FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentbeverageENSURE· 1 bottle

ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE, STRAWBERRY

ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE scores 54/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its **ultra-processed nature** despite a good micronutrient profile.

  • FoodScore of 54/100 places ENSURE in the Decent category.
  • This product is a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed beverage.
  • Provides a notable 6.75g of protein per 100g serving.
  • Contains 1.7g of added sugar per 100g, contributing to its overall score.
  • Offers significant amounts of several micronutrients, including 59% DV Vitamin A.
  • Scores +22 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0.4g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
6.75g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.7g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
89.03mg
4% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (6.8g)+2
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Zinc, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Folate, Riboflavin)+12
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 54

ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE achieves a FoodScore of 54/100, placing it in the Decent category. This score reflects a balance between its nutritional contributions and its classification as an ultra-processed food. The product receives a significant bonus for its protein content, providing 6.75g per 100g, and an additional 12 points for a strong micronutrient profile, including high levels of Vitamin A (59% DV), Vitamin B12 (42% DV), and Calcium (17% DV). However, it incurs a 10-point penalty due to its NOVA class 4 designation, indicating it is an ultra-processed beverage with ingredients like corn maltodextrin and sugar. While marketed as 'High Protein,' the 6.75g per 100g is a positive attribute. Compared to plain water or an unsweetened beverage, ENSURE provides a more complex nutritional profile, including protein and various vitamins and minerals, but also introduces added sugars and artificial ingredients.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in ensure strawberry high protein nutrition shake, strawberry actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Protein Intake

This ENSURE shake provides 6.75g of protein per 100g, which can be beneficial for individuals needing to increase their daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for overall satiety. For those with higher protein needs, such as older adults or individuals recovering from illness, this product offers a convenient source. The protein comes from milk protein concentrate and soy protein isolate, providing a blend of dairy and plant-based protein.

Source of Key Micronutrients

ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE is fortified with several important vitamins and minerals. A 100g serving contributes significantly to daily values for Vitamin A (59% DV), Vitamin B12 (42% DV), and Zinc (17% DV). These micronutrients play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including immune system support and bone health. The fortification helps address potential dietary gaps, particularly for individuals with limited food intake or specific nutritional deficiencies.

Convenient Nutritional Supplement

For individuals who struggle to meet their nutritional needs through whole foods alone, this ENSURE shake offers a convenient and ready-to-drink option. Its balanced macro and micronutrient profile can be useful as a meal replacement or a supplement between meals. The liquid format makes it easy to consume for those with chewing or swallowing difficulties, or for individuals needing a quick source of calories and nutrients on the go. It can be a practical choice for nutritional support in specific circumstances.

How to eat it

ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE is typically consumed as a nutritional supplement or a convenient meal replacement. It's often used by individuals looking to increase protein and calorie intake, or those needing an easy-to-consume source of nutrients. A common portion is one bottle, which provides a complete serving.

Consider using this shake as a post-workout recovery drink to help replenish nutrients and support muscle repair.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add fiber and healthy fats, enhancing overall nutritional balance.
If using as a meal replacement, ensure your other meals throughout the day are rich in whole, unprocessed foods to balance the NOVA class 4 nature of this product.
Chill thoroughly before serving for a more refreshing experience, especially if consumed on its own.
Do not rely solely on this product for all nutritional needs; aim for a diverse diet rich in whole foods.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains several ingredients that some individuals may wish to monitor. As an ultra-processed beverage, it includes natural and artificial flavor, cellulose gel, carrageenan, and artificial sweeteners like acesulfame potassium and sucralose. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive sensitivities to certain stabilizers or have personal preferences against artificial sweeteners. The presence of Red 3 is a synthetic food dye that some consumers choose to avoid. Allergens present include milk and soy, which are clearly declared on the label. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. Those with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities should review the full ingredient list carefully.

Swap suggestions
Very good
Bumble Bee Foods, SARDINES IN SPRING WATER
Score82
Very good
LARABAR, THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW, CHOCOLATE COCONUT CHEW
Score82
Very good
WILD PLANET NO SALT ADDED WILD SARDINES IN WATER
Score82
Very good
GARDEN OF EATIN' GARDEN OF EATIN, TUSCOLA COUNTRY BLUE CORN, TORTILLA CHIPS, SEA SALT, SEA SALT
Score80
Very good
INCA'S GOLD YELLOW MACA ORGANIC GELATINIZED POWDER, YELLOW MACA
Score80
Very good
VEGA DRINK MIX, MINT LEMONADE
Score79
Reader questions
Is ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE a healthy choice?
ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE scores 54/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It provides a good source of protein (6.75g/100g) and is fortified with numerous vitamins and minerals, including high amounts of Vitamin A and B12. However, it is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4) and contains added sugars and artificial ingredients. Its healthfulness depends on individual dietary needs and overall eating patterns.
How does ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE compare to other protein shakes?
Compared to a generic whey protein shake mixed with water, ENSURE offers a more complete nutritional profile, including carbohydrates, fats, and a wider array of fortified micronutrients. However, many standard protein powders, like those from Optimum Nutrition, might have fewer added sugars and artificial ingredients, depending on the specific formulation. This ENSURE shake is designed as a ready-to-drink nutritional supplement, whereas many protein powders are for mixing.
What is corn maltodextrin and why is it in this product?
Corn maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from corn starch. It's used in ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE as a thickener, filler, and a source of easily digestible carbohydrates to provide energy. It contributes to the product's texture and calorie content, but it is a processed ingredient with a high glycemic index.
Can I drink ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE every day?
While ENSURE can be part of a daily routine, especially for those with specific nutritional needs, it's important to consider your overall diet. Relying too heavily on ultra-processed beverages may limit your intake of whole, unprocessed foods. If consuming daily, ensure your other meals are rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to maintain a balanced diet.
Does this product contain artificial sweeteners?
Yes, ENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE contains both acesulfame potassium and sucralose, which are artificial sweeteners. These ingredients are used to provide sweetness without adding significant calories from sugar. Some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of artificial sweeteners.
Is the protein in this ENSURE shake from a complete source?
Yes, the protein in this ENSURE shake comes from milk protein concentrate and soy protein isolate. Both milk and soy proteins are considered complete proteins, meaning they provide all nine essential amino acids necessary for the body. This makes it an effective source for supporting muscle health and other bodily functions.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages →BrandAll Ensure (Abbott) SKUs →Competitor · 0/100A.1., NEW YORK STEAKHOUSE MARINADE →Competitor · 0/100ALMOND JOY CHOCOLATE PUDDING WITH REAL COCONUT & ALMONDS →GoalBest foods for anemia →GoalBest foods for muscle building →GoalBest foods for iron deficiency →Head-to-headENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE, STRAWBERRY vs. A.1., NEW YORK STEAKHOUSE MARINADE →Head-to-headENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE, STRAWBERRY vs. ALMOND JOY CHOCOLATE PUDDING WITH REAL COCONUT & ALMONDS →Head-to-headENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE, STRAWBERRY vs. AMERICA'S CHOICE, SUGAR SWEETENED ICED TEA MIX, LEMON, LEMON →Head-to-headENSURE STRAWBERRY HIGH PROTEIN NUTRITION SHAKE, STRAWBERRY vs. AMERICA'S CHOICE DECAFFEINATED ICED TEA MIX, LEMON →

Data & references

Sources: USDA FoodData Central (Branded, fdcId 1837840, modified 10/22/2020)Updated 2026-04-24