If you’ve ever wished your pre-workout energy drink came with a little protein, Barebells just answered your prayers. The brand behind those candy-bar-tasting protein bars is rolling out Protein Soda, a fizzy can that mixes 200 milligrams of caffeine with 10 grams of clear whey protein and zero sugar. It delivers bright, soda-style flavors, a crisp finish, and macros that won’t weigh you down.
This is Barebells’ first U.S. beverage, and it’s built for speed. Crack a cold one before the gym, between meetings, or on the way to the trail. At launch, you’ll find three flavors—Wild Strawberry, Pineapple Sunrise, and Sweet Cherry—with a light, sparkling profile that is a refreshing pick-me-up. Cases go live on Oct. 21 at shop.barebells.com.
Caffeine, Protein, and Fizz
Protein Soda is a 12-ounce can that has 10 grams of clear whey protein, 200 milligrams of caffeine, and B vitamins, all in a sugar-free, ~50-calorie package. Clear whey lets Barebells keep the texture crisp and the flavors front and center, so you get soda-like drinkability without chalk or grit. Wild Strawberry tastes punchy and sweet, Sweet Cherry is juicy, and Pineapple Sunrise layers tropical notes with a touch of vanilla and peach.
Functionally, you’re getting two jobs done at once: a moderate hit of protein to bridge the gap between meals and an energy boost on par with a strong cup or two of coffee. It also answers a common complaint about protein drinks—that they can feel heavy—by keeping the body clean and the finish sparkling.
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Made for Lifters, Runners, and Everyone in Between
If you hit the gym before sunrise or train between meetings, Protein Soda fits your grab-and-go lifestyle. It’s for lifters who want a crisp pre-session boost without a heavy shake, and for weekend athletes who prefer soda-like flavors over milky textures. It also speaks to energy-drink fans who care about macros and want some protein with their caffeine.
Calorie-counters will like the 50-calorie, sugar-free profile. Travelers will appreciate that it keeps you alert without weighing you down on the move. Newer lifters who are still building a protein habit can use it as a painless on-ramp. If you’re vegan, lactose-free, or keeping caffeine low, this isn’t your match today, but the early comments make it clear a caffeine-free or alt-protein version would have an audience if Barebells decides to expand the line.
Fans Are Calling It a ‘Game Changer’
Barebells’ Instagram reveal sent fans into overdrive. Comments flooded in within hours. Many called it a “game changer” or “liquid gold.” Others zeroed in on the macros: “10 grams of protein, 0 sugar, 50 calories—perfect.”
Some want a lower-caffeine or caffeine-free version, especially for late-day workouts or sensitive drinkers, while others are already begging for additional flavors. A handful of early testers from the #NACSShow2025 said Pineapple Sunrise was “🔥🔥🔥 just tried,” confirming that the hype might actually hold up.
Barebells has already proven it can make protein taste like dessert. Now it’s taking that same formula to the next frontier—portable energy with purpose. Whether you’re chasing reps or meeting deadlines, it’s a drink upgrade that makes performance feel effortless.
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