Ascent

This product earns a 3 out of 5 green leaf rating. The Ascent Chocolate Peanut Butter Plant-based Protein Powder presents itself as a healthier alternative in the protein supplement market. It is a plant-based protein blend, drawing its sources from organic pea, sunflower, and pumpkin proteins. The absence of organic certification for the entire product, however, detracts from its clean food credentials.

The protein powder utilizes non-GMO ingredients, which aligns with the preferences of health-conscious consumers seeking to avoid genetically modified organisms in their diet. However, the inclusion of stevia as a sweetener, despite being a natural substitute for sugar, results in a deduction of points due to its classification as an added sugar. The product’s use of “Natural Flavor” and “Organic Natural Flavors” also leads to a reduction in score. These terms often obscure the true nature of the ingredients and raise concerns about their origins and processing, thus impacting the product’s overall rating.

Despite these concerns, the protein powder does offer a blend of proteins from different plant sources, potentially providing a more balanced amino acid profile compared to single-source protein supplements. The product also avoids artificial colors, preservatives, and synthetic fillers, which are commonly found in other protein powders and can be detrimental to health.

The Ascent Chocolate Peanut Butter Plant-based Protein Powder positions itself as a middle ground option. It caters to those seeking a plant-based protein source while also prioritizing non-GMO ingredients. However, it falls short of the highest standards set by fully organic products. Its use of certain ingredients like stevia and natural flavors may not align with the strictest clean eating principles. Consumers seeking to incorporate cleaner food options into their diet may find this product to be a suitable, albeit not exemplary, choice.