# Protein Dirty Sodas Pepsi and ProPud Teamed Up to Inspire Protein Soda Shake Combos By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2026-05-21 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pepsi-and-propud References: [instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXpB9qzFm6N/) & [instagram](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXq2wx3Fn51/?img_index=3)  Merging the viral [dirty soda craze](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/not-so-dirty-soda) with the protein-everywhere moment, Pepsi and [ProPud](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protein-soft-serve) teamed up to create a fizzy, creamy, low-sugar, high-protein drink. Described as a "playful collision of texture, taste, and protein," this do-it-yourself protein dirty soda is created by combining a no-sugar can of [Pepsi Max](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/better-with-pepsi-max) with ProPud's lactose-free, no-added-sugar milkshake for a deliciously different way to get a dose of protein. Customization is a big part of why people love dirty sodas so much, and the Protein Soda Shake collaboration between Pepsi and ProPud invites people to try creative combos like classic Pepsi Max + Vanilla Ice Cream, or Pepsi Max Lime + Strawberry N' Cream for a fruity, zesty pairing. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 8.9/10 - Popularity: 94% | Activity: 96% | Freshness: 77% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Drinking](https://www.trendhunter.com/drinking) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Protein-infused Carbonation:** A fusion of high-protein formulations with carbonated bases creates shelf-stable and ready-to-mix beverages that redefine functional refreshment. - **Customizable Beverage Mixology:** This trend elevates consumer-driven combinations and modular add-ins, enabling personalized flavor, texture, and nutritional profiles in single-serve and at-home formats. - **Health-conscious Indulgent Drinks:** Consumers are seeking low-sugar, high-protein options that replicate dessert-like mouthfeel and flavor without traditional calorie and sugar loads. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Beverage Manufacturing:** Emerging production techniques and ingredient synergies support novel SKUs that combine dairy-free proteins, carbonation, and stable emulsions for mass distribution. - **Fitness and Supplement Retail:** Shelf space and private-label opportunities could expand to include hybrid protein refreshers that bridge workout nutrition and mainstream beverage appeal. - **Foodservice and Quick-serve Restaurants:** Menu innovation potential exists for signature mixed beverages and modular counters that deliver customizable protein-forward soda shakes to on-premise customers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sour Protein Candies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rotten-sour-tiniez.md) - [Protein Latte Powders](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tazo-protein-latte-powders.md) - [Demystifying Protein Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prodega.md) - [Protein Biscuit Sticks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protein-biscuit-sticks.md) - [Pickle-Flavored Protein Chips](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dill-pickle-original-style-protein-chips.md) - [Mediterranean Street Food Expansion](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/Mediterranean-street-food-expansion.md) - [Protein Pinsa Crusts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protein-pinsa-crust.md) - [Protein-Forward Functional Hydration Mixes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/functional-hydration-brand.md) - [Singer-Approved Wellness Drinks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/daily-nutrition-drink-mix.md)