# Dirty Protein Shakes MUG Brotein Mixes MUG Zero Sugar with a Vanilla Protein Shake By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2026-04-22 | Unique Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mug-brotein References: [prnewswire](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mug-root-beer-and-george-kittle-mix-up-mug-brotein-the-diy-gainz-hack-built-for-gym-dawgs-302748634.html)  MUG Root Beer and San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle debuted MUG Brotein, a DIY "dirty protein" remix that blends the muscle-building power of a protein shake with the sweet, smooth qualities of dirty soda. Specifically, this do-it-yourself recipe involves combining [MUG Zero Sugar](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/last-dog-standing) with a vanilla protein shake. At a time when protein-packed products are seemingly everywhere, MUG Brotein is dropping as "a playful flex on the too-serious gym bros who've dominated the protein conversation for too long." Within the limited-run MUG Root Beer Brotein bundle that's coming to Walmart.com and [TikTok Shop](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/daddys-home), fans will find the two ingredients they need to whip up MUG Brotein, plus gym-goer essentials like a shaker bottle and gym bag, plus a MUG tank. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 8.0/10 - Popularity: 82% | Activity: 86% | Freshness: 72% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Unique](https://www.trendhunter.com/unique) > [Bizarre](https://www.trendhunter.com/bizarre) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Protein-infused Beverages:** Combining functional protein powders with flavored carbonated drinks opens space for beverages that blend nutrition and indulgence, challenging traditional post-workout shakes and sodas. - **Dirty Soda Remix Culture:** The consumer interest in bespoke 'dirty' soda concoctions signals demand for customizable flavor add-ins and mixology-focused packaging that reframes soft drinks as experiential products. - **Celebrity-backed DIY Bundles:** Limited-edition bundles curated by influencers or athletes create collectible, co-branded product ecosystems that merge lifestyle merchandising with functional product use. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Beverage Retail:** Retailers could see a shift toward modular merchandising and bundled offerings that pair mixers with supplements, altering shelf strategies and omnichannel promotions. - **Sports Nutrition:** Formulators and brands in the sports nutrition space may explore hybrid products that prioritize taste and social appeal alongside macronutrient profiles. - **E-commerce Marketplaces:** Online platforms can expand curated, time-limited drops and influencer storefronts, reshaping how limited-run lifestyle products reach niche communities. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Creamy Coconutty Sodas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dr-pepper-creamy-coconut-flavor.md) - [Better-for-You Dirty Sodas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/not-so-dirty-soda.md) - [Strawberry-Flavored Energy Drinks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/monster-energy-strawberry-shot.md) - [Vanilla Creme-Spiked Sodas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-dirty-soda.md) - [Viral Trend-Inspired Confections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/twizzlers-straws.md) - [Sour Candy Dirty Sodas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sour-patch-kids-dirty-sodas.md) - [Creamy Customizable Sodas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/swirled-soda.md) - [Automated Beverage Dispensing Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beverage-dispensing-system.md) - [Anniversary-Celebrating Sweepstakes Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sweepstakes-campaign.md)