Clear, carbonated protein beverages are one of the fastest-growing trends in functional drinks. At Pack Expo 2025, we saw significant interest from beverage producers and contract packers in learning how to scale production of these unique products. Unlike traditional protein shakes, which are often opaque and heavy, clear protein beverages offer a refreshing, seltzer-like experience while still delivering up to 30 grams of protein per serving.
If you’re considering entering this emerging category, here’s what you need to know about the ingredients, equipment, and process behind commercial-scale production.
What Makes a Clear Protein Beverage Different?
Traditional protein drinks are typically milk-based, gritty, and high in viscosity. Clear protein beverages break that mold by using whey protein isolate (or similar hydrolyzed protein powders) combined with water, flavors, and stabilizers. The result is:
- Clarity: No hazy or milky appearance.
- Light mouthfeel: Lower viscosity, closer to sparkling water than a shake.
- Carbonation: Effervescent, crisp, and more palatable for mainstream consumers.
This format bridges the gap between the fitness industry and the functional beverage market, appealing to consumers who want both refreshment and nutrition.
Key Equipment for Clear Protein Beverage Manufacturing
To produce a clear, carbonated protein drink, you’ll need a tailored process system. Unlike sodas or flavored waters, these beverages require special handling of powders, hydrolyzation, and stability control.
Mixing & Blending Tanks
- Equipped with homogenizers or emulsification pumps to ensure complete incorporation of protein powders into solution.
- Designed to break down fine protein particles to the micron level, avoiding clumping or gritty textures.
- Custom agitation systems (rakes, impellers) to support powder-to-liquid processing.
Water & Ingredient Storage
- Hot or cold water storage tanks for running multiple batches back-to-back.
- Integration of ingredient dosing systems for precise flavor and stabilizer additions.
CIP (Clean-in-Place) Systems
- Economical skids for small-scale test batches (100 gallons).
- Fully automated CIP systems for large-scale commercial facilities.
- Ensures hygiene, consistency, and compliance with food safety standards.
Deaeration Skids
- Removing dissolved oxygen is critical for shelf stability and preventing haze.
- Systems using 3M™ Liqui-Cel™ membrane contactors can reduce oxygen down to 1 ppb.
- Provides a stable base for blending and carbonation.
Carbonation & Packaging
- Sanitary process lines feed into canning or bottling systems.
- Cans are currently the most popular format, with integration to Wild Goose canning lines (from Gosling for smaller scale to Evo Series for high output).
Critical Considerations for Beverage Manufacturers
- Powder Hydrolyzation: Protein powder must be fully dissolved into solution—any clumping or incomplete incorporation leads to haze, off-textures, and consumer rejection.
- Appearance & Mouthfeel: Beyond flavor and nutrition, clarity and effervescence define this category. Even slight haze or grit is noticeable.
- Shelf Life: Using deaerated water and precise blending equipment improves stability, reduces oxygen pickup, and extends product life.
- Customization: Off-the-shelf beverage equipment isn’t always sufficient—systems should be engineered specifically for clear protein formulations.
Turnkey Solutions for Functional Protein Beverage Production
At Deutsche Beverage + Process, we provide tailored process solutions for manufacturers entering this market. From pilot batch systems to full-scale production lines, we integrate:
- Custom mixing and blending tanks with homogenizers.
- Deaeration and CIP skids for quality and stability.
- Carbonation and conditioning tanks.
- Wild Goose canning lines.
- Full engineering support to design systems that fit your formulation, throughput, and growth plans.
Whether you’re testing small runs or launching a nationwide brand, our team helps ensure your clear carbonated protein beverages meet consumer expectations for clarity, refreshment, and consistency.
Ready to Launch Your Clear Protein Beverage?
Clear, carbonated protein drinks are positioned to be the next wave of functional beverages. Getting the right equipment in place from the start is essential to avoid costly production challenges and ensure you’re coming to market with a consistent, high-quality product.
Contact Deutsche Beverage + Process today to discuss your formulation, equipment needs, and turnkey solutions for manufacturing clear protein beverages at scale.
