Rokeby Protein Smoothie Double Espresso
Rokeby Protein Smoothie Double Espresso: independently scored 7.2/10 on Protein Score and 8.2/10 on Clean Score by ProteinScore.
30g protein per serve · 287 cal · 25.1g sugar · 102mg sodium · 425mL serve.
Overview
The first thing to notice with this bottle isn't the protein, it's the sugar: 25.1 grams in the total serve. That's a considerable load for a single drink, positioning it firmly at the indulgent end of the protein drink spectrum and pushing it closer to a classic flavoured milk. This added sugar is a deliberate choice for some flavours in the Rokeby lineup. Compared with its sibling, the Protein Smoothie Dutch Chocolate, it shares the exact same protein and sugar stats. However, it stands in contrast to other options in the range like the Vanilla Wafer or Choc Honeycomb versions, which skip added sugar entirely in favour of sweeteners. While its 7.1g of protein per 100mL sits right on the category average for protein drinks we track, its sugar content is notably higher. At 5.9g per 100mL, it's well above the 4g average, blurring the line between a recovery drink and a coffee-flavoured milkshake. Ultimately, this is a chilled protein milk for someone who prioritises taste and convenience over a lean nutritional profile. It's smooth, made with real coffee, and requires no prep, but the sugar cost is real. We see it as a post-gym drink when you've earned a treat, not a daily desk snack.
Protein Score: 7.2/10
Is 30 grams of protein in one bottle a good result? While the number looks solid on the front of the pack, the protein-per-calorie density is what matters for the score. This bottle's profile trails the field for a dedicated protein drink, earning a 4.4/10. The 7.1g of protein per 100mL is double what you'd find in regular flavoured milk, which is the basic hurdle for this category. Against other dedicated protein RTDs, however, it underperforms. The significant sugar content means you're taking on more calories for that protein hit, lowering its nutritional efficiency. For someone just needing a convenient 30g dose of protein and not fussed about the macros, it does the job. But if you're optimising for lean recovery or a snack that won't spike your sugar intake, other products in the Rokeby range and the wider category offer a much stronger protein-for-calorie trade.
Clean Score: 8.2/10
What does a short ingredient list get you? With just six ingredients, this smoothie appears clean on the surface, but the inclusion of added sugar and a stabiliser lands it just below the category average with a score of 8.2/10. The list is refreshingly simple: filtered low fat milk, cane sugar, cream, coffee, and lactase enzyme. The single additive is carrageenan (407), a common stabiliser used to give the drink its smooth, consistent texture and prevent separation. It's a standard ingredient in many dairy drinks, and its presence is what holds the score back from being higher. There are no artificial sweeteners, colours, or preservatives, which is a positive. The lactase enzyme also makes it digestible for those with lactose intolerance. While the score is solid, it's held back by that added cane sugar, distinguishing it from the 'cleaner' no-added-sugar options in the chiller.
Wins
- A solid 30g of protein in a single-serve bottle.
- Made with real coffee and contains just 6 ingredients.
- Lactase enzyme makes it suitable for lactose intolerant individuals.
Watch outs
- High in sugar, with 25.1g in the 425mL bottle.
- Lower protein-per-calorie density than its no-added-sugar siblings.
- Protein score of 4.4/10 is well below the category average.
Ingredients
filtered low fat milk, cane sugar, cream (milk), coffee (1.7%), lactase enzyme, carrageenan
6 ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
- Where can I buy the Rokeby Double Espresso smoothie?
- You can find Rokeby Protein Smoothie Double Espresso in the chilled dairy aisle of major Australian supermarkets, including Coles and Woolworths. As it's a single-serve, refrigerated product, you'll typically find it alongside other flavoured milks and grab-and-go drinks. It may also be available to purchase directly from the brand's own website. We'd suggest checking the fridge section on your next grocery run.
- How much sugar is in the whole bottle?
- The entire 425mL bottle contains 25.1 grams of sugar. This comes from a combination of added cane sugar and the naturally occurring sugars found in milk (lactose). This is a significant amount, equivalent to about six teaspoons of sugar. For that reason, we think it's better framed as a protein-rich treat rather than a daily low-sugar staple.
- How does this compare to other Rokeby smoothies?
- This Double Espresso flavour has the same protein and sugar content as the Dutch Chocolate version in the brand's range. However, it differs significantly from other flavours like Vanilla Wafer or Choc Honeycomb, which contain no added sugar and use natural sweeteners instead. Those versions score much higher on our protein rating due to a better protein-for-calorie ratio. Always check the label, as the Rokeby range offers distinct choices for shoppers watching sugar.
- Is this a good post-workout drink?
- With 30 grams of protein, it provides a substantial dose for muscle recovery after exercise. The carbohydrates from the sugar can also help replenish your energy stores, which is useful after a tough session. However, the high sugar content might not suit those on a stricter diet or trying to minimise sugar intake. It's a very convenient choice if you can't get to a powder-based shake, but leaner options are available.
- Does this drink contain much caffeine?
- Yes, it contains caffeine from real coffee, which is listed as 1.7% of the ingredients. The brand doesn't state the exact milligram amount on the bottle, but you can expect a caffeine level similar to a standard milky coffee. It should provide a mild energy boost, making it a good morning or early afternoon option. If you are sensitive to caffeine, we'd suggest enjoying it earlier in the day.