CYTOSPORT COOKIES 'N CREME NON DAIRY PROTEIN SHAKE, COOKIES 'N CREME
CYTOSPORT COOKIES 'N CREME NON DAIRY PROTEIN SHAKE scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its **high protein content** and fortification with essential micronutrients, balanced against its **ultra-processed nature**.
This CYTOSPORT shake received a FoodScore of 53/100, indicating a Decent nutritional profile.
It provides 9.6g of protein per 100g, a notable strength for muscle support.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food due to its extensive ingredient list.
Compared to generic dairy, this product offers similar protein but with added vitamins and minerals.
Consider this shake as an occasional protein supplement rather than a daily meal replacement.
Scores +20 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
9.6g
19% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
72mg
3% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Protein (9.6g)+5
Micronutrients (Calcium, Phosphorus, Vitamin A, Vitamin B12)+8
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What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 53
The CYTOSPORT COOKIES 'N CREME NON DAIRY PROTEIN SHAKE achieves a FoodScore of 53/100, placing it in the Decent category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and processing considerations. A significant positive factor is its high protein content, providing 9.6g per 100g, which contributes a +5 bonus to its score. Additionally, the product is fortified with several micronutrients, including calcium (11% DV), vitamin A (33% DV), and vitamin B12 (15% DV), earning an additional +8 bonus. However, the shake is categorized as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a -10 penalty. This classification is due to its extensive ingredient list featuring compounds like cellulose gum and gel, maltodextrin, and artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium. While the product contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive, its overall processing level and the presence of various additives differentiate it from less processed alternatives. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this CYTOSPORT shake offers a similar protein level but with the added benefit of fortification, alongside the trade-off of being more highly processed.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in cytosport cookies 'n creme non dairy protein shake, cookies 'n creme actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
This CYTOSPORT shake is a good source of protein, providing 9.6g per 100g. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, making this product suitable for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, particularly after physical activity. The protein comes from milk protein isolate, calcium caseinate, and sodium caseinate, which are complete proteins containing all essential amino acids. Incorporating such protein sources can help in satiety and support overall muscle health, especially for those with higher protein needs.
Contributes to Bone Health
The shake is fortified with calcium, providing 140mg (11% DV) per 100g, which is a meaningful contribution to daily calcium intake. Calcium is a critical mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and adequate intake is important throughout life. While not a primary source of vitamin D, which aids calcium absorption, the presence of calcium in this shake can help individuals meet their daily requirements, particularly if their diet is otherwise low in dairy or calcium-rich foods. This can be beneficial for long-term bone density.
Provides Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Beyond protein and calcium, this product is fortified with several other important micronutrients. It provides 33% DV of Vitamin A, 15% DV of Vitamin B12, and 8% DV of zinc per 100g. These vitamins and minerals play diverse roles in the body, from supporting immune function (zinc, vitamin A) to energy metabolism (vitamin B12) and vision (vitamin A). Fortified products like this shake can help fill potential nutrient gaps in the diet, especially for individuals who may not consistently consume a wide variety of nutrient-dense whole foods.
CYTOSPORT COOKIES 'N CREME NON DAIRY PROTEIN SHAKE scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its high protein content and fortification with essential micronutrients, balanced against its ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Protein shakes like CYTOSPORT COOKIES 'N CREME are typically consumed as a convenient post-workout recovery drink or as a protein-rich snack between meals. They are ready-to-drink, making them suitable for on-the-go consumption. A common portion is one entire bottle (17 fl oz), which delivers a substantial amount of protein.
Consider consuming this shake after a workout to aid muscle recovery, leveraging its protein content.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add whole food nutrients and fiber to your snack.
Use as an occasional protein boost rather than a regular meal replacement, given its ultra-processed nature.
If you are monitoring artificial sweeteners, be aware that this product contains sucralose and acesulfame potassium.
Things to keep in mind
This CYTOSPORT shake is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. It contains several food additives, including cellulose gum and gel, carrageenan, and artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some individuals may experience digestive sensitivities to certain gums or artificial sweeteners. The product contains milk protein isolate, calcium caseinate, and sodium caseinate, meaning it is not suitable for individuals with a dairy allergy. Although labeled 'non-dairy,' this refers to the absence of lactose, not milk proteins. Always check the ingredient list if you have specific sensitivities or allergies.
Is CYTOSPORT COOKIES 'N CREME NON DAIRY PROTEIN SHAKE healthy?
This CYTOSPORT shake scores 53/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It offers a high protein content and is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, which are beneficial. However, it is an ultra-processed product with various additives and artificial sweeteners, which some consumers prefer to limit. Its healthfulness depends on individual dietary context and overall consumption patterns.
How does CYTOSPORT compare to other protein shakes?
Compared to many other ready-to-drink protein shakes, this CYTOSPORT product offers a comparable protein amount per serving and is often lower in added sugars. For instance, compared to a generic whey protein shake, it provides similar muscle support benefits. However, some brands like Fairlife Core Power may offer a similar nutritional profile but with different ingredient lists and processing methods. Always compare the specific nutrient facts and ingredient lists.
What is 'soluble vegetable fiber' in this shake?
Soluble vegetable fiber is an ingredient added to this CYTOSPORT shake to increase its fiber content. It contributes 1.2g of fiber per 100g. Soluble fiber can help with digestion and satiety. In processed foods, it is often derived from sources like chicory root (inulin) or corn, and it's used to enhance the nutritional profile and texture of the product.
Can I drink this shake every day?
While this shake provides protein and micronutrients, it is an ultra-processed food. Relying on it daily as a primary source of nutrition may mean missing out on the diverse nutrients found in whole, unprocessed foods. It is generally recommended to consume a variety of foods, and this shake is best used as a supplemental protein source rather than a dietary staple.
Does this shake contain artificial sweeteners?
Yes, the CYTOSPORT COOKIES 'N CREME NON DAIRY PROTEIN SHAKE contains artificial sweeteners, specifically sucralose and acesulfame potassium. These are used to provide sweetness without adding calories or sugar. Individuals who prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners in their diet should be aware of their presence in this product.