Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Orange Juice vs Protein Shake: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Protein Shake is generally healthier

Protein Shake comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (20g vs 0.7g), more fiber (1g vs 0.2g), less sugar (2g vs 9g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Orange Juice

47 kcal

More Protein

Protein Shake

20g

More Fiber

Protein Shake

1g

Less Sugar

Protein Shake

2g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Orange Juice
47
Protein Shake
103
Proteinper 100g
Orange Juice
0.7g
Protein Shake
20g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Orange Juice
11g
Protein Shake
3.5g
Fatper 100g
Orange Juice
0.3g
Protein Shake
1.5g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientOrange JuiceProtein ShakeDifference
Calories47kcal103kcal-56.0kcal
Protein0.7g20g-19.3g
Carbohydrates11g3.5g+7.5g
Fat0.3g1.5g-1.2g
Fiber0.2g1g-0.8g
Sugar9g2g+7.0g
Sodium1mg100mg-99.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Orange Juice

Per 100g:47 calories
Per cup (150g):71 calories
Per serving (85g):40 calories

Protein Shake

Per 100g:103 calories
Per cup (150g):155 calories
Per serving (85g):88 calories

Diet Compatibility

Orange Juice

Low-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Protein Shake

Low-CarbHigh-ProteinVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Orange Juice

  • Lower in calories (47 vs 103)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 100mg)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Orange Juice nutrition →

When to Choose Protein Shake

  • Higher in protein (20g vs 0.7g)
  • More fiber (1g vs 0.2g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.5g vs 11g)
  • Less sugar (2g vs 9g)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Protein Shake nutrition →

Orange Juice vs Protein Shake: Nutritional Analysis

Protein Shake is more calorie-dense at 103 calories per 100g compared to 47 for Orange Juice, a difference of 56 calories. On the protein front, Protein Shake delivers more with 20g per 100g versus 0.7g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Orange Juice and Protein Shake tell different nutritional stories. Orange Juice provides 11g of carbohydrates, 0.3g of fat, and 0.2g of fiber per 100g, while Protein Shake contains 3.5g carbs, 1.5g fat, and 1g fiber. The higher fiber content in Protein Shake supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Orange Juice contains 9g while Protein Shake has 2g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Orange Juice is the lower-calorie choice at 47 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Protein Shake provides more protein (20g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Protein Shake offers more fiber (1g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Orange Juice or Protein Shake?

Protein Shake has more calories with 103 kcal per 100g, compared to Orange Juice with 47 kcal. That's a difference of 56 calories per 100g serving.

Is Orange Juice healthier than Protein Shake?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Protein Shake is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Protein Shake has 103 calories, 20g protein, and 1g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Orange Juice and Protein Shake?

Protein Shake has more protein with 20g per 100g, compared to Orange Juice with 0.7g. Protein Shake provides 19.3g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Orange Juice or Protein Shake?

For weight loss, Orange Juice is the better choice with only 47 calories per 100g compared to 103 calories in Protein Shake. Protein Shake also offers 1g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Orange Juice or Protein Shake have fewer carbs?

Protein Shake has fewer carbs with 3.5g per 100g, compared to Orange Juice with 11g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Protein Shake is the better option with 7.5g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.