Are Protein shakes Gluten Free?

Check the Label
Protein shakes may contain gluten depending on the protein source and additives.
Protein shakes made from whey protein, milk, and fruit are gluten free. However, many commercial protein powders contain gluten from oats, malt, or wheat-based additives.

Coeliac Disease

Check protein powder ingredients carefully. Buy certified gluten free varieties.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Same as coeliac guidance. Many protein shakes are not safe.

Why Do Protein shakes Sometimes Contain Gluten?

Gluten comes from oats (unless certified GF), malt flavouring, or wheat-based thickeners.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ requires GF labelling for GF claims. Many Australian protein powders are not GF.

United States (FDA)

FDA labelling. US protein powders vary; check for GF certification.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100 mL ยท Typical serve: 100 mL (ready-to-drink)
Energy272 kJ / 65 kcal
Protein10.0g
Fat, total1.5g
Saturated fat0.5g
Carbohydrate4.0g
Sugars3.0g
Dietary fibre0.5g
Sodium100mg

Source: USDA FDC. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

What to Watch For

Oats (unless certified GF), malt flavouring, wheat starch, gluten-containing colourings.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Plain milk, yogurt, gluten free protein powders, smoothies (check).

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Protein shakes gluten free?

Protein shakes made from whey protein, milk, and fruit are gluten free. However, many commercial protein powders contain gluten from oats, malt, or wheat-based additives.

Can coeliacs eat protein shakes?

Check protein powder ingredients carefully. Buy certified gluten free varieties.

Related Foods in Drinks

Water Coffee (plain) Tea (plain) Herbal tea Soft drinks or soda Fruit juice Coconut water Energy drinks

More from RefDat

Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ allergen labelling, ingredient analysis

Last reviewed: May 2026