The clear protein category has been quite popular in the United Kingdom and Europe for several years, and most major brands have jumped into it, including the legendary Optimum Nutrition. Back in 2023, the brand did the plant-based Clear Protein, then last year we got the more functional Clear Whey Protein, mixing whey isolate and collagen. Starting in 2026, Optimum has another clear-style protein innovation in the ready-to-drink Protein Water.
Optimum Nutrition’s Protein Water is a rather small 350ml bottle that squeezes in 16g of quality muscle-building protein, all from high-end whey isolate. There is no collagen in this, which is well worth pointing out, as there are a lot of beverages out there that go that route. Regardless, Optimum Protein Water still manages to deliver a great taste without any unnecessary nutrition, as the 16g of protein is alongside absolutely no sugar, carbohydrates, or fat.
The ready-to-drink Protein Water is hitting shelves over in the major European market in two light, refreshing, and fruity flavors with Apple Raspberry, mixing sweet raspberry and crisp apple, and Tropical Fruits, featuring a blend of passion fruit and mango. They both sound incredibly enjoyable, and with only protein in the beverage, no calories from anything else, it’s a tough product to pass up when you’re in need of a quick, clean, and pure protein boost.
