FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorbeverageEVOLVE· 11 OZA

EVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE, CLASSIC CHOCOLATE

The EVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE scores 42/100 (Poor) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and low fiber content, despite providing a notable amount of protein.

  • FoodScore: 42/100 (Poor), classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed).
  • Provides 6.06g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
  • Contains 1.2g of added sugar per 100g, a moderate amount for a flavored beverage.
  • Offers minimal fiber (0.3g per 100g), unlike whole food alternatives.
  • Can be a convenient protein source, but not a substitute for whole foods.
  • Scores +10 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0.3g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
6.06g
12% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.2g
2% of Daily Value
Sodium
109.09mg
5% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (6.1g)+2
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 42

The EVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily driven by its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. While the product does offer a notable 6.06g of protein per 100g, earning a +2 bonus, this is not enough to offset the processing penalty and its overall nutrient profile. The ingredient list includes pea protein as the primary protein source, along with soluble vegetable powder and alkalized cocoa powder. It contains 1.2g of added sugar per 100g from organic cane sugar, which is a moderate amount but still contributes to the overall processing. Compared to a reference baseline like plain sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea, which would score much higher due to their minimal processing and lack of added sugars, the EVOLVE shake provides more calories and macronutrients but also includes various additives and flavorings.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in evolve classic chocolate plant-based protein shake, classic chocolate actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Muscle Maintenance and Growth

This EVOLVE shake provides 6.06g of protein per 100g, primarily from pea protein. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, making this shake a convenient option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, especially after physical activity. The protein content can help with satiety, potentially aiding in weight management by reducing overall calorie consumption throughout the day.

Convenient Protein Source for Plant-Based Diets

For individuals following a plant-based diet, finding convenient and complete protein sources can sometimes be a challenge. This EVOLVE shake offers a dairy-free protein alternative derived from peas, which is a good option for those avoiding animal products or with lactose intolerance. Its ready-to-drink format makes it easy to consume on the go, providing a quick protein boost without meal preparation.

Source of Iron

The shake contributes 1.45mg of iron per 100g, which is 8% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, this contribution can be helpful, particularly for individuals on plant-based diets who need to pay attention to their iron intake. Pairing it with a source of vitamin C can enhance iron absorption.

How to eat it

Protein shakes like EVOLVE are commonly consumed as a post-workout recovery drink, a meal replacement, or a snack to boost protein intake. A typical serving is one 11 fl oz bottle. It's important to consider the overall diet when incorporating such products.

Consider this shake as a convenient protein supplement rather than a primary meal, as it lacks the fiber and diverse micronutrients of whole foods.
Pair with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add dietary fiber and a wider range of vitamins and minerals.
Use it as a post-exercise recovery drink to aid in muscle repair, especially when whole food options are not immediately available.
Be mindful of the added sugar content if you are monitoring your sugar intake; while moderate, it still contributes to daily limits.
Things to keep in mind

This product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), meaning it contains ingredients like natural flavors and gellan gum that are typically not found in home kitchens. While these ingredients are generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of ultra-processed foods. The product is free from common allergens like dairy and soy, making it suitable for individuals with those sensitivities. However, those with specific sensitivities to pea protein or other listed ingredients should review the label carefully. It is not recommended as a primary source of nutrition for infants or young children.

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 EVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE healthy?
The EVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE scores 42/100, indicating it is not a top-tier nutritional choice. While it offers a good amount of protein (6.06g per 100g), its classification as ultra-processed and low fiber content mean it doesn't provide the comprehensive nutrition of whole foods. It can fit into a balanced diet as an occasional supplement.
How does EVOLVE compare to other plant-based protein shakes?
Compared to some other plant-based protein shakes, such as those from the Orgain brand, EVOLVE's nutritional profile can vary. Some competitors might offer higher fiber content or different protein blends. It's always best to compare the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of specific products to see which aligns best with your dietary goals.
What is 'soluble vegetable powder' in the ingredients?
The term 'soluble vegetable powder' typically refers to a processed ingredient derived from vegetables, often used to add fiber or other functional properties to a product. In this shake, it likely contributes to the texture or a minor amount of fiber, though the overall fiber content remains low (0.3g per 100g). It's an example of an ingredient found in ultra-processed foods.
How much of this shake can I drink daily?
While there's no strict limit, considering its 1.2g of added sugar per 100g and ultra-processed nature, moderation is key. One serving (11 fl oz) as a post-workout recovery or occasional snack is generally acceptable within a balanced diet. Relying on it as a frequent meal replacement might lead to a diet lacking in diverse whole foods.
Does this shake contain artificial sweeteners?
No, the EVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE does not list artificial sweeteners. It uses organic cane sugar for sweetness, along with organic stevia extract. Stevia is a natural, non-caloric sweetener derived from the stevia plant. This combination provides sweetness without relying on synthetic compounds.

Explore more

CategoryAll beverages BrandAll EVOLVE SKUs Competitor · 66/100MAKER BANANA & COFFEE OVERNIGHT OATS, BANANA & COFFEE Competitor · 66/100POWERBAR CLEAN WHEY PROTEIN BAR, CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH Head-to-headEVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE, CLASSIC CHOCOLATE vs. Chocolate Chip Cookie Head-to-headEVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE, CLASSIC CHOCOLATE vs. MAKER BANANA & COFFEE OVERNIGHT OATS, BANANA & COFFEE Head-to-headEVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE, CLASSIC CHOCOLATE vs. POWERBAR CLEAN WHEY PROTEIN BAR, CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH Head-to-headEVOLVE CLASSIC CHOCOLATE PLANT-BASED PROTEIN SHAKE, CLASSIC CHOCOLATE vs. PRIMAL KITCHEN CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT COLLAGEN FUEL BARS, CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT

Data & references