California's New $14 Protein Smoothie Packs 18g of Leaf-Based Power

A new protein smoothie made from 50,000 alfalfa leaves has hit the shelves in California. The Blade Smoothie, priced at $13.95, uses Leaft Foods' Rubisco protein—a plant-based isolate with nutritional benefits matching animal proteins like beef and eggs.

Leaft Foods has developed a method to extract Rubisco protein from green leaves while keeping its structure intact. The resulting isolate boasts a PDCAAS score comparable to dairy and eggs but produces 97% fewer greenhouse gases than whey. Each smoothie contains 18g of Rubisco protein, delivering 522mg of essential amino acids per gram.

The product also includes bioavailable iron, vitamins B2, B7, B12, K1, and amino acids like L-tyrosine and leucine. These nutrients support gut health, immunity, circulation, and skin and hair condition. Palmetto Superfoods is the first US foodservice chain to offer the Blade Smoothie on its menu.

Leaft Foods has secured partnerships with Lacto Japan and Foodstuffs to supply its protein to manufacturers in Japan and New Zealand. The company aims to expand production and prove the market potential of Rubisco protein in both business-to-business and consumer sectors. As of February 2026, no major US supermarket chains have announced plans to stock the product.

The Blade Smoothie is now available at Palmetto Superfoods stores in California. Its high protein content and sustainability credentials set it apart from traditional animal-based options. The company continues to explore partnerships to bring Rubisco protein to wider markets.