OWYN Protein Shake Review: Are They “Only What You Need”?
Reading Time: 9 minutes Did you know that OWYN (Only What You Need) shakes contain 20 grams of protein per serving, which is considered the optimal amount for efficient digestion and muscle recovery in one meal?
This makes OWYN shakes not only a convenient on-the-go option but also an ideal choice for supporting your fitness and health goals.
As a professional basketball player and nutrition educator, I understand the importance of clean, effective nutrition, and OWYN shakes deliver exactly that.
OWYN shakes are plant-based protein drinks that emphasize clean and simple ingredients, perfectly aligning with their tagline, “Only What You Need.” These shakes are particularly popular among those seeking a nutritious, convenient option that fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle.
I actually first discovered OWYN shakes through my mom, who found them at a wholesale store.
After trying them, I quickly realized they live up to their promise of providing “only what you need.”
Whether you’re grabbing one of their ready-to-drink bottles for post-workout recovery or looking for a quick meal replacement, Only What You Need shakes are a reliable and tasty choice.
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
What are Only What You Need Protein Shakes (OWYN Shakes)?
Only What You Need (OWYN) protein shakes are a plant-based protein option designed for individuals seeking clean, effective, and allergen-friendly nutrition.
These shakes emphasize minimal, high-quality ingredients while avoiding common allergens such as dairy, gluten, and soy.
Along with the traditional protein powder, there are three main versions of OWYN shakes: Regular, Pro Elite, and BJ’s Special Edition versions:
- OWYN Regular (20g Protein)
- Best for everyday nutrition and meal replacement
- Contains 20g of plant-based protein per serving
- Includes some sugar and carbs for balanced energy
- Ideal for general fitness and wellness
- OWYN Pro Elite (32-35g Protein)
- Designed for athletes, bodybuilders, and high-protein needs
- Packs 32-35g of plant-based protein for muscle recovery & growth
- Zero sugar and zero net carbs, making it keto-friendly
- Includes BCAAs, Omega-3s, and superfoods for added benefits
- BJ’s Special Edition OWYN (30g Protein)
- Exclusive to BJ’s Wholesale Club
- Features 30g of protein, bridging the gap between Regular and Pro Elite
- Maintains zero sugar and zero net carbs like Pro Elite
- More cost-effective while still providing clean, plant-based nutrition
In my opinion, the primary advantages of Only What You Need Shakes are convenience, transparency, and a simple nutrient-dense ingredient list.
In addition to their convenient on-the-go bottles, OWYN also offers a traditional protein powder, which has gained a reputation as one of the best-tasting plant-based protein powders on the market.
Although I haven’t tried the powder myself, it’s a great option for those who prefer to mix their shakes at home or customize their protein intake.
The powder offers the same clean, high-quality nutrition that OWYN is known for, making it a versatile addition to your pantry.
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of OWYN shakes for yourself, you can easily find both the ready-to-drink bottles and the protein powder online or in-store.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, just starting your fitness journey, or somewhere in between, these protein shakes offer the ideal blend of protein, taste, and convenience.
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
My Rating: 9/10
OWYN shakes are an excellent choice for those looking for a convenient, high-quality protein source without unnecessary additives or allergens.
With a strong nutritional profile and a variety of enjoyable flavors, OWYN shakes are one of my preferred options for anyone seeking a reliable protein shake to support their health and fitness goals.
Pros & Cons of OWYN Shakes
Pros
- Optimal Protein Content: Each shake contains 20 grams of protein per serving, which is ideal for digestion and muscle recovery, making them a convenient and effective option for those focused on fitness and nutrition.
- Clean, Plant-Based Ingredients: OWYN shakes emphasize clean, allergen-friendly ingredients that align with various dietary needs, offering a strong nutritional profile free from dairy, gluten, soy, and artificial sweeteners.
- Variety and Taste: With flavors like Chocolate, Vanilla, Cold Brew Coffee, and Strawberry Banana, there’s something for everyone. You particularly enjoy the Cold Brew Coffee flavor, which adds a unique coffee boost to the protein intake. Especially compared to other ready-to-drink plant protein shakes like Muscle Milk Plant Protein, OWYN shakes offer a superb taste experience.
- Convenience: The ready-to-drink bottles are perfect for on-the-go consumption, with shelf-stable packaging that adds versatility for storage and travel.
- Reputation and Options: While you haven’t tried their protein powder yet, you acknowledge it as one of the best-tasting options available, adding to the brand’s appeal.
Cons
- Sweetness Level: Some users might find the shakes slightly too sweet due to the use of monk fruit and stevia.
- Not as Fast Absorbing for Post-Workout: Due to their dietary fat and fiber content, OWYN shakes are not absorbed as quickly as traditional whey protein or fast-digesting plant-based protein shakes. This makes them a great option for meal replacements or sustained energy throughout the day. However, if you’re looking for the fastest protein absorption post-workout to maximize muscle recovery, you may prefer a more rapidly digesting option.
Overall, OWYN shakes excel in delivering clean, convenient, and tasty nutrition, making them a highly recommended option, but with a couple of areas that might not be perfect for everyone.
See Also: Top 5 Best Protein Powders at Walmart
OWYN Ingredients & Nutritional Profile
OWYN shakes typically contain around 180-200 calories per serving, which fits well into a balanced diet.
Each shake provides 20g of protein, sourced from a blend of pea protein and organic pumpkin seed protein. Pea protein is an evidence-based vegan protein source that promotes muscle thickness and recovery post-workout (Babault et al., 2015).
This combination ensures a complete amino acid profile, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet.
The shakes also offer about 4g of fiber, aiding digestion and satiety.
| Ingredient | Nutrient Contribution |
|---|---|
| Pea Protein | Provides plant-based protein, rich in essential amino acids |
| Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein | Adds protein, rich in magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats |
| Organic Flax Oil | Source of omega-3 fatty acids, supports heart health |
| Monk Fruit Extract | Natural sweetener, contributes to sweetness without added sugar |
| Stevia | Natural sweetener, provides sweetness with minimal calories |
| Sunflower Oil | Provides healthy fats, supports energy levels |
| Organic Cane Sugar | Adds sweetness and slight energy boost |
| Calcium Phosphate | Supplies calcium for bone health |
| Potassium Phosphate | Provides potassium, supports muscle function |
| Sodium Phosphate | Provides sodium and phosphorus for electrolyte balance |
| Sea Salt | Contributes to electrolyte balance, flavor enhancement |
| Natural Flavors | Enhances taste without artificial additives |
| Vitamins & Minerals Blend | Enhances the nutritional profile with essential vitamins and minerals |
The focus of OWYN shakes is on clean, plant-based ingredients, and they are free from dairy, gluten, soy, and artificial sweeteners.
The shakes are also non-GMO and free from major allergens, making them suitable for individuals with various dietary restrictions.
The use of ingredients like flax oil adds a dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Flavor and Texture
OWYN shakes come in a variety of flavors, including Chocolate, Vanilla, Cold Brew Coffee, and Strawberry Banana. I’ve tried them all, and I can honestly say they’re all great, but the Cold Brew Coffee flavor is definitely my favorite.
The smooth, creamy texture makes these shakes enjoyable to drink, whether you’re using them as a meal replacement or for post-workout recovery.
The Cold Brew Coffee flavor is perfect if you’re like me and enjoy a little coffee boost with your protein.
Convenience
One of the best features of Only What You Need shakes, in my opinion, is their convenience. They are ready to drink, making them a perfect grab-and-go option for busy individuals.
The shelf-stable packaging allows them to be stored without refrigeration until opened, making them versatile for travel or keeping in a gym bag.
OWYN Pro Elite Protein Shake Review
OWYN Elite Protein Shakes differ from refular OWYN Protein Shakes in several key ways.
Designed for athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts, this shake packs 32-35g of plant-based protein with zero sugar and zero net carbs, making it an excellent choice for muscle recovery, lean muscle growth, and low-carb diets.
With added Omega-3s, superfood greens, and all nine essential amino acids, it goes beyond basic protein supplementation to support overall health and performance.
But how does it compare to other OWYN shakes, and is it worth the investment? Let’s check out the details.
Higher Protein Content
- Elite: 32g- 35g of plant-based protein per serving.
- Regular: 20g of plant-based protein per serving.
- The Elite version is designed for athletes or individuals looking for higher protein intake to support muscle growth, strength, and recovery.
Zero Sugar & Net Carbs
- Elite: Zero sugar and zero net carbs, making it a better fit for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
- Regular: Contains small amounts of sugar and carbohydrates.
- This makes the Elite version ideal for those avoiding sugar for metabolic health, weight management, or athletic performance.
Target Audience & Purpose
- Elite: Marketed more toward athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts focused on lean muscle gain, strength, and endurance.
- Regular: Designed for general wellness, meal replacements, and everyday health.
Omega-3 & Superfoods
- Elite: Contains 535mg of vegan Omega-3 ALA and a superfood greens blend (Broccoli, Kale, Spinach) to support anti-inflammatory benefits and overall wellness.
- Regular: May contain some of these ingredients, but not as concentrated.
Consistency & Taste
- The OWYN Pro Elite shakes are thicker and denser compared to the regular version, which might affect taste and texture preference.
- While both versions are allergen-friendly and free from artificial ingredients, the Elite shakes have a slightly different formulation to prioritize performance nutrition.
Overall, OWYN Elite Protein Shakes are optimized for athletes and those on high-protein or low-carb diets, while regular OWYN Protein Shakes are better for everyday use, meal replacement, and general fitness nutrition.
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
OWYN Protein Shakes at BJ’s Wholesale Club – An Exclusive Option!
The OWYN Protein Shakes at BJ’s Wholesale Club is an exclusive version that falls between OWYN Regular and OWYN Elite in terms of protein content and formulation.
It offers 30g of protein per serving (compared to 20g in regular OWYN and 32-35g in Pro Elite) and maintains zero sugar and zero net carbs, making it more aligned with low-carb and keto-friendly diets like the Elite version.
These are the one’s I buy the most, as they are a more affordable and cost-effective option.
However, unlike the Elite, it does not explicitly mention additional BCAAs or an advanced protein profile for athletic performance, making it a cost-effective middle-ground option for those wanting more protein than regular OWYN without committing to the Elite formula.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy OWYN Protein Shakes?
In my opinion, OWYN protein shakes are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a convenient, nutritious option that genuinely delivers on the promise of “only what you need.”
With their strong nutritional profile, clean and allergen-friendly ingredients, and a variety of delicious flavors, OWYN shakes are one of the best protein powder supplements and perfect for anyone embracing a plant-based lifestyle or simply seeking a high-quality protein source.
Whether you’re using them as a meal replacement, post-workout recovery, or a quick and healthy snack, OWYN shakes offer versatility and great taste in every bottle.
If you value convenience without compromising on nutrition, OWYN shakes are definitely worth adding to your routine.
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
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