Optimum Nutrition

This product earns a rating of 1/5 green leaves, signaling a strong recommendation to avoid it based on its ingredient profile. The Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein – Chocolate Malt is a protein supplement that fails to meet the criteria for cleaner food options due to several concerns.

The product is not organic, which detracts from its overall score. It also includes genetically modified organisms (GMOs), further reducing its suitability for those seeking natural ingredients. The inclusion of added sugars, specifically Acesulfame Potassium and Sucralose, raises additional red flags, as these artificial sweeteners are considered harmful by many health-conscious consumers and experts.

Furthermore, the presence of potentially harmful additives such as natural and artificial flavors, soy lecithin, and modified corn starch compromises the product’s integrity. The use of maltodextrin, a processed thickener and filler, alongside artificial flavors, is particularly concerning, as these ingredients are known to be detrimental to health.

The protein blend itself, comprising whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and hydrolyzed whey protein, is overshadowed by these negative elements. Although the product may provide a source of protein, the benefits are overshadowed by the array of undesired additives that come with it.

Consumers seeking cleaner, healthier food options should consider the low green leaf rating of this product as a clear indicator to explore other choices. With health and wellness at the forefront, products that contain artificial sweeteners, GMOs, and harmful additives do not align with the values of a clean diet. Therefore, the recommendation is to avoid this whey protein product in favor of alternatives that prioritize natural, organic, and minimally processed ingredients.