How to read a protein powder label

Two protein powders can both say 20 g of protein on the front and still be quite different. The supplement facts panel and the other-ingredients line on the back tell you more, and here is how to read them in order.

1. Find the serving size first

Every number on the panel is per serving, so start there. Pure3 lists one scoop (24.4 g for vanilla, 25 g for chocolate). Advanced Whey and PlantFuel list a serving as two scoops (about 34 to 35 g). If you compare a one-scoop number with a two-scoop number, the comparison is not fair.

2. Read the protein per serving

Protein is listed in grams. Pure3 Vanilla provides 19 g per scoop, Advanced Whey provides 22 g per two scoops, and PlantFuel Chocolate provides 21 g per two scoops. Protein helps support muscle growth and repair after exercise, as the product pages say.*

3. Look at calories, carbohydrate and sugars

These lines are close together near the top. Pure3 Chocolate lists 90 calories, 2 g carbohydrate and 1 g sugars per scoop. PlantFuel Vanilla lists 110 calories, 6 g carbohydrate and 4 g sugars per serving. Compare the same lines on each label you look at.

4. Read the other-ingredients line

This line shows what the protein is made of and what else is in the tub. On Pure3, it is three entries: whey protein isolate, natural flavors and stevia extract. On PlantFuel Chocolate it names fava bean protein isolate and fermented nutritional yeast protein as the protein base, then cocoa, flavor, MCT oil powder, apple pectin, sea salt, sunflower lecithin and stevia. A short list is easier to scan, and a longer one tells you about texture and taste ingredients.

5. Find the protein source

Whey protein isolate is milk-derived. Plant proteins come from sources such as fava beans. The source decides the allergen line and who the product fits.

6. Check the allergen statement

The whey products on our site state that they contain milk. Always read this line first if you avoid an allergen.

7. Read the directions and warnings

The directions say how many scoops to mix and with how much liquid, usually 6-8 oz of water or a favorite beverage. Advanced Whey Chocolate and PlantFuel Chocolate also carry an iron warning, so keep them out of reach of young children. Consult a physician before use if you are pregnant, nursing, under 18, or have a medical condition.

8. Count servings per container

Pure3 lists approximately 28 servings per container, and Advanced Whey and PlantFuel list 24. Servings per container and price give you a cost per serving.

Questions people ask

Is more protein per serving always better?

Not necessarily. Compare it with the serving size, calories and your own routine.

What is a whey protein isolate?

It is a form of whey protein, which is milk-derived, and our whey labels list it as the first other ingredient.

Why do some labels list a two-scoop serving?

That is how the maker defined a serving. Always compare per serving as listed, and see the product page for each one.

Where can I compare all our protein powders?

Use our protein powder guide, linked below.

Pure3 Vanilla · Advanced Whey Vanilla · PlantFuel Chocolate · Protein powder guide · Chocolate or vanilla protein · Take the 60-second quiz

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.