Best Value Adult Nutritional Drinks Under ₹500

When it comes to adult nutrition, especially in a busy schedule or when you’re looking for convenient wellness support, nutritional drinks serve a practical role. The key is finding options that don’t just cost less, but still deliver meaningful nutrients — protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy calories — without breaking the budget.

In India today, there are several high-value picks under ₹500 that strike this balance. Below are five standout products, each linked for full details.

This 400 g pack from the house brand of a major pharmacy offers high value (~₹445) with a saffron flavour twist. According to the product page, it provides a balanced mix of macronutrients (protein, carbs, fat) plus 32 vital vitamins and minerals, and fibre via FOS.

Why pick it: Excellent value for money, good for daily wellness or mild recovery support, flavour-friendly and easy to mix with milk or water.

This is more of a premium formulation originally intended for clinical nutrition, but some variants appear at lower pricing or offers. It’s lactose-free, gluten-free, enriched with prebiotic fibre, and very high in protein and micronutrients.

Why pick it: For adults wanting something more advanced in formulation (e.g., high protein, gut-health support) but still within a somewhat low budget (if discounted). Use carefully given its clinical orientation.

While this jar is 750 g, it often comes near budget levels depending on offers. It markets support for bone and muscle health (calcium, vitamin D, K2) with a familiar taste.

Why pick it: Good if you’re looking for a more “health-drink” style option rather than pure protein powder. The larger size means value per gram can be favourable.

Although originally positioned for maternal nutrition, many adults use it as a general wellness drink thanks to its rich nutrient profile (vitamins, minerals, DHA, fibre). It offers a decent flavour and size (~400 g) with pricing around the upper end of your budget.

Why pick it: Ideal if you want versatility (use for yourself or share with a partner), or easy mixing with milk for breakfast or a snack.

A smaller pack (~200 g) and very budget-friendly (~₹271 per product listing) from a no-frills brand.

Why pick it: Perfect if you’re trying out supplementation for the first time, want a compact pack, or prefer a lighter dose of nutrition without spending more.

• Purpose matters: Are you aiming for extra protein (muscle repair), calorie boost (if under-eating), recovery after illness, or just general wellness?
• Check the nutrient matrix: Look for meaningful protein (~8–15 g or more per serving), good micronutrients (iron, calcium, vitamin D, B-complex, zinc) and avoid excessive sugar.
• Serving size and cost per serving: A drink may cost ₹450 but if servings are few, it may be less value. Smaller packs (like the Nutein) can be useful for trials.
• Taste and convenience: If you won’t consistently drink it, even the best formula won’t help. Flavour, mixability, and your daily routine matter.
• Health conditions: If you have diabetes, kidney issues, or other medical conditions, check the formulation (e.g., Fresubin is more clinical) and consult a dietician or doctor.
• Budget vs long-term use: It helps to rotate between options; buy what you can sustain weekly or monthly without strain.

• Morning boost: Mix one serving with warm milk and a banana or oats — gives you both macro and micronutrients.
• Post-workout or snack: Use a powder (like Nutein or NutriXP) with water or milk, and optionally add berries or peanut butter for flavour and extras.
• Meal substitute scenario: On very busy days, one drink (such as SimMom or Horlicks Women’s) can replace a light meal, but avoid relying solely on supplements.
• Hydration and food combo: When using drinks, still make time for whole-food meals - vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins. These drinks complement your diet; they don’t replace it.
• Rotation is wise: To avoid taste fatigue and cover different nutrient profiles, rotate between flavours and brands across the week.

• You don’t need to spend thousands to support your nutrition as an adult. The options above give meaningful value under ₹500, offering protein, vitamins, minerals, convenience, and taste.
• Choose one (or two) that align with your daily routine and goals, check the label, and integrate it as part of your broader diet — not instead of it.
• Always remember: these drinks are supplements. Balanced meals, hydration, sleep, and movement remain the foundation of wellness. If you have specific conditions (medical or dietary), check with a qualified healthcare professional.
• With the right pick, you can have affordable, effective nutritional support that fits both your budget and your health goals.