Protein powder, checked.

What we check on every label

1. 01

   It is independently tested

   In the U.S., dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA before they are sold; the manufacturer is responsible for safety and label accuracy. Independent testing is the only outside check a buyer can rely on. Consumer testing has also found elevated lead in some protein powders, particularly plant-based ones.

2. 02

   Most of the scoop is protein

   Protein density is the clearest single number for what you are paying for, and it exposes products padded with sugars, gums, or creamers.

3. 03

   The protein number is real protein

   Protein content on labels is commonly derived from nitrogen content. Cheap free amino acids add nitrogen and inflate the protein number without providing intact, complete protein — a practice known as amino spiking.

4. 04

   Every ingredient amount is disclosed

   Without amounts you cannot judge quality or compare products.

5. 05

   It is a complete, high-leucine protein

   Leucine is a key trigger of muscle protein synthesis, and the ISSN position stand associates about 0.7–3 g of leucine per serving with a strong response.

6. 06

   Sugar is low

   A protein powder should not be a meaningful source of added sugar.

7. 07

   The price per 25 g of protein is fair

   Cost per gram of protein is the only like-for-like price comparison.