Optimum Nutrition High Protein Chocolate Shake
Optimum Nutrition High Protein Chocolate Shake: independently scored 10.0/10 on Protein Score and 8.3/10 on Clean Score by ProteinScore.
30g protein per serve · 216 cal · 8.6g sugar · 510mg sodium · 375mL serve.
Overview
If you're looking for a grab-and-go protein drink in the supermarket chiller, this is the kind of product that sets the benchmark. With 8g of protein per 100mL, it offers more than double the protein of a standard flavoured milk, while keeping the total sugar in this 375mL bottle down to just 8.6 grams - all of it naturally occurring from milk. This Chocolate shake is part of the brand's High Protein lineup, sitting alongside the High Protein Vanilla Shake which matches it on protein and sugar content. The protein itself is a blend of milk solids, sodium caseinate and milk protein concentrate, a common combination for ready-to-drink products aiming for a smooth mouthfeel and slow-release properties. Compared to the average protein drink we've analysed, this bottle packs in more protein and less sugar. The ingredient list is slightly longer than the category average, a trade-off required to keep the drink stable and smooth without refrigeration before opening. We see this as a smart compromise for a convenience-led product. Ultimately, this is a purpose-built drink for a quick protein top-up. It's a strong choice for an office fridge or a gym bag when you need something that tastes like a classic chocolate milk but carries a much bigger nutritional punch.
Protein Score: 10.0/10
The protein here comes from a blend of milk solids, sodium caseinate, and milk protein concentrate. This dairy-based combination delivers a substantial 30g of protein per 375mL bottle, earning it a 9.4/10 and placing it well above the category average. That 30g serve is a significant number, providing a recovery-level dose of protein without needing to touch a scoop or shaker. The protein-per-calorie metric is also strong, with 13.8g of protein for every 100 calories consumed, making it an efficient choice for those tracking their intake. For the person who finishes a workout and wants an instant, chilled protein source, this bottle is ideal. It completely removes the prep and clean-up associated with powders, making it a genuinely convenient alternative.
Clean Score: 8.3/10
This is a moderately processed drink, which is what we expect from a long-life, ready-to-drink format. The formulation earns a Clean Score/10, reflecting an ingredient list that balances nutrition with the need for shelf stability and a pleasant texture. The final recipe contains 14 ingredients, seven of which are additives used to create a consistent, smooth drinking experience. These are primarily stabilisers like carrageenan and gellan gum, plus sucralose as the sweetener. This allows the drink to be free from added sugar while still tasting like a familiar chocolate milk. While the additive count means this trails the average for the category, it's a direct trade-off for convenience. These ingredients ensure the bottle doesn't require refrigeration before opening and won't separate on the shelf, making it a reliable option to keep in a gym bag or desk drawer.
Wins
- A full 30g of protein in one convenient bottle.
- Only 8.6g of total sugar, all from milk lactose.
- Delivers 8g of protein per 100mL, clearing the category average.
Watch outs
- Contains seven additives, including stabilisers and an artificial sweetener.
- Sodium is 510mg per bottle, a quarter of the daily recommended limit.
- Not suitable for anyone avoiding sucralose or milk-based proteins.
Ingredients
Water, Protein Blend (12%) (MILK Solids, Sodium Caseinate (MILK), MILK Protein Concentrate), Cocoa Powder (1%), Flavours, Dietary Fibre (Inulin), Stabilisers (Sodium Phosphate Dibasic, Cellulose Microcrystalline, Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose, Carrageenan, Gellan Gum), Sweetener (Sucralose).
14 ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
- How much sugar is in a whole bottle?
- There are 8.6 grams of sugar in one 375mL bottle. Importantly, none of this is added sugar; it is all naturally occurring lactose from the milk ingredients. This is significantly less than a regular flavoured milk, which typically contains 10-12g of sugar per 100mL, or over 37g in a similar-sized bottle. We think this makes it a smart swap for anyone wanting a sweet-tasting drink without the high sugar load.
- Is this a good option after a workout?
- Yes, it's a very solid choice for post-workout recovery. The 30 grams of protein per bottle is an effective dose to support muscle repair and growth after exercise. Its ready-to-drink format also means you can consume it quickly within the post-workout window without the fuss of mixing powders. For immediate convenience after a gym session, it's one of the better options in the supermarket chiller.
- Where can I buy this protein shake in Australia?
- This Optimum Nutrition shake is stocked in the chilled aisle at Coles supermarkets. While it's listed there, availability can vary by store location, so it's always worth checking your local. The brand may also sell it directly from their own Australian website, which is another place to look. We'd suggest checking the Coles website first for local stock levels.
- How does this compare to other Optimum Nutrition shakes?
- This shake is part of the brand's 'High Protein' tier. Compared to their 'Pure Pro 35' shakes, this one has slightly less protein (30g vs 35g) and a little more naturally occurring sugar. The Pure Pro 35 shakes use a different formulation to get protein to 9.9g per 100mL with almost no sugar. In our view, this High Protein version is a great all-rounder, while the Pure Pro is for those chasing the highest protein for the lowest sugar and carbs.
- Why does it contain stabilisers like carrageenan?
- Stabilisers like carrageenan, gellan gum, and various celluloses are included to ensure the drink has a smooth, consistent texture. In a ready-to-drink protein shake, these ingredients prevent the milk proteins and cocoa from separating and settling at the bottom. This is especially important for a long-life product that might be stored for weeks. While some people prefer to avoid them, they are the reason the shake is creamy rather than watery or gritty.