Protein IF Shake Review

*Blog Post Guest Written by Henry Fleming-Smith*

With thousands of protein shake flavours and brands on the market, it’s more challenging than ever to identify those that genuinely deliver on taste, nutrition, and value. Over the years, I’ve personally tested hundreds of protein shakes—including vegan, natural, and an impressive range of unique flavours—which meant my mornings at Men’s Health magazine often started with a table full of new samples: a true breakfast of champions.

For this review, I assembled a panel of testers, all of whom are regular gym-goers with physically demanding jobs, to offer real-world feedback on key criteria: flavour, cost, and nutritional benefits.

Our group sampled the two most popular protein shake flavours from IF Supplements’ 80% whey protein powder—Salted Caramel and Chocolate. Both are standout options for anyone looking to boost their daily protein intake.


First, let’s look at the nutritional profile. Each serving of this protein shake contains only 116 calories if mixed with water, making it a super lean option suitable for those aiming for fat loss or muscle gain while managing calorie intake. Impressively, each serving delivers a substantial 24g of high-quality protein derived from grass-fed sources, while keeping carbohydrates low at just 2.3g per serving. For comparison, that’s about as much protein as half of a hearty steak or approximately seven teaspoons of peanut butter. The formula’s versatility lets you customize your shake—add Greek yogurt or smooth peanut butter for more protein, or toss in oats for a healthy carb boost when you need extra energy post-workout.

When it comes to taste, both protein shake flavours impressed our testers. The overall texture was described as exceptionally smooth and enjoyable—unlike many shakes that can be thick, gritty, or clumpy. These shakes mixed with ease, even when using just a bottle without a dedicated mixer, which makes them ideal for a busy lifestyle or use on the go.

The chocolate flavour received universally positive feedback for its rich, authentic taste. Unlike other protein powders that overwhelm with artificial sweetness or leave an unpleasant aftertaste, this chocolate flavour strikes the right balance—providing a satisfying chocolate experience that isn’t too sweet or overpowering. It’s flexible enough to blend well with extras like peanut butter or your favourite flavour add-ins, ensuring you won’t get bored of it over time. Our panel achieved great results mixing the powder with equal parts milk and water for a creamy, smooth consistency.

Salted Caramel, however, truly stood out among our testers. This flavour offered a delicious hint of caramel balanced against just the right amount of sweetness. Its subtle profile is perfectly suited for everyday consumption, so you’re less likely to tire of it over time—a big advantage given how repetitive some stronger flavours can become. As with the chocolate, Salted Caramel mixed effortlessly and consistently delivered a smooth, pleasant drinking experience, regardless of whether you used water, milk, or a combination.

If your goal is to tailor your shake to your fitness needs, these IF Supplements powders provide a solid foundation. For those looking to increase carbohydrate intake for energy or recovery, simply add a handful of oats to the shake; if you want even more protein, Greek yogurt or nut butters make excellent additions.

Cost is an important factor for anyone using protein powder regularly. With 30 servings per tub, each shake comes in at just £1.07—a competitive price point, especially given the premium quality of ingredients, including grass-fed protein sources, and expertly developed flavour profiles. Comparable products from other premium brands are often not as affordable, sometimes costing upwards of £4 per serving.

Overall, IF Supplements’ Salted Caramel and Chocolate protein shake flavours offer exceptional taste, nutritional value, and versatility at an excellent price. Whether you need a quick protein boost after your workout or a convenient, tasty snack during a hectic day, these shakes are designed to fit seamlessly into an active lifestyle. For best results, it’s recommended to enjoy your protein shake within an hour after exercise to maximize muscle recovery and growth.