Our ReviewNutraBioClear Protein
NutraBio Clear Protein offers a unique twist on traditional whey protein powders. Made with cross-flow microfiltered whey protein isolate, it delivers 20 grams of pure protein per 26g serving. With only 80 calories and less than 1g of carbs per scoop, it’s designed for those who want a fast-digesting protein without added fats or carbohydrates. NutraBio’s clean label ensures no unnecessary fillers, making it suitable for post-workout recovery or general protein supplementation. The clear whey formula mixes easily, providing a lighter texture than conventional protein shakes, ideal for anyone looking for a refreshing, low-carb protein option.
Ingredients
One of the most commendable aspects of NutraBio Clear Protein is its transparent labeling, which provides exact quantities for each ingredient. This level of detail isn’t just rare in the supplement market—it helps build trust, allowing consumers to know precisely what they’re putting into their bodies. Each ingredient, from the 23.64 grams of whey protein isolate to the 150 milligrams of sucralose, is clearly listed, reflecting NutraBio's commitment to clarity and quality.
This transparency is especially significant given the high-quality whey protein isolate (WPI90) used as the foundation of the formula. At 23.64 grams per serving, this protein source is processed using cross-flow microfiltration (CFM), a method known for preserving the integrity of the protein. The CFM process ensures that the protein maintains its bioavailability, meaning it retains a rich amino acid profile, including all nine essential amino acids. This makes it highly effective for muscle recovery and growth, particularly post-workout when rapid absorption is key.
What’s also notable about this product is that it avoids a laundry list of fillers. However, there are a few ingredients worth discussing. The citric acid (1.3g) per serving adds a tangy element to the flavor, though it’s a fairly common food additive and doesn't raise any concerns for most users.
The natural flavors (753mg) are always a bit of a mystery in any ingredient list, as manufacturers rarely specify their exact composition. However, it’s encouraging that NutraBio has opted for natural over artificial flavorings. In this case, the natural flavors likely contribute to the refreshing fruit taste without overwhelming the user with artificial aftertastes.
One point of potential concern is the use of sucralose (150mg), an artificial sweetener. While sucralose is considered safe and is widely used in supplements and food products, some prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners due to possible digestive issues or personal preferences for natural alternatives. In terms of quantity, the 150mg here is relatively modest, but it’s something to be mindful of if you’re trying to steer clear of artificial additives.
The presence of anti-foam agents (100mg), which include maltodextrin, canola oil, and silicon dioxide, is interesting. These agents help reduce excessive foaming when mixing the protein, a common issue with some clear whey proteins. While these ingredients are generally considered safe in small amounts, some users may be wary of the use of maltodextrin, a carbohydrate additive that can spike blood sugar levels. However, the minimal amount used here is unlikely to have any significant effect on most people.
Finally, the use of blue spirulina (12mg) for color. Spirulina is a nutrient-dense algae known for its antioxidant properties, though the quantity here is more for visual appeal than for any substantial nutritional benefit.
Overall, while NutraBio Clear Protein contains some sucralose, the product remains mostly clean and focused on delivering a high-quality protein isolate. One area for improvement might be the inclusion of digestive enzymes or probiotics, which would help support gut health and further optimize digestion, especially for users with lactose sensitivities.
Effectiveness
NutraBio Clear Protein is marketed primarily as a fast-absorbing, high-purity whey protein isolate aimed at supporting muscle recovery and growth. With 20 grams of protein per 25.96g serving, the product focuses on delivering quick-digesting nutrients, making it particularly effective for post-workout recovery.
Whey protein isolate (WPI90), in particular, is one of the purest forms of protein, stripped of most fats, carbohydrates, and lactose. This allows the product to deliver protein more efficiently, without the digestive burden that can come with whey concentrates or milk-based proteins. The cross-flow microfiltration process used to produce this whey isolate further ensures the protein remains intact, preserving its complete amino acid profile. This is key because a full spectrum of amino acids, including the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) leucine, isoleucine, and valine, is essential for muscle recovery and growth. The rapid digestion of this protein type helps deliver those critical amino acids to the muscles quickly, which is particularly important for those engaging in intense resistance or endurance training.
From an effectiveness standpoint, the product's low-calorie count—80 calories per serving—adds to its appeal, especially for those looking to maintain a lean physique while increasing protein intake. With less than 1 gram of carbohydrates and no fat, NutraBio Clear Protein fits well into a variety of dietary goals, from low-carb or ketogenic diets to general weight management. The minimal carbohydrate content ensures that it doesn’t interfere with blood sugar levels, which can be crucial for users tracking macronutrient intake closely.
Additionally, the product includes a small amount of phosphorus (337mg, 27% DV), which can aid in bone health and energy production. Though this isn't a primary selling point, it's a nice bonus that supports overall health.
One of the notable aspects of NutraBio Clear Protein’s effectiveness is its lack of digestive enzymes or probiotics, which some other whey isolates include to aid digestion and improve absorption. While the product itself is highly digestible due to the quality of the protein source, the addition of these enzymes could make it more accessible to users with mild lactose sensitivities or digestive issues. That said, the absence of these ingredients doesn't detract significantly from its effectiveness in achieving its primary goal: delivering fast, clean protein for muscle recovery.
Taste
NutraBio Clear Protein in Blue Raspberry stands out for its bold and refreshing profile. The sweetness is immediate, with a tangy edge that balances out the taste, typical of a raspberry-flavored product. The sucralose adds a noticeable level of sweetness, which, while not overwhelming, does linger throughout the drink. This may be a positive for those who prefer a more pronounced sweet element, though it could be a bit strong for users who lean toward milder, more natural-tasting options. For those who find the sweetness too strong, diluting it with a little extra water can help tone it down while still keeping the flavor intact.
The texture is smooth and light, typical of clear whey proteins, without any of the grittiness or thick consistency found in protein shakes. It mixes quickly in water, leaving no clumps or residue, though there is still a slight foaming during mixing which is pretty common with clear products. The foam dissipates quickly though, leaving a clear liquid that is smoother and less foamy than many other clear whey products. This made for a more enjoyable drinking experience.
Compared to other clear whey products, the Blue Raspberry flavor delivers a balanced taste that isn’t overly synthetic, though it does carry the hallmark of an artificially sweetened beverage. The light texture makes it easy to consume post-workout without feeling too heavy or bloated, and the clean finish means there’s no aftertaste sticking around.
All things considered, NutraBio Clear Protein performs well in terms of taste, texture, and mixability. The flavor may be a bit too sweet for some, but for those who enjoy a fruit-flavored drink post-workout, it’s a solid option.
Value
NutraBio Clear Protein is positioned as a premium clear whey product, reflected in both its pricing and the quality of its ingredients. It is also one of the more expensive clear whey proteins we've reviewed to date. While the product delivers a transparent label and high-quality cross-flow microfiltered whey protein isolate, the price point is higher than many competitors in the clear whey category. This price is justified in part by the attention to detail in ingredient sourcing, with clear labeling that breaks down exact quantities for each ingredient. Consumers paying a premium for this product are getting full disclosure on what they’re consuming, a feature that isn’t as common in lower-priced products.
However, it’s worth noting that NutraBio Clear Protein has a slightly lower protein content by weight compared to other clear whey products we’ve also reviewed. With 20 grams of protein in a 25.96g serving, the protein content is still fairly high but falls short of what we’ve seen in similar products that often have a slightly higher protein-to-weight ratio, albeit not too much higher. For a product in the premium range, this was a bit surprising, especially given the focus on purity and effectiveness in delivering protein. Nevertheless, the protein content is still significantly higher than many traditional protein powders, making it effective for those looking to supplement their protein intake with a fast-digesting isolate.
Given the combination of its premium positioning, clear labeling, and high-quality whey isolate, NutraBio Clear Protein is best suited for consumers who value ingredient transparency and are willing to pay more for a clean, reliable product. While the lower protein content by weight may be a drawback for some, the overall offering is strong, particularly for those who prioritize quality over cost. In comparison to other clear whey products, this one fits squarely in the premium range, making it ideal for those who are less concerned with cost per serving and more focused on product purity and ingredient disclosure.
Conclusion
NutraBio Clear Protein in Blue Raspberry offers a refreshing alternative to traditional protein powders, with a strong focus on ingredient transparency and quality. The use of cross-flow microfiltered whey protein isolate ensures a clean, fast-absorbing source of protein, and the transparent labeling allows consumers to know exactly what they’re getting. While the product sits in the premium range, with a higher price point compared to other clear whey options, it justifies this with its attention to detail in both ingredient sourcing and formulation.
For users who value ingredient quality, clarity, and a smooth drinking experience, NutraBio Clear Protein is a strong option. Its lighter, juice-like texture makes it ideal for those who prefer something less heavy after intense workouts. However, for those primarily focused on cost-efficiency or protein content per weight, other products may offer more value. Still, if transparency, premium ingredients, and a clear formulation are top priorities, NutraBio Clear Protein is well worth the investment.
Where to buy?
The protein matrix includes the primary protein components included in this product. These protein sources are listed in order of volume from greatest to least in the product.
This diagram provides the digestion profile for the protein types contained within this product. The chart plots the digestion of the included protein types over an hourly timeframe. All profiles have their advantages depending on your goals. More information regarding digestion and timing can be found in our guides.
The cost indicators provide a relative cost comparison with all protein products. The lower the score the better!
The "Product Cost Indicator" provides the comparative product cost, as a whole.
The "Protein Cost Indicator" provides a comparative cost based on only the protein component. While this can be useful for comparing products excluding fillers, many additional ingredients can provide additional benefits and value.
Note: Products that serve a dual purpose, such as mass gainers and ketogenic powders don't include the "Protein Cost Indicator".
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.