free meal replacement shakes. This 100% organic formula is non-GMO and free from artificial additives, ensuring a clean and healthy meal replacement experience.
Orgain is a popular brand in the fitness scene. The company’s founder, Dr. Abraham, creates his products based on his belief that we all deserve quality, clean and balanced nutrition. This culture has made the brand a popular source of meal replacement solutions, with the ready-to-drink shake as the most popular.
Highlighted Features
- Protein: 20 grams
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 5 grams
- Carbs: 25 grams (2 grams Sugar, 2grams Dietary Fiber)
- Flavors: Chocolate Creamy Fudge and Vanilla Bean
Features
This shake contains 20 grams of plant-based protein sourced from peas, chia seeds, and brown rice, supporting muscle building and helping you lose weight with minimal cravings. (1)
Orgain dairy-free protein powder is natural and provides a range of vitamins and minerals, from vitamins C and B to immune-boosting iron.
Each serving contains only 5 grams of fat and 25 grams of carbohydrates. Thus, the product delivers a well-rounded nutritional profile of a balanced diet. In addition, it comes in two delicious flavors; creamy chocolate fudge and vanilla bean.
Pros
- High protein and low calories
- Non-GMO, soy, and gluten-free
- One of the most affordable options
- Boosts users' immune systems as well
Cons
- Lacks fiber
- Only two flavors are available
Price
A 10lb canister of Orgain costs $41.99. But if you subscribe to the brand, you stand to enjoy a generous 35% discount, reducing the price to $27.29.
User Experience
Orgain enjoys great word of mouth, as evident in its numerous positive reviews. Most users praise the product’s high protein content with minimal calories. In addition, the product’s affordability is a major attraction.
An Amazon review highlighted, “ It is very smooth, not chalky or gritty at all.”
There are several negative reviews, but the main complaints are its lack of fiber and limited flavor choices.
5. Vegan Complete 360 Meal
Brand Overview
Protein Works has a longstanding reputation as an original and innovative sports nutrition brand. The founders created the company from their sports nutrition passion and vision to take product quality and customer service to the next level.
In addition, the manufacturer embodies how the founders believe sports diets should be. Thus, the company has invested in following the right processes and prioritizes customer feedback. This commitment is evident in their meal replacement offering, the Vegan Complete 360 meal replacement shake.
Highlighted Features
- Protein: 25
- Calories: 112
- Fat: 0.4 g (saturates 0.1g)
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Features
The specialist nutritionists at Protein Works made the Vegan Complete meal replacement shake for users who need a delicious dairy-free alternative. This best-selling shake offers a zero cruelty and earth-friendly option and prioritizes only the pure and finest ingredients.
This meal replacement shake lets you experience the perfect balance of protein, fats, carbs, and fiber, similar to your typical completely balanced meal. The product comprises 25 essential micronutrients, including probiotics, supporting your body’s flourishing health. (2)
Moreover, this entirely plant-based formula uses the finest vegan ingredients and has zero palm oil traces. This move is a key contribution to the company’s commitment to environmental preservation. You also enjoy the convenience of an on-the-go meal as it takes just 30 seconds to be ready, and you can savor it from anywhere. Finally, you must pay attention to the product’s outstanding taste.
Pros
- A healthy combination of rich protein sources
- It comprises lots of additional nutrients
- Numerous flavors
Cons
- You must ship it from the UK
Price
Vegan Complete 360 costs between $45.31 for the 500g package to $250.06 for the long-term 4kg option. Unlike most of its peers, the meal replacement shake doesn’t offer a subscription.
User Experience
Judging from the customer reviews on the product’s website, you can tell that Vegan Complete 360 is an ideal pick. Most users praise its healthy combination of healthy proteins and rich nutrient content. In addition, some reviewers agree that the product made them feel full for long.
On the other hand, the greatest complaint is that users must ship it from the UK, so it might take slightly longer to reach you. In addition, some feel like the product has a claggy consistency.
6. Soylent Original Plant Protein Meal Replacement Shake
Coming from Hertfordshire, UK, Soylent is a reputable brand focusing on vast meal replacement products, including bars and drinks. The company invests in comprehensive research to ensure clients access a balanced meal even during the busiest moments.
Each product under this globally renowned brand name promises a nutritionally whole meal replacement option that users can consume fast and conveniently. In addition, you don’t have to worry about dairy allergens as the products are nut-free, gluten-free, and vegan.
Highlighted Features
- One serving per bottle
- 400 calories per serving
- 20g of protein
- 28 immune-supporting vitamins and minerals
- Gluten-free and dairy-free
- Certified Kosher
Features
Soylent Original Plant Protein Meal Replacement is arguably the best among the options that come with pre-made bottles. The convenient dairy-free meal replacement makes the best option if you want something to consume on the go.
Most users consider the Soylent Original a game-changer in vegan or dairy-free meal replacement options. Interestingly, this liquid marvel requires no mixing—you just have to grab the bottle and enjoy! In addition, the product is packed with 20g of plant-based protein from soy protein isolate. Therefore, it supplies a complete amino acid profile for optimal nutrition.
You’ll also like that Soylent contains 28 immune-supporting vitamins and minerals and a dose of healthy fats. In addition, the product offers a tempting array of flavors, including the rich Creamy Chocolate, Banana, Vanilla, Mint Chocolate, Strawberry, and more.
So say goodbye to bland meal replacement shakes or unhealthy quick meals and welcome the convenience and deliciousness in every sip.
Pros
- It comes in pre-made bottles
- Available in several flavors
- Different purchasing options
- A rich supply of valuable nutrients
Cons
- The manufacturer's return policy is limited
Price
This great pre-made meal replacement is available in a convenient dozen-bottle package, so you’re sure of ample supply. In addition, you can acquire it in multiple buying options depending on your budget and needs.
For instance, you can join the company’s subscription service and enjoy a discounted price. For just $39, each bottle costs only $3.25—a steal for your taste buds and wallet. Alternatively, you can grab the 12-bottle pack as a one-time purchase at $45 or choose the prepaid subscription of t $114.75.
User Experience
Soylent offers a generally positive user experience. A majority of users praise it for its convenience and readiness for consumption. In addition, the brand offers excellent customer support, and representatives are always ready to address users’ concerns.
One review points out, “The shakes are convenient and easy to grab on the go, making them a perfect option for busy days.”
Summing Up Dairy-Free Meal Replacement Shakes
It is high time for all lactose-intolerant customers to get their money’s worth while enjoying a refreshing nutrient-packed mix with the above dairy-free meal replacement shakes. Additionally, we hope this guide will direct you to solid options to avoid protein deficiencies.
Hopefully, you find yourself a favorite and come back for more tips from our blog concerning nutrition and lifestyle to suit your daily life.
Click to see our top picks for meal replacement shakes for women, meal shakes for weight gain, weight loss, vegan meal replacement shakes, keto meal shakes, and best overall meal replacement shakes.
David Williams
A diet and fitness enthusiast, David is an ex-Army Airborne Ranger and Infantry soldier with decades of fitness and wellness experience. A West Point graduate with a degree in engineering, he focuses on technical research related to fitness, nutrition, and wellness. He loves the beach, and spending time with his wife and daughters.
References
- Gunnars, K. (2023, January 23). 7 health benefits of Chia Seeds. Healthline.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-chia-seeds U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.-a). Probiotics: What you need to know. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics-what-you-need-to-know
