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HealthWorld

Premier Protein vs Core Power

Updated By the HealthWorld editorial teamHow we pick

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The short answer

Both are ready-to-drink milk-protein shakes you can grab at a supermarket. Premier Protein gives 30 g of protein for 160 calories with 1 g of sugar in an 11 fl oz shelf-stable carton and adds 24 vitamins and minerals; Core Power gives 24 g for 130 calories in an 8 fl oz bottle of ultra-filtered milk that lives in the fridge. Per calorie they're close — the choice is really shelf-stable carton with vitamins versus a smaller refrigerated milk bottle.

Premier Protein Protein Shake

Choose Premier Protein Shake if…

  • You want 30 g of protein in one shake
  • You keep shakes in a bag, car or desk (shelf-stable)
  • You like the added vitamins and minerals
Fairlife Core Power Protein Shake

Choose Fairlife Core Power if…

  • You prefer a short, milk-based ingredient list
  • You have a fridge nearby
  • You want a smaller 8 fl oz bottle

Side by side

Premier Protein ShakeFairlife Core Power
Protein30 g24 g
Calories160130
Sugar1 gCheck the label (lactose-free, lightly sweetened)
Size11 fl oz carton8 fl oz bottle
StorageShelf-stable until openedRefrigerated
Added vitamins24 vitamins and mineralsCheck the label

Where to buy

Frequently asked questions

Is Premier Protein or Core Power healthier?

Neither is 'healthier' by the label alone: Premier Protein has more protein and vitamins per shake, Core Power has fewer calories and a shorter, milk-based ingredient list. Pick by the numbers that matter to you — protein per shake, calories, sugar — and by where you'll store it.

Which has more protein per calorie?

Premier Protein: 30 g for 160 kcal is about 18.8 g per 100 kcal; Core Power: 24 g for 130 kcal is about 18.5 g. Practically a tie.

Can I drink either every day?

They're foods, not supplements, and many people use one a day as a snack or post-workout. If you manage a medical condition or watch sodium or lactose, read the panel and ask your doctor.

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