Protein Powder

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Protein Powder scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Artificial Sweeteners (Sucralose): Synthetic sweeteners are definitive UPF markers.
• Processed Dairy Ingredients (Whey Protein Concentrate (Whey Protein Concentrate, Soy Lecithin), Soy Protein Isolate, Micellar Casein): Isolated proteins and modified ingredients indicate UPF.
• Processed Fruit Products (Cocoa Powder (Processed With Alkali)): Concentrates and extracts indicate significant processing.
• Stabilizers & Gums (Carrageenan, Xanthan Gum): Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.

Within Protein Shakes & Meal Replacements, this product is more processed than about 46% of the 2,287 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Protein Powder's ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Polydextrose, Fructose, Corn Maltodextrin.

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Synthetic VitaminsProcessing indicator

In this product: Short-Chain Fructooligosaccharides; Less Than 2% Of The Following: Ascorbic Acid, Thiamine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Niacinamide, and 3 more.

Fortification often compensates for processing losses.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

MineralsProcessing indicator

In this product: Acesulfame Potassium.

Added minerals often compensate for processing.