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Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein - Coffee
Ingredients:
Protein Blend (Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate, Hydrolyzed Whey Protein), Coffee Powder, Creamer (Sunflower Oil, Maltodextrin, Modified Food Starch, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Tocopherols), Sunflower and/or Soy Lecithin, Natural Flavor. Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose.
Rating: We Avoid
- 1 out of 5
Ingredient Score:
Rated at 1/5 green leaves, the Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein – Coffee edition is a product that our evaluation process identifies as a less desirable choice for consumers seeking clean food options. This protein supplement, although it includes a high-quality protein blend, falls short due to its inclusion of several ingredients that raise health concerns.
The product is not organic, which is a significant factor in its low rating. Organic foods are generally considered to be cleaner and safer, as they are produced without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The absence of organic certification means that this whey protein may contain residues from conventional farming practices.
Furthermore, the lack of non-GMO verification contributes to the product’s low score. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in foods are a contentious issue, with many consumers preferring to avoid them due to concerns about environmental impact and long-term health effects.
Added sugars in the form of Acesulfame potassium and Sucralose are particularly problematic. These artificial sweeteners are included to enhance taste but are associated with potential health risks. Their presence is a major detractor from the product’s overall score.
The product also contains potentially harmful additives such as natural flavors, soy lecithin, and modified food starch. While these ingredients are commonly found in many processed foods, they can be sources of allergens or have other adverse effects on health.
Maltodextrin, a known harmful additive, further reduces the product’s rating. It is a highly processed ingredient that can spike blood sugar levels and may negatively affect gut health.
Optimum Nutrition’s Whey Protein – Coffee edition has therefore received the lowest possible rating on our green leaf scale. It includes several ingredients that our scoring system identifies as detrimental to the goal of cleaner eating. Consumers seeking healthier, cleaner protein supplements might consider alternatives that are organic, non-GMO, and free from artificial sweeteners and harmful additives.
Certifications:
None
Product formulations and certifications may change. For current nutrition facts and ingredient
line information, check product packaging.
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