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If milk helps build strong bones and Muscle Milk aids in building strong muscles, will Muscle Milk Pro help you build muscle mass like the pros?
Although you may not be the next CBum, the generous helping of protein in the Muscle Milk Pro Series can help you reach your nutritional targets and fitness goals. However, this protein powder isn’t for everyone.
Find out if this high-protein powder suits you in our Muscle Milk Pro Series review. You’ll get expert insights from GGR Senior Staff Writer, strength coach, and Olympian Caine Wilkes, and me, a registered dietitian. Let’s dive into it!
RELATED: Best Protein Powder for Weight Gain
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. GGR also recommends choosing a product that has been third-party tested for quality.
Fitness Industry Leaders Tried and Tested 100+ Protein Powders
You read that right—GGR’s expert testing team, consisting of personal trainers, nutritionists, dietitians, CrossFit Level 1 trainers, and weightlifting coaches, has tried and tested over 100 protein powders! We rigorously evaluate each product, rating them from 1 to 5 based on our comprehensive GGR supplement testing methodology based on many factors, such as:
- Price per serving
- Formulation
- Taste
- Solubility
- Side effects
- Third-party testing
- Customer service
- Customer reviews
By using this thorough methodology, we provide a broad perspective on industry standards, helping you determine if Muscle Milk Pro Series is the right choice for you.
Muscle Milk Pro Series
Muscle Milk Pro Series Protein Powder
Product Highlights
- 50 grams of protein per serving
- Mix of fast- and slow-releasing proteins
- NSF Certified for Sport: No banned substances and product matches what is on the label
- Available in 3 flavors
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 50 grams of protein per serving
- NSF Certified for Sport
- 3 different flavors available
- Available at wide variety of stores
Cons
- Large serving size at 2 scoops/82 grams
- Mixed reviews on taste
- Contains sucralose
- Low servings per container
Bottom Line
Muscle Milk Pro Series Protein Powder has a high protein content with 50 grams of protein per serving to help promote muscle growth and recovery.
A Quick Look at Muscle Milk Pro Series
Cytosport, the maker of Muscle Milk products, was acquired by PepsiCo from Hormel in 2019. This strategic move complements PepsiCo’s roster of sports and fitness brands—you’re familiar with Gatorade, right?
Muscle Milk markets its products as high-quality protein supplements, offering pre-mixed shakes and powders (and protein bars once upon a time). The Pro Series line includes other sports performance products, like creatine and amino acids, but the Muscle Milk Pro Series protein powder stands out with its 50 grams of protein per serving. Still, consider these factors before purchasing.
Before You Buy
- Extra nutrition: Contains carbohydrates, fats, and 20 vitamins and minerals, so ensure the added nutrition is adequate for your dietary needs.
- Third-party testing: NSF Certified for Sport so athletes can consume with confidence.
Is Muscle Milk Pro Series Worth It?
At $2.34 per serving, the Muscle Milk Pro Series is on the higher end among the best protein powders. However, its value—a substantial 50 grams of protein per serving—may justify the cost. While it’s a solid choice for some, it may not align with everyone’s goals, preferences, and needs.
Great for:
- Athletes, extra-active individuals, and bodybuilders who need extra nutrition to support training and muscle-building goals
- Those looking for a protein powder comparable to a meal replacement shake
- Consumers who prioritize third-party-tested products, especially competitive athletes subject to drug testing
Not recommended for:
- Those seeking pure protein powder without added carbs, fats, and various vitamins and minerals beyond what’s customary in standard protein powders (like calcium)
- Anyone allergic or sensitive to milk and artificial sweeteners
Muscle Milk Pro Series Specs
| Price per serving | $2.34 |
| Serving size | 2 scoops (82 g) |
| Flavors | Intense Vanilla, Knockout Chocolate, Slammin’ Strawberry |
| Calories per serving | 310-320 cals (depending on flavor) |
| Protein per serving | 50 g |
| Carbs per serving | 17-18 g (depending on flavor) |
| Fat per serving | 4-5 g (depending on flavor) |
| Other notable ingredients | Maltodextrin, Non-Dairy Creamer, MCTs, Canola Oil, 20 Vitamins and Minerals |
| Third-party tested? | Yes, NSF |
Experience Using Muscle Milk Pro Series
Caine Wilkes, GGR senior staff writer, strength coach, and Olympian, tested the Muscle Milk Pro Series and shared his thoughts: “With 50 grams of protein per two scoops, there’s significant value here, especially for those seeking a high-protein option without the mass gainer.” While Caine noted it’s not the purest protein on the market, it’s still a solid option.
Now, let’s delve further into the details.
Price Per Serving
Muscle Milk Pro Series costs $2.34 per serving on Amazon, a steep price for protein powder. However, as Caine mentioned, its value is higher since one serving contains 50 grams of protein.
Despite this, because it is marketed and grouped as a protein powder, we rate it 1 out of 5 in the price category.
Formulation
Each two-scoop serving of Muscle Milk Pro Series provides 50 grams of protein and up to 320 calories, 18 grams of carbs, and 5 grams of fat, depending on the flavor. We rated it a 3 out of 5 for formulation, though, because of some of the additional ingredients present. Let’s investigate these nutrition facts and see what else it may provide.
Milk Proteins
Muscle Milk combines various milk protein sources, including:
- Milk protein isolate1: A concentrated form of casein and whey, the two milk proteins, with a minimum of 90 percent protein with little fat and lactose—the natural sugar in milk
- Sodium caseinate2: A milk derivative of casein that also functions as a food additive and emulsifier to improve the texture and stability
- Whey protein concentrate: The least processed among the whey proteins, containing some carbs (lactose) and fats, and lends a creamy texture
- Whey protein isolate: A highly purified form of whey protein with minimal fat and lactose
RELATED: What Is Protein Isolate?
These proteins provide all essential amino acids (EAAs) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) to support muscle growth and recovery.
Carbohydrates
Maltodextrin3 supplies fast-digesting carbs for quick energy and may aid glycogen recovery and muscle protein synthesis when paired with post-workout protein. It’s also used as a food additive to improve texture.
Fats
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), canola oil, and a non-dairy creamer—a blend of sunflower oil, maltodextrin, sodium caseinate, mono- and diglycerides, and tocopherols—provide dietary fat and extra calories. They also help enhance creaminess and improve texture.
Vitamins and Minerals
Muscle Milk Pro Series contains 20 vitamins and minerals, including iron, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc. Some of the minerals it offers—sodium, potassium (as potassium chloride), magnesium (as magnesium oxide), and calcium—also function as electrolytes4, essential for maintaining fluid balance and overall health.
Other Ingredients
The protein powder contains additional ingredients—like soluble corn fiber, natural and artificial flavors, and the artificial sweeteners acesulfame potassium and sucralose—that vary slightly by flavor. Such additives improve the protein powder’s palatability and stability.
Taste and Solubility
Caine notes that the Knockout Chocolate flavor offers a rich chocolatey taste without being overpowering, though some might detect a hint of artificial flavor. It mixes very well, but he advises, “More liquid will help, as this protein shake gets very thick very quickly.” Given the large serving scoop, this is to be expected.
Overall, Caine rates Muscle Milk Pro Series a 4.5 out of 5 for taste and a perfect 5 for solubility.
RELATED: Best-Tasting Protein Powder
Side Effects
Although Caine experienced a slightly upset stomach on one occasion, he hasn’t had this issue before or since. I also reviewed negative feedback (customer reviews below), and while some users reported experiencing gas and bloating, others had no digestive issues.
All things considered, we rate Muscle Milk Series Pro 4 out of 5 for side effects.
Third-Party Testing
The Muscle Milk Pro Series is NSF Certified for Sport, meaning a third party has independently tested it for purity and it’s free of banned substances—a crucial factor for competitive athletes. This certification gives it a perfect 5-star rating in the third-party-testing category.
Muscle Milk Pro Series vs Muscle Milk Genuine
Muscle Milk Genuine
Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder
Product Highlights
- Delivering 32 g of protein, this shake is great following your workout
- Slow-releasing proteins help build muscle
- NSF-screened for 270 banned substances
- Provides all 9 essential amino acids
Pros & Cons
Pros
- NSF-certified for sport
- High-protein content per serving
- Lots of highly-rated flavor options
Cons
- Higher in calories than other options
- Relatively expensive
- Contains sucralose and artificial flavors
Bottom Line
High in calories and protein, Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder isn’t the best option for those looking for a snack, but it is a great choice for a post-workout drink to help your recovery.
In addition to its Pro Series, Muscle Milk offers a more standard option known as Genuine. Although it shares similarities—such as providing milk-based protein, being NSF certified, and containing some additives and artificial sweeteners—Muscle Milk Genuine stands out in several key aspects:
- Serving size: Smaller 2-scoop (70-gram) serving size than the 82 grams of the Pro Series.
- Protein content: Supplies 32 grams per serving, 18 grams fewer than the Pro Series.
- Nutritionals: Provides more carbs and fats per serving but fewer vitamins and minerals.
- Flavor options: Offers six flavors, double the possibilities of Muscle Milk Pro.
- Price: Costs about $0.75 less per serving.
Please refer to the accompanying table and our Muscle Milk Review for a detailed comparison.
| Muscle Milk Pro Series | Muscle Milk | |
| Price per serving | $2.34 | $1.58 |
| Serving size | 2 scoops (82 g) | 2 scoops (70 g) |
| Flavors | Intense Vanilla, Knockout Chocolate, Slammin’ Strawberry | Banana Crème, Chocolate, Cookies ‘n Crème, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Strawberries ‘n Crème, Vanilla Crème |
| Calories per serving | 310-320 cals (depending on flavor) | 280 cals |
| Protein per serving | 50 g | 32 g |
| Carbs per serving | 17-18 g (depending on flavor) | 20-21 g (depending on flavor) |
| Fat per serving | 4-5 g (depending on flavor) | 9 g |
| Other notable ingredients | Maltodextrin, Non-Dairy Creamer, MCTs, Canola Oil, 20 Vitamins and Minerals | Maltodextrin, Non-Dairy Creamer, MCTs, Canola Oil, Crystalline Fructose, Isomalto-oligosaccharides,8 Vitamins and Minerals |
| Third-party tested? | Yes, NSF | Yes, NSF |
Customer Experience
The Muscle Milk website provides recipe ideas (for when you want to shake up your protein routine), contact details, and a product locator. However, its products are sold exclusively through third-party retailers. We advise reviewing the retailer’s information, like the return and refund policies, and contacting them directly to ensure a smoother experience with your order.
RELATED: Protein Smoothie Recipes
Ordering Muscle Milk Pro Series
Since Muscle Milk products are not sold directly on their website, ordering them involves additional steps. I used the “Where to Buy” feature on the main site and found both in-store options (like Target and Walgreens) and online options (such as Amazon and Sam’s Club).
While this process broadens purchase options, it can be inconvenient for buyers who prefer a more straightforward method with consistent pricing. Some loyal consumers may also wish for a rewards program and more subscription options.
Customer Reviews
Caine had a positive experience using the Muscle Milk Pro Series, verified by its 4.5-out-of-5-star rating on Amazon from almost 5,500 reviews. Customers primarily justify the cost due to the high protein content and appreciate its fullness factor and flavor, with some likening it to a milkshake. However, others warn about its taste and solubility, comparing it to adding chalk to Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard Whey.
Final Verdict of Our Muscle Milk Pro Series Review
Muscle Milk is popular, and its Pro Series protein powder is no exception. Consider these final points before adding it to your supplement stack:
- High protein content: Provides 50 grams of milk-based protein per serving, about double that of most standard protein powders.
- Carbs and fats: Contains added carbs and fats and may be more comparable to a meal replacement and mass gainer.
- Micronutrients: Supplies 20 vitamins and minerals.
- Ingredient quality: Contains some fillers and artificial ingredients, including artificial sweeteners.
- NSF Certified: Athletes can consume it with confidence.
- Mixed reviews: While it has mostly positive reviews, some users report issues with stomach upset, flavor, and mixability.
- Pre-mixed option: Pro Advanced protein shakes are available, but their formulation and flavors differ from the Pro Series powder.
Full Rating
Muscle Milk Pro Series
Muscle Milk Pro Series Protein Powder has a high protein content with 50 grams of protein per serving to help promote muscle growth and recovery.
Product Currency: $
Product Price: 65.52
Product In-Stock: InStock
3.9
Muscle Milk Pro Series: FAQs
Is Muscle Milk Pro Series good for you?
Whether or not Muscle Milk Pro Series is good for you is relative, but it can be a great option if you’re looking for a high-protein powder with added carbs, fats, and micronutrients to support your training and daily nutrition. Additionally, being NSF-certified, it’s a good choice for athletes subject to drug testing.
Is Muscle Milk better than protein shakes?
Muscle Milk offers protein shakes and powders, and the best option depends on your needs and preferences. For convenience, you might prefer a pre-mixed protein shake since a powder requires additional fluids and a cup for mixing and sipping.
Does the Muscle Milk Pro Series have creatine?
The Muscle Milk Pro Series line offers a separate creatine supplement but is not in the protein powder formulation.
Which Muscle Milk is the best?
The best Muscle Milk for you depends on your dietary needs and goals. For instance, its 100% whey protein powder may be best for individuals seeking 25 grams of protein per serving with little carbs and fat. The Pro Series, on the other hand, is more comparable to a meal replacement, providing 50 grams of protein along with added fats and carbs.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
References
- American Dairy Products Institute (ADPI). Concentrated Milk Proteins Standard. Updated October 5, 2025. https://www.adpi.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Concentrated-Milk-Proteins-Standard-v2.1_2023.pdf
- Hassan L, Xu C, Boehm M, et al. Ultrathin Micellar Foam Films of Sodium Caseinate Protein Solutions. Langmuir. 2023 May 2;39(17):6102-6112. doi: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c00192. Epub 2023 Apr 19. PMID: 37074870.
- Hofman DL, van Buul VJ, Brouns FJ. Nutrition, Health, and Regulatory Aspects of Digestible Maltodextrins. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2016 Sep 9;56(12):2091-100. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2014.940415. PMID: 25674937; PMCID: PMC4940893.
- Shrimanker I, Bhattarai S. Electrolytes. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541123/
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