To hit your nutrition goals, it is important to pay close attention to the food that you eat.
But on days when life’s moving too fast to sit down for a proper meal, protein sachets make all the difference. They’re light, compact, and save you from the dreaded moment of digging around for a scoop in the bottom of your gym bag. There’s no clunky tub to carry around, no mess, and no judgment when you pull out a sachet instead of a plastic container of chicken and rice on the train.
I tend to keep a couple in my bag at all times, whether I’m heading to a class or just need something to get me through the afternoon. They mix quickly, taste better than they used to, and many of them offer more than just protein — think extra fibre, vitamins, or gut-friendly additions.
What to look for when choosing protein sachets
Choosing the right sachet depends on your day. If it’s post-workout, you might want a fast-absorbing whey or clear protein that doesn’t sit heavy. If it’s a meal replacement, look for options that contain more than just protein — ideally some fats, fibre or added nutrition.
Vegan options have come a long way too, with clearer formulas that don’t rely on thickening agents or artificial sweeteners. If you have a sensitive gut, keep an eye out for those made with minimal ingredients or ones that add digestive enzymes. Ultimately, you want something you’ll actually enjoy — so it’s worth trying a few before committing to a full-size tub.
How we tested
We tried these sachets after workouts, during busy office days, between meetings and while travelling. We looked at flavour, mixability, ingredients and how easy they were to use when time was short or energy was low. These were the ones that stood out and earned a permanent place in the side pocket of a gym bag.
Best protein sachets at a glance
- Best for savoury option: Fuel10K High Protein Instant Soup – £1.20, Tesco
- Best for vegan nutrition: WelleCo Nourishing Protein – £29, WelleCo
- Best for flavour variety: PER4M Whey Protein Sachets – £1.99, PER4M
- Best for refreshing taste: Myprotein Clear Vegan Protein – £15.99, Myprotein
- Best for on-the-go ease: Nutrition X Protein Shots – £2.50, Nutrition X
- Best for complete nutrition: Huel Complete Protein – £2, Huel
- Best for budget buy: Precision Engineered Whey Vanilla – £1.50, Holland & Barrett
- Best for easy digestion: Form Nutrition Performance Protein – £2.50, Naturisimo
Fuel10K High Protein Instant Soup
This one’s for when you’re craving something warm after training. It's a welcome switch from sweet protein drinks, with each sachet blending into a savoury cup-a-soup packed with 15g of protein. Ideal for colder days or those who hate shakes.
Buy now £1.90, Tesco
PER4M Whey Protein Sachets
With flavours like birthday cake, cookies and cream and peanut chocolate, PER4M takes taste seriously. The whey is fast-absorbing and the texture is smooth, not gritty. Great if you’re just starting out and want to figure out your favourite flavour before committing.
Buy now £2.99, PER4M
Myprotein Clear Vegan Protein
More like a squash or cordial than a shake, this clear vegan option is refreshing and light. Good for post-gym when you’re still hot and can’t stomach something milky. Comes in mango, lemon and berry mixes — all clean and easy to drink.
Buy now £18.99, Myprotein
Nutrition X Protein Shots
If you don’t want to deal with powders at all, these small liquid shots give you a quick 20g protein boost in seconds. No mixing, no shaker — just drink straight from the bottle. Handy when you’re on the move or travelling light.
Buy now £2.50, Nutrition X
Huel Complete Protein
This sachet is more than just protein. It includes a blend of vitamins, fibre and essential nutrients, making it a good back-up if you’re skipping a meal. Tastes like a standard Huel shake — clean, slightly sweet, and filling enough to hold you over until your next proper meal.
Buy now £22.50, Huel
Precision Engineered Whey Vanilla Sachet
A no-frills pick that works. The vanilla isn’t overly sweet and it blends well in water or milk. This is a decent budget option if you just want something quick, convenient and fuss-free.
Buy now £2.00, Holland & Barrett
Form Nutrition Performance Protein Vanilla
Plant-based, easy on the stomach and blended with turmeric and digestive enzymes. This is the one to reach for if you usually feel bloated after shakes or want something that supports recovery in more ways than just protein.
Buy now £26.00, Form Nutrition
