The 7 Best Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes in 2023
Shakes used as meal replacements are becoming more and more common as supplements. People are starting to utilize these beverages more often, particularly in fitness community where bodybuilders create own meal plans. That is because they have many positive health effects. It is possible for people to skip full meals by using meal replacements.
You may just drink a bottle of these shakes in place of eating. They are incredibly practical replacements since they give you all the nutrients you require from a complete meal and are also vegan-friendly.
Vegan meal replacement shakes are interesting in that they are available in a wide range of flavours. Some of them are not appropriate for vegans. Vegan meal replacement shakes can help with this.
We can assist you if you’re having problems finding the ideal one for yourself. After conducting significant research and testing, we’ve created a list of the top vegan meal replacement shakes on the market based on their greatest advantages and disadvantages.
What Are Vegan Replacement Shakes?
Shakes made from vegan ingredients are intended to replace meals and offer the same nutrition. Since all of the drinks on the list below are nutrient-dense and high in protein, you may reduce your calorie intake without sacrificing these important facets of your diet.
These high-protein vegan meal replacement shakes are a terrific choice for anybody trying to support lean muscle mass while lowering body fat because they are loaded with protein.
Furthermore, they frequently include protein as well as other vitamins and minerals that might help you feel full all day. Additionally, they may frequently be prepared with tastier components like fruits and vegetables.
Vegan meal replacement shakes typically incorporate plant-based proteins like pea protein and brown rice protein to offer a wholesome food foundation.
They are typically combined with other plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners for taste and texture. Additionally, most of the vegan meal replacement drinks on the list below are fortified with various vitamins and minerals to keep you in good health.
Advantages Of Taking Plant-Based Meal Replacements
Plant-based meal replacement drinks provide a simple, practical approach to obtaining all the necessary vitamins and minerals for a healthy diet. In addition to being a high source of calcium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium, they also offer a decent dose of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids.
A study showed that people following a partial meal replacement diet lost more pounds compared to people who followed a calorie deficit diet. One more study showed that liquid meal replacement shakes effectively loose weight in obese people with type 2 diabetes.
Shakes made from vegan ingredients also have less harmful fat than those made from dairy or eggs. Many vegan meal replacements are devoid of artificial sweeteners and preservatives and are also nutrient-dense and low in fat.
Disadvantages Of Taking Plant-Based Meal Replacements
The primary drawback of meal replacement shakes is that they can’t give your body all the nutrition it requires. As was previously said, vegan diet is inherently deficient in various nutrients which makes it very critical to eat a variety of entire foods to make sure your body is receiving all the vitamins, minerals, and other necessary elements it requires.
Another disadvantage is that certain meal replacement smoothies could include harmful artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors, or preservatives. To prevent drinking any unneeded additives, make sure to read labels carefully and opt for shakes manufactured with quality components.
Finally, keep in mind that meal replacement shakes should not be used in place of meals if you’re trying to lose weight; instead, concentrate on eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and other vegan-friendly foods.
Are Meal Replacement Shakes Different From Protein Shakes?
Vegan protein powders available in market often just concentrate on giving your body more protein, but plant-based meal shakes are particularly made to provide you with all the nutrients you need in one drink.
Although protein shakes can be a fantastic way to enhance your diet, you shouldn’t use them as a meal replacement because they don’t include all the necessary vitamins and minerals for great health.
7 Best Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes
Protein: 20g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 20g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
1. Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal Replacement Shakes
Based on my experience, I must say that the Garden of Life’s plant-based protein drink is an excellent product that has exceeded my expectations.
Not only it is tasty and easy to mix, but is also Informed-Sport Certified by NSF International, which assures me of its potency and purity.
- Organic
- No allergens
- Low calorie
- No cost-savings when purchasing in bulk
With every serving containing 20g of plant-based protein, 5g of fiber, powdered greens, and essential vitamins and minerals, it helped me in fulfilling my nutritional intake as well as kept me satisfied and energized after drinking it. The best part being that it is gluten-free and non-GMO, making it perfect for individuals with dietary restrictions.
2. PlantFusion Complete Meal Replacement Shake
This plant-based shake is perfect for individuals who are looking for a convenient and healthy alternative to traditional meals.
Throughout my experience of using this product I loved how easily I would prepare the shake. All I had to do was mix two scoops of powder with water or my favorite non-dairy milk, and I had a delicious and filling meal ready in no time.
- Less than 1g of sugar to avoid disrupting your diet
- Provides a variety of essential vitamins and minerals for vegetarians, including B12
- Comes in only chocolate and vanilla flavors
I especially enjoyed the chocolate caramel flavor, which is rich and indulgent, without being too sweet. I really appreciate how it is free from soy, gluten, dairy, and other allergens, making it an excellent choice for people with food sensitivities.
3. Vegan Protein Meal Replacement Powder by Orgain
I was impressed by the variety of flavors it comes in, which includes mocha, peanut butter, banana, and vanilla, providing options for everyone’s taste preferences.
After giving the vanilla flavor a try I was impressed how it would easily blend with water and milk making it a complete meal substitute and the perfect on-the-go solution for me.
- No additional sugar
- Gluten-free
- Economical
- It may not be sufficient to satiate hunger
I appreciate how this business worked with a dietitian to create a plant-based supplement specifically for vegans. What I love the most about Orgain Vegan Protein is the fact that it provides 21 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, and just 15 grams of carbs per serving. With its delicious taste, high-quality ingredients, and comprehensive nutrition, it is an excellent choice for anyone.
4. Meal Replacement Shake, Organic
I have been using this product for several weeks now, and I am impressed with the results. What made me choose this product is that it is made with all organic ingredients because I am someone who is conscious about what I put into my body, and knowing that I am consuming wholesome and natural ingredients just makes me feel satisfied.
- 20 Grams of Protein
- Mixes easily
- Clean Ingredients
- Chunky
As per my research, this meal replacement shake is packed with essential nutrients it contains protein, fiber, healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. I feel confident that I am getting a complete and balanced meal every time I drink it.
5. Gnarly Nutrition, Meal Replacement Vegan Protein
Gnarly Nutrition’s Vegan Plant Protein meal replacement has great flavor without the powdery, gritty sensation of traditional meal replacements.
Gnarly delivers a smooth 20 grams of protein per serving by combining pea protein isolate, chia seed protein, and cranberry seed protein.
- Doesn’t use soy protein
- Low calorie
- Above average in price
Each serving of these vegan meal shakes has 7 grams of healthy fats and 9 grams of fiber. The brand calls its goods “vegan-friendly,” and it encourages clarity about what’s in the things you’re purchasing. The corporation is also concerned with the environment, with a goal of eliminating all plastic packaging by 2025.
We tested the chocolate flavor, which blended well with plant-based milk. This protein powder is also available in vanilla. The chocolate has a sweet and savory taste. However, if you have a stevia sensitivity, you might want to choose a different product.
Additionally, this bad boy has pre- and probiotics to assist gut health and digestion. Overall, this well-rounded meal substitute provides 200 calories per serving, is naturally flavored, and is excellent for weight management.
6. LEAN1 Nutrition 53 Meal Replacement Powder for Weight Loss
Our analysis of this product revealed that the LEAN1 Nutrition 53 Meal Replacement is an excellent choice for anyone looking to support their digestive health.
A vegetable and fruit mix blended with vitamins, minerals, and enzyme help with digestion and ensure that your body is getting the nutrients it needs to thrive.
- Enzyme mixture facilitates digesting
- A suitable vegan meal alternative for weight loss
- Free of both gluten and soy
- The texture is quite chalky.
- 7g of additional sugar
What sets this shake apart is the feeling of fullness it produces, making it an effective tool for weight loss and management. Also, it contains a protein blend of pea, potato, and chlorella providing a powerful source of protein essential for muscle recovery and repair.
7. Vegan Meal Replacement Shake By UpNourish
As per our research, this all-in-one meal replacement drink has a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
Made from a blend of pea protein isolate and rice protein concentrate, it provides a complete amino acid profile that is easily digestible and highly bioavailable.
- Only natural ingredients are used
- Pricey
It also includes adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and reishi, which help support overall health and wellness. One of the best things about this shake is its versatility. It can be used as a quick and easy meal replacement, or as a healthy snack to help curb hunger between meals.
Things To Look For Plant Based Meal Replacements
1. Contains A Wide Variety Of Vitamins And Minerals
Aside from the nutrients such as fiber, protein etc., you should also check to see if the product has vitamins and minerals. Minerals and vitamins are crucial for general health and can help increase energy. You might want to keep an eye out for vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, iron, and magnesium.
2. Should Contain More Protein Than Carbs
Whether your objective is to gain muscle as a vegan ectomorph, reduce weight, or just maintain a healthy weight, it is crucial to maintain a high protein consumption. However, some meal replacement drinks may include up to 35 grams of protein per serving. Anything above 20 grams is regarded as a great quantity of protein.
3. Has Around 200 and 400 calories
Consider purchasing two meal replacement smoothies that are the same price. While the other only has 200 calories per serving, the first has 400. Your daily caloric needs, if you’re a guy of average build, may be close to 2,000.
If you consume two vegan meal replacement shakes daily, but they only contain 200 calories per serving rather than 400, you are 400 calories underweight. Low calories per serving imply that you must either double your serving size (and the cost of each meal) or add calories from other foods to your meal replacement shake.
In such a case, the purpose of consuming a meal replacement shake is defeated. This implies that you will have to eat more food to make up for your vegan meal replacement drinks, which will raise the price of your daily calorie intake.
The cost-to-calorie ratio suddenly becomes an important factor! This factor may be highly instructive, especially when it seems like a lower-calorie meal replacement shake costs less per serving. Low-calorie meal replacement shakes are not useless, as we are not implying. However, while making a purchase, the number of calories in each portion must be taken into account.
Conclusion
Vegan meal replacement drinks are a fantastic way to maintain your vegan diet while still getting all of your essential nutrients. You get the same nutrients from them as you would from traditional meal replacement drinks, but without any animal components.
In the end, there are plenty of plant-based meal substitutes on the market right now. When you take into account the various nutritional profiles, the huge range is beneficial for availability and flavor preferences but might be overwhelming. Before making a decision, consider if you want a protein-rich snack or to substitute a meal.
This will aid your decision-making about total calories and other nutrients like fiber and carbs. And keep in mind: Plant-based smoothies and meal replacements should be viewed as handy supplements to a well-balanced plant-based diet composed of entire foods. They shouldn’t be your diet’s main source of nutrients as a result.
