PIRQ Natural Plant Protein, Caramel Coffee, 11 fl. oz.

pirq
62 Fair
11 fl oz · pack of 4
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Summary

This plant protein drink includes beneficial ingredients like pea protein and a superfoods blend, which contribute to its nutritional value. However, the presence of natural flavors and sunflower lecithin, along with multiple additives, slightly detracts from its overall quality. While it avoids artificial sweeteners, the use of erythritol and stevia as sweeteners is a more acceptable choice, but the product still has a moderate level of processing with several additives.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 2
Category Protein Powders

Key ingredients 13

Filtered Water
Neutral

Filtered water is used as a base for many beverages and is essential for hydration. It does not contribute any calories or nutrients but serves as a solvent for other ingredients. No significant health concerns are associated with filtered water.

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Pea Protein
Good

Pea protein is a plant-based protein source that provides a good amino acid profile. It is hypoallergenic and suitable for those avoiding animal proteins. It supports muscle growth and repair without the common allergens found in dairy or soy.

Benefits

Rich in essential amino acids and supports muscle growth and repair.

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Alkalized Cocoa
Neutral

Alkalized cocoa is processed to reduce acidity and improve flavor. While it retains some antioxidants, the alkalization process can reduce their levels. It adds flavor without significant nutritional impact.

Risks

The alkalization process may reduce antioxidant content.

Benefits

Provides flavor and some antioxidants, though reduced by processing.

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Erythritol
Neutral

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener. It is well-tolerated and does not spike blood sugar levels. It is often used in sugar-free products to provide sweetness without calories.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories or blood sugar impact.

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Pirq Superfoods Blend
Good

The blend includes almonds, maca, and curcumin, which are known for their health benefits. Almonds provide healthy fats and vitamin E, maca is an adaptogen that may enhance energy, and curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties. This blend adds nutritional value to the product.

Benefits

Offers healthy fats, adaptogenic properties, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Rice Protein
Neutral

Rice protein is a plant-based protein source that complements pea protein by providing a complete amino acid profile. It is hypoallergenic and suitable for those avoiding animal proteins. It is less effective alone but beneficial when combined with other proteins.

Benefits

Complements other proteins to provide a complete amino acid profile.

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Natural Flavors
Bad

Natural flavors are often used to enhance taste but can be derived from complex mixtures of chemicals. They lack transparency and may contain allergens or additives. The term 'natural' does not guarantee safety or health benefits.

Risks

Potential allergens and lack of transparency in ingredient sourcing.

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Sunflower Lecithin
Bad

Sunflower lecithin is used as an emulsifier to improve texture and mixability. While it is less processed than soy lecithin, it still involves chemical extraction. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Risks

May contain residues from chemical extraction processes.

Benefits

Improves texture and mixability in food products.

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Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. While necessary in small amounts, excessive intake can lead to health issues such as hypertension. It is a common ingredient in processed foods.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

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Gellan Gum
Neutral

Gellan gum is a gelling agent used to stabilize and thicken products. It is derived from bacterial fermentation and is generally recognized as safe. It does not contribute significant nutritional value.

Benefits

Stabilizes and thickens products without significant nutritional impact.

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Locust Bean Gum
Neutral

Locust bean gum is a natural thickener derived from carob seeds. It is used to improve texture and stability in food products. It is generally considered safe and does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in food products.

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Stevia Reb M
Neutral

Stevia Reb M is a highly purified form of stevia used as a natural sweetener. It provides sweetness without calories and is considered safe for consumption. It is a popular alternative to artificial sweeteners.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories or blood sugar impact.

Dipotassium Phosphate
Neutral

Dipotassium phosphate is used as a stabilizer and emulsifier in food products. It helps maintain texture and consistency but does not provide significant nutritional benefits. It is generally recognized as safe.

Benefits

Maintains texture and consistency in food products.

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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