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The best meal replacements to shake up your diet
Written byLaura Harcourt
Reviewed byH&B Regulatory Affairs
In a hurry with no time to prep your lunch? Why not grab one of our favourite meal replacement shakes to help keep you feeling full?
Our top picks
Delicious chocolate flavour
USN
USN Diet Fuel Meal Replacement Shake Chocolate 1kg
Great Savings
€24.50
€33.00
Vegan meal replacement shake
USN
USN Diet Fuel Vegan Meal Replacement Shake Strawberry 880g
€33.00
Tasty weight loss shake
SlimExpert
Holland & Barrett SlimExpert Meal Replacement Shake Vanilla Flavour 520g
3 for 2 Mix & Match
18+
€25.99
Some days are more hectic than others. Whether it’s back-to-back meetings at work, ferrying the kid’s to-and-fro or a long day of studying in the library, you might not always have the time to prepare a fulfilling, meal.
If you’re looking for something quick, why not try a meal replacement shake? Not to be confused with protein shakes, meal replacement shakes offer a nutritionally complete ‘meal’ that’s ready in minutes and can be consumed on the go, during specific dietary requirements. Plus, many contain protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals.
Please note meal replacement shakes should be consumed alongside a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of whole foods. You should also check with your doctor or a registered dietician as to whether meal replacement shakes are suitable for you.
With that in mind, if you’re keen to try a meal replacement shake, why not choose one of our favourites?
Developed for both men and women, the USN Diet Fuel Meal Replacement Shake is ideal for people who want to lose or maintain their weight, as well as upping their protein intake. In a classic chocolate flavour, this USN meal replacement powder is complete with added vitamin B12 and iron.
Easy to make, just add two rounded scoops (55g) to 200-300ml of cold water (or a milk of your choice) and mix thoroughly in a blender or a shaker for about 30 seconds.
- 25g of protein per serving
- 2.7g fat per serving
- includes 25 vitamins and minerals, glutamine, creatine and MCT
- 200 calories per serving
BigBear1 – 5/5 stars – “There are lots of this type of product on the market, but I find those to be very effective and filling. Tasty, too!”
Another much loved option from USN, the Diet Fuel Meal Replacement Shake in Vanilla. Again, with all the same benefits and features of the other flavours, this one can be used in a variety of different ways thanks to the classic taste.
Add two rounded 55g scoops to 200-300ml of cold water (or a milk of your choice) and mix thoroughly in a blender or shaker for 30 seconds for a smooth tasty shake.
- 26g protein per serving
- 3.9g fat per serving
Amy B – 5/5 stars – “Great high protein shake, used as a meal replacement or post workout. Use a small blender to mix with cold water and ice, tastes like vanilla ice cream. Add a scoop of coffee in the mornings too, it’s delicious.”
Being vegan doesn’t mean you have to miss out on meal replacement shakes. The popular USN have made a vegan friendly version of their Diet Fuel Meal Replacement Shakes in a sumptuous strawberry flavour, with added vitamin B12 and iron for a fully nutritious alternative to a meal.
Just add two scoops (55g) to 250ml-300ml of cold water and mix thoroughly in a blender or shaker for about 30 seconds.
- 26g protein per serving
- added vitamin B12 and iron
- 210 calories per serving
- made with a blend of pea, soya and rice protein
Rach – 5/5 stars – “The first protein shake that I found and actually like! It doesn’t have the powdery taste to it at all and is filling. I blend with soy milk and ice and it’s making a really nice milkshake.”
Another great option for plant-based folks, USN also do a vegan meal replacement shake in a chocolate flavour. With all the same nutrients and potential benefits, from added vitamin B12 to being high in protein, why not give it a try today?
Simply add two scoops (55g) to 250ml-300ml of cold water and mix thoroughly in a blender or a shaker for about 30 seconds.
- 26g protein per serving
- 208 calories per serving
H Y V – 5/5 stars – “This protein shake is delicious and filling. It is my go-to vegan shake.”
High in protein and low in sugar, this Liv.Smart Slim shake is the perfect choice for a busy, active day. Enjoyed as part of a balanced lifestyle, this deliciously chocolatey shake is nutrient-rich and easy to make too. Plus, it’ll fill you up and keep you going until your next meal.
Simply add two scoops (55g) to 250-300ml of cold water and mix thoroughly.
- 21g protein per serving
- 200 calories per serving
Anonymous – 5/5 stars – “Tastes really good and mixes well, never lumpy…”
This delicious vanilla, low-calorie meal replacement packs a protein punch to help you feel fuller This shake is high in fibre and protein, plus an additional 23 vitamins and minerals, to fuel your body and keep you moving throughout the day.
To enjoy, just mix 350ml of water with 52g (two scoops) of powder – add less water if you prefer your shakes a bit thicker – then blend or shake until combined.
- 16g of protein per serving
- 210 calories per serving
Lala213 – 5/5 stars – “Easy to follow for people on the go.”
How to choose the right meal replacement shake for you
When choosing your meal replacement shake, there are several factors to consider to make sure it fits with your dietary needs and health goals.
Here’s what to look out for:
- the nutritional content: look for shakes with a good amount of protein and fibre and keep an eye on the amount of sugar and saturated fats1,2,3
- the ingredients: check the source of protein used in the shake, like whey, soy or pea. If you’re vegan, you’ll want to make sure it’s made up of plant protein. If possible, choose shakes without artificial sweeteners or flavours and be mindful of added sugars, thickeners and other unnecessary ingredients4
- the flavour: choose your favourite flavour to make the shake more appealing and easier to incorporate into your diet
- the purpose: think about whether you need a shake for weight management, muscle building or general nutrition5,6,7
- the cost: compare prices per serving to find a shake that fits your budget
It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before incorporating meal replacement shakes into your diet too. Especially if you have any underlying health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
The final say
Meal replacements are a great solution for those busy days when you just don't have time to prepare a nutritious meal, and you're under a specific dietary requirement. Whether you prefer a refreshing fruity flavour or indulgent chocolate, there’s a meal replacement supplement to suit your lifestyle and goals. Why not add one of our favourites to your basket?
This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Curated by experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
- Leidy HJ, Clifton PM, Astrup A, Wycherley TP, Westerterp-Plantenga MS, Luscombe-Marsh ND, et al. The role of protein in weight loss and maintenance. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition [Internet]. 2015 Apr 30 [cited 2025 Jan 14];101(6):1320S1329S. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25926512/
- NHS Website. Sugar: the facts [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2022 [cited 2025 Jan 14]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/how-does-sugar-in-our-diet-affect-our-health/
- NHS Website. Facts about fat [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2022 [cited 2025 Jan 14]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/different-fats-nutrition/
- Pang MD, Goossens GH, Blaak EE. The Impact of Artificial Sweeteners on Body Weight Control and Glucose Homeostasis. Frontiers in Nutrition [Internet]. 2021 Jan 7 [cited 2025 Jan 14];7. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7817779/
- Astrup A, Raben A, N Geiker. The role of higher protein diets in weight control and obesity-related comorbidities. International Journal of Obesity [Internet]. 2014 Dec 26 [cited 2025 Jan 14];39(5):721–6. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4424378/
- Pesta DH, Samuel VT. A high-protein diet for reducing body fat: mechanisms and possible caveats. Nutrition & Metabolism [Internet]. 2014 Jan 1 [cited 2025 Jan 14];11(1):53–3. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4258944/
- Rabindra J, Samal IR. Protein Supplements: Pros and Cons. Journal of Dietary Supplements [Internet]. 2017 Sep 22 [cited 2025 Jan 14];15(3):365–71. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28937838/
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