Dannon Shakes Up the New Year With Protein Shakes

Dec. 9, 2014
Dannon introduces Light & Fit Protein Shake, a drinkable cultured dairy concept targeting adults.

Dannon introduces Light & Fit Protein Shake, a drinkable cultured dairy concept targeting adults. Using nonfat yogurt as the base ingredient, the protein drink comes in four flavors: Banana, Mixed Berry, Strawberry and Vanilla. The product builds on the protein trend taking place in all aisles of the supermarket, but without use of the term Greek yogurt, which had been dominating U.S. dairy cases the past few years and is starting to lose momentum.

The formulation includes milk protein concentrate and polydextrose, which contribute to the 12g of protein and 5g of fiber, respectively, per 10-oz. bottle. The polydextrose, in conjunction with sucralose and acesulfame potassium, helps keep added sugars down, with each bottle containing a mere 14g of total sugar. To further assist, the formulation includes the lactase enzyme, which breaks down lactose, milk’s inherent sugar, into its constituent monosaccharides: glucose and galactose. These sugars are sweeter than lactose, thus they naturally contribute sweetness to the shake. The shakes are sold in four packs for about $3.99.