Dare Protein No Sugar Added Iced Coffee Double Espresso
Dare Protein No Sugar Added Iced Coffee Double Espresso: independently scored 9.6/10 on Protein Score and 8.1/10 on Clean Score by ProteinScore.
30g protein per serve · 296 cal · 23g sugar · 295mg sodium · 500mL serve.
Overview
the difference of this drink isn't the protein, it's the 23 grams of total sugar in one 500mL bottle. While there's no added sugar - it all comes from the natural lactose in the milk - that's still a significant amount to drink in one sitting, equivalent to almost six teaspoons. This single-serve bottle is the grab-and-go version of the brand's larger 2L Protein No Sugar Added Double Espresso Milk carton, matching it exactly on protein and sugar per 100mL. The proposition is convenience: the same liquid, but in a format you can throw in a gym bag or grab from a service station fridge. Compared to the wider world of ready-to-drink protein shakes, this Dare bottle sits just under the category average for protein density but lands right on the typical sugar level. Its ingredient list is shorter than most, which helps it feel less processed than many of its shelf-mates. Ultimately, we see this as a coffee-first drink with a serious protein bonus, rather than a protein-first supplement. It's for the iced coffee drinker who wants more nutritional substance, not necessarily the athlete chasing the leanest possible recovery shake.
Protein Score: 9.6/10
Getting 30 grams of protein from this bottle costs nearly 300 calories, which is the trade-off for a milk-based drink. The protein density lands at 10.1 grams for every 100 calories, a strong metric that helps it earn an 8.8/10 and places it well above the category average. The total protein hit is substantial, doubling what you'd find in many competing flavoured milks and RTD shakes. For a product found in the mainstream supermarket chiller, it delivers a dose that genuinely rivals a scoop of protein powder, making it a legitimate shake replacement. This is a convenient way to hit a 30-gram protein target without touching a shaker. If you can wear the calorie count, it's one of the more effective and accessible options for a post-gym recovery drink or a filling afternoon snack on the go.
Clean Score: 8.1/10
With just nine ingredients, this bottle's list is noticeably shorter than the typical 13 we see across the RTD category. This cleaner profile, avoiding gums and stabilisers, is the primary driver of its 8.9/10 score, which clears the field average. The formulation uses artificial sweeteners (950, 951) and a caramel colour (150c) to achieve its classic iced coffee taste and appearance without any added sugar. These additives are common in the category and are the trade-off for keeping the sugar figure from climbing even higher. While not an all-natural product, its relative simplicity is a key strength. For a mass-market flavoured milk, Dare has kept the processing level quite restrained, making it a solid choice for shoppers who read the ingredient panel but still want the convenience of a pre-made drink.
Wins
- A substantial 30g of protein in a single 500mL bottle.
- Contains no added sugar, using sweeteners for a familiar taste.
- A relatively short list with just 9 total ingredients.
Watch outs
- Contains 23g of total sugar per bottle from milk lactose.
- Uses artificial sweeteners (950, 951), which some shoppers avoid.
- Not a low-calorie option at nearly 300 calories per serve.
Ingredients
Fresh reduced fat milk, Milk solids, Coffee powder+ (0.8%) (Robusta, Arabica), Colour (150c), Flavours, Sweeteners (950,951).
9 ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
- How much sugar is actually in a whole bottle of Dare Protein coffee?
- A 500mL bottle of Dare Protein No Sugar Added Iced Coffee contains 23 grams of total sugar. It's important to note this is not added sugar; it's naturally occurring lactose from the fresh milk used in the product. While it's not the refined sugar many people track, it's still a considerable amount for one serve. We think it's best viewed as a substantial snack or post-workout drink, not a light coffee.
- Does this Dare protein drink contain caffeine?
- Yes, this drink contains caffeine from real coffee powder (a blend of Robusta and Arabica). The packaging is labelled 'Double Espresso', indicating a strong coffee flavour and caffeine hit. While the exact amount of caffeine isn't specified on the nutritional panel, it should be considered similar to a standard iced coffee. We'd suggest having it earlier in the day if you're sensitive to caffeine.
- How does this protein version compare to a regular Dare Iced Coffee?
- This protein version is a very different product nutritionally. It delivers 30g of protein per bottle, whereas a regular flavoured milk typically contains only 3-4g of protein per 100mL. It also has no added sugar, unlike standard iced coffees which can have 10-12g of added sugar per 100mL. The trade-off is the use of artificial sweeteners to achieve the taste. Think of it as a protein shake disguised as an iced coffee.
- Where can I buy Dare Protein Iced Coffee?
- Dare Protein Iced Coffee is a chilled beverage typically found in the refrigerated drinks aisle of major Australian supermarkets. It is currently listed at both Coles and Woolworths, making it widely accessible. You may also find it in service stations and convenience stores alongside the other Dare products. Availability can vary by store location, so checking local stock might be necessary.
- Is Dare an Australian brand?
- Yes, Dare is an Australian iced coffee brand. It is owned by Bega Cheese, an Australian company. According to the brand, its milk-based drinks are made locally in Australia using fresh milk. For more detailed information on the brand's history or manufacturing processes, the brand's own website is the best source of information. We have not independently verified claims beyond this ownership.