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Meal replacement shakes are increasingly becoming a great dietary tool to help people lose weight. As a certified fitness trainer, for a long time, I didn’t recommend these to my clients as they often lacked essential nutrients.
While things have changed for the better, many vegans are still struggling to find shakes that are both plant-based and contain the right macro and micronutrients to support weight loss.
After several months of extensive testing, we have managed to come up with a list of the best vegan meal replacement shakes that might just help you avoid all those crappy ones out there.
The Best Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes
- Best Overall Vegan Meal Replacement Shake: Instant Knockout Complete
- Cheapest Vegan Meal Replacement Shake: Garden Of Life
- Best Vegan Shake With Vitamins and Probiotics: Ample Meal Shake
- Best Vegan Zero Sugar Meal Replacement Shake: Orgain Organic Nutrition Shake
- Best Vegan Nutritional Shake for Weight Loss: Instant Knockout Complete
- Best Natural Meal Replacement Shake for Vegans: Instant Knockout Complete
- Best Organic Shake for Vegans: Vega One Organic All-In-One Shake
- Best Gluten-Free Nutritional Shake for Vegans: Garden Of Life
- Best Tasting Vegan Meal Replacement Shake: Orgain Organic Nutrition Shake
- Best Low-Carb Nutritional Shake for Vegans: Organifi Complete Protein Meal
Our Top Plant-Based Meal Replacement Shakes (July 2024)
1 - Instant Knockout Complete (Best Overall, Natural & for Weight Loss)
- Price per serving: $4.21 Key ingredients: Pea Protein
- Soy Protein
- MCT Oil
- Chia Seeds All flavors: Vanilla Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- All-natural ingredients packed with the most nutrients
- Slow-release carbs for whole-day energy
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for cardiovascular health
Cons
- Only one flavor (even if it tastes great)
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Athletes and bodybuilders
- • Those needing a fat-burning meal replacement
Who is it not for?
- • Individuals avoiding caffeine
Final Verdict
A powerful meal replacement designed for fitness enthusiasts looking to burn fat. Not suitable for those sensitive to caffeine.
We love Instant Knockout Complete because it covers 100% of your daily nutrition.
During testing, it gave me a noticeable energy boost and kept me full, fueling my workouts effectively.
At just 400 calories, it's rich in protein and loaded with 26 essential vitamins and minerals, aiding in fat loss and muscle gain.
Its plant-based protein, including ingredients like golden flax seed, keeps you energized and curbs hunger. Plus, it's great for heart health and cholesterol control.
An added bonus? Plant-based proteins are more eco-friendly, emitting fewer greenhouse gases than animal proteins.
There is only one flavor for Instant Knockout Complete. I usually mix it with fruits, peanut butter, and other flavorings.
Also, instead of water, use milk to make the most out of the taste.
2 - Orgain Organic Nutrition Shake (Best Tasting & Zero Sugar)
- Price per serving: $3.00 Key ingredients: Organic Grass-Fed Milk Protein
- 20-21 Vitamins and Minerals
- Organic Fruits and Vegetables All flavors: Creamy Chocolate Fudge Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes in a pre-mixed bottle making it convenient for on the go
- It’s the only zero-sugar product we could find
- There are good discounts available with subscriptions
Cons
- Not dairy-free but gluten-free and 99.7% lactose-free
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Health-conscious individuals
- • Those seeking an organic meal replacement
Who is it not for?
- • People with dairy allergies
Final Verdict
A nutritious and organic meal replacement shake perfect for a healthy diet. Contains dairy, so not ideal for those with allergies.
Orgain Organic has long been a top pick for us. I recall how refreshing their shake was after a run, keeping me full until lunch.
Their label transparency impresses me the most – our nutritionist confirmed it's sugar-free, ideal for those managing diabetes or sugar intake.
The convenience of this ready-to-drink shake is a game-changer. It's easy to carry and consume on the go, saving time in the morning and boosting my energy throughout the day.
Check out our review of Orgain Organic protein powder here.
With four flavors – Creamy Chocolate Fudge, Sweet Vanilla Bean, Strawberries & Cream, and Iced Cafe Mocha – there's variety to keep things interesting.
Plus, it's gluten-free, GMO-free, and soy-free, aligning perfectly with a vegan diet.
3 - Ample Meal Shake: High-Protein, Low-Carb (Best With Vitamins and Probiotics)
- Price per serving: $6.00 Key ingredients: Pea Protein
- Pumpkin Seed Protein
- Coconut MCT Oil
- Probiotics All flavors: Vanilla Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 11 grams of fiber per serving to help with digestion
- Contains vitamins A, B12, and C to specifically benefit vegans
- Provides an organic pea and rice protein blend to cover the full range of essential amino acids
- Added probiotics may help balance your gut flora
- Gluten-free, soy-free, and GMO-free
Cons
- It’s not the cheapest option available
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Vegans
- • People needing a quick, nutritious meal
Who is it not for?
- • Individuals avoiding soy
Final Verdict
A convenient and well-rounded meal replacement for vegans. Avoid if you have soy allergies.
Ample meal shake is my go-to on hectic mornings with back-to-back client sessions.
Unlike other supplements, which often require lengthy team debates, Ample quickly won our dietitian's approval and became our top recommendation for vegan clients.
It's portioned generously enough to replace a full breakfast or light lunch.
The key seems to be in its satisfying combo of 20 grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber per serving, keeping you full and energized.
4 - Organifi Complete Protein Meal Replacement (Best Low-Carb)
- Price per serving: $3.19 Key ingredients: Pea Protein
- Pumpkin Seeds
- Quinoa
- Flax Seeds
- Digestive Enzymes All flavors : Chocolate
- Vanilla Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Low in fat and carbohydrates to not mess up your diet
- Covers the most important vitamins and minerals
- Contains MCTs that may help with mental energy and clarity
Cons
- Currently only available in vanillap
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Chocolate lovers
- • Those seeking plant-based protein
Who is it not for?
- • People with allergies to nuts or seeds
Final Verdict
Delicious and plant-based, this meal replacement is great for chocolate enthusiasts. Be cautious if you have nut or seed allergies.
This product sparked a lively debate among us, emerging as our top pick for an organic weight loss meal replacement shake.
During a week-long cleanse, I was impressed by its great taste and the sustained energy it provided, keeping me sharp and active.
It's packed with essential vitamins and minerals, addressing common deficiencies in vegan diets.
Plus, it's a hit with my keto clients due to its MCT oil content, known to enhance ketosis according to studies published by the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism [1].
We ranked it second mainly because it's only available in vanilla flavor, though it's still a solid choice for a meal replacement shake.
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5 - Vega One Organic All-In-One Shake (Best Organic)
- Price per serving: $2.72 Key ingredients: Pea Protein
- Sunflower Seed Protein
- Pumpkin Seed Protein
- Omega-3
- Antioxidant Vitamins All flavors : Berry
- Chocolate
- Chocolate Mint
- Coconut Almond
- French Vanilla
- Mocha
- Unsweetened Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- One of the few all-organic options available
- Offers a good selection of important micronutrients to become a good meal replacement
- Perfect for a vegan diet
- Contains probiotics and fiber to help with digestion
Cons
- It’s not the cheapest option
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Individuals wanting a nutrient-dense shake
- • Those seeking a variety of flavors
Who is it not for?
- • People sensitive to stevia
Final Verdict
Vega One offers a comprehensive nutrient profile with multiple flavors. Contains stevia, which some may find unpalatable.
Vega One stands out as a meal replacement shake boasting only organic, essential nutrients. In my testing, I noticed improved recovery times and energy boosts post-workout.
It's packed with vital nutrients like B6 and B12, often lacking in vegan diets, and offers a solid dose of plant-based protein. The inclusion of digestive enzymes aids in faster nutrient absorption, promoting gut health and a balanced digestive system.
It's rich in both micro and macronutrients, making it ideal for weight loss.
Just keep in mind that because it’s based only on organic ingredients, you will need to pay more than most other products. However, it's definitely a worthy investment for your health.
6 - Garden Of Life Raw Organic Meal Replacement (Cheapest & Gluten Free)
- Price per serving : $1.85
- Key ingredients : Organic Sprouted Protein Blend, Organic Chocolate Flavor, Organic Cocoa
- All flavors : Chocolate, Lightly Sweet, Vanilla, Vanilla Chai
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Very low in fat per serving making it a heart-healthy option
- Low net carbohydrates as it contains 7 grams of fiber
- Gluten-free
- Contains 20 grams of pea and brown rice protein for balanced amino acids
Cons
- Probably more suitable as a snack replacement
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Organic product enthusiasts
- • People seeking a high-protein meal replacement
Who is it not for?
- • Individuals with soy allergies
Final Verdict
A high-quality, organic meal replacement with a strong protein profile. Contains soy, making it unsuitable for those with soy allergies.
I've always been wary of additives in meal replacement shakes, but I was pleasantly surprised when I first tried Garden Of Life Raw Organic powder. Not only does it offer quality protein, but it also eliminates unwanted sugars and additives that are often found in shakes.
By combining pea and brown rice protein, Garden of Life has also ensured that your body may get the full range of essential amino acids to support weight loss and muscle recovery.
We found that Garden Of Life works well as a protein powder shake, but also as one of the best vegan meal replacements for smaller snacks.
7 - PlantFusion Complete Meal
- Price per serving : $1.73
- Key ingredients : Pea Protein Isolate, Artichoke Protein, Organic Sprouted Amaranth Powder, Organic Sprouted Quinoa Powder
- All flavors : Creamy Vanilla Bean, Chocolate, Red Velvet Cake, Cookies N Creme, Rich Chocolate, Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Uses only natural flavors for a more enjoyable shake
- Claims to contain less than 1g of sugar to not mess with your diet
- Offers a lot of important vitamins and minerals for vegans, including B12
Cons
- Only available in chocolate and vanilla flavors
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Vegans
- • Those needing allergen-free protein
Who is it not for?
- • People avoiding artificial flavors
Final Verdict
A solid, allergen-free protein option for vegans. Some might not like its artificial flavoring.
I was expecting just another vegan protein powder when I first tried PlantFusion, but there's more to it than meets the eye.
First, the inclusion of organic superfoods not only gives you an energy boost on a lazy day, it can also enhance your immune health significantly.
I also liked that it comes with 20 grams of protein per serving, which is a suitable option for non-vegan athletes who are looking for more diverse protein sources in their diet.
The only improvement I would suggest is a wider range of flavors, but that’s just because I'm a pain in the backside when it comes to needing different flavors.
8 - Soylent Meal Replacement Shake
- Price per serving : $3.83
- Key ingredients : Soy Protein Isolate, High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Maltodextrin
- All flavors : Original, Creamy Chocolate, Cafe Mocha, Vanilla, Mint Chocolate
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Pre-mixed shake to make it more convenient on the go
- Claims to have slow-releasing carbohydrates to avoid blood glucose spikes
- Many positive comments that it may help with hunger cravings
Cons
- It does contain some artificial flavors
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Busy professionals
- • Those looking for a balanced meal on-the-go
Who is it not for?
- • Individuals preferring whole foods
Final Verdict
Convenient and balanced, perfect for busy lifestyles. Not for those who prefer whole food ingredients.
Soylent is another Meal Replacement Shake product that stood out in our tests. With 400 calories per serving, this product is suitable for anyone looking for a go-to shake in those hectic mornings when a full breakfast is not available.
What we liked most about it is that along with a good macro balance, it might provide a good boost in the vitamins and minerals that your body needs.
It happens too often that we see clients deficient in nutrients because their meal replacement shake doesn’t make up for the food they aren’t eating.
It’s also not a powder but a ready-to-drink meal replacement shake, which is convenient if you plan to drink it later in the day.
The one thing I don’t like about it is that it does list some artificial flavors on the label. It can be a great addition to a vegan diet.
9 - Complete Start Meal Replacement Shake
- Price per serving : $2.22
- Key ingredients : Organic Pea Protein, Organic Prebiotic Fiber, Organic Cassava Flour
- All flavors : Rich Mocha, Super Greens with Vanilla, Smooth Peanut Butter & Banana
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- One of the better options with 12g of fiber to make you feel full
- A blender bottle is included
- Seems to mix easily with water or plant milk
Cons
- Seems to have a bit of an aftertaste
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Plant-based diet followers
- • Individuals seeking organic ingredients
Who is it not for?
- • People sensitive to stevia
Final Verdict
A great organic and plant-based option for breakfast. Contains stevia, which may not be suitable for everyone.
We got a good few positive comments about this plant-based protein powder and meal replacement shake, with folks saying that it seemed to keep them full for longer.
With 20 grams of protein per serving, it should give you what your body needs to help with muscle recovery and building.
One thing we did notice is that you might notice a slight stevia aftertaste, but it doesn’t last too long.
10 - Oxyfresh Pea Protein
- Price per serving : $5.99
- Key ingredients : Non-GMO Pea Protein, Patented Probiotic, Proprietary Greens Blend
- All flavors : Chocolate
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains 20 g of organic pea protein, which might also be enough for athletes
- Many reports that the pea protein mixes easily into a smooth shake
- Suitable for kids so might be a good option families
Cons
- This pea protein product contains a fair bit of sugar
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • Health-conscious individuals
- • Those seeking a probiotic boost
Who is it not for?
- • People on a tight budget
Final Verdict
A nutritious meal replacement with added probiotics. It’s a bit pricey compared to other options.
This meal replacement powder is mainly based on pea protein isolate as protein powder source, which is rich in arginine. For athletes, this could be a good reason as arginine plays a role in muscle building.
Unlike other vegan protein products, we saw a lot of comments online that this pea protein surprisingly easy to mix. As a result, you shouldn’t end up with a lumpy mess.
That may also explain why this pea protein powder seems to be quite popular with families as well.
It also includes broccoli, cabbage, kale, collard greens, and any other leafy greens you can imagine.
11 - Huel Vegan Powdered Meal
- Price per serving : $2.25
- Key ingredients : Oats, Pea Protein, Flaxseed, Brown Rice Protein
- All flavors : Vanilla
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides a significant amount of nutrients to curb hunger
- Claims to provide plenty of essential minerals and vitamins for overall well being
- Includes pro- and prebiotics to help your digestive system
Cons
- We found that the taste was a bit bland and chalky
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- • People seeking complete nutrition
- • Those needing a versatile meal option
Who is it not for?
- • Individuals with gluten sensitivity
Final Verdict
A versatile and nutritionally complete meal replacement. Not ideal for those avoiding gluten.
Huel has created a protein powder that is also aimed at replacing meals rather than snacks with 400 calories per serving.
This also delivers 30 grams of protein, which should be enough for the majority of athletes.
Along with a good selection of vitamins and minerals, you also get some digestive enzymes, which may help to make your digestive system a bit more effective.
Check out our full Huel review.
The main reason this is listed at the bottom of the list is that we weren’t too impressed with the flavor, which is a bit on the bland side.
How We Chose the Products:
In selecting the best vegan meal replacement shakes, we began with a meticulous process that involved both market research and hands-on testing.
Ingredient Quality
We meticulously evaluated the ingredient quality of each vegan meal replacement shake. Our focus was on high-grade, vegan-friendly components that met our strict standards for health and nutrition.
Nutritional Profile
In collaboration with a nutritionist, we analyzed the macro and micronutrient balance of each product. This step ensured that the shakes we selected provided a comprehensive nutritional profile suitable for a vegan diet.
Taste and Flavor Options
Taste is crucial for sustained use, so we assessed the variety and appeal of flavor options. Our goal was to offer a range of palatable choices to cater to diverse taste preferences.
Price and Value
We considered the price point and overall value of each shake. It was important for us to recommend products that were not only effective but also offered good value for money, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Brand reputation and customer feedback played a significant role in our selection process. We sought products with positive reviews and a strong brand ethos, indicative of reliability and customer satisfaction.
Throughout this process, my team and I engaged in hands-on testing of these shakes, ensuring our recommendations were based on actual experience and effectiveness.
Buyer’s Guide
During our research, we focused on certain areas that you should always keep in mind before making a final decision among the best vegan meal replacement shakes in this list.
1 - Consider Your Dietary Restrictions
Vegans and athletes often go for plant-based powders, but watch out for common allergens like soy and gluten.
And don't forget about sugar – it's not just a diabetic's concern; it can spike your hunger too.
If you're watching your sugar intake, consider shakes tailored for diabetics.
"People with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity have to avoid wheat and other grains that contain the protein gluten. People with a wheat allergy only need to avoid wheat and can tolerate gluten from grains that don't contain wheat."
-
Helen West, Registered Dietitian
2 - Match Your Meal Replacement With Your Diet Goals
Don't just snatch up any vegan shake. They vary in macros, and some are even geared towards weight gain.
Match the shake's calorie count with your diet goals. If you're clueless about calories, apps like Noom or a chat with a dietitian can help.
Remember, vegan protein powders and meal replacement shakes aren't the same; choose based on your needs.
3 - Look Out For Artificial Ingredients
Think all plant-based products are healthy? Think again.
Many are loaded with artificial sweeteners and flavors, which could do more harm than good.
This has been backed by studies published by Science Daily which have revealed that these sweeteners could be causing more problems, such as weight gain [2].
Here’s a good rule of thumb:
if the label's silent on artificial ingredients, they're probably in there.
4 - Always Check For Hidden Animal Products
Even if a shake screams 'vegan', double-check for sneaky animal-derived ingredients like gelatin or lipase.
When in doubt, stick to USDA vegan-certified products.
5 - Figure Out Which Meals To Replace
Using a protein powder as a meal replacement? That might not cut it.
Ensure your shake has the right mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially if it's replacing a main meal.
6 - Flavored Vs. Unflavored
Flavored shakes are great solo, but if you're into DIY, unflavored ones mix well with ingredients like berries or almond butter.
Just a heads-up: mixing green superfoods with peanut butter flavor? Not the best idea.
7 - Important Vitamins And Minerals
Do not ignore nutritional micronutrients in your criteria. Depending on the brand, you will find some very wide ranges of vitamins.
And here’s the most annoying thing.
Some companies will list minerals and vitamins in small print, but if you look closer, they either contain zero or close to zero mg of them.
They might argue that they have to be listed on nutritional labels, but it might be a little bit deceiving. Make sure to check the amounts of these vitamins and minerals if they meet your daily nutritional requirements.
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FAQs
What Is a Vegan Meal Replacement Shake?
A vegan meal replacement shake is usually a powder and sometimes a ready-to-drink shake that contains an ideal balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to replace a snack or meal. With some essential micronutrients and low calories, most meal replacement shakes aim to help with weight loss.
What Are the Benefits of Taking Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes?
The benefits of taking vegan meal replacement shakes are mainly down to helping you to suppress hunger. Often high in fiber, they may make it easier to take in fewer calories with less of a temptation to snack on unhealthy food.
Are Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes Good for Weight Loss?
Yes, vegan meal replacement shakes are good for weight loss as long as they are combined with a balanced and healthy vegan diet. You will also need to factor in plenty of physical exercise, as these aren’t some sort of magic supplement to burn away excess fat and lose weight.
How Long Should You Take Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes?
You should take vegan meal replacement shakes for at least the amount of time it might take to get to your ideal weight, if you're trying to lose weight. Some of our clients keep using them indefinitely to replace breakfast or snacks, as this might help to maintain that new weight.
Do Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes Actually Work?
Yes, vegan meal replacement shakes actually work, and people of all fitness levels have been able to achieve great results. The important thing is that you need to make sure that your meal replacement product results in your body having a net negative calorie intake.
Can You Live Off of Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes?
No, you cannot live off vegan meal replacement shakes, and they are not meant to replace all of your meals. It is still going to be important to get energy and nutritional value from eating normal cooked and raw foods.
How Often Should Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes Be Taken per Day?
Vegan meal replacement shakes are usually taken one to two times a day, but it depends on your diet and fitness goals. Even if most of these contain protein and essential nutrients, they are not designed to replace all meals in a day so you still have to eat regular healthy solid meals.
How Do You Know if Your Vegan Meal Replacement Shake Is Healthy?
Your vegan meal replacement shake is healthy if it contains a good amount of protein, a high-quality blend of essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics, and other superfoods. You would also want to avoid too much sugar and artificial ingredients like sweeteners, flavors, and additives.
Which Vegan Meal Replacement Shake Should You Pick?
After extensive testing and evaluation with my team, we unanimously agree that Instant Knockout Complete stands out as the best vegan meal replacement shake.
Its comprehensive nutritional profile, including 26 essential vitamins and minerals, significantly contributed to sustained energy levels and overall well-being.
The shake's ability to support weight loss while promoting muscle gain and heart health was particularly impressive.
Despite its limited flavor options, its versatility in mixing well with various ingredients like milk made it a favorite.
Our hands-on experience solidified Instant Knockout Complete as our top recommendation.
Our #1 Vegan Meal Replacement Shake
Instant Knockout Complete (Best Overall, Natural & for Weight Loss)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- All-natural ingredients packed with the most nutrients
- Slow-release carbs for whole-day energy
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for cardiovascular health
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of July
- Only one flavor (even if it tastes great)
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