1UP Protein Reviews

*We do not make any guarantees and that any comments made above in the FB feed are personal results of that individual. Results may vary from person to person.

Want to learn about the shake that fitness enthusiasts around the world are raving about?

1UP Protein by 1UP Nutrition is our #3 rated meal replacement shake for many great reasons. And, it’s available to everyone regardless of whether or not you’re an avid athlete or fitness guru.

Overall, it tastes amazing and comes in many different sweet flavors, so you can’t go wrong with any choice. From a nutrition standpoint, it’s also low in calories, low in fat, and high in protein. The 1UP Vegan Protein variety boasts some additional health claims, including vegan, organic, and eco-certified.

1UP Protein shakes are perfect for the busy professional looking for a quick meal or snack, people who love to work out or run, and for everyday individuals who want to build lean body mass. The ingredient list is pretty simple but doesn’t contain probiotics or any other ingredients that support other elements of health beyond building muscle and quick recovery after workouts.

Read on to see why 1UP Protein makes our top five list of meal replacement shakes and understand if it’s a good fit for you.

Taste

We’ve all been there – some protein shakes are just chalky and artificially sweet. 

It shouldn’t be a chore to have a nourishing meal replacement shake that tastes great at the same time.

Fortunately, 1UP Protein shakes are tasty, not chalky, and blend well into either water, dairy, or dairy substitutes like almond milk.

Some positive comments about taste from 1UP Protein reviews are as follows:

• “Tastes amazing! It doesn’t have that chalky aftertaste.” – Tracy S
• “Never chalky, mixes great, tastes amazing.” – Kelsey K
• “The flavor was so good. Always great to have a meal replacement shake in hand for people on-the-go or not enough time on their hands.” – Justin V
• “Great for my sweet tooth!” – M G 

Flavor

1UP Protein comes in a variety of flavors, including standard vanilla or chocolate as well as specialty flavors that mimic some of our favorite sweet treats:

• Birthday Cake (Best Seller)
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Blast (Best Seller)
• Coconut Ice Cream (Best Seller)
• Cookies & Cream (Best Seller)
• Chocolate (Best Seller)
• Vanilla (Best Seller)
• Banana Bread (Best Seller)
• Caramel Toffee Macchiato (Best Seller)
• Pumpkin Spice Latte
• French Toast
• Mint Cookies & Cream
• Coconut Pineapple
• Blueberry Muffin
• Cotton Candy
• Banana Caramel
• Key Lime Avocado
• Peanut Butter

Many of the flavors seem to mimic ice cream flavors and modern trends that fitness enthusiasts love but can’t indulge in regularly – banana bread and pumpkin spice latte are unique flavors that speak to this aspiration.

1UP Nutrition claims that the sweet flavor from these meal replacement shakes can help curb “sweet tooth cravings while dieting”. Next time you want something sweet, why don’t you try drinking a 1UP Protein shake instead?

Next, for the nutrients and macronutrient breakdown, we’ll take 1UP Vegan Protein in Chocolate flavor as an example.

Calories

Each scoop or serving of 1UP Protein has 124 calories per serving, depending on the flavor. This calorie value is assuming that you just mix this meal replacement shake with water.

If you decide to mix the 1UP Protein powder with a dairy or dairy substitute base like milk or almond milk, you’d add some additional calories as well – typically anywhere from 60 to 140 calories.

Overall, 1UP Protein shakes are fairly low in calories even when blended with a dairy or dairy substitute base. This makes it a great meal replacement shake or post-workout shake to meet your nutrient needs while keeping calories on the lower end! If you’re looking to lose weight, this shake would be a great addition to your daily repertoire.

To calculate your daily calorie needs, check out this calculator from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Calories are units of energy and come from three macronutrients (fat, carbs, protein), which will be covered below.

Fat

Each serving of 1UP Protein contains 2 grams of total fat, which is fairly low.

The 1UP Vegan Protein variety does contain coconut oil, which contributes 1 gram of saturated fat. Although saturated fat is known to increase your bad cholesterol (“LDL”), in this case, coconut oil does supply some medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). 

MCTs are efficiently used and metabolized in your body, which means they’re less likely to be stored in your body. MCTs may also support weight loss, so coconut oil is a great source of fat in this case!

Total Carbohydrates (Carbs), Sugar & Sweeteners

Total Carbohydrates

With only 3 grams of total carbohydrates per serving, 1UP Protein shakes are low in carbs. 

Many fitness enthusiasts look to reduce carbs, so this meal replacement shake would seamlessly fit their macronutrient needs. 

Dietary Fiber

Out of the total 34 grams of carbs, 1.5 grams of those carbs come from dietary fiber. 

Since 1UP Vegan Protein contains plant-based proteins from peas, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds, these ingredients contribute some fiber.

Fiber helps you stay full and slows down the rate at which your body digests food. Although the daily dietary recommendations for fiber are 25 grams per day for adult women and 37 grams per day for adult men, this meal replacement shake can help get closer to reaching that goal!

Added Sugars 

All 1UP Protein shakes contain zero sugar. This is a huge benefit for their line of protein products and I believe in reducing added sugars from meal replacement shakes as much as possible!

The 2020-2025 USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10 percent of your total daily calorie intake. This shake is a great way to stay under that limit.

Note that some flavors, especially under the 1UP Whey Protein line, do contain some added sugar. Be sure to check the nutrition label before buying this product.

Natural & Traditional Sweeteners

The type of sweeteners in these meal replacement shakes vary depending on the type: 

• 1UP Whey Protein and Egg White Protein powders are sweetened with sucralose.
• 1UP Vegan Protein shakes are sweetened with stevia extract.
• 1UP Whey Isolate Protein powders are sweetened with both sucralose and stevia extract.

Sucralose is a high-intensity traditional sweetener. It has no carbs and no calories. Additionally, it’s approved for use as a food additive in the US. In high quantities, safety has been under question, but it’s unlikely that the amount of sucralose in 1UP Protein would harm your health.

Stevia extract is a popular natural sweetener that comes from South America. It contains no calories and doesn’t make your blood sugars and insulin spike after consuming it, unlike sugar. Highly purified stevia extract was given a “no objection rating” by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2008.

Stevia’s long-term safety is also not known at this time and more research is needed. However, perhaps the biggest downside of stevia extract is its very bitter aftertaste that’s noticeable to many, even when in small amounts. 

Protein

Each serving of 1UP Protein contains 24 grams of protein, which makes it a rich source of protein.

The types of protein that 1UP Protein offers include vegan protein, whey protein, whey isolate protein, and egg white protein. There is a protein for any athlete depending on their preference. 

Additionally, 1UP Protein offers full transparency when it comes to what’s included in the blends, which is extremely rare to find in the world of meal replacement shakes and supplements. Typically, protein shakes list a mysterious proprietary blend on their ingredient list. 

For example, the amino acid profile per serving for 1UP Protein Vanilla Vegan protein powder consists of 973 mg L-alanine, 2824 mg L-aspartic acid, 1996 mg leucine, 898 mg L-tyrosine, 2053 mg L-arginine, 356 mg L-cysteine, 998 mg L-glycine, 1087 mg L-isoleucine, 1771 mg L-lysine, 1321 mg L-phenylalanine, 1247 mg L-serine, 211 mg L-tryptophan, 1178 mg L-valine, 591 mg L-histidine, 213 mg L-methionine, 1043 mg L-proline, 934 mg L-threonine, and 4307 mg L-glutamic acid. 

Out of these amino acids, valine, isoleucine, and leucine are branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) that may support delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) according to a meta-analysis study.

Additionally, protein in general can help you build and retain lean body mass, which is why meal replacement shakes containing protein are so popular for athletes who love 1UP Nutrition! Most Americans get enough protein from foods in their diet, but for athletes and those looking to lose weight, consuming extra protein may help support their goals.

Vitamins and Minerals

Since supplements are not required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to have nutrition labels, these products only have Supplement Facts. 

Although these are not listed for the Vegan Protein example in this review, the Whey Protein Coconut Pineapple variety boasts the following vitamins and minerals:

• 0% Vitamin A
• 0% Vitamin C
• 15% Calcium
• 0% Iron
• 7% Potassium

It’s not an exciting product known for its vitamins and minerals. It does contain some calcium since whey protein is the liquid that’s left after milk has been curdled and strained. It’s also likely to be high in vitamin D as with most dairy products. 

Vitamin D and calcium are healthy nutrients for bone health and reducing the risk for diseases like osteoporosis.

Ingredients

When looking at ingredient lists on food, it’s important to choose products that have as few ingredients as possible, rather than preservatives and additives. The company states that it has the highest quality ingredients that are “dosed high, dosed right”.1

The main ingredients in 1UP vary by the line of protein, but overall, the lists look pretty good:

• 1UP Whey Protein: Cross-flow Ultra & Nano-filtered, Cold Processed & Instantized Whey Protein Concentrate & Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate, Lecithin, Sucralose, Xanthan Gum, Natural & Artificial Flavors.
• 1UP Egg White Protein: Instant Egg White Powder (From Chickens not treated with hormones or antibiotics, Non-GMO), Non-GMO Sunflower Lecithin, Sucralose. Instant Egg White Powder 31.25 g delivering 25 g complete protein
• 1UP Whey Isolate Protein: Whey Protein Isolate, Natural Flavor, Non-GMO Sunflower Lecithin, Sucralose & Stevia Leaf Extract. Whey Protein Isolate 27.78 g (delivering 25 g complete protein)
• 1UP Organic Vegan Protein: Organic Non-GMO Protein Blend (Organic Pea Protein Isolate, Organic Sunflower Seed Protein & Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein), Organic Natural Flavors, Organic Natural Cocoa, Organic Coconut Oil, & Organic Stevia Extract.

The only ingredients I question here are the natural and artificial flavors that go into many of their products. They don’t specify what flavors the product consist of, nor are they required to for labeling purposes. 

Additionally, this product doesn’t contain any probiotics, which other best-selling meal replacement shakes do contain.

Allergens and Warnings

1UP Protein powders and shakes are made in facilities that also process milk, eggs, soybeans, fish oil, tree nuts, and peanuts.

Additionally, pregnant or nursing mothers should consult their physician before using this supplement. It is not intended for use by people under the age of 18.

Key Health and Marketing Claims 

There are many claims on the 1UP Protein label!

Let’s dig deeper into the health and marketing claims for 1UP Nutrition so that you can make a better-informed decision.

• Promotes Lean Muscle Growth, Recovery, and Strength

1UP Protein is rich in protein. Since protein certainly helps with retaining and building muscle, this claim is true.

Plus, the BCAAs this product contains7 can help with recovery after a tough workout. Whether you lift weights, run, go on walks, or work out on your Peloton, 1UP Protein can help you be stronger over time.

• USDA Organic

All ingredients in the 1UP Vegan Protein meal replacement shake are certified USDA organic. This means that at least 95 percent of the products and ingredients are certified organic.

You’ll notice the USDA organic seal and claim on the outer packaging of 1UP Vegan Protein shakes. 

Whey and Egg White varieties are not organic.

• Eco-Certified

Eco certification is given to select organic and fair-trade products with social responsibility. This doesn’t affect the nutritive value of this product, but it’s important for people who believe in products that are fairly sourced and socially responsible.

This claim is on the 1UP Vegan Protein meal replacement shakes only.

• Vegan Certified

Vegan certification means that the product contains no animal products. Needless to say, this claim is on the 1UP Vegan Protein meal replacement shakes only, since egg whites and whey are chicken and dairy-based, respectively.

• Non-GMO

The Non-GMO Project verifies that ingredients in products are not genetically engineered or modified. Many people are looking to avoiding genetically modified organisms (GMO) in their products. Non-GMO foods are free from herbicides and pesticides.

Health experts in dietetics and food believe that there is not enough evidence to support that genetically engineered products are harmful to health. Additionally, genetically engineered crops help reduce the number of pesticides that farmers use, so that they can meet the world’s food needs.

Ultimately, choosing non-GMO products is a personal choice.

• Gluten-Free

Since this shake is mostly made of protein, it’s no surprise that it’s gluten-free. Most gluten comes from wheat grain-based products, which are not ingredients found in 1UP Protein. If you have celiac disease or have gluten sensitivity, this product would be a great fit for you.

For anyone without gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, this claim doesn’t impact its nutrition profile. 

• Soy-Free

The protein sources in 1UP Nutrition shakes are whey, whey isolate, egg white, and plant proteins. 

If you’re limiting soy-based products for health, allergies, or personal preferences, rest assured that these proteins do not contain soy. Note that 1UP Nutrition does operate in a facility that also processes soybeans for its other products.

• No Synthetic or Artificial Ingredients

This claim is true for the 1UP Vegan Protein product only. The others contain either artificial flavors or sweeteners within the ingredient list. 

Overall, whether an ingredient is natural or artificial doesn’t mean much in terms of health impact. Additionally, there’s no formal definition of what’s considered natural. However, it’s a personal preference if you prefer all-natural products!

• No Sugar Added

This claim is true for the 1UP Vegan Protein and Egg White shakes but not for Whey. Although the amounts in Whey are arguably trivial, you’re better off sticking with the versions that still taste good but contain no added sugar.

• No Sucralose

This claim is true for the 1Up Vegan Protein shakes since they’re sweetened with stevia, but not so much for the other lines of protein.

If you don’t like the taste of sucralose or prefer to stick to natural sweeteners, you may want to stick with the Vegan Protein variety.

Price

A 28-serving tub of protein costs $49.99. This equates to roughly $1.79 per serving.

Compared to other top meal replacement shakes, 1UP Protein is a very affordable option where you get the best bang for your buck! For its high-quality ingredients and great taste, the cost is reasonable.

There are several other ways to save some money with 1UP Nutrition:

• 1UP Nutrition runs promotions several times throughout the year to help offset the cost. For example, at the time of this review, there is a transformation challenge coupon that offers 10% off all products. 
• You can “stack” protein shakes with other supplements on the website for an additional discount.
• Its sponsored athletes offer coupon codes to their highly engaged following. You can try to get coupon codes from ambassadors through their Instagram profiles. 
• 1UP Nutrition also offers payment plans so that you don’t have to pay for everything at the same time. You can make four interest-free payments through Sezzle.

Ways to Enjoy 1UP Protein

• Mix with almond milk or coconut milk for a protein-packed shake to drink before or after running or lifting weights.
• Add to a blender with berries, a banana, spinach, and Greek yogurt for a nutritious meal replacement shake that’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
• Incorporate into your baking endeavors! You can make protein-packed pancakes, muffins, and cookies with whey protein. Since these protein shakes come in sweet flavors, they’re perfect for trying to recreate your favorite sweet treat.
• Make protein balls like this recipe that uses fiber-rich rolled oats, peanut butter, and your choice of protein powder – 1UP Protein would add great flavor and healthy protein!

Company Information

1Up Nutrition was founded by Vadim Mordovin and John Hilton, who are passionate about fitness and nutrition. As fitness coaches themselves, they created a brand called 1UP Nutrition to help men and women with athletic performance.

The company’s mission is to “help you change your story by being part of your fitness journey #BecomeBetter”. All products are manufactured in FDA-inspected facilities in the United States.

As a sports niche company, 1UP Nutrition offers a sponsored athlete and ambassador program (1UP ARMY) that rewards its ambassadors with payouts and free products. Based on the company’s Instagram page, its athletes include Kathryn Nash, Duncan Lukas, Katie Corio, and other fitness coaches who generally have less than 1 million followers but have strong content engagement rates.

It also features its everyday ambassadors on its Instagram. You can find ambassadors’ posts by using the hashtag #1UpNutrition.

The Bottom Line

1UP Protein takes our #3 spot. It’s no surprise that this brand is loved by athletes and fitness coaches around the world.

It comes in great flavors and packs a punch when it comes to its calories and macronutrient profile: it’s low in calories, high in protein, and low in fat. Most varieties of 1UP Protein shakes have low or no sugar and are gluten-free.

Additionally, it comes at a phenomenal price for its quality at $1.79 per serving. I have personally tried several samples of this shake for recovery after my powerlifting workouts and noticed faster recovery. It also tasted great!

You can check out additional reviews and compare them with 1UP Protein so that you can choose the shake that’s right for you.