Our ReviewOrgainGrass Fed Whey
Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein is a protein powder that stands out for its clean and straightforward ingredient list. This product combines 21 grams of grass-fed whey protein concentrate with organic erythritol and a blend of natural ingredients to create a balanced protein supplement. It’s designed to support muscle growth and recovery with a profile that includes minimal fats and sugars, making it a suitable choice for those mindful of their dietary intake.
Ingredients
Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein boasts a clean and thoughtful ingredient list. The primary component, whey protein concentrate, is derived from grass-fed cows, ensuring a high-quality protein source that is free from artificial hormones and antibiotics. Grass-fed whey is known for its higher omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) content compared to conventional whey, which can contribute to overall health and wellness.
The inclusion of natural flavors and organic erythritol as a sweetener keeps the product free from artificial additives, a significant plus for those looking to avoid synthetic ingredients. Erythritol, a sugar alcohol, is favored for its low-calorie content and minimal impact on blood sugar levels, making it a safe and effective sweetener.
Orgain’s organic creamer base, which includes organic acacia, organic high oleic sunflower oil, organic rice dextrin, organic sunflower lecithin, and organic rosemary extract, adds a creamy texture without resorting to artificial thickeners or emulsifiers. Each of these components has been selected for their health benefits and natural origins. For example, organic acacia provides soluble fiber, which can aid in digestion.
The product also contains a blend of sunflower lecithin, sea salt, organic guar gum, organic Reb A (stevia extract), and xanthan gum. Sunflower lecithin is another natural emulsifier that supports mixing, while sea salt adds a touch of flavor and essential minerals. Organic guar gum and xanthan gum are used to improve the product's texture and mixability, ensuring a smooth consistency when blended with liquids.
One of the few points of contention with this ingredient list is the presence of stevia and erythritol, which, despite being natural sweeteners, can cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals. This is something to keep in mind if you have a sensitive digestive system.
On the other hand, the product could benefit from the addition of digestive enzymes or probiotics to enhance nutrient absorption and support gut health, especially given the presence of ingredients that might be challenging for some to digest.
Effectiveness
Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein in Vanilla flavor is formulated to support muscle growth and recovery, including 21 grams of protein per serving. This protein is sourced from high-quality, grass-fed whey protein concentrate, known for its rapid absorption and high biological value, making it ideal for post-workout recovery. Grass-fed whey also contains beneficial fatty acids like omega-3s and CLA, which can contribute to overall health.
However, when considering the serving size of 41 grams, the 21 grams of protein represent just over half of the total content. This proportion suggests that the product is less protein-dense compared to other whey protein supplements. For those specifically seeking high protein content relative to serving size, this may be a point of consideration.
The product's carbohydrate content is another factor when considering its effectiveness. With a total of 12 grams of carbohydrates per serving, and 5 grams coming from erythritol, the net carbs stand at 7 grams. While erythritol is a sugar alcohol that does not impact blood sugar levels, the net carb content is a little high for those on strict low-carb or ketogenic diets. This higher carb content may make the product less suitable for individuals closely monitoring their carb intake.
In terms of fat content, the product contains 3 grams of total fat per serving, including 1.5 grams of saturated fat. This is relatively low and in line with dietary guidelines for most individuals. These fats contribute to the product’s creamy texture and help provide sustained energy.
The cholesterol content at 70mg per serving (23% of the daily value) is higher than some might prefer, especially those managing their cholesterol levels. Similarly, the sodium content at 125mg per serving (5% of the daily value) is moderate but could be lower for those on a strict low-sodium diet. Nonetheless, sodium is essential for hydration and muscle function, particularly post-exercise, so this content can be beneficial for active individuals.
Overall, Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein effectively supports muscle growth and recovery due to its high-quality protein source and balanced nutrient profile. However, the higher carb content and the protein-to-serving size ratio are areas where it falls short.
Taste
The vanilla flavor of Orgain Grass Fed Whey is smooth and not overpowering, which makes it versatile for various uses, whether in a shake or mixed into recipes. Compared to other vanilla-flavored protein powders, this one has a more genuine taste, avoiding any artificial aftertaste. The sweetness though is a tad on the high side for us, though it may suit for those that like some extra sweetness.
Mixability is also pretty good when mixed with water or milk. Initial results are good with little to no clumps. However, some very slight graininess is apparent with water, though masked well with milk.
Value
When evaluating the value of Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein in Vanilla flavor, several factors come into play, including the quality of ingredients, the product’s effectiveness, and its overall cost. Orgain positions itself as a premium protein powder, which is evident in its commitment to clean, organic ingredients and the use of grass-fed whey protein concentrate.
The use of grass-fed whey protein is a significant selling point. Grass-fed cows produce milk that is higher in omega-3 fatty acids and CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), which are beneficial for overall health. This premium ingredient undoubtedly contributes to the higher price point of the product. Additionally, the absence of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives aligns with the higher quality standards often associated with premium products.
Comparing Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein to other similar products on the market, it stands out for its clean label and the integrity of its ingredients. However, it is worth noting that the 21 grams of protein per 41-gram serving size means that protein constitutes just over 50% of each serving. This is lower compared to most other high-end protein powders, which can offer up to 80% protein per serving. This lower protein density might make the product less appealing to those specifically seeking a high-protein, low-carb supplement. It also means you will run through much more of the product more quickly.
The carbohydrate content, with 7 grams of net carbs per serving is also a little high. For those following a strict low-carb or ketogenic diet, this might be a drawback, as there are other grass-fed protein powders on the market that offer significantly lower net carbs.
Considering the price, Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein is on the higher end of the spectrum. While the cost may be justified by the premium ingredient sourcing and the clean, organic profile, it may not represent the best value for everyone, particularly for those on a budget or those who prioritize protein content above all else.
Conclusion
Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein offers a well-rounded option for those prioritizing clean, organic ingredients and high-quality protein sources. With 21 grams of grass-fed whey protein per serving, it supports muscle growth and recovery effectively. The product shines in its use of natural ingredients, free from GMOs, artificial additives, and hormones, setting it apart in the competitive protein powder market.
Compared to other premium protein powders, Orgain holds its own with its clean ingredient profile but falls slightly short in protein density and carbohydrate content.
This product is ideal for individuals who value natural, high-quality ingredients and are less concerned about maximizing protein intake per serving. It's a strong option for those incorporating protein into their daily nutrition in a balanced, health-conscious manner. We would recommend Orgain Grass Fed Whey Protein to anyone looking for a clean, reliable protein powder with a pleasant sweet taste, especially if organic and non-GMO certifications are a priority.
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".
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.