The word “naked” has a variety of connotations, but when it comes to protein powder, a product that’s “naked” is usually a good thing. That’s certainly the case with Naked Nutrition, the brand whose protein powders have a bare minimum of ingredients. With the tagline “nutrition with nothing to hide,” this supplement line founded in 2014 has over 50 products, most with three ingredients or less.
Considering the growing data on the harms of ultra-processed foods—most of which have a laundry list of additives and preservatives—a minimally processed protein powder like those from Naked is definitely a smart choice. As a nutritionist, I’m here to walk you through nine of Naked’s popular blends, highlighting their key features for health and nutrition.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Compare Naked Nutrition protein powders
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| Naked Whey | Clear Naked Whey | Naked Pea | Naked Shake | Naked Rice | Naked Goat | Naked Casein | Naked Egg | Naked Protein | |
| Rating | |||||||||
| Cost per serving | $1.25 | $1.61 | $1.61 | $1.40 | $0.99 | $2.33 | $1.32 | $1.55 | $1.49 |
| Serving | 2 scoops (30g) | 1 scoop (26g) | 1 scoop (26g) | 2 scoops (33g) | 2 scoops (30g) | 2 scoops (30g) | 2 scoops (30g) | 2 scoops (31g) | 2 scoops (29g) |
| Protein per serving | 25 g | 20 g | 20 g | 20 g | 25 g | 23 g | 26 g | 25 g | 25 g |
| Protein source | Grass-fed whey | Whey protein isolate | Whey protein isolate | Pea protein | Organic sprouted brown rice protein | Goat whey protein | Micellar dairy casein | Egg white protein | Egg, whey, and casein |
Key product features
What you should know
Naked’s grass-fed whey protein provides both high-quality nutrition and assurances of sustainability.
- The whey protein in this supplement provides all nine essential amino acids your body needs to get from food. (1)
- At $1.25 per serving, the grass-fed whey is one of Naked’s lower-priced options. This price falls in line with many other protein supplements, which range from about $0.50 to $2.
- This supplement is ideal for consumers who prefer to purchase simple products from companies that use the best animal-rearing practices.
Naked Whey overview
Naked’s Whey is a good option for anyone looking for a solid protein boost. The unflavored option has only one ingredient, whey protein concentrate, so it won’t load you down with artificial sweeteners, excess carbs, or preservatives. In each serving of the unflavored option, you’ll get 25 grams of high-quality protein, 120 calories, and 3 grams of carbs.
Whey protein has long been a gold standard for protein powder, due to its evidence-based effects on muscle growth. Research shows that whey protein is especially useful for building muscle and promoting weight loss. (2, 3) Its contents of all essential amino acids supports the growth and repair of muscle tissue, while its satiation factor may help keep you fuller throughout the day and its higher thermogenic effect will burn more calories as it digests. (4)
If you’re unfamiliar with whey protein concentrate, it’s a type of animal protein derived from whey, the liquid byproduct of cheese making. Some people find its texture to be creamier and smoother than other forms of whey protein, and it’s generally more affordable than whey protein isolate.
The Naked brand also sources its whey from cows that are grass-fed, free-roaming, and raised without growth hormones. For anyone concerned about animal welfare and avoiding growth hormones, these are definitely points in the product’s favor.
Meanwhile, six flavor options provide a nice variety, whether you’re craving chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, chocolate peanut butter, or double chocolate. These flavors are sweetened with coconut sugar, which typically has a lower glycemic index than white sugar. (5) This means it won’t spike your blood sugar as quickly as white refined sugar.
However, some consumers say the texture of the powder is rather chalky and creates quite a lot of foam when mixed.
We like that Naked Whey is third-party tested and Informed Choice certified. This certification means that a supplement has been tested on a monthly basis for banned substances. It’s another indicator of the quality and purity of the product.
All told, the moderate price point ($1.25 per serving), clean label, and ethical sourcing make Naked Whey a good go-to for adding whey protein to protein shakes, smoothie bowls, or baked goods.
What customers are saying
Over 17,000 Amazon reviews give Naked’s Whey an average of 4 out of 5 stars. Many customers report loving the product’s one-ingredient label, as well as its multiple flavor options.
“It’s not too sweet, so when drinking it with almond milk or whole milk, it’s just the right amount of sweetness. You don’t feel ’icky’ after drinking this either.”
Christian C., Amazon
A few reviewers report that the powder creates too much foam when mixed, and some take issue with the way it’s packaged. “I know that things are packed by weight and not volume, but this container was seriously half full. It wasn’t open or anything. It just settled to half the amount in the container,” writes an unnamed Amazon reviewer.
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Grass-fed whey |
| Number of flavors | Six |
| Price per serving | $1.25 |
Key product features
What you should know
Clear Naked Whey uses a trimmer, leaner whey protein compared to the whey protein concentrate used in Naked Whey.
- In one scoop of Clear Naked Whey, you’ll get 20 grams of high-quality whey protein isolate, 100 calories, and 0 grams of sugar per serving.
- The $1.61-per-serving price tag here is a bit higher than average compared to Naked’s other options.
- If you’re looking for a zero-fat, zero-sugar protein powder, this is one to check out.
Clear Naked Whey overview
Clear Naked Whey is a mix of whey protein isolate, natural flavors, a zero-calorie sweetener called Reb-M, monk fruit extract, and vegetable juice; the fruit punch and lemonade flavors also contain citric acid, while the grape flavor also contains malic acid. Unlike many of Naked’s protein powder options, Clear Naked Whey is (clearly) not a single-ingredient formula.
What’s the difference between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate? Whey protein isolate has more fat removed, leaving more protein behind. In fact, whey protein isolate contains around 90% protein. (6) Not surprisingly, then, Clear Naked Whey, the brand’s whey protein isolate drink, has zero grams of fat, two to three grams of carbohydrates, and 20 grams of high-quality animal protein per serving, with 90 to 100 calories overall. People looking for a super-lean, low-carb protein powder may gravitate toward this one.
Another benefit of whey protein isolate: it’s typically lower in lactose, making it easier to digest for people with lactose intolerance. (7) For those who find regular whey protein bothers their stomach, Clear Naked could be a better choice.
There’s also zero grams of sugar here. Clear Naked Whey is sweetened with monk fruit extract and a zero-calorie fermented cane sugar sweetener called Reb-M. According to the International Food Information Council, Reb-M is safe to consume and may even help cut calories to promote weight loss. (8)
The three unique flavor options for this product—grape, fruit punch, and lemonade—help to keep you from getting bored, but many say they’re not Naked’s best flavors. If you’d prefer a vanilla or chocolate option, or want something unflavored to blend into smoothies and shakes without notice, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
A $1.61-per-serving price tag is on the higher side among Naked’s products. However, its ease of use and the 20 grams of high-quality, lean whey protein isolate you’ll get in a scoop might make it worth a little extra splurge.
What customers are saying
An average rating of 3.8 stars on Amazon from 62 ratings indicates that customers are largely satisfied with Clear Naked, with some caveats. People have mixed feelings about the fruity flavors, with some saying they enjoy the grape—“like a nice Pedialyte,” according to a user named “Re-re-review.”
Others, however, say the taste is a drawback. “My drink tasted like foods flavored with the artificial sweetener aspartame, especially diet sodas made by both Coke and Pepsi,” writes user Rich S. “The aftertaste was just as terrible.”
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Whey protein isolate |
| Number of flavors | Three |
| Price per serving | $1.61 |
Key product features
What you should know
Another single-ingredient protein powder, Naked Pea contains pea protein isolate, nothing else.
- Four additional flavors (besides the unflavored original) make for interesting smoothies, but they do, of course, add extra ingredients.
- Naked’s Pea protein is the most affordable of the bunch with a $0.76 per serving cost.
- If you want a lot of vegan protein at a low cost (and aren’t concerned about whether it supplies every amino acid), Naked Pea is a great bet.
Naked Pea overview
Whether you’re a vegan or an omnivore, Naked Pea protein is an easy-peasy choice, if only for its low cost. Each serving will set you back just $0.76—the lowest-priced option on our entire list. And just because it’s cheap doesn’t mean Naked Pea is lacking in quality. Its plant-based formula supplies 27 grams of vegan protein from yellow pea protein isolate.
Granted, this protein isn’t complete, meaning it doesn’t contain sufficient amounts of all nine essential amino acids that our body can’t produce on its own. (1) But studies show that protein-rich foods like legumes, nuts and seeds, are sufficient to achieve full protein adequacy in adults who eat vegetarian and vegan diets. (9) In other words, if you’re eating a varied diet, you likely don’t need to worry too much about mixing and matching proteins to achieve completeness on a vegan eating plan.
If you’re not interested in your protein powder providing much besides protein itself, Naked Pea is a smart option. One hundred eight of the 120 calories per serving come from yellow pea protein isolate. A two-scoop serving also provides just 0.5 grams of fat, 0 grams of saturated fat, and 2 grams of carbohydrates.
There’s an extra nutritional bonus here, too. Each serving comes with 16% of the daily value for iron. Since vegan and vegetarian diets are often low in this mineral, it could be helpful to get this boost in your daily protein shake. (10)
“Even if you aren’t vegan or vegetarian, the addition of iron is helpful if you have a history of iron deficiency or are at risk.”
Jen Roper, PhD, CSCS
Other advantages to Naked Pea include its variety of flavors (chocolate, vanilla, double chocolate, and chocolate peanut butter) and the lack of added sweeteners in its unflavored version. Coconut sugar is used to sweeten up the flavored varieties, all of which contain just 3 or 4 grams of added sugar. However, some testers find its pea taste overpowering, even when added to smoothies or other recipes.
What customers are saying
Folks have some strong feelings, both positive and negative, about Naked’s pea protein supplement. Over 13,000 Amazon reviewers give the product a 4.1 star average rating. Many are thrilled with its extremely high protein content of 27 grams per serving. Vegan and vegetarian users especially appreciate the single ingredient of pea protein.
“I’m happy to say that it’s great. It tastes a bit like soy milk. It also blends very easily in water; I just add water and stir and I don’t have to deal with clumps.”
Username “alphalog,” Amazon
The most frequent complaint about Naked’s pea protein is definitely its taste. Several reviewers say that, even when blended into a shake, the powder has a strong, unpleasant flavor and chalky texture. “The powder seems to absorb anything you put in it and make it taste terrible. I tried sugar, peanut butter, along with berries and oats and nothing has worked,” writes Amazon reviewer elleHarrington.
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Pea protein isolate |
| Number of flavors | Five |
| Price per serving | $0.76 |
Key product features
What you should know
Naked Shake has more calories and saturated fat than most other Naked protein powders, but it can be mixed in water to keep total nutrition in check.
- We like that the nine different flavor options keep Naked Shake from getting boring.
- The $1.40 price per serving is about average among Naked’s protein products.
- This is a great choice for people on a vegan diet who need a quick and easy protein boost.
Naked Shake overview
On busy mornings, sometimes you need a protein powder you can simply pop in a shaker and go. Naked’s Shake might be just the ticket. It blends into water, milk, or other beverages easily for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack. And since the shake comes in nine flavor options, you aren’t likely to get bored of it, even if you make it a regular part of your diet.
This shake is ideal for vegans and vegetarians, since it’s made with pea protein and other animal-free ingredients. Unlike other many vegan shakes, Naked’s is a complete protein—the kind that supplies all nine essential amino acids the body can’t make on its own. The shake is also non-GMO, gluten-free, and free of artificial flavors and sweeteners. With all these perks, we think it’s worth the price tag of $1.40 per serving, which is about average for Naked’s protein powders.
There are a few downsides of the Naked Shake, however. Nutritionally, it’s not the best of Naked’s options. Besides containing a higher-than-average calorie count of 130 per serving, it comes with added sugar, 10% of the daily value for sodium, and 8% of the daily value for saturated fat. (These nutritional statistics will vary slightly depending on flavor.) These numbers aren’t terrible, but compared to Naked’s other products, they’re relatively high. Granted, some of these extra calories come from the addition of MCT oil, which may actually support weight loss. (11) According to info on Naked’s website, this ingredient is added to help users meet weight loss goals.
Also on the plus side, each serving supplies up to 40% of the daily value for iron, depending on the flavor. (Some flavors have less iron than others. Chocolate, for example, supplies just 15% of the daily value.) Since vegans have a high prevalence of depleted iron stores, this could help fill in nutritional gaps. (10)
What customers are saying
When you’re choosing a good protein shake, taste matters—and Amazon reviewers have lots to say about the taste of the Naked Shake. Some say the strawberry banana flavor tastes just like a milkshake. Overall, the shake gets an average of 4.2 stars on Amazon from over 2,200 reviews, with frequent positive comments on its blendability and creamy texture.
“The taste is light and fruity. It doesn’t have that artificial flavor or protein after taste.”
Maureen R., Amazon
Other reviewers aren’t quite so pleased with the shake’s flavor. “I can only describe it as a mystery veggie baby food with the same sickly sweet yet bitter aftertaste as stevia,” user JL writes.
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Pea protein |
| Number of flavors | Nine |
| Price per serving | $1.40 |
Key product features
What you should know
Naked Rice protein powder is the brand’s only all-organic option. Its sustainability and simplicity are advantages.
- Brown rice protein isn’t a complete protein, but it does supply 25 grams in two scoops.
- This powder’s price is on the low end of the spectrum at $0.99 per serving.
- Purists who only want protein, with no other additives or extra, will appreciate Naked Rice’s single-ingredient formula.
Naked Rice overview
Protein powder doesn’t have to have lots of bells and whistles to be effective—and Naked’s Rice is proof. With its sole ingredient, sprouted brown rice protein, this powder provides 25 grams of protein per serving, plus a sizable 22% of the daily value for iron. Since iron helps create red blood cells and prevent iron deficiency anemia, it’s an important nutrient to get enough of each day for energy and overall good health. (12)
“This makes Naked Rice a good option for women, who tend to have a higher risk for iron deficiency anemia and its negative side effects,” Jen Roper, PhD, CSCS notes.
Aside from its protein and iron, Naked Rice isn’t high in many other nutrients. That includes carbs (4 grams per serving), fat (0.5 grams per serving), and saturated fat (0 grams per serving). Each serving provides 120 calories. And since the only ingredient here is organic brown rice, the powder is free of allergens like dairy, gluten, soy, and nuts. And if you’re concerned about the arsenic content of rice, rest assured: Naked Rice is independently tested for heavy metals.
“Rice protein is naturally high in leucine, which is one of the most important amino acids for MPS, making this blend a solid choice.”
Victoria Burgess, PhD, CSCS, CISSN
While brown rice is not a complete protein (the kind that supplies all nine essential amino acids), it has the benefit of being sprouted. According to the Whole Grains Council, some research shows that eating sprouted brown rice could help reduce fasting blood glucose. (13) Other research has suggested that sprouted brown rice might help fight inflammation, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. (14)
We like, too, that Naked Rice is 100% organic, providing assurance of good sustainability practices. However, the brand does not say where they source their organic brown rice. Another drawback: this powder comes only in an unflavored option. Though most users say the taste is mild and blends well, you may want to set your expectations to taste some earthy flavor.
Naked Rice’s price matches its minimalist aesthetic. Each serving costs just $0.99, making it one of the most affordable of Naked’s protein powders.
What customers are saying
Amazon users give Naked Rice a 4 out of 5 star average rating from over 1,800 reviews. The supplement is popular for its single ingredient and its organic label. And despite being made solely from brown rice, many reviewers say the powder genuinely tastes good and blends well with other flavors.
“I tried this product and was very happy with it. Not only did it not taste like a chem factory, but I actually liked the taste, which was unexpected for a protein powder.”
Username “Firemonk,” Amazon
Some complain about its texture, though. “I’m not sure ‘chalky’ is the right term, but that general idea is correct,” writes Amazon user BrianinMI.
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Organic brown rice protein |
| Number of flavors | One |
| Price per serving | $0.99 |
Key product features
What you should know
Goat milk protein may be easier on your stomach than cow’s milk, especially if you’re lactose intolerant.
- Three flavor options (unflavored, vanilla, and chocolate) add a little variety to this protein powder—but some say all the flavors have goat milk’s signature tang.
- Naked Goat costs a pretty penny at $2.33 per serving, which is more expensive than average for Naked’s protein powders but about average for goat protein powders in general.
- Those who can’t tolerate cow’s milk but want high-quality animal protein may appreciate this goat milk-derived option.
Naked Goat overview
We’ll address the elephant (or perhaps the goat) in the room: why does Naked Goat protein powder cost so much per serving? At $2.33 per two scoops, this protein powder is by far the highest-priced of Naked’s options on our list. The fact is, goats don’t produce nearly as much milk as dairy cows, and the human labor involved in obtaining their milk is more intensive. If you need a lower-lactose protein powder or prefer the taste of goat’s milk over cow’s milk, however, you may find Naked Goat is worth the extra cash.
This product not only supplies 23 grams of complete protein, it comes from pasture-raised goats sourced from small-herd Wisconsin dairies. It’s also a single-ingredient formula, provides 12% of the daily value for potassium per serving, and has just 1 gram of naturally occurring sugar.
Potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure, muscle and nerve function, and kidney health. (15) Still, most Americans don’t get enough of this important mineral—so boosting your intake is probably a good idea. (15) The brand also claims that Naked Goat is high in vitamin A, but does not disclose how much is in each serving.
“Goat milk has also been known for its immune system enhancing properties,” Burgess adds.
The unflavored version of Naked Goat contains 110 calories, 0.5 grams of fat, 0 grams of saturated fat, and just 15 milligrams of sodium. (If you need a low-sodium option, this certainly fits the bill.)
However, there’s more than just the unflavored option of Naked Goat. This powder has three flavors to choose from—chocolate, vanilla, and unflavored. If you’re not a lover of goat milk’s natural tang, you may prefer one of the sweet flavors for your shakes and smoothies. Just note that the vanilla and chocolate flavors do have added sweetener in the form of organic coconut sugar. Each contains 4 grams of added sugar.
What customers are saying
Naked Goat is a fan favorite with a 4.3-star average Amazon rating from almost 904 reviews. Most reviewers have positive things to say about the powder’s taste, texture, and easy digestibility. Its single-ingredient label is another frequently mentioned benefit.
“I like that it is unflavored, clean and pure with no additional flavors or stuff.”
Username “Love Essence,” Amazon
Despite being largely satisfied, reviewers do note that this powder’s price is quite high. And a few are disappointed with its tangy taste. “This protein is subpar at best. It makes everything taste like goat cheese,” writes Amazon reviewer Scotty.
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Goat whey protein |
| Number of flavors | Three |
| Price per serving | $2.33 |
Key product features
What you should know
Known for being slow-digesting, the micellar casein protein in Naked Casein might keep you fuller longer.
- Besides its satiating properties, this casein protein powder supplies nearly 50% of your calcium needs in a single serving.
- A $1.32 price per serving places this product in the middle range for cost.
- Taking micellar casein before bed could boost muscle recovery while you sleep, making it a good option for people who want to optimize their recovery or enjoy a protein shake in the evening. (16)
Naked Casein overview
Naked already has other dairy-based protein powders—so why might you want to try this one? Micellar casein differs from whey protein in some key ways. While both contain all nine essential amino acids you need to get from food, micellar casein releases them into your bloodstream more slowly, potentially keeping you satiated longer as well as promoting muscle synthesis for longer. (17) Some research has shown that taking micellar casein before bed can help your body better repair muscle tissue while you sleep. (16) Naked recommends taking this product before turning in for the night.
We’re impressed, too, with Naked Casein’s calcium content. A two-scoop serving supplies 48% of the daily value. This mineral is not only critical for building healthy bones, it also helps with nerve transmission, blood clotting, hormone secretion, and healthy heart and muscle function. (18) Pregnant and lactating women need more calcium than the general population, so this powder could be a good fit for ladies in these categories. (18)
“If you are at risk for developing osteoporosis, this may be a good option compared to some other proteins,” Roper comments.
Since Naked Casein is a single-ingredient formula, it has no added sugars, preservatives, or fillers. The product comes in three flavors (chocolate, vanilla, and unflavored) so your shakes don’t get monotonous. Each serving contains 110 calories, 0 grams of fat and saturated fat, and 20 milligrams of sodium. Plus, its 0 grams of carbohydrates make it an ideal protein powder for people on a low-carb diet like keto or Atkins.
Naked’s blog explains that though their casein protein does contain lactose, it’s not as much as in their whey protein. (19) If you know you have trouble digesting dairy products, though, you still may have difficulty tolerating this powder. On the plus side, the powder is made from hormone-free skim milk from cows raised on U.S. farms.
What customers are saying
Amazon users give Naked Casein an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 2,100 reviews. According to Amazon reviewer “SI,” it’s the best of multiple casein products they’ve tried over the years. Many other glowing reviews make similar statements.
“I love the very basic ingredient list, the whole reason I bought it. My recovery seems to still be great with a shake at night.”
Brandon W., Amazon
The two frequently mentioned drawbacks are the supplement’s taste and texture. Reviewer Adam M. writes, “As compared to wheys I’ve tried, this casein is very powdery/messy (a consistency almost like cornstarch). It clumps very easily, making it difficult to get an even scoop. I have to break out my scale if I want to be precise. As a result of this clumping tendency, it’s also very difficult to mix—it requires a lot of shaking.”
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Micellar casein |
| Number of flavors | Three |
| Price per serving | $1.32 |
Key product features
What you should know
Egg protein is a highly digestible option, and Naked’s formula pairs it with just one other ingredient for mixability.
- Two scoops of Naked Egg provide a substantial amount of well-tolerated protein at 25 grams.
- Slightly higher than average in price, this one comes in at $1.55 per serving.
- Egg white protein may help prevent muscle loss in older adults, making this a good choice for this demographic. (20)
Naked Egg overview
Research shows that egg protein is among the most digestible, with the highest attainable protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score, and digests 100% of amino acid content. (20) As a complete protein, it’s also an excellent source of amino acids. (20) If you’d like to get a daily dose of an additional 25 grams of egg white protein, give Naked Egg a go. “This protein is especially great for those who sometimes have GI discomfort with other protein types,” Burgess comments.
Though egg is, of course, an allergen, this product is free of major allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten. Since it comes only from egg whites, it’s also free of cholesterol, making it a healthy substitute for eggs in baking. You won’t find a variety of flavors here, though. Unflavored is the only option.
Unlike some of Naked’s other protein powders, Naked Egg is not a single-ingredient formula. However, it only contains one additional ingredient, sunflower lecithin. The brand states that the amount used is “incredibly low” at 1% of the total volume. Sunflower lecithin also serves an important purpose. It’s an emulsifier, meaning it helps the powder mix well. Without it, the product might be excessively clumpy or unable to mix properly into shakes. Even with this addition, some say it mixes poorly in hot beverages.
You’ll want to note that Naked Egg is higher in sodium than other options. Each two-scoop serving contains 380 milligrams of sodium, which is 17% of the daily value. If you need to be on a low-sodium diet for cardiovascular health, kidney disease, or other reasons, this powder may be one to avoid. According to the Food and Drug Administration, foods that contain 20% or more of the daily value are considered high in sodium. (21) One serving of Naked Egg comes fairly close to this level.
Otherwise, Naked Egg’s nutrition is admirable. Each serving comes with 110 calories, 0 grams of fat and saturated fat, and 2 grams of carbs.
What customers are saying
The average Amazon rating for Naked Egg is an impressive 4.2 stars from over 763 reviews. Top benefits mentioned include the powder’s versatility and easy dissolving.
“Mixes and tastes better than other egg white powders on the market. It does foam up in the shaker a bit but no biggie. I would recommend this product and probably the 3-4th container I’ve gotten.”
Adam C., Amazon
Some do take issue with the powder’s flavor, though. “This has to be the worst tasting protein shakes I have ever tried. It has a nasty taste. I tried adding bananas, blueberries, peanut butter, and others, nothing kills the awful taste,” writes an unnamed reviewer.
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Egg white protein |
| Number of flavors | One |
| Price per serving | $1.55 |
Key product features
What you should know
This animal-based protein blend has just four ingredients. One serving supplies a mere 110 calories.
- Adding egg protein to whey may help maintain muscle protein synthesis longer than whey alone. (22)
- Naked Protein costs about average for Naked’s protein powders at $1.49 per serving.
- This one is ideal for those who want a mix of protein types.
Naked Protein overview
Can’t decide which protein source you want to focus on? With Naked Protein’s blend of casein, whey, and egg whites, you can get three different types in one. Since adding egg protein to whey may enhance protein synthesis beyond what you’d get from whey alone, this one is a good choice for anyone looking to boost muscle growth. (22) Its combination of three proteins yields 25 grams per two-scoop serving, as well as 25% of the daily value for calcium.
You’ll also get an iron boost from a serving of Naked Protein. Two scoops supply 11% of the daily value. To increase your body’s ability to absorb the iron in the powder, you can pair Naked Protein with a source of vitamin C, such as fresh fruit or fruit juice. (23) If you’re making a smoothie, these are easy additions that not only increase vitamin content, but add other nutrients like potassium and fiber.
Besides its egg whites, casein, and whey, it has just one other ingredient: sunflower lecithin. Just like in Naked Egg, this is here as an emulsifier to make the powder more smooth and blendable. No added sweeteners or preservatives are in the ingredient list.
As a sustainability plus, Naked states that the egg whites used in this blend come from eggs processed in under one day, and that its whey comes from grass-fed cows. Naked’s casein, it’s worth noting, does not come from grass-fed cows.
If you’re vegan or have a dairy or egg allergy or sensitivity, this product won’t be right for you. However, it is free of gluten, soy, and GMOs. The powder comes in just one unflavored option, and you can choose from either a one-pound or three-pound jar. (A five-pound option isn’t available at this time.)
What customers are saying
With a 4.3 star average rating on Amazon from over 1,300 reviews, it’s clear Naked Protein is well-liked. Many reviewers rave that the powder is perfect in baked recipes, and its blend of multiple protein types is another standout feature. Many also praise its taste.
“It has almost no taste to it, (what little taste it has is, I think, very pleasant) so you can put it in just about anything (my favorite is to put it in ice cream or make smoothies!).”
Kevin D., Amazon
Of the smattering of complaints mentioned in reviews, the most common are that the jar is difficult to open and that the powder leaves some clumps when mixed.
Specs
| Third-party tested | Yes |
| Protein source | Egg white protein, whey protein concentrate, and micellar casein |
| Number of flavors | One |
| Price per serving | $1.49 |
How we test whey protein supplements
Whey protein is one of the most popular, widely-used forms of protein in dietary supplements. It’s recognized as a high-quality, complete protein that’s readily available for MPS and supported by multiple clinical trials. However, with various types of whey protein available, each offering unique benefits and applications, choosing the right one can be a challenge.
To identify the top whey protein products on the market, our team developed a comprehensive testing methodology and scoring algorithm to pinpoint the best of the best.
Our whey protein powder scoring methodology is an extension of our broader nutrition product and supplement methodology. Each product receives a score out of five for each category we test. These scores are then weighted by importance and averaged to produce a cumulative score out of five for each product, with one being the lowest rating and five being the highest.You can read our full whey protein testing methodology here.
Protein source–50%
The primary source of protein in a whey protein powder formula impacts its digestibility, absorption, and the ratio of protein to other macronutrients, so this makes up the bulk of our evaluation of whey protein powders. We evaluate four different whey protein sources: whey concentrate, whey isolate, whey hydrolysate, and whey blends.
Total protein per serving–20%
Based on research suggesting an optimal intake of 25–30 grams of protein per serving.
Macronutrient calories per serving–15%
The majority of calories in whey protein powders should come from protein. Depending on the ingredients, calories may also come from carbohydrates and fats.
Cost per serving–5%
Price often reflects quality, but not always. We rate whey protein powders based on their price per gram of protein
Sweeteners–10%
Sweeteners can enhance the taste of whey protein, but they don’t add any nutritional value. We prefer minimal sweeteners and rate them according to their nutritional profile.
Certifications
Testing certifications show whether a dietary supplement contains what the brand says it contains in the doses advertised (potency). Certifications provide a small boost to the product’s overall score and are equally weighted.
Here are the certifications that stand out:
- Third-party testing
- Informed Choice (ICFS)
- NSF
- U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP)
- Labdoor
Bonus points
To recognize innovation and encourage healthy competition, we incorporate bonus credits into our scores. Bonus points provide a small boost to the product’s overall score and are equally weighted.
- Enzymes for digestion
- Sustainable packaging
- 100% grass-fed whey
- Certified organic
- No proprietary blends
How we test plant-based protein supplements
Plant protein is an increasingly popular alternative to whey protein in dietary supplements. It’s made from plant-based sources such as peas, soy, brown rice, and seeds. While not all plant protein sources are complete proteins (containing all nine essential amino acids), most plant protein blends include at least one complete protein source.
To determine which plant protein products stand above the rest, our team developed a custom testing methodology and scoring algorithm. We evaluate plant protein powders across six categories: protein source, completeness of the protein, macronutrient calories per serving, protein per serving, price per gram of protein, and sweeteners.
These categories were developed in collaboration with registered dietitian and doctor of exercise physiology Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD.
Our plant protein powder scoring methodology is an extension of our broader nutrition product and supplement evaluation criteria. Each product is assigned a score out of 5 for each category we test. These scores are then weighted based on importance and averaged to produce a cumulative score out of 5 for each product, with 1 being the lowest rating and 5 being the highest.
You can read our full plant-based protein testing methodology here.
Protein source–50%
The primary source of protein in a whey protein powder formula impacts its digestibility, absorption, and the ratio of protein to other macronutrients, so this makes up the bulk of our evaluation of whey protein powders. We evaluate four different whey protein sources: whey concentrate, whey isolate, whey hydrolysate, and whey blends.
Total protein per serving–20%
Based on research suggesting an optimal intake of 25–30 grams of protein per serving.
Macronutrient calories per serving–15%
The majority of calories in whey protein powders should come from protein. Depending on the ingredients, calories may also come from carbohydrates and fats.
Cost per serving–5%
Price often reflects quality, but not always. We rate whey protein powders based on their price per gram of protein
Sweeteners–10%
Sweeteners can enhance the taste of whey protein, but they don’t add any nutritional value. We prefer minimal sweeteners and rate them according to their nutritional profile.
Certifications
Testing certifications show whether a dietary supplement contains what the brand says it contains in the doses advertised (potency). Certifications provide a small boost to the product’s overall score and are equally weighted.
Here are the certifications that stand out:
- Third-party testing
- Informed Choice (ICFS)
- NSF
- U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP)
- Labdoor
Bonus points
To recognize innovation and encourage healthy competition, we incorporate bonus credits into our scores. Bonus points provide a small boost to the product’s overall score and are equally weighted.
- Enzymes for digestion
- Sustainable packaging
- 100% grass-fed whey
- Certified organic
- No proprietary blends
FAQs
Is Naked Nutrition worth it?
If your goal is to find a clean-label protein powder with a variety of flavors and sources, we think Naked Nutrition is worth a try. Consider starting with one of the brand’s lower-priced, smaller-volume options as a trial run to help you determine whether it’s a good fit for you.
How much does Naked Nutrition cost?
Naked Nutrition’s products vary widely for cost. Our list encompasses a range of $0.76 to $2.33 per serving. Then again, if you won’t use an entire serving, you can make the powder last longer, ultimately bringing down the cost per serving.
How do you use Naked Nutrition?
You can add Naked’s protein powders to all sorts of recipes. The most popular choice is probably to pop a scoop or two into a shake or smoothie with ingredients like water, milk, non-dairy milk, yogurt, peanut butter, or fruit. But many users say the powders dissolve well into hot beverages like coffee, lattes, or teas. Adding them to baked goods is another common way to increase the protein content in breakfast, snacks, or desserts.
What are the side effects of Naked Nutrition?
For most people, Naked’s protein powders should not come with side effects. The products have minimal added ingredients (or none, in many cases), so you’re not likely to experience GI discomfort, bloating, or upset stomach from additives. The products also don’t contain caffeine, so there’s no need to worry about jitters or anxiety.
If you know you have a sensitivity to a specific ingredient, however, such as a certain type of protein, you’ll want to choose your Naked product accordingly. Fortunately, the brand carries enough different options that you’re likely to find one that doesn’t cause side effects.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Victoria Burgess, Ph.D., CSCS, CISSN
Victoria Burgess earned her Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago and holds her NSCA CSCS and Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN). She is an adjunct professor in the Human Performance and Nutrition department at Concordia University Chicago & Parker University, where she teaches undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral-level courses.
Jen Roper, Ph.D., CSCS
Dr. Jen Roper is an associate professor of health and human sciences at Loyola Marymount University. She received her Ph.D. in physical education, sports and exercise science in 2015 from the University of New Mexico, with a specialization in exercise science and biomechanics. She has been a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist from the National Strength and Conditioning Association since 2014.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica is a contributing editor and writer who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Lily Moe
Lily is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor with over seven years of experience in health media. As a former Fitness Coach, Lily’s editorial prowess has largely focused on fitness, nutrition, and weight management. She has also spent a fair share of time in testing labs, analyzing everything from protein powders to yoga mats. Her work has appeared in Verywell Fit, Verywell Mind, Health, and more.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Sarah Garone, NDTR, CNC
Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer
About Author
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