While many of us regularly use and love the best protein powders, not everyone enjoys the consistency or taste, and it’s challenging to beat the convenience of a pre-made, ready-to-go shake.
There are plenty of ready-to-drink (RTD) shakes on the market, and we test as many of the best protein shakes as we can get our hands on, always looking for the best protein drinks on the market. In this Slate protein shake review, we’ll be taking a look at one of the more popular options we’ve seen recently.
Slate protein shakes have a solid formulation and are relatively affordable, but we put them to the taste to find how they taste and whether or not they’re worth your money. In this review, I’ll explain everything you need to know about Slate’s RTD protein shakes.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider. GGR also recommends choosing a product that has been third-party tested for quality.
Tested by Protein Enthusiasts
The GGR testers are a team of certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even Olympians and gym owners. We’ve tested over 150 protein powders and more than 20 RTD protein shakes, and many of us use some form of protein shake every single day.
We make sure to spend plenty of time testing each protein shake so we can rate it using our supplement testing methodology. This allows us to calculate an unbiased review score by assigning a score of 1-5 to some of the most important categories, including:
- Taste
- Formulation
- Solubility
- Third-party testing
- Side effects
Slate Protein Shakes
Product Highlights
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While marketed as “lactose-free” the primary ingredient in Slate protein shakes is skim milk.
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You can purchase Slate shakes in eight tastes including Classic Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, French Vanilla, and more.
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This pre-made protein shake contains no added sugars and is sweetened with monk fruit extract
Pros & Cons
Pros
- No added sugar
- 20 grams of protein
- Lactose-free
Cons
- Some reviews note a present aftertaste
- Pricier than other pre-made protein shakes we’ve tested
Bottom Line
Slate Protein Shakes are canned high-protein drinks, each packed with 20 grams of protein. Along with having a good amount of protein, these shakes have been made with ultra-filtered milk to make them lactose-free. Also, no sugars were added to the drinks, being sweetened with stevia and monk fruit.
A Quick Look at Slate Protein Shakes
Slate was founded by Manny Lubin and Josh Belinsky, who were on a quest to make a healthier version of chocolate milk they could drink every day. They developed Slate, promoted it on Kickstart, appeared on Shark Tank, and the brand was officially launched in 2019.
The first product was the classic shake, which we tested, containing 20 grams of protein per can. Slate has since added options with 32 and 42 grams of protein, as well as protein powder and protein cookies.
They’re low in calories, unlike meal replacement shakes, so Slate shakes are likely best used as a snack or post-workout shake rather than a full meal.
The shakes are primarily made of ultra-filtered milk that’s free of artificial colors and flavors, and low in calories, with only 100 calories per can and no added sugar. They’re also gluten-free, keto-friendly, and contain cellulose gum as a thickening agent.
The shakes are available in 8 flavors, and you can order a variety of sample packs from Slate’s website.
RELATED: Are Protein Shakes Good for Weight Loss?
Before You Buy
- Slate protein shakes are marketed as lactose-free, but the primary ingredient is skim milk, so individuals sensitive to dairy may still experience issues even though the lactose has been removed.
- Our testers had mixed reviews about the flavors we tested, so you may want to order a sample pack before purchasing a full case of a single flavor.
- With 20 grams of protein per can, the protein content is a little low, but Slate offers other shakes with up to 42 grams.
Are Slate Protein Shakes Worth It?
At roughly $2.99 per can, Slate shakes are relatively affordable, though they’re still more expensive than simply using a protein powder. Before you order a case, here’s who we think they’re a good fit for.
Great for:
- Those who prefer ready-to-drink protein shakes
- Smaller individuals who don’t need much protein
- Anyone who wants a tasty snack that contains a moderate amount of protein
Not recommended for:
- Athletes or larger individuals with high protein needs
- Individuals who are very sensitive to lactose
- Anyone shopping on a budget
Slate Protein Shake Specs
| Serving size | 11 fl oz |
| Price per serving | $2.99 |
| Protein type | Milk |
| Calories per serving | 100-110, depending on the flavor |
| Protein per serving | 20 g |
| Fat per serving | 0-1 g, depending on the flavor |
| Carbs per serving | 2-15 g, depending on the flavor |
| Flavors | Classic Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, French Vanilla, Mocha Latte, Vanilla Latte, Caramel Latte, Classic Strawberry Shake, Sweet Cream Latte |
| Other ingredients | Allulose, cocoa (processed with alkali), cellulose gel, salt, monk fruit, cellulose gum, lactase enzyme, vitamin A palmitate, vitamin D3 |
Experience Using Slate Protein Shakes
For this review, we had several testers try Slate protein shakes in both the dark chocolate and classic chocolate flavors after they were thoroughly chilled in a refrigerator.
We had our testers try the shakes primarily focused on the taste and consistency, and then we took a closer look at the formulation.
Our testers regularly consume high-protein diets, so we didn’t notice any specific benefits from testing these shakes, but we also didn’t notice any negative side effects. Overall, despite the mixed opinion, our testers were impressed with the convenience and formulation of Slate protein shakes.
Formulation
Slate earns 4 out of 5 stars for the formulation. The protein is fairly low with only 20 grams per can. However, the calories are also low, ranging from 100-110 calories per serving, depending on the flavor. Compared to most protein bars, which also tend to have around 20 grams of protein, Slate shakes are significantly lower in calories.
RELATED: Protein Bar vs Shake
We also appreciate that Slate doesn’t add any artificial colors or flavors, instead using natural flavors.
The protein also comes from milk, not protein powder, so those who don’t enjoy whey protein powders can have a more natural option with Slate protein shakes. Milk protein has been shown1 to have a variety of health benefits, including a reduction of risk factors for cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
While the 20g protein content is low, Slate also offers other options with higher protein content, but we haven’t tested those yet.
Taste and Solubility
Taste and solubility are some of the most important factors when choosing a pre-made shake, as you can’t control the texture or flavor the way you can with a protein powder. For this category, Slate had mixed reviews from our two testers and earned 3 out of 5 stars.
Former GGR performance editor Anthony O’Reilly tried the original chocolate flavor and gave it a 4 out of 5, saying, “This reminds me of the chocolate milk I used to drink as a kid. Good stuff.”
However, our other tester tried the dark chocolate and gave it 2 out of 5 after her taste test.
She said, “It tasted very fake. There wasn’t enough chocolate to call it dark chocolate. It’s convenient with a can to grab and go, but not worth the bad aftertaste.”
We’ve only tried 2 of the 8 flavors, and taste is subjective, so if you’re considering Slate, we recommend ordering a sample pack to see which flavors you like the most.
RELATED: How to Make Protein Shakes without Protein Powder
Side Effects
Our tester didn’t notice any side effects, so we gave this 5 out of 5 stars. However, those sensitive to any of the ingredients may want to choose a different option, especially if you have issues with lactose.
The shakes are advertised as lactose-free, and Slate has added lactase to help with digestion, but the main ingredient is still milk, which may bother some people.
Price Per Serving
For the price per serving, Slate earns 3.5 out of 5. When you order from Slate, a 12-pack costs $35.99, which works out to $2.99 per can.
However, you can set up a recurring order and save $3 per case, which isn’t a lot, but it helps. $2.99 per serving is significantly more expensive than many protein powders, but for pre-made shakes, it’s right in the middle of the pack.
Third-Party Testing
There is no third-party testing available for Slate, which ensures the product is free of undisclosed ingredients and contains what’s actually listed on the label.
Still, the brand seems transparent enough, so we still give it 3 out of 5 for this category. There’s no testing, but also no obvious reason to question the formulation or ingredients.
Slate Protein Shake vs Fairlife Nutrition Plan Shake
Fairlife Nutrition Plan Shake
Product Highlights
- 30 grams of protein per serving
- 150 calories per serving
- Two flavors available
- Uses ultra-filtered low fat milk
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 30 grams of protein per serving
- Delicious flavor and texture
- Convenient protein source
Cons
- Pricing can be expensive
- Thicker than whey protein shakes
Bottom Line
Fairlife Nutrition Plan Shakes are formulated with ultra-filtered milk, rather than protein powder, resulting in a smooth shake that's packed with protein. They contain 30 grams of protein per serving, and are available in Chocolate and Vanilla.
If you’re looking for a high-protein shake that’s sourced primarily from milk, not protein powder, Fairlife Nutrition Plan Shakes need to be on your radar.
Fairlife shakes also get their protein from filtered milk, and each bottle contains a full 30 grams of protein, which is more than the 20 grams per can found in Slate. This means Fairlife shakes are also higher in calories, which may be worth the tradeoff for many.
However, when it comes to the flavor, Fairlife is the clear winner. There are only two flavors, but both are delicious and earned 5 out of 5 stars. I’ve personally been drinking chocolate Fairlife shakes for the past couple of years and love the taste, which is very similar to a Wendy’s chocolate frosty.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Fairlife shake pricing can vary depending on where you purchase it. I get mine from Costco, but it’s often sold at other retailers, such as Amazon and Walmart, where the price can be significantly higher.
In our opinion, Fairlife has the best taste, but Slate is lower in calories and has a better ingredient profile.
For more, read our full Fairlife Protein Shake review.
| Slate Protein Shake | Fairlife Nutrition Plan Shake | |
| Serving size | 11 fl oz | 11.5 fl oz |
| Price per serving | $2.99 | $2.05 – $4.49 |
| Protein type | Milk | Filtered Lowfat Grade A Milk |
| Calories per serving | 100-110, depending on the flavor | 150 |
| Protein per serving | 20 g | 30 g |
| Fat per serving | 0-1 g, depending on the flavor | 3-4 g, depending on the flavor |
| Carbs per serving | 2-15 g, depending on the flavor | 2.5 g |
| Flavors | Classic Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, French Vanilla, Mocha Latte, Vanilla Latte, Caramel Latte, Classic Strawberry Shake, Sweet Cream Latte | Chocolate, Vanilla |
| Other ingredients | Allulose, cocoa (processed with alkali), cellulose gel, salt, monk fruit, cellulose gum, lactase enzyme, vitamin A palmitate, vitamin D3 | Alkalized cocoa, natural flavors, cellulose gel, cellulose gum, salt, carrageenan, lactase enzyme, monk fruit juice concentrate, acesulfame potassium, sucralose, stevia leaf extract, vitamin A (palmitate), vitamin D3 |
Customer Experience
Slate doesn’t offer returns, though they claim that if your shipment is damaged, you can submit a claim with photos for reimbursement. There is also a live chat option, but no email or phone number is provided to contact Slate.
The shakes are also available at many local retailers and grocery stores, so your customer experience may vary depending on where you buy it.
Overall, we give Slate protein shakes 3 out of 5 for the customer experience.
Ordering Slate Protein Shakes
If you order directly from Slate, you’ll receive a discount on any subscriptions, as well as a discount for ordering multiple cases at once. Orders over $49 ship free, which is a nice touch.
Slate shakes are also available on Amazon and can be found in many local health stores like Whole Foods and Sprouts, so you may be able to locate individual bottles nearby, depending on your location.
Customer Reviews
Slate has a 4.9-out-of-5-star rating on the company website, but it’s unclear if the company is filtering reviews. On Amazon, there are nearly 3,000 reviews and an average rating of only 4.1.
Many reviewers had similar thoughts, enjoying the formulation and convenience, but had mixed opinions about the flavor.
Final Verdict of Our Slate Protein Shake Review
If you’re looking for a well-formulated shake that’s made with milk, free of artificial colors and flavors, and contains 20 grams of protein power can, Slate protein shakes are a solid choice. We love the ingredients, but our testers had mixed opinions on the flavors we tried.
Considering Slate protein shakes can be purchased locally or ordered in sample packs, we suggest trying a few flavors to see if you like them before ordering a whole case. Depending on the flavor, you may just find your new favorite protein shake.
- Slate protein shakes are milk-based and contain 20 grams of protein per can.
- The formulation is good, but our testers and many customers have mixed opinions about the flavor.
- Slate shakes aren’t the cheapest on the market, but we think they’re reasonably priced, especially for the quality of the ingredients.
Full Rating
Slate Protein Shake
Slate Protein Shakes are canned high-protein drinks, each packed with 20 grams of protein. Along with having a good amount of protein, these shakes have been made with ultra-filtered milk to make them lactose-free. Also, no sugars were added to the drinks, being sweetened with stevia and monk fruit.
Product Brand: Slate
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 2.99
Product In-Stock: InStock
3.94
Slate Protein Shake: FAQs
What happened to Slate after Shark Tank?
After appearing on Shark Tank, Slate has continued to expand with more product offerings, and Slate shakes are carried at a variety of retailers.
Is Slate better than Fairlife?
Both shakes have pros and cons. Slate shakes are cheaper, but they have a lower protein content, and our testers didn’t like the flavor as much. Fairlife shakes are higher in calories and protein and taste better, but may be more expensive depending on where you buy them.
Does Costco carry Slate shakes?
Costco inventories are subject to change and may vary by region, so we suggest reaching out to your local Costco to see if they carry Slate protein shakes.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
References
- Davoodi SH, Shahbazi R, Esmaeili S, Sohrabvandi S, Mortazavian A, Jazayeri S, Taslimi A. Health-Related Aspects of Milk Proteins. Iran J Pharm Res. 2016 Summer;15(3):573-591. PMID: 27980594; PMCID: PMC5149046.
