ORGAIN ORGANIC COLD BREW COFFEE+ PROTEIN, ICED COFFEE scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite providing a source of protein and being free from added sugar.
This ORGAIN product receives a FoodScore of 40/100, categorized as Poor.
It provides 2.9g of protein per 100g serving, contributing to satiety.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
It contains 0g of added sugar, using alternative sweeteners like organic erythritol.
Consider this beverage as an occasional option rather than a daily staple.
Scores +8 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0.3g
1% of Daily Value
Protein
2.9g
6% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
51.88mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 40
ORGAIN ORGANIC COLD BREW COFFEE+ PROTEIN, ICED COFFEE earns a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. A significant factor in this score is its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a 10-point penalty. While the product is marketed as a protein beverage, providing 2.9g of protein per 100g, and contains 0g of added sugar, its overall formulation includes several ingredients beyond what would be found in a minimally processed food. Ingredients such as organic erythritol, organic natural flavors, sodium phosphate, and gellan gum contribute to its ultra-processed status. Compared to plain water or an unsweetened beverage, which serve as the reference baseline for this category, this ORGAIN product offers more macronutrients like protein and fat (1.3g total fat per 100g), but also includes a longer ingredient list indicative of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in orgain organic cold brew coffee+ protein, iced coffee actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This ORGAIN beverage provides 2.9g of protein per 100g, primarily from organic grass fed milk protein concentrate. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and can contribute to feelings of fullness. Including protein in beverages can be a convenient way to increase daily protein intake, especially for individuals with higher protein needs or those looking for a satiating snack option.
No Added Sugars
The product contains 0g of added sugar, relying on organic erythritol and organic stevia for sweetness. This can be beneficial for individuals monitoring their sugar intake, including those managing blood glucose levels or aiming to reduce overall caloric intake from added sugars. Choosing beverages without added sugars aligns with dietary guidelines that recommend limiting consumption of these ingredients.
Convenient Beverage Option
As a ready-to-drink cold brew coffee with protein, this product offers convenience for on-the-go consumption. For individuals with busy schedules, it can serve as a quick source of protein and caffeine without the need for preparation. Its portable format makes it a practical choice for a morning boost or a post-workout refreshment when other options are not readily available.
ORGAIN ORGANIC COLD BREW COFFEE+ PROTEIN, ICED COFFEE scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite providing a source of protein and being free from added sugar.
How to eat it
This ORGAIN cold brew coffee with protein is typically consumed as a ready-to-drink beverage, often as a morning coffee substitute or a mid-day pick-me-up. It's designed for convenient, on-the-go consumption and is usually consumed as a single serving.
Consider pairing this beverage with a whole food snack, such as a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts, to add fiber and micronutrients.
Use this product as an occasional alternative to your regular coffee routine, rather than a daily staple, due to its ultra-processed nature.
If you are sensitive to caffeine, be mindful of the timing of consumption, especially in the afternoon or evening.
For a more balanced option, consider making your own cold brew coffee and adding a scoop of unflavored protein powder and a splash of milk.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains organic grass fed milk protein concentrate and organic cream, making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The use of organic erythritol, a sugar alcohol, may cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or gas in some sensitive individuals, especially when consumed in larger quantities. While the caffeine content is not declared, as a coffee product, it will contain caffeine, which should be considered by pregnant individuals, children, or those sensitive to stimulants. The presence of multiple stabilizers and emulsifiers like sodium phosphate, gellan gum, and organic locust bean gum contributes to its ultra-processed classification, which is a general dietary consideration.
Is ORGAIN ORGANIC COLD BREW COFFEE+ PROTEIN, ICED COFFEE healthy?
This ORGAIN product scores 40/100, categorized as 'Poor' by FoodScore. While it provides protein and has no added sugar, its ultra-processed nature and reliance on alternative sweeteners contribute to its lower score. It can fit into a balanced diet as an occasional beverage, but it is not considered a cornerstone of healthy eating.
How does ORGAIN compare to other protein coffee drinks?
Compared to many other ready-to-drink protein coffee beverages, this ORGAIN product stands out for its 0g added sugar and use of organic ingredients. However, its NOVA 4 classification as ultra-processed is a common characteristic across many similar branded products, such as those from Starbucks or Premier Protein, which often contain a long list of ingredients and additives.
What is organic erythritol, and is it safe?
Organic erythritol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener. It's generally recognized as safe by the FDA and is often used as a low-calorie alternative to sugar because it's poorly absorbed by the body. Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas, if consumed in large amounts.
What is a typical serving size for this product?
The serving size for ORGAIN ORGANIC COLD BREW COFFEE+ PROTEIN, ICED COFFEE is 11.5 fluid ounces (OZA). This is typically consumed as a single portion. Adhering to the recommended serving size helps manage intake of protein, fat, and any potential effects from sweeteners or caffeine.
Can this product be used as a meal replacement?
While this beverage provides protein, it is not designed to be a complete meal replacement. It lacks the diverse range of macronutrients, fiber, and micronutrients found in a balanced meal. It is best used as a supplementary beverage or a snack to provide protein and caffeine.