Our ReviewForm NutritionPerformance Protein
Form Performance Protein is a plant-based protein powder designed for those seeking a high-quality, post-workout recovery solution. It's crafted from a blend of organic pea, brown rice, and pumpkin seed proteins, providing a complete amino acid profile. With 30g of protein per 40g serving with 5g of BCAAs, it's formulated to support muscle repair and growth. The addition of curcumin and black pepper extract enhances its absorption and anti-inflammatory properties, while a digestive enzyme blend ensures smoother digestion, reducing potential bloating. With just 2g of carbs and 3g of fat per serving, this protein powder caters to those focused on maintaining lean muscle without excess calories or unnecessary fillers.
Ingredients
Form Performance Protein leans heavily on its plant-based protein blend, with the main components being organic pea protein isolate, brown rice protein, and pumpkin seed protein. These three sources come together to form a complete protein profile, offering all the essential amino acids required for muscle repair and growth. Pea protein, in particular, is a popular plant-based choice, known for its relatively high digestibility and robust amino acid profile, especially in lysine. Brown rice protein complements this with its rich supply of methionine and cysteine, while pumpkin seed protein brings additional nutrients like zinc and magnesium, further enhancing the formula's overall value for those looking for a nutrient-dense protein option.
The product is also free of artificial sweeteners, using stevia rebaudiosides A and thaumatin for sweetness. Both are natural sweeteners, making it suitable for those looking to avoid artificial ingredients. Thaumatin, derived from the African Katemfe fruit, is less common in protein powders, but it adds a unique sweet profile without the harsh aftertaste sometimes associated with stevia alone.
In terms of additional benefits, Form Performance Protein includes a digestive enzyme blend—amylase, protease, lactase, lipase, and cellulase—which aids in breaking down carbs, proteins, fats, and fiber. For many, this will alleviate common digestive issues like bloating, often associated with high-protein diets, particularly plant-based ones.
The product also contains curcumin (50mg) and black pepper extract (5mg), both known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Black pepper extract, standardized to 95% piperine, enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, making this a synergistic combination aimed at improving recovery and reducing inflammation after workouts.
On the downside, those sensitive to high sodium levels might be cautious, as it contains 390mg per serving, which is on the higher side for a protein powder. While salt can aid in replenishing electrolytes post-exercise, it may not be ideal for everyone, especially if trying to limit sodium intake.
Effectiveness
Form Performance Protein is designed with muscle recovery and performance in mind, and its effectiveness reflects this purpose well. At the heart of its formula is a 30g serving of protein per scoop, a solid amount for supporting post-workout recovery. This is particularly important when paired with the complete amino acid profile provided by the blend of pea, brown rice, and pumpkin seed proteins. Plant-based proteins often face scrutiny for lacking essential amino acids, but the combination used here ensures that all nine essential amino acids are present, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall protein synthesis.
One of the standout features of this product is the use of a digestive enzyme blend. Enzymes like protease help break down the proteins into more easily digestible forms, allowing your body to absorb the nutrients efficiently. This is particularly useful with plant-based proteins, which can sometimes be harder to digest compared to animal-based proteins. By including enzymes like amylase, protease, lipase, and cellulase the product mitigates common digestive issues like bloating, ensuring that the body can effectively utilize the protein it’s receiving. One slight curiosity though is the inclusion of lactase as this enzyme is used to help digest lactose from milk. As the powder is a plant-based protein this is unusual as there isn't any lactose present in the powder. We can only assume it's added for those who may choose to mix their powder with dairy milk.
Additionally, the product is relatively low in carbs and fats, with 2g of carbs and 3g of fat per serving. This makes it a great option for individuals looking to maintain a lean physique while still getting sufficient protein for muscle recovery.
Another aspect that boosts its effectiveness is the combination of curcumin and black pepper extract. Curcumin is widely known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which is beneficial after intense workouts when muscles can become inflamed and sore. Black pepper extract aids in the absorption of curcumin, ensuring that the body can make the most of this potent ingredient. This combination not only helps with recovery but can also reduce inflammation-related discomfort, allowing athletes to get back to their routine quicker.
Taste
The vanilla flavor of Form Performance Protein stands out for its balanced taste profile. Vanilla flavors can sometimes skew either too sweet or too bland, but in this case, the flavor is subtly sweet, offering a satisfying but mild experience. The absence of artificial sweeteners, relying instead on natural sweeteners like stevia and thaumatin, contributes to a cleaner, more natural vanilla taste without an overpowering sweetness or the common aftertaste associated with artificial ingredients.
The texture of the protein is notably smooth for a plant-based powder, avoiding the gritty or chalky consistency that can often be an issue in similar products. When mixed with either water or plant-based milk alternatives, the result is a consistently smooth and creamy shake. When blended with almond milk, for instance, the shake takes on a more indulgent, milkshake-like feel, while still maintaining a pleasant drinkable texture with just water. There is minimal grainy residue left at the bottom, contributing to a satisfying overall texture.
In terms of mixability, the powder dissolves efficiently, requiring minimal effort to achieve a lump-free drink. When shaken in a standard shaker bottle, the protein integrates smoothly without clumping, which can often be an issue with plant-based formulations. The addition of digestive enzymes may play a role in this improved mixability. Whether used in a simple shake or blended with other ingredients such as fruits or seeds, the protein maintains a creamy and smooth consistency, making it suitable for a variety of uses, from shakes to smoothies or even stirred into oatmeal.
Value
In terms of value, Form Performance Protein sits squarely in the premium category, and that’s something to consider when assessing whether it’s worth the investment. Priced higher than many mid-range plant-based protein powders, this product offers a lot more than just a basic protein supplement. The inclusion of high-quality protein sources like organic pea, brown rice, and pumpkin seed protein already suggests that the ingredients have been thoughtfully selected, prioritizing quality over cost-cutting. These proteins are not only rich in essential amino acids but are also known for their digestibility and lower environmental impact, aligning with the growing demand for ethically sourced, plant-based proteins.
Additionally, the added ingredients—curcumin, black pepper extract, and a digestive enzyme blend—offer targeted benefits that most budget or even mid-range protein powders don’t include. These ingredients are valuable for users focused on recovery and gut health, and their inclusion likely raises the production cost, which is reflected in the product’s price point. For example, curcumin and black pepper extract aren’t just trendy additives; they offer real anti-inflammatory and absorption benefits, which improve the product’s effectiveness for post-workout recovery.
When comparing Form Performance Protein to other premium plant-based protein powders, like Vega Sport or Garden of Life Sport, it holds its own in terms of ingredient quality and added benefits. While some competitors may offer more servings per container or include additional ingredients like probiotics, Form’s emphasis on clean, natural components without artificial fillers or sweeteners puts it on par with other top-tier options.
However, it’s worth noting that if you’re purely looking for a basic, no-frills protein powder, you might find better value elsewhere in a mid-range option. But for those who prioritize premium ingredients, complete protein profiles, and digestive support, the cost is easier to justify. The eco-conscious packaging and ethical considerations behind the product also add to its perceived value, especially for those who are looking to align their purchases with their values.
Conclusion
Form Performance Protein offers a high-quality plant-based option for those serious about muscle recovery and nutrition. With its blend of pea, brown rice, and pumpkin seed proteins, it provides a complete amino acid profile, which is essential for effective muscle repair. The added curcumin, and digestive enzymes set it apart from many competitors by improving recovery and digestion. In comparison to other premium plant-based options like Vega Sport, Form holds its own with its clean ingredients and smooth texture, though its higher price tag might make some hesitant. For those prioritizing ingredient quality, ethical sourcing, and digestive ease, this product is a strong contender.
Someone may choose this product for its comprehensive recovery benefits, clean ingredient list, and high protein content. It's well-suited for athletes or anyone looking for a premium, plant-based protein option. We’d recommend it to those who can invest in a higher-priced product that delivers added value in terms of both nutrition and digestibility.
Where to buy?
The protein matrix includes the primary protein components included in this product. These protein sources are listed in order of volume from greatest to least in the product.
This diagram provides the digestion profile for the protein types contained within this product. The chart plots the digestion of the included protein types over an hourly timeframe. All profiles have their advantages depending on your goals. More information regarding digestion and timing can be found in our guides.
The cost indicators provide a relative cost comparison with all protein products. The lower the score the better!
The "Product Cost Indicator" provides the comparative product cost, as a whole.
The "Protein Cost Indicator" provides a comparative cost based on only the protein component. While this can be useful for comparing products excluding fillers, many additional ingredients can provide additional benefits and value.
Note: Products that serve a dual purpose, such as mass gainers and ketogenic powders don't include the "Protein Cost Indicator".
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