Whey Protein

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Common questions

Is Whey Protein healthy?

Whey Protein scores 68/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This whey protein product features high-quality protein sources such as ultrafiltered whey protein concentrate and crossflow microfiltered whey protein isolate, which are beneficial for muscle repair and growth.

How processed is Whey Protein?

Whey Protein is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Whey Protein's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Ultrafiltered Low Temperature Processed Whey Protein Concentrate, Crossflow Microfiltered Whey Protein Isolate, L-glutamine count in its favor; Natural Chocolate Flavor, Sunflower Lecithin are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Whey Protein

Sprouts
68 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 5
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Sprouts Farmers Market
Category Protein Powders
Summary

This whey protein product features high-quality protein sources such as ultrafiltered whey protein concentrate and crossflow microfiltered whey protein isolate, which are beneficial for muscle repair and growth. However, the inclusion of multiple gums and natural flavors, while common in flavored protein powders, adds to the level of processing. The use of natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit is a positive aspect, but the presence of several additives slightly detracts from the overall formulation quality.

Key ingredients 12

Ultrafiltered Low Temperature Processed Whey Protein Concentrate
Very Good

This ingredient is a high-quality source of protein, providing a complete amino acid profile essential for muscle repair and growth. The ultrafiltration and low-temperature processing preserve the protein's nutritional integrity and bioavailability. Compared to other protein sources, it offers superior digestibility and absorption.

Benefits

Rich in essential amino acids, it supports muscle recovery and overall protein intake.

Crossflow Microfiltered Whey Protein Isolate
Very Good

Whey protein isolate is a highly purified form of protein with minimal lactose and fat, making it ideal for those with lactose intolerance. The crossflow microfiltration process ensures high protein content while maintaining the protein's natural structure. It is a preferred choice for athletes due to its rapid absorption and effectiveness in muscle synthesis.

Benefits

Provides a concentrated source of protein with minimal carbohydrates and fats, aiding in muscle building and recovery.

L-glutamine
Good

L-glutamine is an amino acid that supports immune function and intestinal health. It is often used to aid recovery after intense exercise due to its role in protein synthesis. While beneficial, its necessity as a supplement is debated if dietary protein intake is adequate.

Benefits

Supports muscle recovery and immune function, particularly beneficial during periods of intense physical stress.

See more about L-glutamine →
Sea Salt
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Risks

Excessive intake can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Provides trace minerals and enhances flavor in food products.

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Monk Fruit Extract
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without adding calories, suitable for those managing sugar intake.

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Stevia Leaf Extract
Neutral

Stevia leaf extract is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It is considered a healthier alternative to artificial sweeteners. While it provides sweetness without calories, it does not offer additional nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without adding calories, suitable for those managing sugar intake.

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Cellulose Gum
Neutral

Cellulose gum is a thickening agent derived from plant fibers, used to improve texture and stability. It is generally recognized as safe, though it does not contribute nutritional value. Its primary role is functional, enhancing the product's consistency.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability without significant nutritional benefits.

See more about Cellulose Gum →
Xanthan Gum
Neutral

Xanthan gum is a common food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer. It is produced through fermentation and is generally considered safe. While it enhances texture, it does not provide nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Enhances texture and stability in food products.

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Guar Gum
Neutral

Guar gum is a natural thickening agent derived from guar beans. It is used to improve texture and consistency in food products. While it is safe for consumption, it does not offer nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Improves texture and consistency without significant nutritional benefits.

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Tara Gum
Neutral

Tara gum is a natural thickener derived from the seeds of the tara tree. It is used to enhance the texture of food products. While it is safe and natural, it does not provide nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Enhances texture in food products without significant nutritional benefits.

Natural Chocolate Flavor
Bad

Natural flavors are often criticized for their lack of transparency and potential for containing numerous undisclosed compounds. While derived from natural sources, they can still be heavily processed. This ingredient may not provide any nutritional benefits and could mask the presence of less desirable additives.

Risks

Potential for undisclosed additives and processing methods that may not align with clean eating principles.

Sunflower Lecithin
Bad

Sunflower lecithin is used as an emulsifier to improve texture and mixability. Although it is a more natural alternative to soy lecithin, it is still a processed ingredient. It does not contribute significant nutritional value and is often included for functional purposes rather than health benefits.

Risks

May contain trace amounts of solvents used in extraction, though generally considered safe in small amounts.

Benefits

Improves product texture and mixability without significant health benefits.

See more about Sunflower Lecithin →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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