Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein offers a plant-based protein solution designed for fitness enthusiasts and athletes. It combines pea protein, fava bean protein isolate, and brown rice protein concentrate to deliver 24 grams of protein per serving. The product includes ingredients like natural cocoa powder and steviol glycosides for flavor, and a blend of oils and gums to improve texture and mixability. With a serving size of 40g, it provides 150 calories, 3.5g of total fat, and only 4g of net carbohydrates, making it suitable for those looking to build lean muscle without excessive carbs and sugars.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein features a blend of high-quality ingredients designed to meet the needs of those seeking a plant-based protein source. The primary protein components—pea protein, fava bean protein isolate, and brown rice protein concentrate—offer a well-rounded amino acid profile that supports muscle growth and recovery.
Pea protein is known for its high digestibility and rich content of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are crucial for muscle repair and growth. It's also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with sensitivities to dairy or soy. Fava bean protein isolate complements pea protein by adding more essential amino acids, enhancing the overall protein quality. Brown rice protein concentrate, another excellent plant-based protein, is easily digestible and provides a good source of BCAAs, although it's often lower in lysine compared to other protein sources. Together, these proteins form a comprehensive and complete blend.
The product also includes cocoa powder processed with alkali, which not only adds flavor but also contributes antioxidants. The oil creamer blend (coconut oil and/or sunflower oil, rice syrup solids, pea protein, sodium citrate, tricalcium phosphate, and sunflower lecithin) enhances the texture and mixability of the protein powder, making it more palatable without adding unnecessary artificial ingredients.
Natural flavors are used to enhance the taste, and a gum blend (xanthan gum, guar gum, gum acacia) is included to improve texture and consistency. These gums are common in many protein powders and are generally considered safe, though in some individuals they can cause some digestive discomfort.
One notable aspect of this protein powder is the absence of artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors. Instead, it uses steviol glycosides, a natural sweetener derived from stevia leaves, which is a great alternative for those looking to avoid artificial additives.
However, the sodium content is relatively high at 540mg per serving, which might be a concern for individuals on a sodium-restricted diet. It also doesn't contain added digestive enzymes or prebiotics, which could further enhance its nutritional profile and digestive ease.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein is designed to support muscle recovery, growth, and overall fitness for individuals seeking a plant-based protein source. With 24 grams of protein per serving, it provides a substantial amount of protein that can significantly contribute to daily protein intake, especially for those engaging in regular strength training or athletic activities.
The protein blend in this product—comprising pea protein, fava bean protein isolate, and brown rice protein concentrate—is well-suited for muscle building and recovery. Pea protein is particularly effective due to its high digestibility and rich content of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which play a crucial role in muscle protein synthesis and recovery post-exercise. Fava bean protein isolate adds a complementary amino acid profile, enhancing the overall quality of the protein blend. Brown rice protein, while slightly lower in lysine, is easily digestible and contributes additional BCAAs, making the blend more balanced and effective.
In terms of macronutrients, the product contains 150 calories per serving, with 3.5 grams of total fat and 4 grams of net carbohydrates. The fat content, including 2 grams of saturated fat, is relatively low, which aligns well with the goal of building lean muscle mass without excessive caloric intake from fats. The carbohydrate content is also pretty good, with 2 grams of dietary fiber and zero sugars, making it a good option for those following low-carb diets or aiming to avoid added sugars.
Additionally, the product provides essential micronutrients like calcium, iron, and potassium. The iron content is particularly notable, offering 45% of the daily value, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy red blood cells and preventing iron deficiency, especially in a plant-based diet.
While the sodium content is on the higher side at 540mg per serving, it may aid in electrolyte balance during intense workouts. However, individuals on a sodium-restricted diet should take this into consideration.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant in the Rich Chocolate Fudge flavor has an excellent fine texture, which is usually a promising sign for mixability. When mixed with water, the protein blends fairly well after a few vigorous shakes. There are minimal to no clumps, and the shake has a smooth consistency overall. However, there is a slight graininess which is a common trait in many plant-based proteins. It's not overly chalky, but you can definitely tell it's a plant protein. The flavor, though, is quite pleasant. The Rich Chocolate Fudge taste is deep and satisfying, with a subtle sweetness that's not overpowering.
Mixing it with almond milk definitely provides a better experience. The creaminess of the milk complements the chocolate flavor, creating a richer shake. The texture is noticeably smoother compared to mixing with water, and the slight graininess is less pronounced.
Comparing it to other plant-based proteins, Optimum Nutrition's offering stands out for its balanced flavor and relatively smooth texture. Some plant proteins can have an overpowering earthy taste, but this one strikes a good balance. It doesn't have any artificial sweetness and the natural flavors come through nicely.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant is positioned in the mid-range category. It balances reasonable affordability with quality ingredients, offering a good compromise between budget and premium protein powders.
In comparison to other plant-based protein powders, Optimum Nutrition’s product provides a robust blend of pea protein, fava bean protein isolate, and brown rice protein concentrate. These proteins are well-regarded for their amino acid profiles and digestibility, making them effective for muscle recovery and growth. The use of natural flavors and steviol glycosides instead of artificial sweeteners is also a significant advantage, catering to health-conscious consumers who prefer clean ingredients.
While there are cheaper plant-based proteins available, many of these alternatives provide lower quality and less sophisticated protein blends. However, the lack of digestive enzymes, present in some competing mid-range products, may be an important consideration. Digestive enzymes can aid in the breakdown and absorption of plant proteins, enhancing their bioavailability and reducing potential digestive discomfort. Despite this, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein remains a strong contender in its category, offering a blend of quality, taste, and effectiveness that makes it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a reliable plant-based protein powder.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein offers a well-rounded plant-based protein that effectively supports muscle recovery and growth. With its blend of high-quality pea, fava bean, and brown rice proteins, it provides a robust amino acid profile. Priced in the mid-range category, it balances affordability with ingredient quality, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable plant-based protein option.
Compared to the competition, Optimum Nutrition’s product stands out for its clean ingredient profile, absence of artificial additives, and effective performance. While the high sodium content and lack of digestive enzymes are considerations, the overall value is commendable. This protein powder is ideal for individuals who prioritize natural ingredients and seek an enjoyable and effective plant-based protein source. We would recommend Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein to anyone looking for a dependable and pleasant-tasting protein powder that supports their fitness and recovery goals.