Innermost The Strong Protein is made with natural ingredients, delivering a substantial 34g per serving – and I found it a deliciously creamy shake.
Men’s Fitness verdict
Innermost’s shake is smooth and creamy, and low in sugar, though the most expensive on test. But it does deliver a substantial 34g protein per serving.- Pleasant flavor
- Low in sugar
- Natural ingredients
- Only one size
- Claims for fat loss a little exaggerated
- Expensive
The Strong Protein is one of four types in Innermost’s range (together with the Fit, the Healthy and the Lean Protein). It contains 34g protein per 40g serving, as well as 7g branch chain amino acids (BCAAs). That’s enough to support muscle protein synthesis after a workout. It’s a great alternative to protein bars if they’re not to your liking, and one of our best protein powders. I’ve been using it during a month of training to see how it stacks up against the best of the rest, and analysing its ingredients to make sure it delivers on its promises.
Why you can trust Men’s Fitness
Men’s Fitness has had its finger on the pulse of the healthy lifestyle scene since 2001. That means we’ve got more than two decades of experience in the industry and have built up connections with top professionals. As such, we only offer insight and advice from those who know best – and who have the credentials to prove it. In this case, we’ve teamed up with pro nutritionist Rob Hobson, who conducted the testing, and performance coach Matt Lovell, for some insight into key ingredients. Find out more about how we test.
| Protein per serving | 34g |
| Cost per serving | £2.35 |
| Sizes | 520g |
| Flavors | Chocolate, vanilla |
The shake is designed for those trying to build lean muscle mass and lose fat, hence the inclusion of several other ingredients including acetyl L-carnitine, which is involved in fat metabolism. Still, there’s no approved health claim for this regarding supplemental use. I noticed the Strong Protein also contains inulin, an insoluble fiber that helps promote healthy gut microbiota.
Innermost The Strong Protein in use
When mixed with water, the Strong Protein shake contains 148 calories, making it a good option for those looking for a low-energy product to help them build lean muscle mass. However, there are other protein powders on test with even fewer calories. I really enjoyed the lovely rich flavor; it’s also low in sugar and is sweetened with sucralose.
The ingredient list is small, although it does contain additional natural ingredients to support its purpose as a lean alternative, such as pomegranate, yerba mate and bilberries. I found the texture smooth and creamy, probably resulting from guar bean gum, a natural thickener. The shake also uses sunflower lecithin instead of soy, which suits those looking for a soy-free shake.
Flavors and sizes
The Strong Protein has 100% recyclable packaging and you can buy it by post or in health food shops. It’s only available in smooth chocolate and creamy vanilla flavors.
The Innermost range is usually only available in 520g pouches costing £29.95 for 13 servings, which can work out quite expensive for those who take protein powders daily. Sometimes 3 x 40g trial packs are available online but at £9.99 that’s even poorer value.
Overall, I thought the Strong Protein was a pleasant tasting shake, though claims it’ll support people looking to lose body fat seem a little exaggerated. There are more cost-effective whey protein shakes available, too.
How we test the best protein powders
Registered nutritionist (AFN) and sports nutritionist (SENr) Rob Hobson only tested chocolate-flavoured powders to provide consistency in his reviews. He judged them on their taste, texture, solubility and nutritional effectiveness, as well as cost per serving and availability. He also took into account the variety of flavours and any recyclable packaging.
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