I’ve recently been looking for an excellent meal replacement smoothie in the market. Something to really step up my plant-based protein game, if you know what I mean. And then I discovered Huel Powder v3.0.
This item was essentially created with all of you fans of plant-based proteins in mind while also cramming in those essential nutrients. Now that you’re curious, I bet you want to know if it was effective or not. Hold on, I’m about to get into all the juicy stuff, so please be patient. But first, let’s talk a little bit about the company.
About the Brand
According to the website, Huel is all about changing the way that we see nutrition and food. In order to make eating healthy as simple as pie—well, healthier than pie, definitely—they’ve claimed to prioritize research and creativity.
Huel has something for everyone, whether you work a 9 to 5 job and are overloaded with meetings or you are a gym rat and don’t have time to cook. The company also states that, through collaboration with nutritionists, they have eliminated all uncertainty in meal preparation and offer substantial dietary alternatives to level up your dietary needs.
Introduction to Huel Powder v3.0
Huel Powder v3.0 is engineered with the intention of bridging the gap between nutritional requirements and hectic schedules. The company claims that each serving encapsulates a precise combination of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, fiber, and micronutrients, all meticulously calibrated to offer a satisfying and nutritionally complete experience.
Summary
| CaloriesPer serving (100g) | 400 |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Carbs | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Superfoods | No |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Yes |
| Probiotics | Yes |
| Digestive Enzymes | No |
| Artificial Sweeteners | Yes |
| Controversial Ingredients | No |
Huel Powder v3.0 Nutrition and Key Ingredients
According to the company’s website, the Huel Meal Replacement Shake is gluten-free, has zero artificial sweeteners and is formulated with the ideal amount of essential vitamins and minerals that boost your overall wellness. Let’s discuss its nutrition profile and key ingredients.
Calories
Based on product labeling, 2 scoops (100g) of Huel Powder v3.0 has 400 calories, which is quite a high amount compared to other meal replacement shakes. Moreover, according to the Healthline report, your ideal calorie intake depends on age and activity level.
Most cisgender females need at least 1,600 daily calories to maintain their weight, while cisgender males need at least 2,000. If you want to lose weight, eating less can help. That means if you want to use most of this shake, you need to cut off other high-caloric food and count your calories daily.
Main Macros
Moreover, remember that the total calories of any supplement or food depends on the proportion of the main macros. That means while taking Huel Powder v3.0, you must carefully examine mian Macros.
Carbs
This gluten-free shake contains just 1g of sugar and 45g of total carbs. Even if the total amount of sugar seems reasonable, the entire amount of carbohydrates is concerning, especially for people who follow low-carb diets like keto or Atkins.
Therefore, you may want to serve this shake with incredibly low-carb food if you plan to substitute it for a meal. On the plus side, the shake has a 7g serving of nutritional fiber, which is a saving grace. This fiber content may encourage a protracted feeling of fullness and improve your digestive health.
Fat
Now, let’s tackle the fat content, one of the real players in the macronutrient game when it comes to any diet. Checking out the Huel Meal Replacement Shake, every serving delivers 13g of fat, with 2.5g in the saturated fats corner, while Polyunsaturated and Monounsaturated Fats team up for 8g and 2.0g.
The proportion of saturated and unsaturated fat seems reasonable as this shake has quite a decent amount of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are healthy fats that may promote good cholesterol levels and offer other heart-health benefits.
Protein
Now, let’s zoom in on the protein punch packed into this shake. It’s got 30g of protein, which is quite reasonable for those who want to increase their protein intake or follow a gym diet. But while taking this shake, keep tracking your protein intake.
Because too much protein may not be good for health in the long run. In fact, according to a Harvard report, eating too much protein may generate a risk of kidney stones.
Key Ingredients
After discussing calories and main macros, let’s break down the Huel Powder v3.0 key ingredient list.
Protein Blend
Taking a look at the label, the protein mix in the Huel Powder v3.0 is a carefully crafted combo of peas and brown rice. Both of these are plant-based proteins that are frequently used in dietary supplements, protein powders, and meal replacement shakes. These plant based proteins have well-rounded amino acid profiles and may support muscle development, including muscle repair, growth and overall health. [1][2]
Probiotic and Green Blends
Besides the protein blend, this shake is also crafted with essential probiotics and fiber rich greens like Bacillus Coagulans MTCC 5856, ultra-fine oats, Ground Flaxseed and Tapioca Starch, which may be effective for maintaining well round health. For example, ingesting probiotics in your diet daily benefits microbes in your gut, which may help you digest your food properly. [3] Whereas adding fiber rich greens to your diet possibly supports maintaining bowel health.
Vitamins and minerals
This shake is crafted with 27 essential vitamins and minerals your body needs to thrive. Another good thing is most of these micronutrients are crafted from natural sources like kombucha (B vitamins) and acerola cherry (vitamin C). Plus, this meal substitute has Plant Derived Vitamin D3, which may support maintaining normal bones and muscle function. [4]
Available Flavor Options
Currently, the Huel Meal Replacement Shake comes in nine flavors:
- Cinnamon Roll v3.0
- Vanilla v3.0
- Berry v3.0
- Unflavored Unsweetened v3.0
- Chocolate v3.0
- Original v3.0
- Banana v3.0
- Salted Caramel v3.0
- Caffè Latte v3.0
My Huel Powder v3.0 Experience Story
Let me start by saying that I have a genuine fondness for the Vanilla and Chocolate flavors of Huel Powder v3.0. The aroma and initial taste of both are truly delightful; the Vanilla has that smooth, comforting essence, while the Chocolate boasts a rich and indulgent profile. It’s easy to see why these flavors are popular among many.
However, there’s a bit of a twist in this love affair. Unlike some other nutritious meal substitutes, I’ve encountered a minor challenge when it comes to dissolving the powder completely. There have been instances where achieving that seamless blend, free from any clumps, takes a tad more effort than expected. While I understand that a few lumps may be expected in any powdered drink, I’ve found that achieving that consistently smooth texture can be a touch finicky with Huel Powder v3.0.
On the flip side, I appreciate that Huel prioritizes wholesome, nutrient-dense ingredients, and that might contribute to the slightly different mixing experience. Plus, with a quick shake or a bit more stirring, the clumps do eventually surrender, allowing me to enjoy the full flavors without much hassle.
How to Use It?
Add cold water to your shaker’s 17 fl oz fill line, then add 2 scoops of Huel (100g/400kcal). Place the internal grid in the shaker and screw the lid and cap on tightly. Shake hard for 10 seconds.
Who Should Buy?
- Individuals adhering to a plant-based diet, such as vegans.
- Those seeking to boost their protein intake.
- Individuals looking to enhance their vitamin and nutrient absorption.
Who Shouldn’t Buy?
- Those who are following a low carb diet.
- Those who are sensitive to tree nuts.
Possible Benefits
Mainly crafted with plant-based ingredients: This shake is formulated with essential plant based ingredients, including plant based proteins, which are suitable plant based diets like vegan.
Has MCT oil: This shake is crafted with MCT oil, which is sourced from Coconut, which may improve skeletal muscle function.
Possibly supports bone and muscle health: This shake is crafted with essential vitamins like vitamin D3, which may support your bone and muscle health.
Potential Downsides and Consideration
Besides possible benefits, the Huel Meal Replacement Shake has several downsides, such as:
Has a high amount of calories: This shake has a high amount of calories, which may not be suitable for those who want to limit their calories and carbs.
Contains tree nuts: Based on product labeling, this shake has tree nuts, which may generate sensitivity to some. [5]
Price and Buying Options
According to the company’s website, Huel Powder v3.0 costs $37.50. Moreover, by spending $120, you can get an extra 10% off. The ordering process is simple; you can directly purchase from the Huel website or order it from Amazon.
List of Other Products by Huel
Besides pre-made shakes, the company also offers a variety of products, like:
Huel Bars: Nutrient-dense bars designed to provide a balanced meal in a convenient, portable format.
Huel Hot Savory: Instant hot meals available in flavors like Tomato Herb and Thai Green Curry, designed to provide a warm and savory meal replacement option.
Huel Granola: A crunchy granola product that can be enjoyed as a cereal or mixed with other foods.
Huel Flavor Boosts: Flavor enhancers that allow you to customize the taste of your Huel products.
Huel T-Shirt and Accessories: Merchandise and accessories related to the Huel brand.
FAQs
Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take the Huel Meal Replacement Shake?
According to the company’s website, this shake can be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Moreover, the company recommends one serving a day if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do I get a new Huel Shaker for free?
If you are a new customer, you will receive a free new Huel Shaker and scoop in your starter kit if your order contains 2 bags of Huel Powder or 2 bags of Huel Black Edition.
What is the shelf life of Huel Powder?
The shelf life of Huel Powder is 13 months from production date if your pouch is unopened and stored in a dry, cool environment, away from direct sunlight. It’s 6 months if your pouch is open. Just reseal and store in a dry, cool environment, away from direct sunlight and it’ll keep for half a year.
Once you’ve prepared your Huel, keep it refrigerated for 24 hours. You can save more time and make your breakfast the night before, plus it tastes great cold.If you’re on the go and don’t have a fridge handy, providing the temperature is cool, your prepared Huel can stay fresh for a few hours.
Do I get a free T-shirt?
If you are a new customer, you will receive a free T-shirt if your order contains any of the following: 2 bags of Huel Powder or 2 boxes of Huel Ready-to-drink or 2 boxes of Huel Bar.
Final Thoughts
Huel Powder v3.0’s ability to meet your needs will ultimately depend on your priorities. This product might work well for you if you’re willing to compromise on taste, nutrition, and a small mixing adjustment.
Reference:
- Nichele, S., Phillips, S. M., Boaventura, B. C. (2022). Plant-based food patterns to stimulate muscle protein synthesis and support muscle mass in humans: A narrative review. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, 47(7), 700-710. https://doi.org/10.1139/apnm-2021-0806
- Watanabe, S. (2022). The Potential Health Benefits of Brown Rice. http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.107543
- Kligler, B., Cohrssen, A. (2008). Probiotics. American family physician, 78(9), 1073-1078.
- Shalaby, M., Sakoury, M. M. A., Harthi, S. M., Alshalawi, F. M., Alhajji, M. M., Alshaikh, Z. H., Aljaber, A. H. (2020). Vitamin D3 for health and muscle functions of athletes. Systematic Reviews in Pharmacy, 11(9), 851-854.
- McWilliam, V., Koplin, J., Lodge, C., Tang, M., Dharmage, S., Allen, K. (2015). The prevalence of tree nut allergy: a systematic review. Current allergy and asthma reports, 15, 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-015-0555-8
