Why Does Protein Powder Taste So Bad and How to Make it Better?

With several protein powders on the market, it can be tough to find one with the right amount of protein that tastes good. Some taste bitter, making it hard to get down. So why does protein powder taste so bad, and how can you improve it?

While protein shakes taste almost as good as a chocolate milkshake, some protein powders can be very chalky and bitter. If you’ve ever wondered why your protein powder doesn’t taste as good as it should, there are a few possible reasons.

In this article, we’ll look at why it does not taste as good as it should and how you can improve it. Keep reading to know what you can do to make it taste great!

Is Protein Powder Supposed to Taste Good?

Most people think that protein powder is supposed to taste good. After all, there are plenty of flavored protein powders on the market. However, not all are created equal; some can be chalky and bitter.

If you’re wondering why a protein shake doesn’t taste as good as it should, there are a few possible reasons. It could be that the protein powder you’re using is low-quality or not adequately mixed. Additionally, some people may be sensitive to the taste of whey protein powder.

There are such things as unflavored protein powder, and while they may not taste as good as the flavored varieties, they tend to be of higher quality. If you’re looking for a protein powder that tastes good, it’s essential to choose one that is high quality and properly mixed. 

How to Make Protein Powder Taste Better

Why Does Protein Powder Taste So Bad and How to Make it Better?

Have you ever tried a protein powder that just didn’t taste good? If so, you’re not alone. While plenty of delicious protein powders are on the market, some taste terrible.

Here are a few things you can do to make your protein shake taste better:

1. Add Natural Sweeteners

If your protein shakes taste bad, you can try adding natural sweeteners to mask the bitter taste of some protein powders and make them more palatable. You can either try adding a packet of sugar-free syrup or a natural sweetener available.

2. Add Fruit Juice

Another great way to flavor a protein shake is adding fruit juice, like orange juice, to make your shake taste better and add some extra nutrients. Add a few ounces of your favorite fruit juice to your protein shakes and enjoy.

Additionally, you can customize your drink. If you want a sweeter shake, add more fruit juice. If you want a tart shake, add less fruit juice. The possibilities are endless!

3. Mix with Milk

If it doesn’t dissolve well in water, mix it with milk to make your shake creamier and tastier. You can use any type of milk you like, such as soy milk, almond milk, or cow’s milk. It can also add up as milk protein which has even more benefits. 

4. Use Other Flavors

You can add a few other things to your protein shake to make it taste better. For example, you can add cinnamon or cocoa powder to make a chocolate protein shake. Or, you can add peanut butter or bananas to make a peanut butter and a banana protein shake.

What Should You Not Mix with Protein Powder?

Protein powders taste well when mixed with other food items. However, there are some things you should not mix with protein powder as it can make the shake unpalatable.

Here are some things you should avoid mixing with protein powder:

1. Artificial Sweeteners

While artificial sweeteners can make a protein shake taste better, they can also make it taste worse. If you add too much artificial sweetener, it can make your shake taste extremely sweet and unpalatable.

2. Vegetable Oils or Fats

If you’re planning on adding it to a smoothie or shake, you should avoid adding vegetable oils or fats. They can make the shake taste greasy and unpleasant.

3. Gums and Thickeners

The type of gum or thickener you use can also affect the taste of your shake. If you add too much gum or thickener, it can make your shake taste thick and gloopy. It could also cause bloating and constipation.

4. Skim Milk

Skim milk and milk solids can affect the taste of your shake and make it taste chalky. If you want to add milk to your shake, it’s best to use whole milk or a milk alternative.

These are only some of the things you should avoid mixing with protein powder. If you’re unsure about something, it’s always best to consult with a doctor or nutritionist before adding it to your shake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you eat gross protein powder?

There are ways to make it more palatable. If you’re struggling to get down a protein shake because of its flavor, try adding natural sweeteners and flavors, mixing it with milk, or using other food items to improve the taste.

What do you mix protein powder with?

You can mix it with water, milk, or fruit juice. You can add other flavors to make a chocolate or peanut butter protein shake.

Are protein shakes good for weight loss?

Yes, protein shakes can help you lose weight because they’re high in protein and low in calories. Protein keeps you full and satisfied, preventing you from overeating. Many physically active individuals and athletes use a protein shake to lose weight.

What protein powder does to your body?

Protein powder rebuilds and repairs your muscles. It also promotes muscle growth. If you’re physically active, you may need more protein than sedentary individuals because exercise breaks down your muscles, and protein helps to repair them.

Final Thoughts

Why Does Protein Powder Taste So Bad and How to Make it Better?

Protein powder is a popular dietary supplement often used by athletes and physically active individuals. However, many people find it unpalatable because of its chalky texture and bitter taste.

There are ways to make it more appealing; you can find most of these items in your kitchen. For example, you can add natural sweeteners, flavors, and other food items to improve the taste of your shake. You should also avoid adding artificial sweeteners, vegetable oils or fats, gums or thickeners, and skim milk, as they can make the shake taste worse.

If you found this article helpful, check other fitness-related articles on ExpertFitness.org.

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Nathan Lloyd, MSc
LICENSED PERSONAL TRAINER

I’m a personal trainer, based in Boulder, Colorado.
I service clients physically in the Boulder area, mainly in the ONE Boulder Fitness Gym, but am also available for online consulting and coaching.

If you’re interested in my personal coaching programs, please contact me via the contact page.