A Closer Look at Cutler Nutrition's New Canned Aminos Drink

Legendary bodybuilder Jay Cutler and his brand Cutler Nutrition recently launched a canned amino acid drink called Amino5. The 5 represents the 5 grams of branched-chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, and valine) per can.

The drink comes in a 12 oz. can and is carbonated. Currently it is available in lemonade and grape flavors, and it is sold by the case.

Amino acids have been found in canned supplements before, like Optimum Nutrition's Amino Energy, but Cutler's version contains no caffeine. It also contains electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, along with a notable amount of zinc (11mg).

BCAA drinks are designed to be consumed intra-workout, but could conceivably be used at any time. We recently wrote about the importance of leucine when it comes to protein synthesis. However, it is known that you need the full spectrum of essential amino acids, not just BCAAs, to build and repair muscle at an optimal level.

Amino5 represents an interesting addition to the sports nutrition beverage market, offering athletes a refreshing, caffeine-free option to support their training. The combination of BCAAs, electrolytes, and added zinc makes it a decent intra-workout drink, though consumers should keep in mind that BCAAs alone may not be sufficient for maximizing muscle growth and recovery.

For those already meeting their full essential amino acid needs through diet or supplementation, Amino5 could serve as a convenient and effective complement to their regimen. As the canned functional beverage space continues to grow, it will be worth watching how Cutler Nutrition expands its flavor offerings and whether future formulations might include a broader amino acid profile.

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This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 3:47 PM.