IngredientsProtein ingredient glossary.

Our ingredient glossary includes common protein powder ingredients, their purpose, and safety recommendations based on our research. Empowering you to make informed product choices is our goal. While we do provide a recommendation, you should always discuss using a new supplement with a healthcare professional.
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Acacia gum
Emulsifier, Stabilizer, Thickener
Additive Number: 414
Synonyms: Gum arabic
Acacia gum, a natural soluble fiber derived from the Acacia Senegal tree, is a common thickener, emulsifier, stabilizer, and prebiotic in protein powders.
Acesulfame potassium
Sweetener (non-nutritive)
Additive Number: 950
Synonyms: Acesulfame, Acesulfame K, Ace K
Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) is a calorie-free artificial sweetener used in protein powders, commonly combined with other sweeteners, with a sweeter taste than sugar.
Agave Inulin
Prebiotic / Probiotic
Synonyms: Chicory inulin, Agave fructan
Agave inulin is a soluble fiber extracted from the blue agave plant, used in protein powders as a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index than sugar.
Algal oil
Nutrient
Synonyms: Algae oil, DHA oil
Algal oil, derived from algae, is added to protein powders as a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, commonly EPA and DHA, essential for cognitive function and overall health.
Alkalized cocoa powder
Flavoring (natural)
Additive Number: 501
Synonyms: Dutch-processed cocoa, Alkalized cocoa
Alkalized cocoa powder is a cocoa powder that has been treated with an alkalizing agent to reduce its acidity. It is often used in protein powders to add a chocolatey taste, particularly in vegan or plant-based protein powders.
Allulose
Sweetener (non-nutritive)
Synonyms: D-psicose, D-allulose
Allulose is a low-calorie sweetener found naturally in some fruits. It's used as a natural alternative to sugar or artificial sweeteners in protein powders to enhance taste without adding extra calories.
Alpha-galactosidase
Digestive enzyme
Synonyms: Beano, Alpha-galactosidase enzyme
Alpha-galactosidase is an enzyme that breaks down complex carbohydrates found in beans, lentils, and other foods. It can improve digestion and absorption of protein in protein powders, especially for those with difficulty digesting certain carbs.
Amaranth flour
Protein source
Synonyms:  Amaranth grain, Pseudo-cereal
Amaranth flour is made from a gluten-free pseudocereal and is rich in protein, fiber, iron, magnesium, and calcium. It's added to protein powders as a plant-based protein source and to boost the nutritional profile.
Aminogen
Digestive enzyme
Aminogen is a blend of digestive proteases added to protein powders and supplements. It is claimed to enhance protein digestion and absorption, reduce bloating, and improve muscle recovery and growth.
Ammonium bicarbonate
Acidifier / Acidity regulator
Additive Number: 503
Synonyms: Baking ammonia
Ammonium bicarbonate is a leavening agent used in baking to help dough or batter rise. In protein powders, it's used as a processing aid or pH adjuster to maintain desired texture and flavor.
Amylase
Digestive enzyme
Additive Number: 1100
Amylase is an enzyme found in the human body and in various foods, and is added to protein powders to improve the digestibility and absorption of carbohydrates.
Synonyms: Caffeine powder
Anhydrous caffeine, a powdered form of caffeine used to increase energy and focus, is sometimes added to protein powders to enhance athletic performance.
Apple fiber
Fiber source
Synonyms: Apple pomace fiber, Apple peel fiber
Apple fiber is a soluble fiber derived from apples that can help regulate digestion and promote feelings of fullness. It is commonly added to protein powders to improve texture and nutritional content.
Arabinogalactan
Prebiotic / Probiotic
Synonyms: Larch arabinogalactan
Arabinogalactan, a complex carbohydrate found in plants, is used in protein powders due to its potential immune-enhancing properties, ability to stimulate beneficial gut bacteria, and support digestive health.
Synonyms: Arrowroot starch, Maranta arundinacea
Arrowroot powder, a gluten-free and low-calorie alternative to other thickening agents, is commonly used in the food industry and as an ingredient in some protein powders and supplements.
Artificial flavor
Flavoring (artificial)
Artificial flavors are synthetic chemicals created in a lab to mimic natural flavors and enhance the taste of protein powders.
Additive Number: 300
Synonyms: Vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid
Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin found naturally in fruits and vegetables. It acts as an antioxidant, aids in collagen synthesis, and enhances iron absorption.
Ascorbyl palmitate
Antioxidant, Preservative
Additive Number: 304
Synonyms: Vitamin C ester, Ascorbyl palmitate ester
Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C used as an antioxidant and preservative in food and supplements to protect cells from free radical damage and prevent spoilage.
Aspartame
Sweetener (non-nutritive)
Additive Number: 951
Synonyms: APM, N-(L-alpha-Aspartyl)-L-phenylalanine 1-methyl ester
Aspartame, a low-calorie artificial sweetener, is used in protein powders, diet sodas, and other food and beverage products. It is made up of two amino acids and is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar.
Synonyms: Milkvetch root, Huang Qi
Astragalus root extract is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine and is believed to have immune-boosting properties. It may reduce inflammation, improve heart function, and enhance immune system function.
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