Pauls Plus+ Protein Flavoured Milk Banana & Honey
Pauls Plus+ Protein Flavoured Milk Banana & Honey: independently scored 9.8/10 on Protein Score and 8.6/10 on Clean Score by ProteinScore.
30g protein per serve · 258 cal · 20.4g sugar · 268mg sodium · 400mL serve.
Overview
This chilled bottle from Pauls lands with more protein than the typical ready-to-drink option we see, but also a touch more sugar. The 30 grams of protein is substantial, putting it squarely in the post-workout recovery camp for convenience-chasers who want something straight from the fridge. The sugar story is key: all 20.4g in the bottle comes from naturally occurring milk sugars (lactose), not from added cane sugar, with sweeteners (950, 955) used to round out the flavour. This approach is consistent across the Pauls Plus+ Protein range, and this Banana & Honey version matches the Double Espresso Caramel Flavoured Milk on both protein and sugar content. As a fridge-aisle product, it's designed for immediate consumption rather than stashing in a gym bag for later. We see it as a direct replacement for a powder-based shake when you're short on time and near a supermarket chiller, offering a smoother, more familiar mouthfeel than many ambient, long-life competitors.
Protein Score: 9.8/10
The trade-off for a full 30-gram protein serve here is a calorie count of 258, which is something to be mindful of if you're tracking intake tightly. Still, the protein density is strong, delivering a 9/10 that puts it well ahead of standard milk drinks and into genuine recovery territory. That 30g of protein comes from a blend of skim milk and milk solids, a common and effective base for dairy drinks. It sits well above the category average for protein concentration and delivers more than double what you'd find in many competing ready-to-drink options. Stack this against a regular flavoured milk, and the difference is stark - you're getting about twice the protein for roughly half the sugar. It's a smart swap for anyone who wants a protein hit without the fuss of powders and shakers, provided the dairy base works for you.
Clean Score: 8.6/10
With just eight ingredients, this bottle has a shorter list than the typical ready-to-drink protein product we analyse. This cleaner profile, free from added colours or preservatives, helps it earn an 8.9/10. The ingredient list is straightforward, led by skim milk and milk solids. The three additives present are polydextrose (a fibre), a carrageenan stabiliser (407) for texture, and two artificial sweeteners (acesulphame potassium 950, and sucralose 955) to deliver the flavour without added sugar. While some shoppers prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners, their inclusion is the key trade-off for keeping the sugar numbers down to just the naturally-occurring lactose. For a mass-market supermarket drink, it's a relatively clean and transparent formulation that clears the category average.
Wins
- A substantial 30g of protein per 400mL bottle.
- No added sugar, with sweetness from milk and sweeteners.
- A lean list of just 8 ingredients.
Watch outs
- Contains 20.4g of sugar per bottle from milk lactose.
- Uses artificial sweeteners (950, 955).
- Requires refrigeration, so not gym-bag friendly.
Ingredients
Skim milk, milk solids, polydextrose (1200), natural flavours, enzyme (lactase), stabiliser (407), sweeteners (950, 955).
8 ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
- How much sugar is in a whole bottle?
- A 400mL bottle of Pauls Plus+ Protein Banana & Honey contains 20.4 grams of sugar. Importantly, this is not added cane sugar; it's lactose, which is naturally present in the milk base. Sweeteners are used to create the final flavour. While it's a better profile than regular flavoured milks which can have double the sugar, it's still a figure to be aware of. We think it fits best as a post-workout drink rather than a casual snack.
- Does this drink need to be kept in the fridge?
- Yes, this is a chilled dairy product and must be refrigerated both before and after opening. It is not a long-life or UHT product that can be stored in a pantry or gym bag. You'll find it in the refrigerated drinks aisle at the supermarket alongside other flavoured milks. Think of it as a drink to be consumed shortly after purchase or kept cold at home or the office.
- How does it compare to a protein shake from powder?
- It delivers a comparable amount of protein, with 30 grams per serve matching a standard scoop of many whey powders. The main difference is convenience - this is ready to go, with no mixing or clean-up. The trade-off is a lack of customisation and the presence of milk sugars and sweeteners. For a quick, smooth-tasting recovery option on the run, it's a strong contender.
- Is Pauls Plus+ Protein lactose-free?
- No, its base is skim milk and milk solids, but it contains the enzyme lactase. Lactase is added to help break down lactose, the natural sugar in milk that can cause digestive issues for some people. This may make it easier to digest than regular milk drinks for those with mild lactose sensitivity. However, it is not a certified lactose-free product, so we'd advise caution if you have a diagnosed intolerance.
- Where can I buy Pauls Plus+ Protein milk?
- Pauls Plus+ Protein is a mainstream supermarket product. Our data shows it is typically stocked in the refrigerated aisle at major Australian retailers like Coles and Woolworths. Availability can vary by store location and state, so it's always best to check your local. The brand may also offer other purchasing options on its own website.