Garden of Life – Protein section

Garden of Life’s Protein section Grass Fed Collagen Protein Vanilla receives a 2/5 green leaf rating. This product aims to provide a protein supplement sourced from grass-fed bovine collagen peptides. It includes coconut-derived medium-chain triglycerides and a coconut cream blend for texture and consistency. However, the formulation falls short of our clean food standards for several reasons.

The product is not certified organic, which is a significant drawback for consumers seeking pure, pesticide-free ingredients. Furthermore, the absence of a non-GMO verification raises concerns about the potential presence of genetically modified organisms, which many health-conscious individuals aim to avoid. The inclusion of stevia as a sweetener, while a common choice in health products, still counts as an added sugar, detracting from the product’s overall cleanliness.

More concerning are the additives found within the ingredient list. Natural vanilla flavors, while seemingly benign, often raise questions about their source and purity, leading to a deduction in the score. The most notable ingredient that affects the product’s rating is tapioca maltodextrin. This additive, commonly used as a thickener or filler, has been linked to spikes in blood sugar and may disrupt gut health, which is why it significantly lowers the product’s standing.

The presence of Bacillus Subtilis, a probiotic strain, is one of the few positive aspects of the ingredient list. However, this does not offset the negative impact of the other ingredients.

The product’s formulation reveals a need for improvement. To enhance its healthfulness and meet cleaner food standards, the product would benefit from organic certification, non-GMO verification, and the elimination of added sugars and harmful additives. By addressing these issues, the product could better align with the expectations of consumers seeking cleaner, more natural protein supplements.