I am always game for trying new drinks. Now, I’m no pro when it comes to the world of fitness, but even I know about those giant tubs of whey protein shake powder athletes use before or after a workout. I’ve tried a few, only because I like milkshakes, but they never quite measure up. The healthy ingredients mess with the overall texture, leaving them chalky, powdery, and never fully blended, no matter how long you mix. Health and fitness beverages have come a long way since then, and I recently got to try something completely different: Bucked Up Protein Soda. This lightly carbonated whey protein drink isn’t your typical shake. I didn’t believe such a thing could exist, but here we are. The question is: does it actually taste good?
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What Is Bucked Up Protein Soda?
Bucked Up Protein Soda is a lightly carbonated beverage with just 100 calories, zero sugar, and no caffeine. Its core ingredient is 25 grams of whey protein isolate in every 16 fl. oz. can. A regular protein shake looks and taste milky, but Bucked Up Protein Soda is lactose-free and designed to be a clear and refreshing beverage.
Bucked Up Protein Soda Nutrition & Ingredients
So what makes this soda different? It comes down to whey protein isolate, a purified form of whey protein. Whey is the liquid left over when milk separates into curds and whey. Once it’s converted to powder and processed to remove most of the fat, carbohydrates, and lactose, you get whey protein isolate. That’s why the can lists milk as an ingredient but can still be labeled lactose free.
The benefit of whey protein isolate is getting a high amount of protein without the extra carbs, fat, or digestive issues that lactose sometimes causes. In addition to the 25 grams of protein, Bucked Up carbonated soda is just 100 calories per can and contains 10mg of sodium, 6mg of calcium, and 10mg of potassium.
How Does Bucked Up Whey Protein Isolate Soda Taste?
For my review, I tried one flavor from Bucked Up’s line of protein sodas, Rainbow Candy. The taste instantly reminded me of fruity candy, with a mix of sweetness and tartness. If you’ve ever had SweeTARTS, you’ll recognize that classic sweet-and-sour combo right away. What surprised me wasn’t the flavor, because it delivered exactly what I expected, but the texture afterward. I noticed a slightly glazed mouthfeel, which I suspect comes from the whey protein isolate. When poured into a glass, the Rainbow Candy soda looks clear but slightly cloudy, showing that it’s not your typical sugar-filled soda.
FAQs About Bucked Up Protein Soda
Does Bucked Up Protein Soda Have Caffeine?
No, Bucked Up Protein Soda is completely caffeine-free.
Does Bucked Up Have Creatine?
No, Bucked Up Lightly Carbonated Protein Drinks do not contain creatine. However, the brand sells separate creatine supplements.
Does Bucked Up Protein Soda Have Sucralose?
Yes. Sucralose is the sweetener used in place of sugar in Bucked Up carbonated protein drinks. Sucralose is a zero-calorie artificial sweetener that’s FDA-approved and helps keep the drink sugar-free.
Where can I buy Protein Soda?
You can buy Bucked Up Protein Soda through Amazon, the official Bucked Up store, and GNC. (I bought mine on Amazon because it ships faster!)
Bucked Up Protein Soda Flavors
Rainbow Candy isn’t the only option in Bucked Up’s lineup of lightly carbonated protein drinks. Other flavors include Orange Cream, Peach Mango, Green Apple, Banana Pineapple, Frosted Lemonade, Berry Punch, and Cherry Limeade. Each one offers a unique twist on soda flavors, giving consumers like you and me choices beyond a chocolate or vanilla shake.
Who Is This Protein Soda For?
Bucked Up Protein Sodas if for anyone who likes the fun, bold flavors of energy drinks or soft drinks but want the added benefit of protein. You don’t need a gym membership or fancy equipment to enjoy this drink. And you definitely don’t need to be chasing a six-pack. If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate a fizzy, better-for-you soda with benefits!
My Honest Review and Final Verdict
After sipping on a few cans of Bucked Up Rainbow Candy soda over the past few weeks, I can say this is one of the most delicious ways I’ve ever consumed protein. Although I love a creamy shake now and then, there’s something refreshing about drinking a lightly carbonated protein soda throughout the day.
The sucralose adds a candy-like sweetness without sugar, and at 100 calories per 16-ounce can, I find it a reasonable option. The carbonation level is balanced, which is just the way I like it.
For the fitness aficionado, I’m sure their evaluation on Bucked Up’s protein sodas might be different from mine. But from my perspective as someone who loves trying unique beverages, Bucked Up Protein Soda is a game changer in the world of drinkable protein. I’m already debating which flavor I want to try next—Orange Cream maybe?
Would you ever try a protein soda? Let me know in the comments!
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