The best protein powders have been longstanding solutions for many who struggle to meet their protein goals with whole foods alone. But in today’s busy world, many people value the convenience of grab-and-go protein drinks like OWYN’s Plant-Based Protein Shake. As a registered dietitian, I totally get it — I’m always looking for convenient, nutritionally-balanced ways to get your protein in — but can a pre-made beverage act as a worthwhile substitute for tried-and-true powder?
In our opinion, OWYN Protein Shakes can be a high-quality, convenient protein option for those on the go. We also appreciate the plant-based nature of these shakes, which can be excellent for athletes following a vegan diet. In this OWYN Protein Shake review, our expert testers — including registered dietitians, certified nutrition coaches, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts — will rate and examine this plant-based protein drink with guidance from our supplement testing methodology, similar to our experience with over 100 (yes, 100!) other protein supplements, to date. Ready to see how the “Only What You Need” brand stacks up to the competition? Let’s get into our findings.
OWYN protein shakes can deliver, as the name suggests, “Only What You Need,” thanks to a clean blend of plant-based protein sources with minimal calories, carbs, and fat per serving. We also appreciate the roster of available flavors, although we’d appreciate further details regarding the third-party testing accreditation.
Medical disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
Main Takeaways
- Each OWYN Protein shake is 100% vegan and Non-GMO Project verified.
- The brand conducts independent testing, ensuring the formulation is free of common allergens such as dairy, soy, and gluten.
- OWYN shakes are sweetened with monk fruit extract and organic cane sugar, but the makeup does contain 4 grams of added sugars per serving.
OWYN Protein Shake Specs
| Price Per Serving | $3.08 |
| Calories Per Serving | 180 Calories |
| Protein Per Serving | 20 grams |
| Protein Source | Pea protein, organic pumpkin seed protein |
| Sweeteners Used | Monk fruit extract, organic cane sugar |
| Available Flavors | Strawberry Banana, Smooth Vanilla, Dark Chocolate, Cold Brew Coffee, Cookies & Creamless |
| Third-Party Testing | Yes (certifying lab not listed) |
OWYN is an acronym for “Only What You Need,” the company’s guiding principle behind how they craft their products. OWYN ready-to-drink protein shakes are formulated to hit all the essentials without any unnecessary fluff, taking a page from some of the best clean protein powders we’ve had in trials. Each shake is made with ingredients free from the top nine allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, soy, milk, shellfish, fish, egg, wheat, and sesame), meaning each serving is dairy-free, gluten-free, and soy-free.
So, what is included in an OWYN Protein Shake? OWYN shakes are made with 100% non-dairy, plant-based ingredients. We’re talking pea protein, organic pumpkin seed protein, monk fruit extract, and a greens blend for added micronutrients and digestive support. Each bottle contains roughly 180 calories, 20 grams of protein, and 535 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids with minimal carb (8 grams) and fat counts (7 grams), too.
If you’re like me, you’ll also be hyped to know that OWYN protein shakes contain all nine essential amino acids — a major plus for athletes following a vegan diet! Our bodies can’t make essential amino acids, so we must get them from our diet. Missing out on these amino acids can limit your protein’s ability to support muscle protein synthesis — the process where the body builds, strengthens, and repairs muscle tissue. (3)
It’s imperative, then, to seek out “complete proteins” to help your macronutrient work for your needs. “Protein is critical for every cell in the body. It is a building block for muscle, hair, skin, nails, and helps build and repair tissue in the body,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD.
Like other samples of the best protein shakes, OWYN protein shakes are offered in a range of flavors, which our tester, a certified personal trainer, does appreciate. “Typically, I steer clear of the ‘planty’ sensations of plant-based protein options, but these tasted good enough that I wouldn’t mind keeping a few in stock for particularly rushed days or travel,” they add. Available flavors include such options as Strawberry Banana, Smooth Vanilla, Dark Chocolate, Cold Brew Coffee, and Cookies & Creamless.
You can purchase a 12-pack of OWYN’s protein shakes for $36.99, which equates to roughly $3.08 per serving. While this is more expensive than your typical protein powder, you do need to account for the added convenience of its pre-made profile. Additionally, the listed shelf life of these beverages is 18 months prior to opening, meaning you can keep them stored without much hassle as you work through your order.
Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use OWYN Protein Shake
It seems like the world is spinning faster and faster every day. Ready-to-drink protein supplements can be a game-changer when you’re short on protein and short on time. However, OWYN Plant-Based Protein Shakes may not be the right choice for everyone. Below, we’ve outlined a few groups that may benefit from these pre-made protein drinks along with some camps that may fare better with an alternative pick.
Recommended for:
- Those on a vegan diet
- Athletes allergic or sensitive to peanuts, tree nuts, soy, milk, shellfish, fish, egg, wheat, and sesame
- Individuals in need of a convenient protein option that’s ready for on-the-go consumption
Not Recommended for:
- Those who prefer whey protein products
- People wanting a protein shake with higher calories to serve as a dedicated meal replacement
- Competitive athletes in need of protein options that have undergone third-party testing from a recognizable institution
Our Experience Using OWYN Protein Shake
Our expert tester, a certified personal trainer, is all too familiar with protein’s role in post-workout recovery and overall wellness. That said, they rarely opt for the best vegan protein powders over their more favored lactose-containing formulations. As a testament to their dedication, our tester trialed OWYN protein shakes for multiple weeks, compiling their testing notes and experiences to rate these pre-made protein drinks on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across a variety of categories. Here are some of the top findings from said trials.
Ingredients and Formulation
OWYN protein shakes have a pretty solid formulation, overall, earning a 4 out of 5 from our tester. Each shake provides around 180 calories and 20 grams of protein per serving. OWYN uses a vegan-friendly protein blend made from pea protein, organic pumpkin seed protein, and organic flaxseed oil.
Why is this registered dietitian so jazzed about pea protein? I’m so glad you asked! It’s one of the few plant-based protein supplements that contains all nine essential amino acids. (1) I love an easily-accessible, complete protein for my vegan friends.
Additionally, each shake contains 5 grams of net carbs, or 8 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber. However, OWYN shakes are sweetened with organic cane sugar and monk fruit extract, totaling 4 grams of added sugar. This may be a positive if you’re not a fan of artificial sweeteners, but it could be a dealbreaker if you are trying to limit your sugar consumption each day.
Each bottle also contains a notable 7 grams of fat. This may help you feel fuller longer, and a good portion of it comes from vegan omega-3 fatty acids. OWYN shakes are made with alpha-linolenic acid, a plant-based omega-3 that has been linked to anti-inflammatory properties. (2)
Last, but not least, OWYN breaks the mold of your standard protein shake by adding a greens blend for extra digestive support. Each shake contains a blend of broccoli, kale, and spinach, adding a boost of micronutrients like iron and potassium.
Taste
The best-tasting protein powders are typically the ones you stick with the longest, and pre-made protein shakes are no different. It’s one thing when making your protein shakes at home — you control the ingredient list, so you control the taste. However, when it comes to pre-made drinks, their flavor is entirely in the hands of the manufacturer. You’re at the mercy of what they think tastes good. Many fall short, but OWYN totally knocked it out of the park, according to our tester, earning a perfect 5 out of 5 for taste.
“Being pea and pumpkin seed protein, you’d expect a bit of that grassy flavor,” says our tester, “But you really don’t get it at all, particularly in the vanilla one — I’m shocked.”
During trials, our tester was able to sample the Vanilla and Dark Chocolate varieties, stating that the vanilla profile was the far sweeter option. “There’s also a confetti-cake-like taste to it, which can be appealing to some palates,” they add. Dark chocolate was (naturally) more rich, but they suggested adding it to your morning iced coffee for a sweet alternative to your morning hit of caffeine.
If chocolate and vanilla aren’t your jam, OWYN offers other delicious flavors, including Strawberry Banana, Cold Brew Coffee, and Cookies & Creamless. They even offer variety packs so you can try more than one flavor per order!
Texture
Solubility isn’t a huge factor for pre-made protein shakes — there’s no mixing to be had — but texture sure is. Our tester gave OWYN shakes a 4 out of 5 in this category, saying, “They’re thinner than other pre-made protein shakes I’ve had — Orgain and Muscle Milk come to mind as those ones are really thick and creamy — so these feel less substantial in a way. I’d equate the texture of these to if you mixed the average protein powder with milk (vs water).”
Of course, you can alter the texture of your beverage by adding OWYN protein shakes to other drinks like coffee or smoothies. Be sure to play around with different recipes and find a blend that suits your palate best.
Price Per Serving
OWYN protein shakes aren’t the most expensive protein drink on the market, but they aren’t the cheapest, either. A 12-pack will set you back $36.99, or around $3.08 per bottle. Our tester scored them right in the middle for price with a 3 out of 5, saying, “They’re more expensive than a traditional protein powder, but you are paying for the pre-made convenience. Plus, I appreciate that OWYN is available in 12-bottle packages and offers subscription-based delivery services for added discounts.” You can also find these cartons amongst the best protein powders on Amazon, opening the door for potential shipping discounts via Prime.
Third Party Testing
OWYN does some third-party testing, but it’s nothing that truly blows our socks off. It’s not as comprehensive as we’d prefer from a high-quality supplement, especially for products not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). OWYN tests for the top nine allergens, but there’s no indication that they also verify the supplement’s purity and label accuracy.
Moreover, OWYN doesn’t disclose which organization performs the testing, nor does it provide the Certificates of Analysis on the brand’s retail page. As a result, our tester gave OWYN a 3 out of 5 for its third-party testing.
What to Consider Before Buying OWYN Protein Shake
Here at BarBend, we’ve tested more than 100 protein supplements, including over 20 pre-made protein shakes from a range of popular brands. We’ve tried the good, the bad, and the “OMG, what was that?” Through trial and error, we’ve developed insight into what makes a protein shake worth your penny (spoiler alert — it’s not marketing terms like “superfoods” and “clean ingredients”).
When shopping for a ready-to-drink protein shake, be sure to look at the big picture. Let the nutrition facts speak for themselves, but don’t discount the convenience factor, either. Below are some top factors worth considering when choosing your ideal protein shake.
- Formulation: A protein shake’s ingredients will determine its nutrition facts. Ingredients are listed by weight in descending order. You’ll notice that the first ingredient listed after water on the OWYN Protein Drink label is the protein blend, for example, indicating the protein’s prominence within the overall makeup. It can also be wise to scan the ingredients and formulations for any known allergens, especially if you’re sensitive to certain compounds like dairy, soy, or gluten.
- Protein Per Serving: “Protein needs can be dependent on your age, gender, activity level, and overall health,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD. “For active individuals with higher caloric needs, I typically recommend between 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. These metrics can be better suited to help athletes build and maintain muscle while also fueling other necessary bodily functions.”
- Available Flavors: You should aim to choose a protein shake that appeals to your taste buds, so be sure to look at the available flavors prior to purchase. We also recommend opting for a protein shake with multiple enjoyable flavors, as this can help you maintain a regular supplement schedule without burning out from flavor fatigue.
- Third-Party Testing: As stated previously, supplements like pre-made protein shakes are not regulated by the FDA. Accordingly, you should look for products that have undergone third-party testing to ensure label accuracy and formulation purity. This can be especially important for competitive athletes needing to abide by their respective sport’s governing body.
- Value: Protein shakes can be inherently more expensive than their powdered cousins, but like wallet-minded protein powders, there are more affordable options on the market. Crunch some numbers prior to checkout to make sure your new supplement won’t break the bank after just a few orders.
OWYN Protein Shake Vs. Competitors
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the number of options when shopping for the best protein bars, protein powders, and drinks, you’re not alone. It can definitely be overwhelming, but we got your back. We stacked OWYN protein shakes against a couple of worthwhile competitors — Premier Protein Shakes and Jocko Molk Protein Shakes — to see how they compare to one another.
| OWYN Protein Shake | Jocko Molk Protein Shake | Premier Protein Shake | |
| Price Per Serving | $3.08 | $3.75 | $1.89 (varies slightly by flavor) |
| Calories Per Serving | 180 Calories | 180 | 160 |
| Protein Per Serving | 20 grams | 30 grams | 30 grams |
| Protein Source | Pea protein, organic pumpkin seed protein | Milk protein concentrate, calcium caseinate | Milk protein concentrate, calcium caseinate |
| Sweeteners Used | Monk fruit extract, organic cane sugar | Monk fruit extract, fermented cane sugar | Sucralose, acesulfame, potassium |
| Available Flavors | Strawberry Banana, Smooth Vanilla, Dark Chocolate, Cold Brew Coffee, Cookies & Creamless | Chocolate, Vanilla, Sweet Cream Coffee, Banana Cream | Vanilla, Chocolate, Caramel, Cafe Latte, Cookie Dough, Cookies & Cream, Cinnamon Roll, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cake Batter, Peach & Cream, Strawberries & Cream, Bananas & Cream, Root Beer Float |
| Third-Party Testing | Yes (certifying lab not listed) | Yes (certifying lab not listed) | No |
What is the primary difference between OWYN and the alternatives listed above? OWYN is 100% plant-based, while Premier and Jocko Molk are made with milk protein. As a result, you’ll notice their macro profiles are slightly different.
Premier and Jocko Molk contain more protein (10 more grams per bottle) than OWYN, along with fewer fats and carbs. Depending on your health goals, whether they be weight loss, gaining muscle, or general wellness, these metrics could play a major part in your decision. Fewer carbs and less fat mean your shake may be less satiating, leaving you feeling hungry sooner. You’ll also notice that OWYN’s cost falls right in the middle, with Jocko Molk costing more at roughly $3.75 while Premier Protein Shakes can be picked up for less than $2 per serving (depending on flavor).
Places to Buy OWYN Protein Shakes
You can purchase OWYN plant-based protein shakes from a number of online retailers, including, but not limited to:
- OWYN’s retail page
- Amazon
- Target
- Walmart
- Thrive Market
If you need something with a bit more protein, the OWYN Pro Elite shakes might be worth a look. They’re a low-carb, high-protein version of OWYN’s standard protein shakes. Each carton contains 7 grams of fat, 3 grams of carbs, and 32 grams of protein.
Customer Experience and Brand Reputation
Past and current customers have really hyped up the OWYN brand. With almost 15,000 online reviews, OWYN boasts an impressive 4.2-out-of-5 rating on Amazon. People appreciate the plant-based formula, high-quality ingredients, and enjoyable flavors. Many reviews highlight the lack of artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols like sucralose or stevia, as well. “Packed with goodness, perfect for breakfast, lunch, a snack, or just because I love them so much!” raves one positive customer response.
Thankfully, OWYN seems well-received because the brand’s refund policy is limited. The protein shakes are non-returnable and do not come with a guarantee of satisfaction.
Our Final Verdict on OWYN Protein Shake
As a registered dietitian, I’m a big fan of prioritizing some of the most nutrient-dense foods when building out your nutrition plan. But let’s be real — sometimes, life is crazy, and the only way to meet your daily protein needs is to grab a protein shake as you run out the door.
We think OWYN protein shakes hit the mark in most categories. Our expert tester knows the value of a good protein supplement and had an overall good experience with the flavors they tried. OWYN shakes can be an ideal option if you follow a plant-based diet, too, or simply just want to include more plant-based protein in your diet. They can be an efficient way to boost your protein intake, albeit at a higher cost than your traditional protein powder. Still considering? Use the aforementioned tips and tricks to help you land on the perfect protein source for your daily needs and goals.
OWYN Protein Shake Review FAQs
Are OWYN protein shakes healthy?
OWYN protein shakes can be a healthy addition to a well-balanced diet, but they should not be your sole source of protein each day. According to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, “Your well-balanced diet should consist of a range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Supplements, then, should serve as supplemental goods to help you reach your daily nutritional goals.”
Can I drink an OWYN protein shake every day?
While it’s generally safe to drink a protein supplement daily, it’s important to account for your overall diet and nutrient needs. Protein needs can vary between individuals based on medical history, activity levels, and health goals. A registered dietitian can help you effectively incorporate a protein shake into your diet.
How much do OWYN protein shakes cost?
OWYN protein shakes cost around $3.08 per bottle. However, OWYN also offers subscription-based services featuring discounted order totals in exchange for repeat deliveries.
Are OWYN protein shakes a meal replacement?
No, OWYN protein shakes do not contain enough carbohydrates or fat to be considered a full meal-replacement shake.
References
- Shanthakumar P, Klepacka J, Bains A, Chawla P, Dhull SB, Najda A. The Current Situation of Pea Protein and Its Application in the Food Industry. Molecules. 2022;27(16):5354. Published 2022 Aug 22. doi:10.3390/molecules27165354
- Isanejad M, Tajik B, McArdle A, et al. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid and alpha-linolenic acid are associated with physical capacity measure but not muscle mass in older women 65-72 years. Eur J Nutr. 2022;61(4):1813-1821. doi:10.1007/s00394-021-02773-z
- Gwin, J. A., Church, D. D., Wolfe, R. R., Ferrando, A. A., & Pasiakos, S. M. (2020). Muscle protein synthesis and whole-body protein turnover responses to ingesting essential amino acids, intact protein, and protein-containing mixed meals with considerations for energy deficit. Nutrients, 12(8), 2457. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32824200/
