Search our database for specific fairlife products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Fairlife products →Fairlife Protein vs Premier Protein Comparison
Both are high-protein shakes, but they start from fundamentally different bases. Fairlife uses ultra-filtered real milk that concentrates natural protein, while Premier Protein builds its shake from whey protein isolate, water, and a long list of emulsifiers, sweeteners, and stabilizers.
DairyQuick Answer
Fairlife (Level 2-3) is closer to actual milk — its protein comes from filtration rather than isolation. Premier Protein (Level 4) is an industrial formulation with sucralose, acesulfame potassium, cellulose gel, and multiple gums. If processing level matters to you, Fairlife is the simpler product.
Fairlife vs Premier Protein
Fairlife
Premier Protein
Search our database for specific premier protein products to see individual processing scores and ingredient lists.
Search Premier Protein products →Our Verdict
Fairlife (Level 2-3) is closer to actual milk — its protein comes from filtration rather than isolation. Premier Protein (Level 4) is an industrial formulation with sucralose, acesulfame potassium, cellulose gel, and multiple gums. If processing level matters to you, Fairlife is the simpler product.
Important Note
Processing levels can vary significantly between brands and specific products within each category. Always check the ingredient list of the specific product you are considering. Use our product search to look up exact processing scores.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Fairlife less processed than Premier Protein?
Fairlife starts with real milk and uses ultrafiltration to concentrate protein and remove lactose — a mechanical process. Premier Protein starts with water and reconstitutes a shake using whey protein isolate, artificial sweeteners, cellulose gel, carrageenan, and other industrial additives.
Are protein shakes ultra-processed?
Most are. Premier Protein is Level 4 with 15+ ingredients. Fairlife is an exception at Level 2-3 because its base is real filtered milk. For the least processed high-protein option, plain Greek yogurt (Level 1-2) delivers comparable protein per serving.
Related Food Guides
Learn more about the individual foods in this comparison.