Is the protein coffee trend actually good for you?
The trend of mixing protein powder with coffee, known as 'proffee,' has gained popularity among gym-goers as a convenient breakfast alternative. While some fitness experts see it as an efficient way to front-load protein, nutritionists warn that the acidic combination may not be ideal for health.
Why it matters
It highlights the intersection of convenience-based dietary trends and nutritional science, reflecting modern consumer habits in the fitness industry.
Dalgona coffee was one of the food trends that took off during the COVID-19 lockdown, popularising a whipped version of the traditional Parsi pheteli (beaten) coffee. Around the same time, proffee — a combination of protein powder and coffee—emerged as a home-made drink and has since become popular among gym-goers.
For proffee, the coffee needs to be brewed ahead and cooled before being mixed with protein powder. Hot coffee can make the powder clumpy, resulting in a less-smooth drink. The two can be mixed with a stirrer or frother. Proffee drinkers say there is no fixed recipe; variations include milk and flavoured syrups.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in