ENSURE MIXED BERRY MAX PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE, MIXED BERRY
ENSURE MIXED BERRY MAX PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE scores 57/100 (Decent). Its high protein content and diverse micronutrient profile are notable, despite its classification as an ultra-processed beverage.
FoodScore: 57/100 (Decent) for this ENSURE shake.
Provides a significant 9.09g of protein per 100g serving.
Classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Contains 0g of added sugar, making it a sugar-free option.
Offers 15% DV for calcium and 51% DV for Vitamin A per 100g.
Scores +25 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0.6g
2% of Daily Value
Protein
9.09g
18% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
42.12mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (9.1g)+5
Micronutrients (Calcium, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Riboflavin)+12
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What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 57
ENSURE MIXED BERRY MAX PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE achieves a FoodScore of 57 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score is primarily driven by its substantial protein content, providing 9.09g per 100g, which contributes a +5 bonus. Additionally, the product is fortified with several micronutrients, including Calcium (15% DV), Zinc (10% DV), Vitamin A (51% DV), Vitamin C (10% DV), Vitamin B12 (19% DV), and Riboflavin, collectively earning a +12 bonus. However, its classification as a NOVA 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, incurs a -10 penalty. The ingredient list includes natural and artificial flavor, as well as artificial sweeteners like acesulfame potassium and sucralose, which are common in ultra-processed beverages. While it contains 0g of added sugar, distinguishing it from many sweetened beverages, its overall formulation with various additives prevents it from scoring higher. Compared to a baseline of plain water or an unsweetened beverage, ENSURE offers a much richer nutrient profile, particularly in protein and vitamins, but also introduces a range of food additives.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ensure mixed berry max protein nutrition shake, mixed berry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth
This ENSURE shake provides 9.09g of protein per 100g, making it a high-protein option. Protein is essential for the repair and building of muscle tissue, which is particularly important for individuals with increased protein needs, such as older adults, those recovering from illness, or individuals engaging in regular physical activity. The protein sources, including milk protein concentrate and calcium caseinate, offer a complete amino acid profile to support these functions effectively. Consuming adequate protein can help maintain lean body mass and support satiety.
Contributes to Bone Health
With 196.97mg of calcium per 100g, providing 15% of the Daily Value, this product contributes meaningfully to bone mineral density. Calcium is a critical mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout life. The presence of other minerals like magnesium (30mg, 7% DV) and phosphorus further supports bone health, as these nutrients work synergistically. Regular intake of calcium-rich foods and beverages can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and maintain skeletal integrity.
Provides Essential Vitamins for Overall Health
ENSURE MIXED BERRY MAX PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE is fortified with several key vitamins. It delivers 51% DV of Vitamin A, which is crucial for vision and immune function, and 19% DV of Vitamin B12, vital for nerve function and red blood cell formation. Additionally, it provides 10% DV of Vitamin C, an antioxidant important for immune support and skin health. This broad spectrum of vitamins helps fill potential nutrient gaps in the diet, supporting various bodily processes and overall well-being.
ENSURE MIXED BERRY MAX PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE scores 57/100 (Decent). Its high protein content and diverse micronutrient profile are notable, despite its classification as an ultra-processed beverage.
How to eat it
ENSURE MAX PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE is typically consumed as a convenient, ready-to-drink beverage. It's often used as a meal replacement or a supplement to increase protein and nutrient intake, especially for individuals with higher nutritional needs or those who struggle to consume enough food. A common portion is one carton (the serving size).
Consider pairing this shake with a source of whole food fiber, such as a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts, to enhance satiety and digestive health.
Use this shake as a post-workout recovery drink to help replenish protein stores and support muscle repair.
If using as a meal replacement, ensure your overall daily diet includes a variety of whole foods to meet all nutrient requirements beyond what this shake provides.
Chill the shake thoroughly before drinking for a more palatable experience, as some find the artificial sweeteners more noticeable at room temperature.
Things to keep in mind
This ENSURE shake is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), meaning it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen, such as cellulose gel, carrageenan, and artificial colors like Red 3 and Blue 1. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, some individuals may experience digestive sensitivities to ingredients like carrageenan or artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium. The product contains milk protein concentrate and calcium caseinate, making it unsuitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. Always review the full ingredient list if you have specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
ENSURE MAX PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE scores 57/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. It is a nutrient-dense option for protein and several vitamins and minerals, with 0g of added sugar. However, it is an ultra-processed food, which means it contains various food additives and is not a whole food.
How does ENSURE MAX PROTEIN compare to other protein shakes?
Compared to many other protein shakes, ENSURE MAX PROTEIN stands out for its 0g added sugar and significant fortification with vitamins and minerals. For example, some protein shakes like Premier Protein also offer high protein but may differ in their micronutrient profile or specific types of artificial sweeteners used. Always compare the full nutrition label based on your specific needs.
What are the artificial sweeteners in this ENSURE shake?
This ENSURE shake contains acesulfame potassium and sucralose as artificial sweeteners. These are non-nutritive sweeteners used to provide sweetness without adding calories or sugar. They are generally recognized as safe for consumption in moderate amounts.
Can I drink ENSURE MAX PROTEIN every day?
Drinking ENSURE MAX PROTEIN daily can contribute to your protein and micronutrient intake, especially if you have increased needs or dietary gaps. However, it's important to ensure your overall diet remains balanced and includes a variety of whole foods to provide a full spectrum of nutrients and beneficial compounds not found in processed shakes.
Is this product suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance?
This ENSURE shake contains milk protein concentrate and calcium caseinate, both derived from milk. While some lactose-intolerant individuals may tolerate small amounts of these ingredients, it is not considered lactose-free. Individuals with severe lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy should avoid this product.