Not to keep hammering the phrase “whole foods first, supplements second,” but… hand me the hammer. Yet, while I’m all for a real-food foundation, I’m also not above keeping my supplement shelf stocked—because sometimes, they can dig you out of a nutritional hole when life gets a little too lifey.
Since life doesn’t always allow for a perfectly nutritious meal, we decided to see how Huel Ready-to-Drink (RTD) delivers in terms of convenience and nutrition. Spoiler alert: We didn’t add it to our best meal replacement shakes roundup just for funsies.
In this Huel Ready-to-Drink review, our expert tester and I, a registered dietitian, break down how it tastes, performs, and stacks up nutritionally, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your goals and lifestyle. Let’s get ready to rumbl—err, drink!
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.
100+ Protein Powders and Shakes—Expert Tested, Rated, and Reviewed
GGR’s team of certified trainers, registered dietitians, nutritionists, and strength specialists has reviewed more than 100 protein powders—including over 20 ready-to-drink shakes—to separate the hits from the misses so you can decide which is worth your money.
Each product is evaluated using our GGR supplement testing methodology, which rates protein shakes on a scale from 1 to 5 across several key categories:
- Price per serving: We compare costs against market standards, awarding top marks to products priced under $2.50 per serving. Pricier shakes can still earn a 4 or 5, however, if their cost is justified through quality ingredients and effectiveness.
- Formulation: We look for at least 20 grams of high-quality protein per serving, with shakes containing complete protein sources—such as whey, casein, or complementary plant blends—scoring the highest. Formulas with minimal fillers and beneficial extras, such as fiber and probiotics, also score bonus points.
- Taste: Our evaluations blend expert tester feedback with customer reviews, giving the highest scores to flavors that are smooth and enjoyable—and without weird aftertastes.
- Texture: Ready-to-drink shakes don’t struggle with solubility like powders can, so we assess whether each shake feels watery or pleasantly creamy, since mouthfeel can make or break the drinking experience.
- Side effects: Most shakes are gentle for digestion, but some can cause bloating or gas. We note potential irritants, such as lactose and sugar alcohols, to inform buyers about what to expect, while also sharing any positive effects.
Huel ready-to-drink is a great macro-balanced option for those who need a meal replacement on the go. Slow-release carbs keep you full and vitamins and minerals give you everything you need.
What our tester says:
“These have seriously become a lifesaver for me in terms of getting in all my calories during Ironman training, especially before early morning workouts when I just don’t want to eat yet.”
A Quick Look at Huel Ready-to-Drink
Huel first made its mark with its OG Complete Meal Powder, but its lineup has expanded into so much more. There are Huel hot and savory packs (like Cajun Pasta), Huel Daily Greens powder, sparkling greens and energy drinks, and protein bars. All are designed for nutritional convenience, but Huel Ready-to-Drink might just be the best grab-and-go option.
This ready-to-drink shake provides plant-based protein, carbs, healthy fats, and fiber. It also packs 27 essential vitamins and minerals, providing complete nutrition in seconds—no need for a shaker or fluids, just twist the cap and enjoy.
Before you buy Huel as your daily fuel, though, here are a few things to know.
Before You Buy
- Huel’s original RTD (the focus of this review) and Black Edition RTD options both deliver 400 calories with balanced macros, though Huel Black Edition is designed for higher protein needs (35 grams versus 20 to 22 grams in the original).
- Variety boxes are available, allowing you to sample multiple flavors or mix up your routine.
Is Huel Ready-to-Drink Worth It?
Huel Ready-to-Drink costs about $5.54 per bottle without a subscription, placing it on the higher end among the best protein shakes. Its cost is nearly double that of its powdered sibling, Huel Original Complete Meal, which costs roughly $2.76 per serving.
That said, Huel RTD offers a more comprehensive formula than many other high-protein shakes, which could make the extra cost worthwhile for some.
Great for:
- Anyone seeking a plant-based meal replacement
- Busy individuals or anyone looking for a convenient, balanced meal that’s ready-to-drink
- Those trying to manage calories and macros without tracking every ingredient
Not recommended for:
- Athletes, bodybuilders, or anyone with higher protein requirements, as Huel RTD’s 20 to 22 grams may be insufficient on its own
- Those who want to avoid artificial sweeteners
- People seeking a pure protein source without added carbs, fat, or micronutrients
Huel Ready-to-Drink Specs
| Price per serving | $2.77 for ½ bottle, $5.54 for full bottle |
| Serving size | ½ bottle |
| Calories per serving | 200 calories in ½ bottle, 400 calories total |
| Protein per serving | 10-11 g in ½ bottle, 20-22 g total, depending on flavor |
| Third-party testing | n/a |
| Sweeteners | Sucralose, stevia, coconut sugar (varies based on flavor) |
| Flavors | Banana, Berry, Chocolate, Cinnamon Roll, Iced Coffee Caramel, Salted Caramel, Strawberry, Vanilla |
Experience Using Huel Ready-to-Drink
Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, served as our expert tester for this Huel Ready-to-Drink review. While the plant-based taste wasn’t a first-time hit for her whey-trained palate, she admits the convenience, complete nutrition, and lasting fullness eventually won her over—so much so that she subscribed to regular deliveries.
Let’s dive into Amanda’s full hands-on testing experience, from taste and texture to how it fueled her Ironman training.
Formulation
Each bottle of Huel Ready-to-Drink provides 400 calories, with macronutrients and micronutrients varying slightly by flavor: 37 to 41 grams of carbohydrates, 17 to 19 grams of fat, and 20 to 22 grams of protein, plus 10% to 67% of the daily value (DV) for 27 essential micronutrients.
Although labeled as two servings, most people finish the full bottle in one sitting—200 calories (half a bottle) isn’t enough for a complete meal. Still, half a serving can work well as a light snack or pre- or post-workout option, as Amanda found during testing.
Here’s a closer look at what’s inside each bottle:
- Carbs and fiber: Gluten-free oat flour, brown rice flour, tapioca, and chicory root fiber provide energy while supporting digestive and heart health.
- Vegan protein sources: Entirely plant-based1, primarily sourced by pea protein and brown rice flour, with oat powder and flaxseed rounding out the amino acids to form a complete protein.
- Fat: Canola oil, flaxseed, sunflower oil, and coconut provide monounsaturated fats, omega-3s, omega-6s, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) to support heart, brain, and hormonal health.
- Micronutrient blend: Calcium, iron, B vitamins, and other essential vitamins and minerals the body requires for overall health.
- Extras: Other ingredients—like sea salt, sucralose, stevia, natural flavors, and flavor-specific additions like cocoa powder—enhance taste and texture.
The balanced macros and strong micronutrient profile are definite strengths. That said, some flavors contain sucralose, which may be a drawback for those avoiding artificial sweeteners, and sodium ranges from 200 to 460 milligrams, which could be a concern if you’re monitoring your intake. These factors keep the formulation rating at a solid 4 out of 5.
Taste and Solubility
As someone used to whey-based shakes, Amanda found Huel’s taste a little challenging to get used to, noting, “These have that very distinct plant protein flavor and aftertaste. If you eat a vegan or vegetarian diet and are used to that distinct flavor, you’ll probably find them tasty.”
Over time, though, her opinion shifted. “These have seriously become a lifesaver for me in terms of getting in all my calories during Ironman training, especially before early morning workouts when I just don’t want to eat yet,” she adds. The convenience and nutrition ultimately won her over—she’s now a regular subscriber and rates the taste at 4 out of 5.
Texture-wise, she gives Huel Ready-to-Drink a 3.5 out of 5, describing it as “suuuuuper thick—like, makes-your-mouth-sticky thick,” though she says it’s smooth and creamy once you adjust.
Side Effects
Because Huel Ready-to-Drink is a true meal replacement—not just a protein shake—Amanda found it “extremely filling,” noting she’s yet to finish a full bottle in one sitting and often drinks half before running long distances. For that reason, she rates side effects a perfect 5 out of 5.
It’s important to note, though, that individual experiences can vary. Some users may be sensitive to sucralose, which can lead to mild digestive discomfort or a slightly unpleasant aftertaste.
Third-Party Testing
Because Huel Ready-to-Drink is classified as a food product rather than a dietary supplement, third-party testing standards don’t apply.
Huel Ready-to-Drink vs Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake
Muscle Milk Zero is the sugar-free version of the popular protein shake brand. One shake contains 20 grams of protein, no sugar, and 100 calories. Muscle Milk products are NSF Certified for Sport, meaning athletes can drink these worry-free. The shakes only come in two flavors, though: chocolate and vanilla.
What our tester says:
“There is a hint of an artificial sweetener taste, which I would expect from any zero-sugar product, but I didn’t detect any aftertaste.”
Both Huel Ready-to-Drink and Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake offer convenient nutrition that are ideal for busy days or quick refueling. However, their formulations and purposes differ significantly:
- Purpose and calories: Huel is a complete food replacement with 400 calories per bottle (200 per serving), while Muscle Milk Zero provides just 100 calories, making it better suited as a light snack or post-workout shake.
- Macronutrients: Huel provides balanced macros, whereas Muscle Milk Zero is protein-rich with little carbs and fat.
- Micronutrients: Huel is fortified with 27 essential vitamins and minerals, whereas Muscle Milk Zero adds vitamins A, C, and D3.
- Protein source: Huel uses plant-based proteins, while Muscle Milk Zero is milk-based.
- Flavor variety: Huel offers eight flavors compared to Muscle Milk Zero’s three options.
- Price per serving: Huel costs $5.54 per full bottle (or $2.77 for half), while Muscle Milk Zero runs about $2.33 per bottle.
If you’re seeking a complete, plant-based meal on the go, Huel Ready-to-Drink stands out for its comprehensive nutrition profile. But if your goal is a quick, low-calorie protein fix, Muscle Milk Zero offers solid value and simplicity.
Check out our full Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake review and comparison table below for more details.
| Huel Ready-to-Drink | Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake | |
| Price per serving | $2.77 for ½ bottle, $5.54 for full bottle | $2.33 |
| Serving size | ½ bottle | 1 bottle |
| Calories per serving | 200 calories in ½ bottle, 400 calories total | 100 cals |
| Protein per serving | 10-11 g in ½ bottle, 20-22 g total, depending on flavor | 20 g |
| Third-party testing | n/a | n/a |
| Sweeteners | Sucralose, stevia, coconut sugar (varies based on flavor) | Sucroalose, acesulfame potassium |
| Flavors | Banana, Berry, Chocolate, Cinnamon Roll, Iced Coffee Caramel, Salted Caramel, Strawberry, Vanilla | Chocolate, Strawberry Banana, Vanilla Crème |
Customer Experience
“Huel customer service is great, and the platform is easy to use,” Amanda shares. “You can pause, change, or skip deliveries, and any unopened items can be returned for a full refund,” she adds, rating customer service a perfect 5 out of 5.
Ordering Huel Ready-to-Drink
Ordering Huel Ready-to-Drink is simple on the brand’s website: Choose your flavor and quantity, pick a one-time purchase or subscription (every two, four, six, or eight weeks), and complete your transaction at checkout.
It’s also available on Amazon—often cheaper with free Prime shipping—but you’ll miss Huel’s perks like its rewards program and flexible return policy.
Customer Reviews
Huel holds a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot from nearly 24,000 reviews, though this includes all Huel products. Huel RTD options have a 4.1 out of 5 rating on Amazon, based on over 800 reviews, including all Black Edition flavors.
Most reviewers report a positive experience, highlighting the convenience of Huel as a meal replacement and noting that the shakes are filling. Flavor opinions vary, and some users find the consistency too thick, though many describe it as creamy and just right. Customer service is also consistently praised for being helpful and responsive.
Final Verdict of Our Huel Ready-to-Drink Review
Huel Ready-to-Drink is a convenient, plant-based meal replacement that delivers balanced nutrition in a single bottle. Here are final takeaways before fueling with Huel:
- Each bottle provides 400 calories, containing up to 22 grams of protein, 41 grams of carbohydrates, and 19 grams of fat.
- Supplies 10% to 67% of the daily value for 27 essential vitamins and minerals to maximize health benefits on the go.
- Ideal for busy individuals or anyone seeking a quick and nutrient-rich meal.
- Ready-to-drink shakes ensure consistent flavor, texture, and nutrition compared to powders.
- Some flavors contain sucralose, which may cause mild digestive discomfort or an aftertaste, and sodium ranges from 200 to 460 milligrams per bottle, an important consideration for those monitoring intake.
- Customer service consistently earns top marks based on user feedback.
Huel Ready-to-Drink
Huel ready-to-drink is a great macro-balanced option for those who need a meal replacement on the go. Slow-release carbs keep you full and vitamins and minerals give you everything you need.
Product Brand: Huel
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 66.50
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.2
Huel Ready-to-Drink Review: FAQs
Are Huel ready-made drinks good for you?
Huel RTDs can be a convenient option when a balanced, whole-foods meal isn’t available. However, some users may find 400 calories and up to 22 grams of protein insufficient, and the sucralose and sodium content may be additional factors to consider.
What are the side effects of Huel Ready to Drink?
Most users find Huel RTD filling and satisfying. However, some flavors contain sucralose, an artificial sweetener, which may cause mild digestive discomfort or an unpleasant aftertaste for sensitive individuals.
Why does Huel RTD taste better?
Although taste is subjective, Huel Ready-to-Drink may taste better than the powder since it’s pre-mixed for consistency. With Huel powder, flavor can vary depending on the liquid—water, milk, or plant-based milk—and how much you use.
Is Huel ready to drink processed?
Yes, Huel RTDs are processed like most foods, but only minimally. They’re blended, fortified with vitamins and minerals, and packaged for convenience, providing a nutritionally balanced meal in one bottle.
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
- Gorissen, S. H. M., Crombag, J. J. R., Senden, J. M. G., Waterval, W. A. H., Bierau, J., Verdijk, L. B., & van Loon, L. J. C. (2018). Protein content and amino acid composition of commercially available plant-based protein isolates. Amino Acids, 50(12), 1685–1695. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-018-2640-5
