Protein Smoothie

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

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

• Modified Starches (Modified Corn Starch): Chemical modification is a hallmark of UPF.
• Artificial Sweeteners (Sucralose): Synthetic sweeteners are definitive UPF markers.
• Chemical Preservatives (Potassium Sorbate): Synthetic preservatives are UPF indicators.
• Processed Dairy Ingredients (Milk Protein Concentrate, Milk Protein Isolate): Isolated proteins and modified ingredients indicate UPF.
• Natural Flavors (Natural Flavor): Despite being natural, these are highly processed extracts.

Within Yogurt, this product is more processed than about 81% of the 7,195 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 Smoothie'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.

Stabilizers & GumsUPF marker

In this product: Agar.

Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.

Industrial EnzymesUPF marker

In this product: Lactase (Glycerol), Enzyme.

Industrial enzyme use indicates significant processing.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.

Food AcidsProcessing indicator

In this product: Malic Acid.

Common in both traditional and industrial foods.

MineralsProcessing indicator

In this product: Acesulfame Potassium.

Added minerals often compensate for processing.

Synthetic VitaminsProcessing indicator

In this product: Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3.

Fortification often compensates for processing losses.