Comparing a new plant-based protein drink to animal-based options

Exploratory Pilot Trial Assessing the Immediate Impact of Animal-based and Plant-based Protein Drinks on Blood Parameters

Not applicable Interventional ETH Zurich · NCT06465004

This study is testing a new plant-based protein drink to see if it provides the same essential nutrients as animal-based protein drinks for healthy adults.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment12 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorETH Zurich Academic / other
Locations1 site (Schwerzenbach, Canton of Zurich)
Trial IDNCT06465004 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to evaluate the bioavailability of a new plant-based protein drink in comparison to commercially available animal-based protein drinks. Approximately 12 healthy adults aged 18-40 will participate, consuming each drink on separate days in a randomized order. Blood samples will be collected before and after consumption to measure amino acid levels, specifically leucine, at various intervals. The goal is to determine if the plant-based drink can effectively deliver essential nutrients similar to its animal-based counterparts.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 18-40 who do not have a history of smoking or cardiovascular diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with a BMI over 35, allergies to soy, peas, milk, lactose, or fructose, or those who engage in high-intensity exercise shortly before participation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a nutritious and sustainable protein option for individuals following plant-based diets.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is relatively novel, previous studies have explored protein bioavailability, but direct comparisons between plant-based and animal-based drinks are limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria

* Gender: male and female
* Age: 18-40 years
* Signed written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

* Smoking history
* Cardiovascular diseases
* BMI \> 35 kg/m2
* Caffeine consumption \< 1 day before the study participation
* Allergies: Soy, Peas, Milk, Lactose, Fructose
* High intensity exercise \<2 days before study participation

Where this trial is running

Schwerzenbach, Canton of Zurich

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Nutrition, HealthyLeucine SensitivityLeucinPlant-basedAnimal-basedBioavailability
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.