Top 10 Best Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes [Upd. 2024]
10
Vegan Meal Shakes
96
Hours of Research
99
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.
Vegan meal replacement shakes have become increasingly popular in recent years. There is a large vegan movement to improve health, and it’s gaining steam every month.
Thanks to the rise of plant-based eating and our increasingly hectic modern lives, many people turn to meal replacement options to get the nutrition they need. Our ratings of vegan meal shakes has taken a peek into 2024 to see what these brands have in store, and we’ve included this in our assessment. All brands on our list were strong in 2023 and especially that latter half, and we expect the same as we move into 2024.
But what exactly are these meal replacement shakes, and how beneficial are they? Can we genuinely substitute real food for shakes and still be healthy? More importantly, what are the top vegan meal replacement shakes you can try right now?
Table of Contents
What Are Meal Replacement Shakes?
Meal replacement shakes are precisely as they sound: Liquid shakes that you consume instead of sitting down for a traditional meal. Vegan meal replacement shakes are the plant-based options available if you don’t want to consume animal products.
The goal of a meal replacement shake isn’t just to provide you with some calories. Instead, these shakes should provide a healthy blend of protein, carbs, fats, fiber, and micronutrients. (1)
Meal replacement shakes are a great option, and many people enjoy them because of their unique benefits. Most notably:
Simplicity – instead of finding the time to cook a meal and eat it, you can put together a quick shake and enjoy it on the go.
Nutrition – consuming meal replacement shakes is a great way to get more vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Not everyone enjoys eating fruits and veggies but adding them to shakes is a neat way of boosting your nutrition without thinking about it. Berries, bananas, apples, pears, spinach, kale, and celery are all fantastic options.
Satiety – the great thing about meal replacement shakes is their satiety. Since you’re free to add fruits, veggies, and other satiating foods, a meal replacement shake can fill you up well and keep you feeling full for hours.
Considerations For The Best Meal Replacement Shake
Choosing the right meal replacement shake might seem easy, but there are many options to pick from. We’ll go over four great options below, but I’d like to spend a few paragraphs on what you should look for.
Despite having many choices, there are plenty of meal replacement products you should avoid. They don’t provide you with the nutrition you need but instead load you up on cheap carbs, additives, and fillers.
A good meal replacement shake mimics the contents of a healthy and balanced meal. Since you’ll be replacing meals with it, it’s only fair for it to deliver the same benefits for you. So, make sure it meets the following criteria:
Protein
Your meal replacement shake should offer at least 15 grams of protein per serving. The nutrient is essential for good health, post-workout recovery, muscle growth, and satiety. (2)
Carbs
Getting enough carbs from your meal replacement shake is essential. Carbohydrates are the primary source of fuel for the body, they provide glucose for the brain, and we need them for good health.
Fats
Contrary to popular belief, not all fats are bad for us. We need some fats to maintain good health, produce hormones, keep our cells healthy, and much more. A good meal replacement shake should offer some monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. (3)
Fiber
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that maintains gastrointestinal health and keeps us regular in the bathroom. Research shows that we also need fiber for good cardiovascular health and bathroom regularity.
Vitamins and Minerals
The body needs over 25 vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Your meal replacement shake should ideally offer at least some of them.
Calories
Calories are the energy we get from food and beverages. Your meal replacement shake should offer a decent number of calories per serving, which will help you maintain a healthy weight and have enough energy to tackle each day.
Rootana
Ingredient Quality
Pricing
Overall Score
LYFE Fuel Essentials
Ingredient Quality
Pricing
Overall Score
Instant Knockout
Ingredient Quality
Pricing
Overall Score
1. Rootana
Rootana is a new meal replacement shake that is making a mark on the vegan scene. It’s a delicious, all-natural real food-based shake with the nutrition necessary to power you throughout your busy schedule.
Rootana is one of the fastest growing meal shakes in the market, and it’s on a very fast upward trajectory. It’s put a huge amount of energy into the quality of their shakes, and the purity of their process. It is paying off in big ways.
What makes this meal replacement shake stand out despite being the new kid is its strict adherence to quality and transparency. The company has kept off artificial sweeteners, colorings, and preservatives from the onset. What’s more? They focus on creating a formula that hits all the macros without bulking it out with filler ingredients.
Rootana has everything you would expect from something supposed to replace a meal. It’s rich in protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids – all the nutrients you need to get through your day. Even better, they blend it all in a super yummy, healthy shake that you’ll look forward to drinking every day.
I like it because it mixes very well. That’s a big one for me, as I’ve dealt with many shakes that if you don’t have a high-powered blender, then it’s clumpy. Rootana has done a good job really nailing down the mixability. And this might not sound like
Brand Overview
Born out of personal necessity, Rootana is a creation of Robert, a health-conscious individual. After struggling with life-work balance for most of his adult life, he discovered meal shakes and fell in love. He realized he could quickly get a healthy meal that fits his routine without compromising taste or nutrition.
But most meal replacement shake brands weren’t great, especially with the strange milkshake sweeteners. They often underdeliver and even affect your gut health. That’s when Robert decided to create something wholesome, vegan-friendly, and delicious.
Rootana was born in 2022 and has been a hit with the vegan community.
The brand’s idea is to provide clean, good food. Just that. They are honest and transparent, with everything well displayed on the label. That way, you can be sure you’re not taking anything you don’t need, or that’s not good for your body.
So, what’s inside? Keep reading to find out.
Rootana Highlighted Features
- 14 servings per pouch
- 400 calories per serving
- 20-21 grams of protein (depending on flavor)
- 13-16 grams of fat (depending on flavor)
- 43-46 grams of carbohydrates
- 7.1-9.4 grams of fiber
- 24 vitamins & minerals (20% RDA)
- Non-GMO
- No preservatives
- No artificial sweeteners
- No artificial colors
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Promotes gut health
- Helps balance your blood pressure
- A formula based on advanced and extensive research
- Taste like real food
- Helps with weight loss
- High in plant-based proteins
- Excellent fiber source
- Provides all essential vitamins and minerals
Con
- Limited flavor options
- Only available via the official website
Rootana Features
Rootana meal replacement shake has six primary ingredients. They include pea protein isolate, oat flour, golden-milled flaxseed, coconut sugar, sunflower seed oil, and sunflower lecithin.
Instead of using animal protein, plant-based meal replacement shakes use pea protein. It’s hypoallergenic, making it ideal for vegans and people with allergies.
Pea protein contains all the amino acids necessary to build and maintain muscles. Like any other form of protein, it increases satiety, boosts metabolism, and helps reduce muscles. Plus, it has a high concentration of BCAAs that help preserve muscles as you try to reduce calories.
Oat Flour
Oat flour provides the world’s healthiest carbohydrates. It has a low glycemic index score that helps lose and maintain a healthy weight. Moreover, it offers slow-release energy that fights hunger pangs throughout the day.
What’s more, oat flour is an excellent source of soluble fiber. They can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. Additionally, oat flour helps manage blood pressure, removes triglycerides, and reduces bad cholesterol.
Golden-milled Flaxseed
Golden-milled flaxseed offers a dose of essential omega-3 fatty acids that you need for optimal health. It’s a great add-on to any vegan diet since it helps improve heart health, boost brain function, and promote healthy digestion.
Golden-milled flaxseed also contains small amounts of fiber. They can help increase satiety, stabilize blood sugar, and manage weight. In addition, milled flaxseeds are particularly helpful in lowering harmful cholesterol levels.
The shake contains coconut sugar, an excellent replacement for artificial sweeteners. It’s a low-glycemic sweetener that won’t spike your blood sugar levels drastically. Plus, coconut sugar has some nutrients, such as potassium, calcium, and zinc.
Rootana uses sunflower seed oil as another source of essential fatty acids. It provides omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids that reduce the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol levels. The oils are high in Vitamin E and antioxidants.
The last ingredient, sunflower lecithin, helps improve the mixability and stability of the meal shake powder. It has a great texture that makes drinking it more enjoyable. Plus, it may also boost your cognitive functions and enhance your mood.
Rootana tastes great. It comes in two delicious flavors – Vanilla and Chocolate. Both have a creamy and smooth taste, making them enjoyable to drink.
Rootana Price
Rootana is available on the brand’s website and will cost you $49.99. The company offers free standard delivery on orders above $70.
Rootana Customer Reviews
Rootana has a strong review profile on Trustpilot, which can be very challenging for supplements. So the fact that it has so many positive reviews is saying a lot, and a very positive endorsement for the brand. And the reviews are getting progressively better, which is always a good sign. The reviews from the last half of 2023 are very positive overall.
Here are some user examples:
I have found in Rootana an amazing ally to begin my workout routine. It’s delicious, nutritious and very easy to prepare. I drink it with the confidence that my body is getting what it needs. Also I love that is vegan!!
Another user said:
I have had ample experience with meal replacement shakes from the likes of Huel to YFood shakes. In Rootana, I’ve found what I’ve been looking for all this years, a shake that doesn’t get boring after a while. I think that this might be due to the subtle flavor, which is more palatable in the long run. I definitely don’t miss the strong artificial flavors and the aftertaste of the sweeteners. Dark Cacao is my favorite, but Vanilla is a must have if you want to use the shake regularly. It’s the best one to mix. It’s a little bit more expensive than the competition, and that’s a tough ask for some, but for me the difference on how it makes me feel is worth it.
Another user said (and the comments about shipping have been resolved according to user feedback):
Super easy, super filling, super cost effective (my bag lasted through more meals than what was even listed). Took me a few days to get used to the taste, but once I added ice with it, and got used to it, it tastes AMAZING. I crave it now, especially because it fills me up way longer than any other meal. I love to have it for breakfast personally. I had a problem with shipping, emailed the Rootana support team, they were super understanding and sent out another bag to me within a few hours.
2. LYFE Fuel Essentials
The LYFE Fuel Essentials shake promises to be the perfect vegan meal replacement shake. With 32 whole food ingredients in each serving, it aims to provide all of the essential nutrients your body needs in an easily digestible shake form. LYFE stands for “Live Your Fullest Everyday,” and the brand focuses on using nutrient-dense, plant-based ingredients in all of its products. The Essentials shake comes in chocolate or vanilla flavors.
Brand Overview
LYFE Fuel was founded with a mission to make healthy living attainable and accessible for everyone. The brand believes in harnessing the power of whole foods and premium plant-based ingredients. All LYFE Fuel products, including the Essentials shake, are formulated using science-backed nutrition and made in an FDA-registered, GMP-certified facility. Sustainability is also a core value for LYFE Fuel, which aims to minimize its environmental impact. LYFE Fuel seems dedicated to producing high-quality, nutritious products that allow customers to nourish their bodies and ‘Live Your Fullest Everyday.’
Highlighted Features
- Vegan and plant-based
- 23 essential vitamins and minerals
- 130 calories per bottle
- 10g of plant-based protein
- Gluten-free, soy-free and dairy-free
- Prebiotic fiber from acacia gum
- Free of common allergens
Pros
- Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and superfoods
- Great plant-based protein and fiber content
- All natural ingredients without additives
- Delicious chocolate and vanilla flavors
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Subscribe and save option at a discounted price
- Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility
- No artificial flavors or colors
Cons
- Lower calorie content than some competitors
Features
The LYFE Fuel Essentials shake contains a carefully formulated blend of high-quality protein sources. It gets its protein from pea, pumpkin and flaxseed.
Pea protein is a complete plant-based protein that contains all essential amino acids. Studies show pea protein supports muscle growth and recovery, similar to whey. It’s also easy to digest, making it suitable for meal replacements.
Pumpkin protein contains antioxidants that protect cells from damage. It also aids in metabolizing food more efficiently to boost energy levels. Pumpkin seeds are high in fiber, magnesium, manganese, and vitamins K and C – all of which promote overall wellness.
Flaxseed is one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These anti-inflammatory fats support brain and heart health. Flax also provides fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. Fiber helps you feel full for long periods while regulating digestion and blood sugar levels.
To aid nutrient absorption, LYFE Fuel uses acacia gum as its fiber source. Acacia gum is a type of prebiotic fiber that nourishes beneficial gut bacteria. This helps improve digestion and supports a healthy immune system. Prebiotic fiber also helps foods move smoothly through the digestive tract, keeping things regular and preventing constipation or bloating.
Each bottle delivers 10g of high-quality protein along with 23 essential vitamins and minerals your body needs each day. This includes fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, along with water-soluble B vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc. Meeting daily micronutrient requirements from clean sources supports overall wellness and recovery from activity or stress.
With only 110 calories per serving, LYFE Fuel Essentials is packed with complete nutrition yet remains low in calories. This makes it an ideal choice for replacing meals while supporting weight management or fat loss goals. The balanced amino and fatty acid profile also helps curb sugar and carb cravings between meals.
Price and Buying Options
At $70 for a month’s supply (that’s 30+ servings), the Essentials shake provides good value compared to some higher-priced competitors. You can also subscribe to save and get each monthly shipment for free and other exclusive member-only discounts. Given the impressive nutrition content and all-natural approach, the price is competitive for a premium whole foods option.
Customer Experience
Customer reviews on the LYFE Fuel website are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the energy, mental clarity, and weight management results they achieve when using the Essentials shake daily. Many comment that it curbs appetite effectively. The chocolate and vanilla flavors also receive high praise for being delicious without any unpleasant plant-based aftertaste.
One happy customer says “I buy the vanilla chai. I like the flavor alone mixed in water or with juice such as orange or pineapple. But my favorite is to blend it with a banana or pear, blueberries, beets w/juice, orange or pineapple juice, I throw in a few pieces of fresh carrots, a handful of spinach, a little ginger and Apple cider vinegar. It does curb cravings for junk food and gives a bit of energy. For me it’s a great supplement or mid-day small meal. I will buy again, 3rd bag!”
A minority of customers did note that they felt it lacked some calories or macros like fats and fibers. But overall, customers are mostly satisfied with the clean nutrition, convenience, and results delivered by this shake.
3. Instant Knockout Complete
Instant Knockout Complete is the editor’s choice for vegan meal replacement shakes for some very good reasons! It has moved up our list based on user feedback, and a growing support base in the US and UK.
First, this vegan and vegetarian friendly meal shake is all about losing weight and cutting fat, without skimping on your nutritional needs. So if you’re looking to bulk using a meal replacement shake, this is likely not your first option.
Brand Overview
The Instant Knockout Brand has become increasingly popular over the past several years. Their products are first and foremost vegan friendly. Their products are also focused on losing weight and cutting fat, while not sacrificing proper nutrition.
Instant Knockout Complete (referred to as “Complete”) is a very well-researched product that is based on specific analysis and studies over a 5-year research period. The goal of the efforts was to formulate a complete meal replacement shake that provided maximum nutrition, while still also allowing for weight loss and reducing fat.
It’s among the most talked about meal replacement shakes by fitness, sports instructors, and athletes. From regular gyms to competitive stages like the MMA, it is evident that the meal shake is the preferred choice by many. It’s a product of Roar Ambition, a UK-based progressive sports nutrition manufacturer.
While the company is relatively young (it started in 2014), it has made a name for itself in the fitness industry. Its Instant Knockout meal replacement shake is a result of five years of scientific research and development. It is specifically designed to provide vegan athletes and fitness enthusiasts with a perfect meal free from artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors, and other additives.
Features
Anyone trying to better their body focuses on three primary aspects: muscle mass, strength, and weight loss. In their effort to attain their fitness goals, they end up reducing calories and other nutrient intakes. Unfortunately, they lose more than just the fats.
Instant Knockout meal replacement shake was specifically designed to fill these nutrient gaps and help you achieve optimal body fat levels while preserving lean muscle mass. You also get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals in one serving, supporting your immune system and hormone balance.
The meal shake uses pea and soy as its primary protein source, providing a balanced profile of essential amino acids. These two plant-based proteins are prevalent in most vegan protein powders for their proven body fat reduction, improved muscle synthesis, and enhanced recovery rates.
Instant Knockout also contains chia seeds that provide much-needed micronutrients. They are excellent sources of calcium, Omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fibre, and manganese.
The added MCT oils further help with thermogenesis and fat burning, while the chromium helps keep the sugar cravings away. While it’s only available in one flavor (Vanilla), it’s delicious enough to satisfy your taste buds.
Highlighted Features:
- Vegan friendly
- All natural ingredients
- Essential vitamins and minerals
- Vegetarian friendly
- 24-hour fat burning formula
- 400 calories per serving
- 26 essential vitamins and minerals
- 35g plant-based proteins
- 13g fibre
- 35g carbohydrates
- Premium MCT oils
- 10g saturated fats (Omega 3 & 6)
- Zero added sugar
Pros
- Vegan friendly (no dairy)
- Vegetarian friendly
- 26 essential vitamins and minerals
- 400 calories per serving (Lean!)
- Provides slow release of carbs to fuel your day
- High protein content to preserve muscle fiber
- Balanced micronutrients to allow for stable recovery
- Offers a complete nutritional balance
- Promotes thermogenesis
- Contains chromium for mood elevation
- FREE Shipping in the USA & UK
- Manufactured in FDA-approved facilities
- Great flavor
Cons
- One flavor
- Slightly more expensive
- Not Ideal for Bulking - It's Lean
Price and Buying Options
Instant Knockout meal replacement shake goes for $59.00 for a two weeks supply package. The one-month supply package costs $118.00. Unlike most other meal shakes, this one is available only on the brand’s website.
Customer Experience
Knockout has been highly endorsed by professional athletes for nutritional content. Most customers agree that the meal replacement shake is easier on digestion than the tablets.
And based on our assessment of customer reviews, we recommend the meal replacement shake alone, and not in combination with the tablets for advanced weight cutting.
For example, it featured in Health Insider’s best product comparison list, and Health Canal included it in their legit or scam reviews. All the articles praised it for its ability to help individuals cut fat without losing muscle.
4. PhenQ Meal Shake
PhenQ is a 100 percent plant-based meal replacement shake. The product is designed to replace an entire meal by providing all the nutrition your body needs. The best part is, it offers no animal products but still tastes great.
Each serving of PhenQ provides you with 24 essential vitamins and minerals and 16 grams of protein to support your health and fitness goals. Aside from being a nutritious option, PhenQ is a fantastic meal replacement tool because it doesn’t have too many calories but curbs our sweet tooth.
The shake comes with three flavor options:
- Chocolate Brownie
- Vanilla
- Strawberries & Cream
Best Meal Replacement Shakes for Taste
The only downside is that PhenQ and most other such products only offer sweet flavors, which might not be ideal if you want a savory meal replacement shake.
Brand Overview
A product of the PhenQ company, the PhenQ meal shake is a fantastic vegan meal replacement shake that offers plenty of protein, carbs, fiber, and nutrients. The brand has been in the weight loss and fitness industry for decades, providing customers with quality products. It has built a reputation for conducting research and developing products backed by science.
Recently, they ventured into the nutrient supplement market with the launch of PhenQ meal shake. They aim to provide customers with convenient, affordable, and effective products that help them live healthier lives.
Highlighted Features
- Great test
- Vegan and keto-friendly
- Gluten-free
- Rich in essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins
- 100% plant-based protein
- Contains 16 grams of whey protein concentrate
- Sugar-free
- Has 13 essential vitamins and minerals
- Non-GMO
- 100 satisfaction 60-day money-back guarantee
Pros
- 100% plant-based meal replacement shake
- Balanced dose of fats, protein, and micronutrients
- Great taste and can curb your sweet tooth
- Affordable
- It helps shed excess weight naturally
- Increase muscle strength
- Boosts energy
- Can replace one full meal a day
Con
- Only sweet options available
- Not easily accessible, only available through brand's website
Customer Experience
We set out to find what customers had to say about the PhenQ meal shake and got surprised by the number of people who have tried it and love it. Despite being relatively young in the market, it has managed to gain quite a following.
The brand’s website has dozens of five-star reviews from happy customers. A customer said the shake is “amazing for weight loss,” while another called it a “miracle in a bottle.” People also love the taste of PhenQ, with some saying it is better than its competitors.
While we did not see many comments from affiliate sites such as Amazon, there were many review articles from independent websites such as Men’s Journal and Health Canal. They all spoke highly of the product, with some even calling it the “best meal replacement shake ever.”
5. Kate Farms Komplete Meal Replacement Shake
Kate Farms offers balanced meals in a bottle. Unlike many meal replacement shakes out there, the ones from Kate Farms offer plenty of protein that supports muscle growth, recovery, and our overall health.
Aside from protein, the Komplete meal replacement shake offers plenty of other essential nutrients, which support our health and well-being. Specifically, the shake provides 24 vitamins and minerals, some heart-healthy fats, and good carbs to support your performance and well-being.
Brand Overview
Founded in 2012, Kate Farms is a family company based in Santa Barbara, California, United States. The company founded are two parents (Richard and Michelle) who were desperate to save their daughter’s life (Kate). Kate was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that made it difficult to feed her.
At age three, the doctor recommended a feeding tube and placed her on a liquid diet. It wasn’t long that the formula available in hospitals started to fail her. Desperate to find a better solution, the family began creating their own nutrient-rich shakes. And Kate Farms Komplete Meal Replacement Shake was born.
Highlighted Features
- Whey and casein Free
- 16g of USDA-certified organic
- Non-GMO
- Lactose-free
- Three delicious flavors
- Contains phytonutrients (kale and broccoli)
- Essential amino acids
- Balanced Fat proportions
- 22 Vitamins and Minerals
- 21 Superfoods
Pros
- USDA Organic with essential vitamins and minerals
- Each 11oz serving contains 16g of pea protein, 330 calories only
- Ready to drink
- Taste great
- Plant-based proteins, making it ideal for vegans
- Dairy, Gluten, and Soy Free
Con
- Chocolate, vanilla, and coffee flavors only
Customer Experience
There are plenty of reviews on the brand’s website, with most being positive. People love the taste of the shakes and how they offer a complete meal in a bottle.
One review said she bought Kate Farms Komplete Meal Replacement Shake for her 90-year-old mother, who needs nutrients. The review noted that her mother loves the taste of the chocolate flavor and that it’s an easy way for her to get all the nutrients she needs. In fact, she calls it her energy drink.
Another reviewer called it a “complete, whole food meal in a bottle. “I am so glad I found this product. I have been drinking it for breakfast and lunch for the past two weeks and have lost 5 pounds!”
There are also plenty of reviews on Amazon, with most of them being positive. The product has an average of 4.5/5 star rating from over 800 customers. About 77% of the users gave it a 5-star rating, and only 2% gave it a 1-star rating.
One customer called Conchita Congo from courageous Cancer Chic said she is a cancer survivor who lost weight after diagnosis. Now that she is cancer-free, she needs to put some weight back on, and the Komplete meal replacement shake has helped her do that.
However, there are some complaints about the price. One customer could not believe it was worth $4.00 per unit, which to him was pretty expensive.
6. Orgain Organic Meal Powder
If you’re looking for a vegan meal replacement shake that offers lots of high-quality plant protein, Orgain’s organic powder is a fantastic option. This product features a respectable 20-gram protein dose per serving, but it also offers complex carbs and much-needed fiber.
The organic meal powder is also a good source of vitamins and minerals that play an essential role in our health, well-being, and fitness outcomes.
Brand Overview
Orgain Organic Meal Powder is an American-based company founded by Dr. Andrew Abraham. The doctor is an integrative medicine specialist who has survived cancer. While undergoing chemotherapy, he realized the importance of nutrition and how it can help the body heal.
This experience led him to create Orgain, with the mission of making healthy living easier for everyone. The brand offers a range of products, including meal replacement shakes, protein powders, bars, and more. Orgain Organic Meal Powder is one of its products and aims to provide healthy liquid meal replacement formula.
Highlighted Features
- USDA organic
- Gluten-free
- Vegan-friendly
- Non-GMO
- No sugar
- Kosher
- Serves up 20g of plant-based protein (Beans, Sprouts & Veggies)
- Complete Nutrition
- Kosher
- Has immune-supporting vitamins and minerals
- Lactose, dairy, and soy-free
Pros
- 230 calories only per serving
- Contains vitamin B6, vitamin C, riboflavin, thiamine, iron, and pantothenic acid
- Budget-friendly option
Con
- Chocolate and vanilla flavors only
Customer Experience
The reviews for Orgain Organic Meal Powder are positive, with most people saying it’s a great-tasting powder that mixes well and provides plenty of energy. Several reviewers appreciate the fact that the powder is organic and gluten-free. However, there weren’t many, only a total of 87 comments on the brand’s website.
They gave the shake an average 4.7/5 star rating, with most being 5 stars. One customer said, “I’ve been using this powder for a while now as a meal replacement, and I love it! It’s very filling and has a great flavor.”
Another reviewer commented, “I have been using Orgain for over a year now. I am so happy to have found an organic, gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free product that I can use as a meal replacement.”
Orgain Organic Meal Powder had a total of 5,702 global ratings on Amazon with an average of 4.5/ 5 stars. 73% of the ratings were five stars, and only 4% gave it a 1-star rating. Similar to the main website, this one had good reviews as well.
One customer said Orgain is one of the best tasting, most complete shakes on the market.” Another reviewer commented, “I am a fan of Orgain products in general. I have used their protein powders and meal replacement shakes and has been happy with both.”
The negative reviews were mostly about changes in the formula. Customers complained that something in the shake had changed and wasn’t as good as it used to be.
7. Ka'Chava
Brand Overview
Ka’Chava is an all-natural meal replacement shake designed to provide a complete and balanced meal while promoting healthy living. This vegan-friendly shake is part of the Tribal Nutrition LLC family of companies founded by Simon Malone.
While it’s relatively new in the meal replacement shake market (It started in 2014), Ka’Chava has already proven to be a popular choice for many health-conscious individuals. And it’s not just hype like some other brands. It contains an impressive list of 85+ ingredients targeted for their health benefits and nutritional value.
Highlighted Features
- 15 servings per container (30 scoops)
- 240kcal calories per serving
- 25 g plant protein blend
- 4.5 g saturated fat
- 24 g total carbohydrates
- 6 g dietary fiber
- 6g total sugars
- 500 mg super-greens / vegetable blend
- 50 mg probiotic / prebiotic blend
- 50 mg digestive enzyme blend
- 1020 mg adaptogen blend
- 5.1 g antioxidant / super-fruit blend
- Vitamin A,C,D,E,B1,B2,,B3,B6,B12
- Minerals such as Copper, Manganese, Zinc, Iron, Calcium, Sodium, and Potassium
- 35 mcg chromium
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- The adaptogen blend helps with relaxation and reducing stress
- Promotes muscle growth and recovery
- Boost immunity with its antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
- Promotes gut health
- It has anti-aging properties
- Keep you full and energized to prevent over-eating
- Daily-free, gluten-free, soy-free
- No artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors
- 100% money-back guarantee
Con
- It might be expensive for some people.
Features
Like a true meal replacement shake, Ka’Chava contains all the essential nutrients your body needs. In fact, it has more ingredients than you would find in a traditional shake. While it’s not a magic weight loss supplement, it will undoubtedly help you maintain a healthy weight.
The 240 calories and 25 grams of plant-based protein in each serving keep you full for hours. Besides crushing your cravings, you also get enhanced metabolism, energy, and focus.
Most meal shakes often cause bloated stomachs, but Ka’Chava is specifically designed to avoid this with its supporting ingredients. The inclusion of digestive enzymes helps your body break down the meal, while magnesium alleviates constipation with probiotics supporting your gut health.
Unlike whey proteins, plant-based proteins often don’t have all essential amino acids in one. Ka’Chava includes a blend of brown rice, quinoa, sacha inchi, organic amaranth, and pea proteins to counter this. All these work together to provide the complete nutrition your body needs to build and maintain muscle mass.
To give you flavor options, Ka’Chava is available in five varieties: matcha, chai, chocolate, vanilla, and coconut acai. All of them offer their own unique, delicious taste.
Price
Ka’Chava comes in a 15-serving package, priced at $69.95. You can also subscribe for a discounted price of $59.95. The money-back guarantee also serves as a testament to the quality of this product.
Customer Experience
Before buying a product, getting an idea of the customer experience is essential. Ka’Chava has lots of positive reviews on its website.
The brand has an average rating of 4.6/5 stars from over 51,666 written customer reviews. There are also hundreds of videos of customer testimonials and reviews on the site. On Amazon, Ka’Chava has over 4,800 reviews with an average 4.4/5 star rating.
The majority of customers were satisfied with the results they got from the shake. For example, one happy user said, “I love this product! It tastes great, mixes well, and helps me stay full and energized throughout the day.” Another one said, “As a clinical herbalist, this is a great product as far as my research goes. There are no hidden pharmaceutical sugars, flow agents, and artificial flavor enhancers.”
The few negative comments we saw were about the price or taste. Overall, the reviews on Ka’Chava are overwhelmingly positive.
8. Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal Shake & Meal Replacement
The meal shake from Garden of Life is fantastic because it’s lighter on calories but still offers plenty of nutrients that support our health, well-being, and exercise performance. Specifically, these shakes provide 20 grams of protein, 14 grams of carbs, and two grams of fats in each scoop. They are also rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and natural antioxidants that prevent oxidative stress.
Thanks to the lower calorie content and high amount of protein, Garden of Life’s organic meal shake is perfect for those looking to shed some weight.
Brand Overview
Garden of Life is among the most reputable health and wellness brands. This American-based company has been in the industry for nearly two decades. It has a reputation for offering high-quality organic meal replacement supplements that cater to different needs.
It’s arguably the most popular meal replacement powder in the US, with over 31,126 reviews and an average 4.4/5 star rating on Amazon alone. While it started as a solo project by Jordan Rubin, the company is now part of Nestle.
Anyone seeking to lose weight can attest to the power of Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal. It’s an organic meal replacement powder with ingredients such as vegetables, sprouted grains, and fruits.
But what else can you expect? Here are some of its features.
Highlighted Features
- Organic and Non-GMO
- Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly
- Probiotics
- USDA certified ingredients
- Gluten-free
- Rich in micronutrients (44 Superfoods)
- Contains 20g of organic plant protein per serving
- Comes with probiotics & enzymes
- 6g of fiber
- Certified By third-party Vegan Action
- Soy-free
- No artificial flavors or sweeteners
Pros
- Variety of flavors to choose from
- Contains 20g of organic plant protein, 6g of fiber, and 44 superfoods
- Great for post workout recovery
- Support healthy digestion
- Boosts energy and builds lean muscle
- Helps you stay full all-day
Cons
- More expensive compared to similar options
- Flavor options are not always available
Customer Experience
Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal Shake & Meal Replacement is the most reviewed meal replacement powder on this list, with over 31,000 global ratings on Amazon. It has an average of 4.4/ 5 stars. Like other products in this list, most reviews were positive, with customers praising the product for its taste, nutritional value, and effectiveness.
One reviewer said, “I am so happy I found this product. I have been trying to find a healthy meal replacement that tastes good, and I finally found it.” Another customer commented, “I have tried many meal replacement shakes, and this is by far the best tasting and most satisfying.”
The negative reviews were mainly about the change in formula. Customers complained that the Vitamin percentage had changed and was much lower than before. Others claimed that the reformulation had left the chocolate flavor with a “sandy” texture.
There weren’t many reviews on the brand website, but the ones we found were positive. All the 182 reviewers gave the Garden of Life brand a four or 5-star.
9. Ample Meal Shake: High-Protein, Low-Carb
Ample Meal Shake High-Protein, Low-Carb is a product of Ample Meal, which specializes in providing meal replacement shakes. Founded by Connor Young in 2014, this US-based company is on a mission to make it easy for people to get the nutrition they need without sacrificing taste or convenience.
The Ample Meal Shake comes in a powder form that you mix with water or milk. It has real-food ingredients in large enough portions that can replace a meal. So, what’s inside?
Highlighted Features
- 400 calories per meal
- 4g net carbs
- 25g protein
- Non-GMO
- Probiotics
- Electrolytes
- Antioxidants
- 7g Prebiotic fiber
- 28g Healthy fats
- Soy and gluten-free
- Zero artificial junk
- 2g Sugars
- 11g total carbohydrates
Pros
- Improves digestion
- Contains vitamins B12, C, and A, which are ideal for vegans
- Blends pea and rice protein to provide all essential amino acids
- Improves gut health via the added probiotics
- Supports muscle growth and maintenance
- Lets you stay full for four plus hours
- Increases focus
Con
- The powder meal shake is not the most affordable option
Features
Ample Meal Shake High-Protein, Low-Carb is perhaps one of the market’s most inclusive meal replacement shakes. It’s filled with real food ingredients such as coconut & macadamia nut oil, egg-white & glass-fed whey protein, and fruits & greens. Plus, it has six probiotic strains, electrolytes, and antioxidants.
The meal shake formula depends on sound science with its nutrient-dense profile. It’s optimized to maximize muscle synthesis, kill hunger & cravings, support long-term health, and burn fat. Scientifically, that means reduced blood sugar spikes, increased gut microbiome health, and proper mitochondrial fueling.
In terms of practicality, one sachet contains 400 calories, enough to replace your breakfast and lunch. Its two flavors: vanilla and chocolate, are delicious and easy to mix. You can have it with water or milk, which takes less than 30 seconds.
Customer Reviews
Unfortunately, Ample Meal does not have a lot of reviews on its website. However, they have about 123 reviews on Amazon, with an average of 3.9/5 stars.
Customers who loved the product raved about how it helped them lose weight, have more energy, and feel fuller for longer periods. Some liked the large portions, while others found it a great alternative to other meal replacement shakes they had previously tried.
A few customers did not like the price tag, but most felt it was worth the cost. Generally, reviewers thought the product was excellent.
10. Organifi Complete Protein Meal Replacement
Brand Overview
Organifi Complete Protein Meal Replacement is a product of Organifi, a company that specializes in providing health and fitness supplements. Founded by Drew Canole in 2014, this US-based company is on a mission to help people archive health-conscious lives. It came to be out of personal struggles with obesity and poor health.
The Organifi Complete Protein Meal Replacement comes in a powder form that you mix with water or milk. It promises to give you all the nutrients you need in one meal with no prep time. So, what’s inside?
Highlighted Features
- 170 calories per serving
- 20g of premium diverse plant proteins
- 6g total fats
- 11g carbohydrate
- 2g dietary fiber
- 6g sugars
- 750 mcg vitamin A
- 30mg vitamin C
- 6.84mg iron
- 70mg calcium
- 5mcg vitamin D
- No artificial sweeteners, flavors
- Non -GMO
Pros
- USDA Certified Organic
- Gluten-free
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals
- Has MCTs that aid mental energy and clarity
- Low carbohydrates and fat
- Soy and dairy-free
- Keto-friendly
- Suitable for diabetics
- Vegan (100% organic)
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Requires strict adherence to see results
Features
Organifi Complete Protein Meal Replacement is a natural healthy shake that provides more than just increased muscle mass. Its macronutrients offer a broad range of benefits, including improved digestion, increased mental clarity, and balanced blood sugar levels.
The vegan protein shake flaunts a nutrient-rich formula with some buzzworthy ingredients. For example, it has pumpkin seeds, quinoa, flax seeds, acacia, agave inulin, and coconut sugar. It also has sea salt and pea protein.
Ingredients such as acacia and agave inulin help with gut health and regularity. Coconut sugar and sea salt replenish electrolytes. The flax seeds improve digestive health and lower blood cholesterol, while quinoa provides micronutrients such as phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, and folate.
The protein powder has a diverse range of plant-based proteins that make it ideal for vegans. These include pea protein and pumpkin seed protein. Finally, it comes in two delicious flavors: chocolate and vanilla.
Customer Reviews
The product has over 1200 customer reviews on the brand’s website, with an average rating of 4.9/5 stars. Most reviews are positive, with customers praising the product for its taste, texture, and nutrient-rich formula.
Most people say that the product mixes well, tastes excellent and offers a host of health benefits. They praised it for weight loss without compromising muscle mass, improved energy levels, and better gut health.
A few customers didn’t like the price tag, while others found that it didn’t mix well. Generally, reviewers thought the product was great and perfect for those looking for a healthy shake with all the right ingredients.
Conclusion
The market has no shortage of meal replacement shakes, but they are not all created equal. It’s key to consider your needs and goals before you purchase the right one for you. Look at its ingredient composition, calorie content, and other features. Also, don’t forget to read customer reviews to get insights from other users.
That aside, the four powders reviewed in this article are among vegans’ best meal replacement shakes. For keto, see our recommendations for keto meal replacement shakes. And for best meal replacement shakes overall and in general, don’t miss our complete review.
We are very big fans of PhenQ, and for good reason. Checks all the blocks, and tastes delicious.
They are all nutritionally complete, meaning they can provide the body with all the essential nutrients it needs to function optimally.
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 working out, and spending time with his wife and daughters.
References
- Shao, A. (2017). Role of meal replacements on Weight Management, health and Nutrition. IntechOpen.
https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/53173. - Zeratsky, K. (2020). Can protein shakes help with weight loss? Mayo Clinic.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/expert-answers/protein-shakes/faq-20058335. - Fats and cholesterol. The Nutrition Source. (2019).
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/fats-and-cholesterol/.
