When most people think of protein powder, they tend to think of a chocolate flavored powder that pairs well with milk. More or less a chocolate milkshake.
And honestly – sometimes that’s just not what I’m looking for.
Thankfully, more manufacturers are starting to make clear protein powder.
Clear protein powder is typically mixed with water to make a drink that is more like a fruit juice than a milkshake. If typical protein powder is too thick for you, then clear protein powder may be the answer.
This makes clear protein a great choice for those who prefer a lighter, fruitier protein supplement option. Plus they often have less sugar than traditional whey protein isolate powders.
Below are a few of the best options if you’re looking at add clear protein powder into your nutrition routine.
Phase 1 Nutrition's Iso is a clear whey isolate with fruity flavors, providing a great alternative to the thicker, milkshake-like protien shakes.
A lighter, more refreshing way to hit your protein goals.
Discount codes:
LIFTVAULT = 10% off at Phase 1
With a wide variety of flavors available at about $1.30/serving, MyProtein's Clear Whey Isolate is a solid option for those looking for refreshing protein supplementation that won't break the bank.
Contains 20 grams of whey protein isolate per serving.
If you don't want to fuss with mixing your own clear protein powder, then Premier Protein's bottled Clear Protein Drink is a great option.
It's also a great option for packing on day trips or while you're on the go for work.
Best Clear Protein Powder for 2021
Iso Clear Protein – Phase 1 Nutrition
Phase 1 Nutrition's Iso is a clear whey isolate with fruity flavors, providing a great alternative to the thicker, milkshake-like protien shakes.
A lighter, more refreshing way to hit your protein goals.
Discount codes:
LIFTVAULT = 10% off at Phase 1
Key Ingredients:
- Whey Protein Isolate – 20 grams
- Carbohydrates – < 1 gram
Phase 1 Nutrition made a big splash with its potent pre workout Pre Phase, but they also make an excellent clear protein supplement.
Their “Paradise Passion” flavor tastes like tropical fruit, especially pineapple, while their “Gym-n-Lime Quencer” is reminiscent of the classic Lime Gatorade. Both are very solid flavors.
I think Paradise Passion would mix better with other fruit in a smoothie, while I prefer to drink Gym-n-Lime Quencer by itself.
Clear Whey Isolate – MyProtein
With a wide variety of flavors available at about $1.30/serving, MyProtein's Clear Whey Isolate is a solid option for those looking for refreshing protein supplementation that won't break the bank.
Contains 20 grams of whey protein isolate per serving.
Key Ingredients:
- Whey Protein Isolate – 20 grams
- Carbohydrates – < 1 gram
As their name suggests, MyProtein tend to have a wide array of different protein supplements available, so it’s no surprise they were one of the first entrants into the clear protein category.
Their Clear Whey Isolate is a budget-friendly option for those looking to try out clear protein powder. They also have samples available so you don’t have to invest in an entire tub.
As they’ve been around a bit longer, they also have developed more flavors than Phase 1 Nutrition so far.
MyProtein’s Clear Whey Isolate is available in the following flavors:
- Lemonade
- Cranberry Apple
- Peach Mango
- Strawberry
- Tropical Dragon Fruit
- Wild Cherry
Clear Protein Drink – Premier Protein
If you don't want to fuss with mixing your own clear protein powder, then Premier Protein's bottled Clear Protein Drink is a great option.
It's also a great option for packing on day trips or while you're on the go for work.
Key Ingredients:
- Protein – 20 grams
- Carbohydrates – 1 gram
Primier Protein’s Clear Protein Drink is a no-nonsense ready-to-drink clear protein supplement. I really like it because it doesn’t contain any sugar or artificial flavors. It’s just protein water and natural flavor. End of story.
And while I typically like to buy protein powder, it’s hard to deny the convenience of the ready to drink option. Sometimes it’s nice to have them on hand for when you’re in a rush or want to pack a snack for later in the day.
Available in Peach and Tropical Punch flavors on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is clear whey protein?
Clear whey protein is a form of protein powder that is best described as less “milky.” They almost exclusively come in fruit flavors and mix into a semi-clear state. The end result is a lighter, fruitier option for protein supplementation.
What is the difference between clear whey protein and regular whey protein?
The most obvious difference is the flavor and mouthfeel. Clear protein usually comes in fruit flavors and has a “lighter” mouthfeel than traditional protein powders.
The other difference is that clear protein is only available as whey isolate. This isn’t really a big deal in my opinion, but it’s a slight difference vs. traditional protein powders.
If you need a refresher, whey protein isolate is a high quality version of protein that removes lactose, making it easier to digest.
“Traditional” protein powders are available in this form as well, but can also be found in whey concentrate (contains lactose, cheaper), and casein (slower digesting).
So, in that way, you may have fewer options when it comes to clear protein, but since whey isolate is typically the preferred option for protein, it isn’t really a compromise.
Is clear protein actually clear?
It depends! Most clear protein powders will leave a translucent hue behind after they are mixed with water, some more than others.
MyProtein’s Clear Whey Isolate can blend into liquid and come out as pretty clear (e.g. its peach tea flavor, now discontinued) or with a hue to it (e.g. its orange mango flavor).
The Iso Clear Protein from Phase 1 will blend into a color that aligns with the flavor.