Ascent

Rated at 2 out of 5 green leaves, the Ascent Chocolate Micellar Casein protein powder does not meet our standards for clean and healthy food options. This product does not carry an organic certification and contains genetically modified ingredients, both of which are significant detractors from its overall score. Additionally, the inclusion of stevia as a sweetener, while a common choice in many “healthier” products, is not favored in our clean eating criteria due to its classification as an added sugar.

The use of “Natural Flavors” in the ingredients list is another cause for concern. The term is broad and often encompasses a range of substances that are not always transparent to the consumer. Similarly, the gum blend, which includes xanthan gum, is noted as a potential harmful additive. While these ingredients are commonly used for texture and stability in foods, they do not align with the highest standards of clean eating that our website promotes.

Furthermore, the product contains sunflower lecithin, an emulsifier that is generally considered safe, but its non-organic status contributes to the lower score. The cocoa processed with alkali, also known as “Dutch process cocoa,” undergoes a treatment that alters its chemical nature, which may affect its nutritional profile. This process is typically used to reduce bitterness and darken the color of chocolate products, but it is not in line with the purest form of clean eating.

The Ascent Chocolate Micellar Casein falls short of our criteria for a clean and healthy option. With a focus on providing consumers with the most natural and unprocessed food products available, this protein powder has significant room for improvement. Removing or replacing the ingredients that are not organic, genetically modified, or potentially harmful would greatly increase its standing within our rating system. Consumers seeking the cleanest food products would be advised to consider alternatives that adhere more closely to the principles of clean eating.