Critical Mass High Calorie Gainer

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Critical Mass High Calorie Gainer healthy?

Critical Mass High Calorie Gainer scores 68/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product contains a mix of beneficial proteins such as whey protein concentrate and isolate, which support muscle growth and recovery.

How processed is Critical Mass High Calorie Gainer?

Critical Mass High Calorie Gainer is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Critical Mass High Calorie Gainer's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Whey Protein Concentrate, Sweet Whey Powder, MCT-Powder count in its favor; Maltodextrin, Fructose are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Critical Mass High Calorie Gainer

Applied Nutrition Original
68 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 10
Harmful ingredients 2
Category Protein Powders
Summary

This product contains a mix of beneficial proteins such as whey protein concentrate and isolate, which support muscle growth and recovery. However, the presence of maltodextrin as a filler detracts from its nutritional quality due to its high glycemic index. The inclusion of natural flavors and a moderate number of additives also impacts the overall formulation quality, leading to a mixed evaluation.

Key ingredients 16

Whey Protein Isolate
Very Good

Whey protein isolate is a highly purified form of whey protein, offering a high protein content with minimal fats and carbohydrates. It is ideal for muscle growth and recovery due to its rich amino acid profile. It is more refined than whey concentrate, providing a higher protein percentage.

Benefits

High protein content supports muscle growth and recovery.

See more about Whey Protein Isolate →
Whey Protein Concentrate
Good

Whey protein concentrate is a high-quality animal-based protein source rich in essential amino acids. It is minimally processed and provides excellent support for muscle growth and recovery. Compared to plant-based proteins, it offers a superior amino acid profile.

Benefits

Rich in essential amino acids, supporting muscle growth and recovery.

See more about Whey Protein Concentrate →
Sweet Whey Powder
Good

Sweet whey powder is a byproduct of cheese production and contains lactose, proteins, and minerals. It is a good source of protein and can aid in muscle recovery. It is less processed than other protein sources, retaining more nutrients.

Risks

May cause digestive issues in individuals with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

Provides protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle recovery.

MCT-Powder
Good

MCT powder is derived from coconut or palm kernel oil and is known for its quick energy release and potential to support weight management. It is less processed than other oils and can enhance ketone production. MCTs are rapidly absorbed and metabolized by the body.

Risks

Excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Benefits

Provides quick energy and may support weight management and cognitive function.

Inulin
Good

Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. It is minimally processed and can improve digestive health. Inulin also aids in calcium absorption and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause bloating and gas.

Benefits

Supports gut health and aids in calcium absorption.

See more about Inulin →
Calcium Caseinate
Good

Calcium caseinate is a slow-digesting protein derived from milk, providing a sustained release of amino acids. It is beneficial for muscle maintenance and recovery, especially during prolonged periods without food. It is less processed than some other protein isolates.

Risks

May cause digestive issues in individuals with milk protein allergies.

Benefits

Provides a sustained release of amino acids, supporting muscle maintenance.

See more about Calcium Caseinate →
Egg Albumen
Good

Egg albumen is a high-quality protein source rich in essential amino acids. It is minimally processed and supports muscle growth and repair. It is an excellent alternative for those who are lactose intolerant.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals with egg allergies.

Benefits

Rich in essential amino acids, supporting muscle growth and repair.

See more about Egg Albumen →
L-Glutamine
Good

L-Glutamine is an amino acid that supports muscle recovery and immune function. It is beneficial for athletes and those undergoing intense physical activity. It is naturally occurring and supports gut health as well.

Benefits

Supports muscle recovery and immune function.

See more about L-Glutamine →
Enzyme
Good

Bromelain is a natural enzyme derived from pineapples that aids in protein digestion. It is minimally processed and can help reduce inflammation and improve nutrient absorption. It is beneficial for digestive health.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to pineapples.

Benefits

Aids in protein digestion and reduces inflammation.

CLA Powder
Good

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) powder is known for its potential to support fat loss and improve body composition. It is derived from natural sources and can enhance metabolic health. It is beneficial for weight management.

Benefits

Supports fat loss and improves body composition.

Natural Flavour
Neutral

Natural flavors are used to enhance taste but can be a catch-all term for various compounds. They are generally considered safe but lack transparency in their composition. The impact on health is neutral as they do not provide nutritional benefits.

Risks

Lack of transparency in composition may be a concern for some consumers.

Benefits

Enhances the flavor of the product without adding calories.

See more about Natural Flavour →
Anti-Caking Agent
Neutral

Tricalcium phosphate is used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping. It is generally recognized as safe and does not significantly impact health. It also provides a source of calcium, though not in significant amounts.

Benefits

Prevents clumping and provides a minor source of calcium.

Waxy Maize Starch
Neutral

Waxy maize starch is a carbohydrate source that provides a slow release of energy. It is less processed than some other carbohydrate sources and can aid in glycogen replenishment post-exercise. It is generally considered neutral in terms of health impact.

Benefits

Provides a slow release of energy, aiding in glycogen replenishment.

Flax Seed Oil Powder
Neutral

Flax seed oil powder provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. It is less processed than extracted oils and offers a plant-based source of essential fats. It is generally considered neutral due to its balanced omega-3 to omega-6 ratio.

Benefits

Provides omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health.

Maltodextrin
Bad

Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a filler and to increase calorie content. It has a high glycemic index, which can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Its use as a filler detracts from the nutritional quality of the product.

Risks

High glycemic index may lead to rapid blood sugar spikes and potential insulin resistance over time.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of energy, which can be beneficial post-exercise.

See more about Maltodextrin →
Fructose
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to insulin resistance and fatty liver disease.

Benefits

Provides sweetness and energy, with a lower glycemic response compared to glucose.

See more about Fructose →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Protein Powders