There’s a new addition to the protein aisle, making your daily protein goals more convenient (and bubblier) than ever. Enter ready-to-drink protein soda. Unlike a shake made from powder, this fizzy alternative saves time otherwise spent mixing, shaking, or scooping.
But what even is it? And how does it compare to your usual shake?
This guide covers what protein soda is, how it compares to protein shakes and protein powder, and what to look for when you’re choosing one.
What is protein soda?
Protein soda is a carbonated, ready-to-drink beverage that contains protein, usually whey, and comes in soda-style flavors.
Bucked Up Protein Soda, which was awarded Best Innovation at the 2025 Arnold Sports Festival, is a clear protein soda with 25 grams of whey protein isolate per 16 fl oz can, plus 100 calories, zero sugar, and zero carbs.
Whey protein isolate is a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids. It goes through additional filtration to remove most of the fat, carbohydrates, and lactose.
Here’s the quick breakdown:
| Bucked Up Protein Soda | Per 16 fl oz can |
|---|---|
| Protein | 25g whey protein isolate |
| Calories | 100 |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Carbs | 0g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Caffeine | None |
| Texture | Clear, lightly carbonated |
| Allergen | Contains milk |
| Format | Ready to drink; refrigerate after opening and drink within 24 hours |
What is a protein RTD?
A protein RTD is a ready-to-drink (RTD) protein beverage that comes premixed and packaged, so it can be opened and consumed immediately.
Common types of protein RTD shakes and drinks include:
- Premade protein shakes: creamy, milk-like
- Clear protein drinks: non-carbonated, fruit-flavored
- Protein sodas: carbonated, soda-style
Each one is convenient, since there’s no mixing involved, and easy to keep in a gym bag, desk drawer, or car.
Protein soda vs. protein shakes
While both deliver protein without any prep, a lightly carbonated protein soda feels lighter than premade protein shakes, which are typically creamy and thicker. Choosing the best RTD protein drinks usually comes down to texture and taste. Nutrition varies by brand, so compare labels.
| Protein Soda | Premade protein shake | |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Light and carbonated | Creamy and thick |
| Flavor style | Soda-inspired | Milkshake or dessert-inspired |
| Prep needed | None | None |
| Best for | A refreshing, lighter option | A fuller, more filling option |
Protein soda vs. protein powder
Protein soda is ready to drink, while protein powder has to be measured and mixed. That convenience comes with a few tradeoffs. Powder is more flexible, since you can adjust the serving size and mix it with water, milk, or recipes, and it can be more budget-friendly per serving.
Is protein powder better than protein shakes? It depends. Soda is the easier option on the go, but powder may suit you better if you want more control over how you use it.
| Protein soda | Protein powder | |
|---|---|---|
| Prep | None, open and drink | Measure, mix, and shake |
| Portability | Easy to carry | Needs a shaker and liquid |
| Flexibility | One serving per can | Can be mixed with water, milk, or recipes |
When protein soda makes sense
Protein soda makes the most sense when convenience matters, such as after a workout, during a commute, while traveling, or on busy days when mixing a shake isn’t realistic. A high-protein soda can also work as a swap for a regular soda.
Think of protein drinks as an addition to your diet, not a substitute for whole foods like meat, eggs, dairy, and beans.
Is protein soda good for you?
Whether protein soda is a good fit really comes down to your goals and what’s in the can. Protein helps your body build and maintain muscle, and a protein soda is a simple way to get some in. Check the label for protein, sugar, calories, and ingredients to see how it stacks up.
Bucked Up Protein Soda is made with whey protein isolate, so it contains milk and isn’t suitable for anyone with a milk allergy. Whey isolate has most of the lactose filtered out, but reactions can vary.
If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or take medication, check with your doctor or a registered dietitian before adding a new supplement or beverage to your routine.
How to choose a protein soda
The best protein soda is the one that fits your goals and tastes good to you.
When you’re comparing protein sodas and other store-bought protein drinks, the label tells you most of what you need to know:
- Protein per serving: Check the amount of protein in each can and what kind it is, like whey isolate.
- Sugar and sweeteners: Some protein sodas use sugar, while others go sugar-free with zero-calorie sweeteners. Check which one you’re getting and whether it’s something you like.
- Ingredients: A short list is easier to make sense of, and it’s a quick way to spot anything you want to avoid.
- Third-party testing: Look for brands that share lab results from outside testers. Bucked Up has a searchable library of third-party test results, so you can look up your flavor and check its protein content against the label.
- Flavor and texture: Try a couple of flavors, since you’re more likely to keep drinking one you actually enjoy.
Where to buy Bucked Up Protein Soda
You can order Bucked Up Protein Soda on buckedup.com, including a variety pack with all eight flavors.
You can also find it in stores. Bucked Up launched at Target nationwide, so you can pick up a few cans on your next store run or order it on Target.com. Selection may vary by location, so check the store locator to find protein soda nearby.
*This post is for general information only and isn’t medical advice. Check the product label for ingredients and allergen information, and talk with your doctor first if you’re pregnant, nursing, under 18, taking medication, or have a medical condition.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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