10. Flour drinks – Drinks that contain wheat or flour [i.e. Protein shakes]:[1]

1. Thin – Liquidy drink for quenching:

Thin beverages that contain flour of the five grains, such as electrolyte beverages, is Shehakol and Borei Nefashos if the drink is very liquidy and meant to be consumed as a beverage [for quenching thirst] rather than for satiation.

• Kvas (Eastern Europe): A fermented drink that often uses bread made from rye flour as a base, which can include some flour during preparation. Is Shehakol and Borei Nefashos.
• Banana Smoothies or Protein Shakes: Some people add oat flour or other finely ground flours to thicken these modern health drinks. Is Shehakol and Borei Nefashos.
• Horchata Variations: While traditional horchata is made with rice or nuts, some versions include flour for added texture.

1. Thick – Semi Thick drink for satiation:

Beverages that contain flour of the five grains which are even semi-thick and meant for satiation, are Mezonos and Al Hamichayh. This applies even if the drink is not very thick and is not able to be chewed.

• Salep (Middle East/Turkey): While primarily made from orchid root flour, it’s occasionally thickened further with other types of flour. Is Shehakol and Borei Nefashos if thin, and Mezonos and Al Hamichya if thick.
• Cereal Drinks: Some cereal-based beverages, like barley or millet drinks, use powdered or ground grains, which function like flour to add a thick consistency. Is Shehakol and Borei Nefashos if thin, and Mezonos and Al Hamichya if thick.
• Thick Protein Shakes or Smoothies: Oat flour or other finely milled flours can be added to smoothies or shakes to provide thickness and additional nutritional content. Is Shehakol and Borei Nefashos if thin, and Mezonos and Al Hamichya if thick.

C. Questionable:[2]

If one is in doubt as to the measurement of thickness of the drink and as to whether it was made for quenching thirst or for satiation, then one is to recite the blessing of Shehakol and Borei Nefashos, although if he recited the blessing of Mezonos he fulfills his obligation.

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[1] Admur Seder 1:9; Luach 1:8; Admur 202:13; 204:4; Brachos 38a; Ketzos Hashulchan 48:17

[2] Ketzos Hashulchan 48:17