Innermost The Strong Protein is smooth and creamy shake with natural ingredients that delivers a substantial 34g per serving.

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.

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.
Pros
  • Pleasant flavor
  • Low in sugar
  • Natural ingredients
Cons
  • Only one size
  • Claims for fat loss a little exaggerated
  • Expensive

How we test the best whey 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.

There are ‘Lean’, ‘Health’ and ‘Fit’ versions of the ‘Strong’ Protein
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. The product 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. It has a lovely rich flavor, is 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. The texture is smooth and creamy, 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, the Strong Protein is 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.

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