The 8 Best Meal Replacement Shakes of 2025, With Dietitian Advice

If you’re looking to gain weight fast and safely, the trick is consuming more calories than you burn, while still focusing on healthy, nutrient-dense foods. Calorically-dense liquids, like meal replacements, can be a game-changer when you’re feeling full but still need to hit your calorie goals. (9) That’s where Transparent Labs Mass Gainer comes in, delivering a hefty 730 to 750 calories per serving. As our top pick as the best mass gainer, its nutritionally balanced formula makes it an effective ally in your weight-gain journey.

Expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., gives it a 4.25 out of 5 for its formulation. She notes, “It accomplishes exactly what it’s intended to accomplish, and the ingredients list is very transparent.” Each serving delivers a well-rounded 53 grams of protein, 14 grams of fat, and 110 grams of carbs, sourced from high-quality ingredients, like grass-fed whey protein, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, coconut milk, organic tapioca maltodextrin, oat flour, and sweet potato powder.

Beyond the macros, Transparent Labs Mass Gainer also includes 3 grams of creatine monohydrate, an effective dose of the most researched and proven supplement to build muscle mass and enhance athletic performance. (10) However, Bourgeois pointed out its higher sodium and saturated fat content, cautioning, “If heart health is a concern, you should be mindful of how frequently you use this powder.”

On the taste front, while the BarBend team wished for more flavor options, our tester was impressed with the Chocolate Glazed Donut flavor. “It legit tastes like a chocolate donut,” they say, giving taste a 4 out of 5 rating.

The product’s solubility also stood out, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating. “It dissolved well with no clumps, and the consistency was enjoyable,” our tester adds. They also reported no adverse effects after using the mass gainer.

We rated Transparent Labs Mass Gainer 3 out of 5 for overall value. While most mass gainers are priced under $5 per serving, this comes in at $5.33. However, if your budget allows and you value a high-quality formula with third-party testing, it’s a strong choice to help you easily add quality calories to your diet.

Read our full Transparent Labs Mass Gainer Review.

Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal secures the top spot with its powerful, all-natural blend of over 85 superfoods. This meal replacement offers a balanced mix of macronutrients and essential micronutrients, effectively filling nutritional gaps and supporting overall health. Plus, it’s loved for its flavor, delivering great taste without any synthetic fillers or creamers. This is also why it’s also one of the best protein shakes for weight loss.

Ka’Chava ticks all the right nutritional boxes, earning a 4.5-star rating from BarBend expert Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D. She notes, “You get a good balance of macronutrients and a really impressive list of vitamins and minerals. Plus, it provides a good amount of dietary fiber per serving — yay, gut health!” The formula also includes prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes to enhance digestion. (3)(4)

As a vegan formula, Ka’Chava offers a robust combination of plant-based proteins — like yellow pea and whole-grain brown rice proteins — to provide all the essential amino acids we need to obtain from our diet.

“Because plant-based sources each rarely contain all of the essential amino acids, combining multiple plant sources helps deliver a complete protein,” says Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D.

The meal replacement also provides adaptogens for stress relief, antioxidants to fight inflammation, omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health, and a variety of super greens, vitamins, and minerals to fill nutritional gaps. (6)(7)(8)  

Despite its extensive ingredient list, one serving provides just 240 calories, making it lighter than many other meal replacements. While its balanced blend of fats, carbs, and protein can satisfy, some users may experience some GI or stomach discomfort. “I felt a bit bloated after having this shake, but didn’t experience any other negative side effects,” says our tester who gave side effects a 3.5 out of 5 score.

Regarding Ka’Chava’s taste, our product tester was impressed and rated it a 4 out of 5. “This is one of the best meal replacements and plant-based shakes I’ve tried,” they say. “It has a slightly earthy flavor but barely noticeable, and I didn’t notice too much grittiness, either.” Pro tip: Mix in a blender over a shaker bottle for a smoother consistency. 

Ka’Chava might be pricier at $4.66 per serving, but we still gave it a solid 4 out of 5 for overall value. To echo our tester, “It’s definitely expensive, but you’re paying for quality ingredients that are packed with nutritional value.” 

Read our full Ka’Chava Meal Replacement Review.

Meal replacements often lack flavor variety, but Huel Black Edition stands out with some of the best-tasting meal replacement shakes. Nine options delighted our testers, particularly the Cookies & Cream flavor. One tester described it as having “the perfect level of sweetness,” rating the overall flavor a 5 out of 5. They found it made their espresso taste even more delicious.

“While I usually only recommend meal replacement shakes for times when you’re in a pinch, this product does a better job than most of providing a balanced macronutrient profile,” says BarBend expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., “Still, I think it could use a few more grams of carbs and micronutrients to constitute a true meal replacement,” giving the overall formulation a 3.5 out of 5. Yet, for those looking to follow a higher-protein, lower-carb eating plan, this could fit in well.

Each serving packs 400 calories, perfectly balanced with 40 grams of protein, 20 to 25 grams of carbs, and 17 to 18 grams of fat, depending on the flavor. Plus, it’s loaded with all essential vitamins and minerals, including 71% of your daily vitamin C, 20% of your calcium, and 50% of your iron needs.

BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer appreciates the product’s solubility, rating it 4.5 out of 5. “It mixes pretty well, which I liked, but I could taste some of the graininess from the powder when I just mixed it with water. However, I actually liked the feeling of drinking something a bit thicker than my usual protein shake.”

After several weeks of using Huel, our tester reported no negative side effects, awarding it a perfect 5 out of 5 in this category. “I swapped this in for my usual morning protein shake, and the amount of carbs have helped fuel my workouts,” they say. Even their partner, who typically experiences gastrointestinal issues with whey, had no trouble with Huel, as it uses whey isolate, which contains very little lactose. (15)

Huel earned a 3.5 out of 5 for third-party testing since it doesn’t specify its independent testers, which may concern athletes subject to drug testing. On the bright side, we appreciate its label and website transparency. 

Costing up to $3.41 per serving, Huel isn’t the cheapest option. However, its ample calories and high marks for taste offer solid value.

Read our full Huel Black Edition Meal Replacement Review.

The keto diet, known for its high-fat and ultra-low-carb approach, requires a daily carb intake of fewer than 50 grams to shift the body’s fuel source from glucose to ketones. (11) HLTH Code Complete Meal supports this by offering just 13 grams of carbs — 9 of which are dietary fiber — and a hearty 27 grams of fat and protein, making it a safe bet for those aiming to stay in ketosis.

HLTH Code Complete Meal features a “Healthy Fats Blend” — with coconut oil powder, MCT powder, flaxseed powder, and other sources — to deliver a balanced mix of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It also packs a protein punch with whey protein concentrate, egg whites, and grass-fed collagen, renowned for enhancing skin, hair, nails, and joints. (8)(12)(13) 

This keto-friendly meal replacement also provides 50 percent of your daily essential vitamins and minerals. These include key micronutrients that may be low in a low-carb diet, such as folate, thiamine, magnesium, and vitamins A, E, and B6. (14) 

Our expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., gave the formula a 2 out of 5, noting that it’s not ideal for those seeking a well-balanced meal due to its low-carb content. However, for keto enthusiasts, it shines. The shake is entirely sugar-free, sweetened instead with low-glycemic monk fruit extract and Stevia, a feature our expert praises: “I like how this shake doesn’t contain any sugar at all.”

Our tester tried three flavors from this brand and gave a solid 4 out of 5 score for taste. “The vanilla option has a hint of a nutty flavor, the chocolate macadamia flavor isn’t very strong, and the chocolate flavor definitely tastes like a plant-based protein,” says our tester. “Overall, I wish the flavors were a bit stronger, but I could easily see myself drinking the vanilla or chocolate macadamia shakes again.”

Solubility took a hit and only scored a 3 out of 5. “The bag tells you to mix it in a shaker cup, but… don’t do that. You better throw this powder into a blender if you don’t want a chunky consistency,” says our tester. “Once mixed, this shake is super smooth and creamy.”

We rated it a 3 out of 5 for overall value. At $59.95 for a 15-serving bag, each meal costs about $4. While it is not the priciest option, more affordable alternatives are available.

While some meal replacements may boast a few organic ingredients, Orgain Organic Nutritional Protein Shakes stand out with their USDA Certified Organic and non-GMO credentials. Besides its vitamin and mineral blend, all ingredients are organic and free from chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and artificial agents, including artificial sugars and sweeteners. (16)

Orgain’s meal replacement shakes cater to dairy-free and plant-based diets, offering 16 grams of protein per serving. Dairy options draw from organic milk and whey protein concentrates, while plant-based varieties feature organic pea protein and chia seeds. These shakes blend vitamins, minerals, fruits, and vegetables, delivering up to 21 essential nutrients, making them some of the best organic protein products.

However, it’s crucial to remember that “organic” doesn’t automatically mean “healthy.” Despite their organic label, these shakes can still contain added sugars, fats, oils, and fillers that don’t necessarily boost their nutritional value. For instance, Orgain’s shakes contain up to 11 grams of added sugar.

With only 250 calories per serving, these shakes are on the lower end of the spectrum for meal replacements. Additionally, they offer just 2 grams of fiber, compared to other options that provide up to 9 grams. “With 16 grams of protein, 30 grams of carbs, and seven grams of fat, this pre-made nutrition shake can be an ideal snack option between meals,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D. All things considered, we rate Orgain’s formulation a 3.75 out of 5.

Flavor was once a weak spot for Orgain, limited to Creamy Chocolate Fudge. However, their lineup has expanded to include vanilla, coffee, and strawberry-inspired flavors. Amazon reviewers mostly praise the shakes for their great taste.

Convenience and mixability are where Orgain truly excels. It scores a perfect 5 out of 5 for solubility, and it’s ready to drink straight from the bottle — just pop open and enjoy! “If you need a snack in a pinch, this pre-made nutrition shake from Orgain is a viable option,” says Bourgeois.

On the price front, Orgain also shines, earning a 5 out of 5. A four-bottle pack costs $9.48, breaking down to just $2.37 per serving, making it an excellent, budget-friendly choice for those seeking an affordable meal replacement shake.

We crowned Huel Black Ready-to-Drink Shakes as the best meal replacement drink for high-protein on the go, delivering 20 to 22 grams of protein per bottle from various plant-based proteins. Huel Black Edition is also available as a ready-to-drink shake, offering an impressive 35 grams of protein per bottle. This protein content aligns with the recommended intake for improving body composition and performance, where at least 20 grams per meal is considered ideal. (17)

“While I appreciate the balance of nutrients in each bottle of Huel, the 20-22 grams of protein leaves me wanting a bit more in terms of a meal replacement shake,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D. If tracking daily protein, how much protein you need depends on various factors, but aiming for 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight is a solid guideline for most adults. (18) If you’re focused on weight loss or leading an active lifestyle, increasing to 2 grams per kilogram is wise, and potentially even more if muscle gain is your goal. (19) 

“If you have specific goals regarding weight or athletics, consider working with a knowledgeable nutrition professional who can recommend personalized macronutrient ranges to accomplish your goals,” says Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D.

But it’s not just protein that matters — Huel’s 37 to 41 grams of carbs may enhance strength and muscle growth when paired with resistance training, thanks to their protein-sparing effect for minimizing muscle protein breakdown. (19) The shakes also pack up to 7 grams of fiber, which can help keep you fuller longer, positioning themselves as some of the best meal replacement shakes for weight loss. Plus, with 27 vitamins and minerals, it fills in any nutritional gaps you might have.

However, some flavors contain up to 460 milligrams of sodium, and some filler ingredients like sunflower lecithin and gellan gum — details worth noting if you’re keeping an eye on your intake and the quality of ingredients. “I appreciate that these shakes are low in added sugars,” says Bourgeois who gave a 3.75 out of 5 rating for its formulation. “That’s not always the case with pre-made shakes.”

One drawback to note is the texture. “I found the texture to be SUPER thick, to the point where your mouth is sticky,” reported our tester. We recommend refrigerating it and giving it a good shake before you dive in. 

Lastly, at $5.54 per bottle, Huel is pricier than many other meal replacements, though subscribing can save you over $1.00 per bottle. But as our tester pointed out, “It’s important to remember that this is a complete meal replacement drink, high in calories, all macros, and micros, so the price is easier to justify.” Plus, the ultra-convenience of a ready-to-drink shake adds to its value.

310 Meal Replacement Shakes offer a low-carb option that is free of added sugars and contains up to 7 grams of carbs, making them a suitable choice for people with diabetes managing their blood sugar levels. Even if you don’t manage diabetes, these shakes can be a smart choice for those who prefer to get their carbs from whole foods. With 13 tempting flavors like Cookies ‘N Cream, Caramel Sundae, and Tropical Coconut, they can satisfy a sweet tooth without the blood sugar spike and crash.

This formula offers 15 grams of protein from pea, brown rice, and pumpkin sources, delivering a complete essential amino acid profile. (5) It also includes 27 vitamins and minerals in various nutrient blends, featuring fiber, adaptogens, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and superfoods to boost overall nutritional value and health. (6)(7)(8)

However, we don’t consider 310 a proper meal replacement. Why? Each serving delivers only 110 calories, and even doubling the portion still leaves you with a low-calorie intake — while also doubling the cost. However, for those looking to lose weight, this could be a great option when you are working under direct medical supervision for a very-low calorie diet.

For these reasons, we rated 310 Meal Replacement Shakes 2.5 out of 5 for formulation. As BarBend expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., points out, “The macro ratio versus its cost leaves you wanting more, and the proprietary blends make you wonder what you’re actually drinking.”

Though we don’t recommend this shake as a meal replacement, it does work well as a low-carb snack to boost your protein intake. “I tried the variety pack, and I liked the chocolate, mocha, and vanilla flavors,” notes our tester, giving the taste a 4 out of 5. “But I’d skip the coconut flavor — it just didn’t work for me.”

Solubility also scored a 4 out of 5. “It looked like it was going to have a grainy consistency, but I didn’t notice it,” says our tester. “And when I popped it into a blender, the creaminess reminded me of a milkshake.”

The price point didn’t impress us either, as a 28-serving bag costs $89.99, about $3.21 per serving. Given the low-calorie count, we rated the overall value at 2 out of 5. Still, it could be appropriate for some people’s needs.

Read our full 310 Meal Replacement Shake Review.

If you’re looking for the one the best vegan meal replacement shakes, Rootana takes our top spot thanks to its well-rounded, plant-based nutritional profile. Each serving delivers 20 grams of protein from pea protein, which contains all essential amino acids. (20) However, pea protein is lower in methionine, so Rootana adds flaxseed powder to increase the contents of this crucial amino acid. (21)

Additionally, Rootana provides at least 20% of your daily intake of 27 essential vitamins and minerals in each serving. This includes B vitamins, iron, vitamin D, and other key micronutrients that can sometimes be harder to obtain from plant-based sources alone. (22) 

Rootana features cleaner ingredients — like oat flour powder and organic coconut sugar — to offer 14 grams of omega-rich fats and 44 to 46 grams of unrefined carbs, including 7 to 9 grams of fiber. “Rootana scores a 4 out of 5 for its formulation, with high marks for its ingredients list and macronutrient ratio and deductions for the missing nutrition info on the website,” says registered dietitian and BarBend expert contributor Chelsea Rae Bourgeois. “Can’t score what you don’t know in full.”

When it comes to taste, our tester gave the Dark Chocolate flavor a 3 out of 5, stating, “It’s okay — I’ve had better, but I’ve definitely had worse, and just wish it were a bit sweeter.” With only Vanilla and Original (which has an oatmeal-like taste) as the other available flavors, it’s tough to judge the taste range comprehensively.

Solubility is another area where Rootana could improve. Our tester rated it a 2 out of 5, noting, “I followed the mixing instructions, but it was quite thick. Adding more water than instructed did help.”

In terms of value, Rootana scored a 4 out of 5. At $49.99 for a 14-serving bag, about $3.57 per meal, it’s a strong mid-range option for those seeking a nutritious vegan meal replacement. Plus, a 20% discount is available through subscription, making it even more wallet-friendly.