Last Updated: May 8, 2026
You know the scenario: it's 7:30 AM, you're already running late, and breakfast is a distant fantasy. Or maybe it's post-gym, you need protein fast, and making an actual smoothie requires equipment you don't have access to.
Enter the ready-to-drink smoothie and protein shake—the grab-and-go solution for anyone who needs nutrition without the blender cleanup.
Top Tier: The Best of the Best
1. Fairlife Core Power Elite
Overall Score: 9.4/10
Protein: 42g | Calories: 230 | Sugar: 6g
Fairlife dominates the RTD protein market. The Chocolate tastes like actual chocolate milk.
Available at StackCart: Yes - Multiple flavors
2. Owyn Plant-Based Protein Shake
Overall Score: 9.2/10
Protein: 20g | Calories: 180 | Sugar: 4g
Owyn has cracked the code on plant-based protein that doesn't taste like dirt.
Available at StackCart: Yes
3. Premier Protein Shake
Overall Score: 8.3/10
Protein: 30g | Calories: 160 | Sugar: 1g
Unbeatable value: 30 grams of protein for around $2.
Available at StackCart: Yes - Multiple flavors
4. Orgain Organic Protein Shake
Overall Score: 8.7/10
Protein: 16g | Calories: 150 | Sugar: 2-3g
Organic, clean ingredients—no artificial sweeteners.
Available at StackCart: Yes
5. Muscle Milk
Protein: 25g | Calories: 160 | Sugar: 0g
Zero sugar, 25 grams of protein, and decent taste.
Available at StackCart: Yes
Smoothie-Style Options
Bolthouse Farms Protein Plus
Protein: 30g | Calories: 270-380
Real fruits blended with whey protein. Tastes like actual smoothies.
Available at StackCart: Yes
Coffee + Protein Combos
Super Coffee
Protein: 10g | Caffeine: 200mg | Sugar: 0g
Cold brew coffee with MCT oil and protein.
Available at StackCart: Yes
La Colombe Draft Latte
Protein: 9g | Calories: 120-150
Premium canned lattes with excellent coffee quality.
Available at StackCart: Yes
How to Choose Your Perfect Shake
- Maximum protein: Fairlife Core Power Elite (42g)
- Dairy-free: Owyn plant-based
- Budget-friendly: Premier Protein (30g for ~$2)
- Real smoothie taste: Bolthouse Farms
- Coffee lover: Super Coffee or La Colombe
Frequently Asked Questions
How much protein do I need?
Most experts recommend 0.7-1 gram per pound of body weight if you're active.
Can I drink protein shakes without working out?
Yes! Protein is essential for everyone.
Do RTD shakes need refrigeration?
Most shelf-stable varieties can be stored at room temperature until opened.
Stock Up at StackCart
At StackCart in Granby, MA, we carry Fairlife Core Power, Premier Protein, Owyn, and more.
Visit us at 77 West State St, Granby, MA 01033 or shop at stack-cart.com.
Fuel up and go,
The StackCart Team