Protein Energy Drinks: Why They’re Trending & How We Help Brands Manufacture Them

The Rise of Protein Energy Drinks

If you’ve noticed protein energy drinks popping up everywhere, you’re not alone. As a beverage co-packer specializing in functional beverages, we’ve seen a massive rise in brands wanting to create drinks that deliver more than hydration. Today’s consumers want energy, protein, convenience, and flavor—all in one can.

Protein energy drinks do exactly that. They combine:

• refreshing carbonation
• meaningful protein
• caffeine for energy
• functional support

Unlike traditional thick, milky protein shakes, clear protein energy drinks are light, sparkling, and incredibly refreshing—making them one of the most exciting beverage innovations on the market.

What to include in Protein Energy Drink formulation?

A protein energy drink is a clear, carbonated beverage that blends:
✔ protein (often 10g+ from clear whey isolate)
✔ caffeine (commonly around 200mg)
✔ B vitamins or functional nutrients
✔ zero sugar or low sugar options

This creates a crisp, flavorful drink that supports:
• energy
• performance
• satiety
• focus

No chalky texture. No shaker bottle. No heavy aftertaste.

Why Consumers Love Protein Energy Drinks

Protein energy drinks appeal to nearly every lifestyle group. They are ideal for:

• fitness and gym consumers
• busy professionals
• parents needing all-day energy
• students
• wellness-focused consumers
• anyone who wants function + flavor

They’re great for:
• mornings instead of coffee
• pre-workout or post-workout
• afternoon pick-me-ups
• on-the-go moments

Because of their caffeine levels, most brands recommend avoiding them if pregnant, breastfeeding, underage, or caffeine-sensitive.

Key Benefits of Copacking Protein Energy Drinks

From a consumer perspective, protein energy drinks offer:

⭐ Protein Support
Clear whey isolate provides a clean, easily digestible protein source.

⭐ Sustained Energy
Many formulations include about 200mg of caffeine, similar to strong coffee or popular energy drinks.

⭐ Refreshing Carbonation
They taste like a sparkling beverage—not a protein shake.

⭐ Zero Sugar Options
Appealing to health-conscious consumers and diet lifestyles.

⭐ B Vitamins
Supporting normal energy metabolism and wellness.

When Do People Drink Protein Energy Drinks?

One of the biggest reasons protein energy drinks are exploding in popularity is versatility. They can be enjoyed:

✔ first thing in the morning
✔ before workouts
✔ after workouts
✔ during long workdays
✔ while traveling
✔ anytime energy + protein is needed

They bridge the gap between energy drinks, protein shakes, and functional beverages, making them a favorite across multiple beverage categories.

Why You Should Launch A Protein Energy Drinks

Protein energy drinks sit at the intersection of several powerhouse beverage markets:

• Energy Drinks
• Fitness & Performance Beverages
• Zero-Sugar Drinks
• Functional Lifestyle Beverages

This means massive consumer demand, strong repeat purchase potential and exciting innovation opportunities.

From tropical flavors to berry blends to dessert-inspired experiences, the category allows brands incredible creative flexibility.

How We Help Brands Copack Protein Energy Drinks

As an experienced protein energy drink beverage co-packer, we partner with brands to take their protein energy drink idea from concept to shelf. Our team helps with:

• beverage formulation support
• sourcing high-quality ingredients
• protein stability & clarity
• carbonation expertise
• taste + flavor development
• regulatory + compliance guidance
• scalable manufacturing & production
• packaging & filling solutions

Whether you want something similar to leading market brands or an entirely unique concept, we help you build it.

Ready to Launch a Protein Energy Drink?

If you’re exploring the idea of launching a protein energy drink, now is the perfect time. Consumers are craving functional beverages that deliver real benefit with incredible flavor—and this category is only growing.

Let’s build something powerful together.

Contact our team to learn more about protein energy drink manufacturing, co-packing, formulation, and development support.