SOYLENT BANANA FLAVORED READY-TO-DRINK MEAL scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite being fortified with several vitamins and minerals.
SOYLENT BANANA FLAVORED READY-TO-DRINK MEAL has a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor).
It provides 27% DV of Vitamin A and 12% DV of Vitamin B12 per 100g.
The product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Compared to plain water, this beverage offers more nutrients but also added calories and processing.
Consider this as a convenient meal replacement rather than a daily staple beverage.
Scores +12 points above the beverage category average (32/100 across 3796 foods).
Fiber
0.7g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
4.83g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.2g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
71.98mg
3% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin B12)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
SOYLENT BANANA FLAVORED READY-TO-DRINK MEAL receives a FoodScore of 44/100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is significantly impacted by its classification as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a -10 point penalty. While the product is fortified, providing bonuses for micronutrients like Vitamin A and Vitamin B12, these do not fully offset the processing penalty. Per 100g, it contains 97.1 calories, 4.83g of protein, and 0.7g of fiber. The fat content is 5.8g, with 0.6g of saturated fat. The added sugar content is low at 0.2g, largely due to the use of alternative sweeteners like allulose and sucralose, alongside maltodextrin. The presence of ingredients such as soy protein isolate, high oleic sunflower oil, and various gums and emulsifiers like soy lecithin contribute to its ultra-processed designation. Compared to plain water or an unsweetened beverage, SOYLENT provides a more complex nutrient profile but also introduces a higher level of processing and caloric density.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in soylent banana flavored ready-to-drink meal, banana actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Micronutrient Intake
This SOYLENT product is fortified with a range of vitamins and minerals, contributing to daily micronutrient needs. Per 100g, it provides 27% DV of Vitamin A and 12% DV of Vitamin B12, along with other essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and magnesium. This can be beneficial for individuals who may have gaps in their diet or require a convenient way to consume these nutrients, especially when whole food options are not readily available. The fortification helps ensure a baseline level of essential vitamins and minerals.
Provides Convenient Protein Source
With 4.83g of protein per 100g, derived from soy protein isolate, this beverage can contribute to daily protein requirements. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and satiety. For individuals with busy schedules or those looking for a quick protein boost, a ready-to-drink option like SOYLENT can be a convenient way to meet these needs without extensive meal preparation. It offers a plant-based protein source, suitable for those following vegetarian or vegan diets.
Offers a Meal Replacement Option
SOYLENT BANANA FLAVORED READY-TO-DRINK MEAL is designed as a meal replacement, providing a balanced mix of macronutrients and fortified micronutrients. This can be useful for individuals who need a quick and complete nutritional option when traditional meals are not feasible. Its formulation aims to deliver a comprehensive nutrient profile in a single serving, making it a practical choice for on-the-go consumption or during periods when access to varied food sources is limited. The controlled calorie count can also support specific dietary goals.
SOYLENT BANANA FLAVORED READY-TO-DRINK MEAL scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as an ultra-processed food, despite being fortified with several vitamins and minerals.
How to eat it
SOYLENT is typically consumed as a convenient meal replacement or a substantial snack, often by individuals seeking quick nutrition on the go. It's designed to be a complete nutritional solution in a single bottle.
Consider pairing SOYLENT with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add whole food components and additional fiber to your meal.
Use SOYLENT as a post-workout recovery drink to replenish energy and provide protein for muscle repair.
If using as a meal replacement, ensure you are still incorporating a variety of whole foods into your diet throughout the day to maintain dietary diversity.
Chill SOYLENT thoroughly before drinking for optimal taste, as its flavor profile is often enhanced when cold.
Things to keep in mind
This SOYLENT product contains soy protein isolate and soy lecithin, making it unsuitable for individuals with soy allergies. The presence of artificial sweeteners like sucralose and sugar alcohols such as allulose may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating or gas, in some sensitive individuals, particularly when consumed in large quantities. While the product is fortified, its ultra-processed nature (NOVA 4) means it contains ingredients that have undergone significant industrial processing, which may not align with dietary preferences focused on whole, minimally processed foods. Consumers with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities to these ingredients should review the label carefully.
Is SOYLENT BANANA FLAVORED READY-TO-DRINK MEAL healthy?
SOYLENT BANANA FLAVORED READY-TO-DRINK MEAL scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it is fortified with several vitamins and minerals, and provides protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food impacts its overall score. It can be a convenient option for specific situations, but it is not a substitute for a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods.
How does SOYLENT compare to other meal replacement shakes?
Compared to other ready-to-drink meal replacements like Ensure or Boost, SOYLENT offers a similar convenience factor and fortification. The specific nutrient profile, including protein source (soy protein isolate), fat content, and sweetener choices (allulose, sucralose), will vary. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts of individual products to make an informed comparison based on your dietary needs.
What is maltodextrin, and why is it in SOYLENT?
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from starch, often used as a thickener, filler, or preservative in processed foods. In SOYLENT, it contributes to the caloric content and texture of the beverage. While it's a common ingredient, it can have a high glycemic index, meaning it can rapidly raise blood sugar levels.
How many bottles of SOYLENT can I drink in a day?
The serving size is one bottle, and while SOYLENT is designed as a meal replacement, the appropriate daily intake depends on your individual caloric and nutritional needs. Relying solely on processed meal replacements may lead to a diet lacking in whole food benefits like diverse fiber and phytonutrients. It's generally recommended to incorporate a variety of foods into your diet.
Does SOYLENT contain artificial sweeteners?
Yes, SOYLENT BANANA FLAVORED READY-TO-DRINK MEAL contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener. It also includes allulose, which is a rare sugar that provides sweetness with fewer calories than traditional sugar. These ingredients are used to provide sweetness while keeping the added sugar content low.