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Protein coffee has emerged as a popular trend, allowing individuals to enhance their daily coffee with a significant protein boost. This innovation caters to fitness enthusiasts seeking a complete meal or recovery drink. While Starbucks has recently introduced its own protein coffee line, many prefer to prepare their beverages at home using various coffee beans, grounds, or concentrates. Similarly, protein drinks are available in diverse forms, from pre-made shakes to powdered mixes. This review focuses on ready-to-drink and mix-at-home protein coffee products, targeting consumers who desire the convenience of pre-made coffee combined with the nutritional benefits of a protein shake.

Among the bottled options, Slate High Protein Iced Coffee stands out for its balanced sweetness and substantial protein content. Each can provides 20 grams of protein, a significant increase compared to plain milk, while remaining low in sugar and carbohydrates. Its primary ingredient, brewed coffee, ensures an authentic coffee taste even in flavored varieties. The smooth texture and enjoyable coffee notes make it a convenient choice, whether consumed directly or over ice. Furthermore, its packaging in recyclable aluminum cans offers durability and environmental benefits. In the realm of powdered protein coffee, Chike Protein Iced Coffee shines with its ability to deliver an authentic iced latte experience, boasting 20 grams of protein per serving. Its diverse flavor range, including a notable seasonal pumpkin spice, offers a satisfying taste without the typical thick or gritty texture often associated with protein powders. For plant-based alternatives, OWYN Double Shot Vanilla is a top contender, utilizing pea and seed proteins. Despite the inherent legume undertone of pea protein, OWYN's vanilla variant offers a robust coffee flavor and a substantial 20 grams of vegan-friendly protein.

The evaluation of these protein coffee products primarily centered on their coffee-like qualities, palatability, and protein content. The aim was to identify products that genuinely taste like coffee and are enjoyable for daily consumption. It's important to recognize that these products are fundamentally protein supplements, with coffee being a secondary, albeit crucial, component. While some contain actual instant coffee, others rely on flavorings and added caffeine to mimic the coffee experience. All tested products were sweetened, typically with low or no-calorie alternatives, which often presented a challenge in balancing sweetness with natural coffee flavor. The goal was to find options that seamlessly integrate into a regular coffee routine while delivering meaningful nutritional benefits.