Home » Koia Review: Is This Protein Brand Worth Adding to Your Fitness Routine?

Koia Review: Is This Protein Brand Worth Adding to Your Fitness Routine?

Koia Review

Koia focuses on ready-to-drink protein shakes, nutrition shakes, and protein powders. These offerings might support fitness needs, such as supporting satiety, promoting muscle repair, and post-exercise recovery.

The brand positions itself to manage common concerns with standard protein-based products, such as high sugar content, the presence of artificial additives, and limited accessibility. Its lineup also features multiple flavor variants, such as Vanilla Bean, Cacao Bean, and Chocolate Banana, for better palatability.

In this review, we explore the brand's product offerings and formulation, its transparency around quality and safety standards, brand advantages, and potential limitations. For a more in-depth understanding, the review further assesses how Koia compares to other similar brands.

About Koia

Koia is a U.S.-based brand that specializes in plant-based protein offerings that are said to be made with botanicals, essential minerals, vitamins, and plant-based ingredients to support different health interests.

The brand offers 355 ml (12 fl oz) Protein Shakes in cacao bean, cold brew coffee, coconut almond, fruity cereal, and maple pecan flavors. Its Nutrition Shakes combine protein with 21 essential vitamins and minerals, available in vanilla bean, chocolate banana, and cocoa bean flavors.

The makers integrated the Elite Shakes lineup with 32g of protein per 12-fl oz (355ml) bottle, particularly helpful if you have higher protein needs or need faster muscle recovery.

Elite Shakes' lineup features cookies' n creme, vanilla, coffee, and chocolate flavors. The brand also offers Protein Powders that contain 20 servings per bag, available in vanilla and chocolate flavors.

As per the official site, the brand claims that its offerings are vegan, non-GMO, dairy-free, and soy-free. Such claims may imply that the brand's offerings might be compatible with multiple preferences.

Koia Review

Koia Products

  1. Protein Shakes

    As per the official site, the Protein Shakes range from the brand features 180–190 calories, 18g of protein, and 4–6g of total sugars per 355ml (12-fl oz) bottle. The range covers more than 12 flavor variants, including Vanilla Bean, Cold Brew Coffee, Cacao Bean, Banana Creme, Cinnamon Horchata, Fruity Cereal, and Chocolate Peanut Butter. These shakes contain protein sourced from brown rice, peas, and chickpeas, alongside a prebiotic fiber mix comprising agave and chicory root. Plant proteins from brown rice, peas, and chickpeas could supply essential amino acids, which may support muscle repair and contribute to post-exercise recovery.

    The makers added nutrients like potassium and iron in the protein shakes to help support electrolyte balance and better oxygen transport in the blood. Fiber from agave and chicory root might support digestive health by feeding good gut bacteria, which could help improve nutrient absorption and metabolism. Vitamin D is also included in the protein shakes range, which might support bone health and immune function.

  2. Protein Powders

    Protein powders range may offer a convenient means to increase protein intake while maintaining the taste and texture of the brand's protein shakes in a powdered form. According to the official site, the range comprises Vanilla, Chocolate, and Elite Vanilla flavors, all of which come in a 28.2-oz (800g) bag. These options feature around 150-210 calories, 20-32g of protein, and 11–13g of total carbohydrates per serving.

    Common ingredients added to the formulation include pea protein, tricalcium phosphate, magnesium phosphate, and zinc gluconate. Tricalcium phosphate and magnesium phosphate may contribute to bone health and energy metabolism. Zinc gluconate could support multiple physiological processes, such as cellular repair, enzyme function, and immunity.

  3. Elite Shakes

    The offerings in the Elite Shakes lineup may be particularly helpful if you are an athlete, have higher protein needs, or are looking to optimize muscle recovery.

    As per the official site, the range features Vanilla, Chocolate, Coffee, and Cookies' n Creme flavors. On average, these variants provide around 210 calories, 32g of protein, 6g of dietary fiber, and no seed oils per 12-fl oz bottle.

    Avocado oil is added to these Elite Shakes, which provides healthy fats that could promote the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients and contribute to a creamy texture.

    The makers included dipotassium phosphate as a buffering agent in these formulations, which may help support electrolyte balance and hydration. Locust bean gum and gellan gum may serve as natural thickeners, helping to maintain formulation consistency and potentially slow digestion. Such effects might improve satiety and support sustained energy release.

  4. Nutrition Shakes

    Nutrition Shakes from the brand might support daily nutrient needs, optimize post-workout recovery, and provide an on-the-go protein source.

    According to the official site, the range offers Vanilla Bean, Chocolate Banana, Cacao Bean,

    and Cold Brew Coffee flavors. The range has almond and coconut milk with a plant protein mix. Natural sweeteners such as organic cane sugar and monk fruit extract are further added to improve palatability.

    The brand claims that its Nutrition Shakes contain around 21 essential minerals and vitamins, including beta carotene, niacinamide, vitamin D, iron, potassium, methylcobalamin, and biotin.

    Beta carotene might contribute to vitamin A synthesis, which could support retinal and cellular health. Niacinamide could help metabolize nutrients from food into usable energy. Potassium iodide may support thyroid function, which could positively impact metabolism. Meanwhile, biotin might contribute to macronutrient metabolism and support the integrity of your hair, skin, and nails.

    As per the official site, all offerings in the Nutrition Shakes lineup are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration before opening, which may support on-the-go convenience.

Koia Advantages

  1. Vegan Brand Positioning

    Koia claims to provide vegan-based products. The brand describes all its protein shakes, nutrition drinks, kids shakes, elite line, and powders as 100% plant-based and vegan. Its offerings do not include any animal-derived components, which is reflected in the brand's protein sourcing standards, flavor ranges, and supporting ingredients.

    For example, Koia's protein blend combines brown rice protein, pea protein, and chickpea protein to create a complete plant-based protein. The base for many of the brand's products is either almond milk or a blend of coconut and almond milk.

    Koia also highlights the exclusion of GMOs, dairy, soy, gluten, and harmful additives in its lineup, promoting non-GMO project verification and clean ingredient standards. Natural flavors, organic cane sugar, prebiotic fibers from chicory root and agave, sunflower lecithin, and natural thickeners like locust bean gum and gellan gum support the product formulation, providing both nutrition and texture without animal-derived ingredients.

    Such commitment may align with the brand's broader focus on ethical and environmentally conscious production, while also indicating compatibility of the brand's offerings with multiple dietary preferences. You may include the brand's products in your routine with confidence, knowing they align with vegan values and non-GMO assurances. This well-rounded formulation approach supports both taste and nutrition goals without compromising vegan principles or quality standards.

  2. Omnichannel Accessibility

    Koia maintains an omnichannel distribution model to make its products easily accessible. You can initiate a purchase online via the brand's official website or through e-commerce platforms such as Amazon. Online purchase accessibility may provide the benefits of convenient delivery and subscription options.

    Moreover, the brand's offerings are also stocked in select retail chains across the U.S., including Whole Foods Market, 7-Eleven, Publix, Target, and Walmart. The offline access may offer the flexibility to purchase in-store and experience the products before committing to a purchase.

    The omnichannel model may help you purchase products from the brand in a way that best fits your routine, whether that's ordering online for home delivery or picking them up during regular shopping trips. It may support a smoother buying experience.

Koia Limitation

  1. Limited Clinical Evidence

    Koia markets its protein offerings, such as Vanilla Bean Protein Shake, Cacao Bean Nutrition Shake, Elite Coffee Shake, and Chocolate Protein Powder, as promoting muscle recovery, energy, and vitality. These offerings typically combine plant-based proteins, prebiotic fibers, and essential nutrients. Some of these ingredients, such as pea and rice proteins, have scientific backing in supporting muscle synthesis, while inulin and chicory root fiber are backed to support digestive health. However, there are no published clinical trials that evaluate the brand's specific formulations for the accuracy or legitimacy of their claimed health benefits.

    For instance, when consuming the Vanilla Bean Protein Shake, you may experience mild digestive support or post-workout recovery benefits. However, the actual effects of the shake's full ingredient mix are not independently verified in controlled studies. It may imply that actual results and experiences might vary depending on your diet, activity levels, and metabolism.

    The absence of clinical validation and independent studies for the brand's products could mean the claimed benefits for energy, recovery, or wellness remain unproven. It might reduce trust in the brand's claims, especially if you prefer products backed by verified, clinically tested results.

Pros

  • Maintains a diverse product line, including categories like Protein, Elite, Nutrition, and Powders.
  • The brand provides a clean site design, uses visual cues to point out dietary attributes, and maintains responsive UI.
  • All offerings are vegan, non-GMO, and dairy-free, aligning with multiple nutritional needs.
  • Offers omnichannel accessibility, with the brand's offerings available online and in select retail locations.

Cons

  • The brand's Protein and Nutrition Shakes lineup features coconuts and almonds, which may pose allergy risks.
  • A few users have noted chalky texture, grittiness, and an off-putting taste with the brand's shakes.

Koia Alternatives

  1. Rebbl

    Both Rebbl and Koia function in the plant-based protein formulations space, yet they take different approaches to product offerings, core positioning, and quality standards.

    Rebbl's lineup focuses exclusively on protein shakes and functional drinks, which it organizes under categories like Proteins, Revive, Awake, and Balance.

    Some signature offerings from the brand include its 26g protein shakes lineup, which features variants like Churro, Vanilla, and Latte. Under its 32g protein shakes lineup, the brand offers Vanilla, Cookies & Creme, and Chocolate flavor variants.

    Other featured offerings include Piña Colada, Vanilla, and Dark Chocolate flavors, all of which feature 20g of protein per 355ml bottle. As part of its functional drinks categories of Revive, Awake, and Balance, the brand offers some choices. These include formulations like the Awake+ Protein Lion's Mane Cold Brew Latte, Balance Maca Mocha, and Revive Reishi Vanilla.

    Meanwhile, Koia has a diversified lineup, with its offerings organized under Protein Shakes, Elite Shakes, Protein Powders, Nutrition Shakes, and Kids Shakes categories. Some featured formulations under the brand's protein shakes lineup comprise options like Fruity Cereal, Matcha Latte, Coconut Almond, Cinnamon Horchata, and Pumpkin Spice. Its protein powder lineup features Chocolate, Vanilla, and Elite Vanilla flavors. Moreover, the brand's Nutrition Shakes lineup features a mix of 21 essential nutrients for daily support, available in Chocolate Banana, Cacao Bean, and Cold Brew Coffee flavor variants.

    Sustainability and approaches to social responsibility further differentiate the two brands. As per its official site, Rebbl partners with Not For Sale to address human trafficking and environmental degradation, while also highlighting the use of upcycled brewing co-products to create sustainable protein sources. Meanwhile, Koia communicates a commitment to sustainability through its plant-based formulations but does not highlight any specific social initiatives.

    Distribution and accessibility indicate some similarities and distinctions between the brands. As of now, Rebbl products are not accessible online through its official website, but rather via e-commerce platforms like Amazon. Its offerings are accessible offline at select retailers across the USA, such as Whole Foods Market, Sprouts, Kroger, and Target. On the other hand, you may access Koia's products directly through its official site or Amazon. The brand's offerings are also available in select retail outlets in the U.S., such as 7-Eleven, Publix, Whole Foods Market, and Walmart.

  2. Owyn

    When comparing Owyn and Koia, both operate in the plant-based protein and nutrition space. However, the brands diverge in aspects like their range of formulations, core positioning, formats of offerings, and accessibility.

    Owyn focuses on protein drinks and powders, with its lineup organized under categories like protein powders, high-protein Pro Elite shakes, complete nutrition shakes, and Doubleshot Protein Coffee Shakes. Its standard ready-to-drink protein shakes feature 20g of protein per 12-oz (355ml) bottle, available in Cold Brew Coffee, Dark Chocolate, Smooth Vanilla, Strawberry Banana, and Pumpkin Spice flavors.

    For supporting higher protein intake needs, the Pro Elite range delivers 32g of protein per bottle, offering No Nut Buttercup, Sea Salted Caramel, and Smooth Vanilla flavors. Its Doubleshot Protein Coffee Shakes lineup features 20g of plant-based protein, 180mg of caffeine, and vegan omega-3s per 355ml bottles. The range includes Mocha Latte, Vanilla Latte, and Caramel Macchiato flavor variants. The protein powders from the Owyn brand come in 2.2lb tubs, available in flavors like Chocolate and Smooth Vanilla.

    Meanwhile, Koia has a more diversified lineup structured around fitness needs, such as supporting post-exercise recovery, energy levels, and on-the-go nutrition. The brand organizes its formulations under Protein, Nutrition, Elite, Kids, and Powders categories. Some signature offerings from the brand's protein shakes lineup include options like Vanilla Bean, Coconut Almond, Fruity Cereal, and Matcha Latte. The brand's Nutrition Shakes lineup may help support daily nutrition needs through the integration of 21 essential nutrients in its formulation, providing Cacao Bean, Cold Brew Coffee, and Chocolate Banana flavors.

    Regarding quality and safety standards, Owyn emphasizes allergen testing and certifications, including adherence to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. The brand claims to test for the top nine allergens to ensure the safety and compliance of its offerings with various dietary sensitivities. Meanwhile, Koia highlights that its formulations are non-GMO, vegan, and dairy-free, which may align with plant-based and clean-label standards.

How Did We Evaluate?

  1. Brand Reputation

    In evaluating Koia, we considered the brand's credibility and background by assessing its ratings across independent review forums. The brand presents itself as a plant-based protein brand, specializing in ready-to-drink protein shakes and powders.

    On Reviews.io, the brand holds a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on more than 390+ reviews. Many users appreciated the taste profile, smooth texture, and dairy-free composition of the brand's protein offerings, indicating positive experiences. However, a few reviews highlighted occasional issues, including receipt of expired products, shipment delays, and difficulty reaching customer support.

    We also considered ratings from TenereTeam, where the brand holds a 4.0 out of 5 score based on limited reviews shared on the platform, which are not definitive enough to draw any conclusions.

  2. Real User Feedback

    To evaluate Koia, we examined verified customer reviews of the brand's featured offerings on Amazon to understand real-world experiences with its products.

    Koia's Cocoa Bean Protein Shake received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 5,300+ reviews across Amazon. Many users appreciated the shake's smooth texture, creamy consistency, and absence of chalkiness, while some reviews highlighted the product's vegan profile and low sugar content.

    However, one user expressed dissatisfaction with the Cocoa Bean flavor, noting that the Matcha Latte variant tasted better. A higher price range was also occasionally mentioned as a limiting factor.

    Meanwhile, the Elite Shake Vanilla formulation received a 4.1 out of 5 rating from over 250 reviews shared on Amazon. Many users found the vanilla flavor smooth and mildly sweet, and they appreciated the high protein content (32 grams per serving). The shelf-stable format was noted as convenient for on-the-go nutrition or pre- and post-workout use. However, a few reviewers noted texture concerns, such as occasional chalkiness, thickness, or lumps.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can Koia Offerings Trigger Digestive Issues?
    Koia's formulations often include plant-based fibers such as inulin, acacia gum, and chicory root, ingredients known for supporting gut health but which can sometimes cause mild bloating or gas, particularly in sensitive individuals. While the brand emphasizes clean, plant-powered nutrition, those new to high-fiber or plant-protein diets should exercise caution.
  • Are There Potential Allergen Risks With Koia?
    It is possible. While the brand claims its formulations are dairy and GMO-free, its Nutrition and Protein Shakes feature almonds and coconuts. This might trigger potential allergies, especially if you are allergic to nuts.
  • Can Koia Shakes Support Effective Post-Workout Recovery?
    Maybe. While the shakes supply plant-based protein, these formulations typically may not provide a complete essential amino acid profile or feature added electrolytes, which are vital for supporting post-workout recovery.

Conclusion

Koia's plant-based protein offerings support muscle repair, suppress frequent food cravings, and contribute to daily protein intake needs. The brand positions its formulations as non-GMO, vegan, and free from harmful additives. You can also access its products online or at affiliated retail stores, which can offer purchase convenience.

The brand markets its offerings as providing functional benefits, such as optimizing post-exercise recovery or improving energy levels. However, the brand does not provide any published, peer-reviewed clinical trials to verify the accuracy or legitimacy of the claimed benefits of its specific products. Moreover, your experience with the brand's formulations can also vary depending on your personal preferences, dietary requirements, and tolerance to plant-based protein.

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This project was supported in part by NSF Grant IIS-03-25867 (ITR: An Electronic Field Guide: Plant Exploration and Discovery in the 21st Century) and by the Washington Biologists' Field Club.
Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official views, opinions, or policy of the National Science Foundation (NSF).