We all care about what we put into our bodies. It’s not enough for a drink to be just tasty or refreshing—we want to understand where the ingredients come from, how they support health, and why they’re there at all. That’s the philosophy behind Shaklee Sparkling Protein™. Let’s look inside the can and break down what makes it unique.
The Protein Source: Beta-lactoglobulin Whey
Sparkling Protein uses beta-lactoglobulin (BLG) whey protein. Most people are familiar with whey protein as it is one of the most extensively studied dietary proteins in the world. Whey protein is well-established for supporting muscle recovery, preserving lean muscle mass, and promoting satiety. It is rapidly digested, allowing amino acids to enter the bloodstream quickly. Amino acid levels remain elevated for several hours, giving the body what it needs to build and repair structural proteins like muscle, collagen, and elastin as well as functional proteins such as hormones and antibodies.[1]
BLG whey protein naturally contains a higher percentage of essential amino acids than standard whey isolates. BLG is naturally higher in leucine, and we’ve added more to maximize support for muscle protein synthesis. Leucine helps with muscle protein synthesis by acting on the mTOR pathway, which drives muscle repair and growth.[2] By including BLG whey, our formulation enhances the anabolic (muscle-building) potential of this drink. This means that every can of Sparkling Protein delivers not only total protein but also a targeted amino acid profile designed specifically for muscle maintenance and building. Also, whey’s use in nutrition helps reduce waste in the dairy industry. Advances in filtration and fractionation technology have enabled the more efficient use of whey proteins, allowing consumers to receive high-quality nutrition.[3]
Why Sparkling?
Sparkling Protein uses whey protein because it dissolves easily, stays clear, and avoids cloudiness. It has a neutral taste and blends with our lightly flavored sparkling drink. But having the best protein doesn’t matter if you don’t enjoy drinking it. That is why the role of flavor and sensory experience is important. Sparkling Protein uses natural flavors that are designed to create a refreshing taste in a light, crisp format that can be sipped over the course of the day.
Also, carbonation is more than just a sensory effect. It can influence satiety as well. Research suggests that carbonation may stimulate gastric activity and enhance feelings of fullness, which could be helpful for people looking to manage appetite between meals.[4] Carbonation also makes the drink an appealing addition for those on the go or interested in a lighter option to smoothies and shakes. The result is a protein beverage with a simple and effective formulation. Our formulation contains malic acid, which is an organic acid found naturally in apples and other fruits. It provides smooth tartness and helps enhance the flavor of Sparkling Protein. Studies suggest that malic acid may reduce muscle fatigue and improve oral health by stimulating saliva flow and balancing mouth acidity.[5]
Our Clean Label Commitment
Sparkling Protein’s BLG whey protein comes from grass-fed cows in responsible farms. This ensures animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and natural nutrition. Each batch is tested with 199 checks for safety, quality, and effectiveness, including heavy metals and contaminants.
Our Sparkling Protein contains no artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. It is a beverage that relies on natural ingredients to deliver flavor and function without unnecessary additives. We use natural sweeteners like monk fruit, which due to its actives, mogrosides, is much sweeter than sucrose (table sugar) and does not add calories. Another natural sweetener in Sparkling Protein, rebaudioside M (Reb M), is sourced from the stevia plant. Our natural sweeteners make Sparkling Protein a healthy option for people trying to reduce sugar intake.[6] We also use a natural preservative sourced from edible fungi (Nagardo®) that can extend shelf life without affecting taste.
Our Sparkling Protein can be used right after a workout, when the body is absorbing amino acids and rebuilding muscle. Studies consistently show that protein consumed shortly after exercise helps with recovery.[7]
Unlike sugary sodas that lead to a crash, protein provides a steady source of energy and satiety. Having sparkling soda in the afternoon can help reduce the need for a snack. For people who are busy with daily activities, it is a convenient way to support protein goals.
As an alternative to traditional snacks, the sparkling format might feel like a treat. Instead of reaching for snacks, Shaklee consumers can enjoy something that supports muscle health, metabolism, and long-term wellness.
The Broader Perspective
Functional beverages do more than refresh—they let you make nutrition a natural part of your daily routine. Choosing a protein soda may seem simple, but small changes like this can have a meaningful impact over time. Protein intake has been linked not only to muscle strength but also to healthy aging. Research indicates that adequate protein intake is crucial in preventing sarcopenia, the age-related decline in muscle mass that can impair mobility and independence.[8] Using protein sodas for protein delivery can make a real impact.
This is what makes Shaklee Sparkling Protein unique. It provides a macronutrient (protein) that has direct links to longevity, metabolic health, and quality of life. It is combined with a clean label, and it tastes great.
Refresh Your Daily Protein
Transparency is about explaining why ingredients are there, how they work in the body, and what values they represent. Shaklee Sparkling Protein is formulated with BLG whey protein boosted with leucine, leveraging its proven benefits in muscle support and satiety, and uses natural flavors and carbonation to create a refreshing experience. It avoids artificial additives aligning with a clean label commitment. It fits into daily life, whether after a workout or as an alternative to conventional snacks. Have a taste of Sparkling Protein at us.shaklee.com
REFERENCES:
- Tang JE, Moore DR, Kujbida GW, Tarnopolsky MA, Phillips SM. Ingestion of whey hydrolysate, casein, or soy protein isolate: effects on mixed muscle protein synthesis at rest and following resistance exercise in young men. J Appl Physiol. 2009;107(3):987-992.
- Atherton PJ, Smith K, Etheridge T, Rankin D, Rennie MJ. Distinct anabolic signalling responses to amino acids in C2C12 skeletal muscle cells. Amino Acids. 2010;38(5):1533-1539.
- Smithers GW. Whey and whey proteins—from ‘gutter-to-gold’. Int Dairy J. 2015;48:2-9.
- Stubbs RJ, Hughes DA, Johnstone AM, Rowley E, Reid C, Elia M, Stratton R, Delargy H, King N, Blundell JE. The use of visual analogue scales to assess motivation to eat in human subjects: a review of their reliability and validity with an evaluation of new hand-held computerized systems for temporal tracking of appetite ratings. Br J Nutr. 2000;84(4):405-415.
- Niklander S, Fuentes F, Sanchez D, Araya V, Chiappini G, Martinez R, Marshall M. Impact of 1% malic acid spray on the oral health-related quality of life of patients with xerostomia. J Oral Sci. 2018;60(2):278-284.
- Shankar P, Ahuja S, Sriram K. Non-nutritive sweeteners: review and update. Nutrition. 2013 Nov-Dec;29(11-12):1293-9.
- Phillips SM, Van Loon LJ. Dietary protein for athletes: from requirements to optimum adaptation. J Sports Sci. 2011;29 Suppl 1:S29-38.
- Bauer J, Biolo G, Cederholm T, Cesari M, Cruz-Jentoft AJ, et al. Evidence-based recommendations for optimal dietary protein intake in older people: a position paper from the PROT-AGE Study Group. J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2013;14(8):542-559.
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