With the start of new year, improving our diets tends to be our #1 goal. Don’t worry, whether you are looking for a meal replacement to lose weight, eat more healthily, or have a better meal on the go, you will find it here.
This is a compilation of the very best meal replacement shakes that I have discovered in my journey to become a meal replacement “expert”.
Over the past years, I have had the pleasure to try over 250 meal replacement shakes from dozens of different brands!
During this journey, I have tried ready-to-drink products, vegan powders, keto shakes, savoury flavours and many more. It has been a wild ride with multiple positive surprises and very few disappointments.
In all that time, I have had 0 health issues, and in fact, I have gone from being a complete food skeptic to a complete food fanatic. Or at least, a big advocate of theirs.
Quick Answers – Best Meal Replacement Shakes 2024
For those who are not interested in reading the whole breakdown, and just want to know what the best meal replacement shake is:
What is the Best Meal Replacement Shake in the US?–>
- Lyfefuel Daily Essential –> Check Them Now
What is the best meal replacement shake in Europe?
- Rootana Real Food Based Shakes –> Check them Now
You can check more categories, like the best tasting shakes or the best keto shakes further down below.
⬇️ Check The Best Shakes ⬇️
Some Fun Stats about Meal Replacements
In case you are not sure if meal replacements are healthy or if they are the right fit for you, here are some stats to convince you otherwise:
- 82% of the consumers were satisfied or extremely satisfied with what meal replacements gave them (Complete Food Survey, 2020)
- Most consumers (70%) stated that meal replacement helps them achieve their dietary goals (weight loss, weight gain, or maintenance)
- Chocolate is the most popular flavor (70%), followed by Vanilla (62%)
- Most users started with meal replacement to improve their diet and help them manage their time
- The average meal (400kcal) costs $3.33. The cheapest meals can cost as little as $1.2, and the most expensive $8!
Overview of The Best Meal Replacement Shakes
Fortunately, there are tons of meal replacement shake brands out there.
However, finding the best meal replacement shakes can be a challenge among so many options. You can go crazy picking one, end up choosing the wrong one and end up disenchanted with your choice.
That’s why I’ve made this list, so you don’t make that mistake!
Our Top Picks for the Best Meal Replacement Shake:
- Best Meal Replacement Shake in the US — Lyfefuel Daily Essentials
- Best Value Meal Replacement Shake in the US — Rootana
- Best Meal Replacement Shake in the UK — Complete 360 Meal
- Best Low Carb Meal Replacement Shake in the UK – Huel Black
- Best Weight Loss Meal Replacement Shake — Diet Meal Replacement Extreme
- Best Weight Loss Meal Replacement Shake in the US — Instant Knockout Complete
- Best Keto Meal Replacement Shake — Sated
- Best Low Carb Meal Replacement Shake — HLTH Code Complete Meal
- Best Meal Replacement Bar — Plenny Bar
- Best Ready to Drink Meal Replacement — YFood
- Best Meal Replacement Shake for Women — Dare Motivation
- Best Organic Meal Replacement Shake — Ka’chava
- Best Meal Replacement Company — Huel
Below, you will find even more categories like Soylent alternatives, gluten-free shakes, or high-calorie drinks that might fit your query better.
Best Meal Replacement Shakes at a Glance
Check out this spreadsheet with a little bit more info, if you don’t want to browse each category individually:
Types of Meal Replacement Shakes
As portrayed below, there are many different types of meal replacement shakes. They are usually divided in 3 categories:
- Powder Meal Replacement Shakes. The most affordable option.
- Ready to Drink Meal Replacement Shakes. The most convenient option.
- Meal Replacement Bars. Often best used as a snack.
However, as of late, we have also seen the rise of food-like or hot & savory complete foods, like Huel H&S or Plenny Pots.
Overall, I have found that they are not only convenient, and affordable, but meal replacement shakes have also provided me with a health boost in times of need. They have been there in stressful moments of my life when I had no time to think about cooking and eating healthy.
In fact, they have taken the stress factor from eating and helped me focus on work and other life aspects.
As such, I hope that this list of the best meal replacement shakes will help you find the right product. Because believe me, the best meal replacement drinks can be life-changing.
Who Is this Handsome Fella?
Hey, this is me: Enaut Irazabalbeitia, the “Expert”.
- Not a moron. I graduated in BSc Biochemistry at the University of Bath.
- Highly motivated. I’ve always been highly interested in nutrition, sports performance, and health issues.
- Field tested. During the last 4 years, I’ve tested over 250 products and flavours; from fantastic shakes to some questionable ones. I’ve tried it all, so you don’t have to.
- Thankful. Lastly, I wanna thank all my readers for taking the time to read my articles and appreciate my insights.
Find out how we test all the products to provide with in-depth, unbiased reviews of all the best meal replacement shakes!
5 Important Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Meal Replacement Shakes
Needless to say, picking the right meal replacement drink can be tricky.
There are multiple factors that you need to look at before buying, such as, price, taste, texture of the shake, flavors available, nutritional output, allergies etc.
When we try, test and rank the top meal replacement shakes we look at multiple things – including all above and more -, but here are 5 things that you must consider before buying.
- Budget. Arguably the most important factor is the price. You can enjoy a good meal replacement shake for as little as $1.5/serving, but the most premium shakes might cost you upwards to $4/serving. Don’t worry, there’s a product for everybody.
- Allergies. Gluten, soy, milk and nuts are very common in meal replacement shakes. If you have any allergies, make sure to check the nutritional label before you buy.
- Vegan or not vegan? Luckily, many meal replacements are vegan-friendly, but it’s not the case for every brand. If you have any nutritional preferences, double-check, just in case.
- How much protein? Protein is the most important nutrient of all.
- Location
Beside the above-mentioned, you might be curious about the taste and texture of the shakes.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Make sure to check out our in-depth meal replacement reviews to find out about how the shake tastes and other intricate details!
Note: Many meal replacement shakes are not complete! They hide the fact that they lack key nutrients like omega-3 or vitamins and minerals! We always highlight this in our reviews, and only recommend the most well-rounded shakes!
Meal Replacements that I Use Frequently
Obviously, while I’ve compiled lists of what I considered to be the top meal replacements; there are only a few that I can use regularly. While these might not be the best suited for everybody; I want to share my personal favourites and those shakes that I use regularly.
Complete 360 Meal Vegan (EU/UK/US)
An absolute favorite of mine. I love their nutritional output with 30g of protein per serving, how affordable it is (about $1.2/400 with discounts), and above all the taste. The Double Milk Chocolate is mouthwatering, without any weird aftertaste. Makes me feel healthy and satisfied. They also have a great diet version.
Rootana
Rootana offers me a more clean shake, without the artificial sweeteners, and less sweet. I find it to be a good break from C360 and better when I’m using meal replacement shakes regularly. I don’t get bored as fast. The Dark Cacao is the best chocolate powder you can have
Besides these, here are other excellent meal replacement powders that my editor in the US drinks and loves:
Lyfefuel Daily Essentials Chocolate (US)
The healthiest meal replacement shake you can have. An absolute nutrient bomb that helps you feel energized during the morning. It’s healthy, plus it tastes amazing. Johnny has been loving Lyfefuel since he first tried it.
HLTH Complete Meal (US)
Often Johnny finds myself looking for a low-carb, high-protein meal. On those occasions,HLTH Complete Meal is the answer. A wonderful, delicious, and incredibly nutritious shake. It’s a shame they only have 2 flavours, but their Chocolate Macadamia is out of this world.
Fuel for My Brain – I Also Use: Nootropics
Mens sana in corpore sano
I try to keep my both my body and my mind in top condition. In order to keep my brain sharp, keep my energy levels high, and increase my output I use nootropics regularly.
These are natural active agents, like caffeine, that can boost brain tissue repairs, activate your cognitive pathways, help you reduce stress, etc.
Hunter Focus
- Hunter Focus is my go-to nootropic mix.
- This helps me focus, and increases my mental sharpness.
- It’s also great reducing mental fatigue.
- Ideal for long days at work, or as a memory booster while studying.
- Highly recommended
The Best Meal Replacement Shakes
So, below you can browse the collection of a few lists of best meal replacements I’ve made. Whether you are looking for keto shakes, Soylent alternatives or diet drinks you’ll find them below.
The Best Shakes That Fit Your Diet
Paleo, vegan, keto… finding the right options that suit your diets is not always easy; particularly on the go. Check below to discover my top meal replacement picks and stop worrying about it.
Best Keto and Low Carb Shakes
Struggling to eat keto on the go? Or have you run out of meal ideas? Uncover new alternatives with the best keto meal shakes!
Best Shake: HLTH Complete
Best Protein Shake: Proganics Protein Shake
Best Vegan Shakes
The best vegan meal shakes and protein powders for your enjoyment. Have a plant-based meal that fits your needs, without any hassle.
Best Shake: Kachava
Best Protein Shake: Wondershake
Best Breakfast Shakes
Looking for a healthy and affordable breakfast? One that doesn’t require too much time to prepare? Find out about the best breakfast replacements!
Best Organic and Natural Shakes
These are some of the healthiest meal replacements that you can buy. Made from real food and/or organic ingredients; the best for your stomach.
Best Shake: Orgain
Best Protein Shake: Four Sigmatic
Best Diabetic Shakes
A list of meal replacement shakes and protein drinks that are suitable for diabetics. Low sugar and low GI drinks will help you balance your diet.
Best Shake: Lyfefuel Daily Essentials
Best Protein Shake: ON Gold Standard
Best Meal Replacement Shakes by Weight Goals
Best for Weight Loss
Losing weight is hard. However, meal replacement shakes can be a useful tool to help you achieve your ideal goal.
Best Shake: Diet Meal Replacement Extreme
Best Shake (US): Instant Complete
Best High Calorie Shakes
Whether you are trying to put some mass on; or support your active lifestyle, these high-calorie drinks will come in handy.
Best Shake: Naked Nutrition Weight Gainer
Alternatives to Top Meal Replacement Shake Brands
There are multiple meal replacement brands out there. You don’t need to stick to the first one that you discover. Even more, if this is not the same as the one you fell in love with. Have a look at the meal replacement alternative to some of the most popular brands:
Best Soylent Alternatives
Discover the best substitutes to the popular US brand Soylent. I mention keto shakes, other RTDs and more nutritional meals.
Best Shake: HLTH Complete
Best Shakeology Alternatives
The US brand is well-known among people looking to lose weight. However, there are much healthier and cheaper alternatives out there!
Best Shake: Lyfefuel Daily Essentials
Best Huel Alternatives
Huel is the leading meal replacement brand in the world, but not everybody likes its taste. I have listed the top options to replace Huel with.
Best Shake: Complete 360 Meal
Best Kachava Alternatives
70 superfoods, a whole natural blend, and amazing tasting shakes. Ka’chava has it all, but it’s bloody expensive. Don’t worry, there are plenty of other great shakes out there.
Best Shake: Lyfefuel Daily Essentials
The Best Allergen Free Shakes
Best Soy Free
Allergic to soy or trying to avoid it? Find out what the best soy-free meal replacement and protein powders are! I also include some RTD options.
Best Shake: Kachava
Best Protein Shake: Huel Complete Protein
Best Dairy-Free Shakes
The best dairy-free shakes will show you lactose-free meal options and plant-based alternatives.
Best Shake: Complete 360 Meal
Best Protein Shake: Four Sigmatic
Best Gluten-Free
Are you having issues with gluten and it’s negatively affecting your digestion? Enjoy the best gluten-free shakes and worry no more!
Best Shake: Lyfefuel Daily Essentials
Best Protein Shake: Four Sigmatic
Best Shakes Without Artificial Sweeteners
Looking for protein powders without artificial sweeteners? Tired of finding sucralose, aspartame, and ace-k everywhere? Check out this list!
Best Shake: Lyfefuel Daily Essentials
Best Protein Shake: Four Sigmatic
The Best Meal Replacement Shakes by Format
Not all meal replacements come in powder format. There are bars, ready-to-drink and other possible form factors. They are often more convenient, easier to eat on the go, and offer a good break from the powders.
Best Ready to Drink
Ready to Drink shakes are the smoothest and most convenient meal replacements. Finding one that has the right price and nutrition, however, it’s often harder than it should be.
Best REAL Meal Replacement Bars
Bars are gaining a lot of popularity. However, finding one that can actually replace a meal and it’s not just a protein bar is hard. Here, I compile the best real meal replacement bars.
The Best Meal Replacement Shakes in Your Region
Unfortunately, not all brands and products are available worldwide. In fact, these are usually the exception. So, find out which meal replacement shakes are the best in your region.
Best Meal Replacement Shakes UK
Diet shakes, standard meal replacements, RTDs… Only the best of the best make it to this list.
Best Shake: Complete 360 Meal
Best Protein Shake: Wondershake
Best Cheap Shakes
Ever wondered what’s the most affordable shake that fits your nutrition? Looking for something to fit your budget? You’ll find it here.
Best Shake: Complete 360 Meal
Best Protein Shake: Impact Whey MyP
The Best Greens & Superfood Powders
Technically, green powders are not meal replacements. Nevertheless, they complement each other to perfection on the road to achieving complete nutrition.
While meal replacement shakes provide all the essential nutrients; green powders provide you with phytonutrients (antioxidants, for instance). A small boost to your health, and insurance to boost your nutrient intake.
Recommended Brands:
However, there are more topics that I have not touched yet. Plus, there are other products, that I personally like. Like that odd music album you hold so dearly. For now, this page is a vault for those picks.
These brands produce the best meal replacement shakes that I have tried. They also have a great array of complete food products that I highly recommend.
Lyfefuel – 4.5/5
Are you looking for the best? Look no further. The most nutritious meal replacement shake you can buy. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth every penny. Particularly designed to provide you with nutrients that you lack on your diet, and especially good for those on a vegan diet.
Rootana – 4.4/5
One of the most enjoyable meal replacement shakes. They offer clean, natural, whole food shakes without artificial sweeteners or flavorings. This is translated to the taste and it’s actually one of the best daily-drivers.
HLTH – 4.1/5
Top-quality powder meal replacement with good flavours. A great low-carb alternative, with only 4g of net carbs. Packed with nutrients and designed by Dr. Ben Bikman to help your digestive system. Both flavours are very delicious and overall super easy to drink.
YFood – 4.2/5
The German brand has become one of my favourites in both bars and powders. Their shakes taste out of this world; particularly the chocolate-based ones. The YFood RTD Alpine Chocolate is a shake I would drink forever. However, they can be a little too sweet and artificial. Only available in Europe.
Protein Works – 4.4/5
I have fallen in love with their Complete Food range. They have used their expertise in nutritional supplements and protein powders to create a superb meal replacement shake offering. They excel at taste and flavour options. My favourite is Complete 360 meal; but the Diet Meal Replacement is great, too.
Mana – 4.1/5
There are few companies as solid as Mana. Their meal replacement range is simple, yet superb. A very affordable powder (particularly when you buy the Family pack) and a much improve RTD. While they only offer 2 flavours on each, it’s what Soylent used to be. A neutral-tasting goodness that delivers all your essentials and nothing else. Great for those who don’t want overly sweet, inflated shakes.
Huel – 4.3/5
Huel offers top-quality powder meal replacements with good flavours. It also offers a RTD version; as well as, 200kcal bars. Furthermore, Huel has worldwide shipping and world-class customer support. It’s really easy to order from, has fast delivery times and an overall great experience.
FAQ Best Meal Replacement Shakes
Yes, all evidence points out that meal replacement shakes can be a healthy alternative within a balanced and varied diet. They provide you with all essential macro- and micronutrients following US and EU dietary guidelines for adults. Meal replacement shakes can be an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and other nutrients that we tend to lack in our diets.
No, the primary goal of a protein shake is to boost your protein intake, and not to replace a meal. As such, it won’t contain any vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, or other essential nutrients that meal replacements have.
Yes, meal replacement shakes can be an excellent tool to help you lose weight. They can help you count calories, keep you full for longer, eat more nutrients, and stay on track while you are away from home.
Yes, there are meal replacement shakes without gluten, or soy, or artificial sweeteners, or lactose. In fact, there’s a meal replacement shake for most dietary conditions.
Most manufacturers recommend not having more than 2 shakes a day, but there are many people who take 3 or even 100% of their diet from meal replacement shakes without adverse health effects.
Sources
- Dietary Values for Europe. European Food and Safety Administration (ESFA).
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025.
- Eat Well. NHS website.
