Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey

Let’s dive into this Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey comparison. Both are popular protein powders in the fitness community, and I’ve thoroughly reviewed both to provide you with an unbiased comparison. 

In my completely unbiased Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Whey Protein review, ISO 100 scored 87%. I shared that it may be an overly sweet shaker, but you can’t deny the virtually low amount of lactose in Dymatize ISO 100. 

Compared to my unbiased protein review of Optimum Nutrition 100 Gold Standard Whey,  88% grade. Even though ON Gold Standard offers an internationally sourced protein, you can’t deny the amount of transparency, 3rd party testing, and the budget-priced value. 

Which protein powder is superior? Let’s get into this Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey comparison.

🏋️‍♂️ Hi everyone! I’m a fitness and weight loss expert with a range of certifications—NSCA-CSCS, C-ISSN, Precision Nutrition Level 1, and Certified Online Trainer—and I’m here to guide your fitness journey.

🍏 My primary goal is to simplify the complex world of fitness and nutrition for you. Think of me as your knowledgeable yet relatable fitness ally, ready to make your health goals achievable and fun.

🌐 Leveraging my expertise as a Certified Online Trainer, I bring you practical, accessible workout and nutrition strategies, no matter where you are.

💼 Transparency matters to me: I may use affiliate links, but they don’t cost you extra. Purchases made through these links might earn me a small commission, but they don’t sway my opinions or the integrity of my reviews.

Gold Standard Or ISO 100, What’s the Difference?

In this Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey face-off, we need to know the difference between the protein powders. Let’s start by examining the nutrition facts. 

One of the key factors in choosing a protein powder is its taste and texture. In this comparison, we’ll be looking at the Cookies & Cream flavor of both Dymatize ISO 100 and Gold Standard Whey to see how they stack up in this aspect.

	Whey Dymatize ISO 100	ON Gold Whey Protein
Serving Size	31g	31g
Calories	120	120
Total Fat	1g	1.5g
Sodium	130mg	130mg
Total Carbohydrate	2g	3g
Protein	25g	24g
Percent Protein per Serving	81%	77%

There is not much difference between Whey Dymatize ISO 100 and ON Gold Whey Protein. The gap between the brands is, at most, 1 gram. 

You will notice that I’ve included a “Percent Protein per Serving” row. Why is that important?

I firmly believe that if you’re getting a protein powder that offers more than 75% protein per serving, the ingredient list should contain fewer fillers and more protein. This percentage is a good indicator of the protein quality in the powder. After all, you’re taking a protein powder for more protein.

Now, let’s compare the ingredients in Dymatize ISO 100 and Gold Standard Whey. This will give us a better understanding of the differences in their formulations.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100 Whey Vs Dymatize Iso-100 Specs

I always examine the ingredients list for my unbiased protein powder reviews. Here’s why: It’s a telling sign of what the protein company is trying to do to save money. 

Here are some commonly recurring themes I’ve noticed doing protein reviews

• Use of artificial sugars
• Commonly use soy as an emulsifier
• “Bioengineered” (GMO) appears in a statement

Optimum Nutrition Whey Protein Ingredients

Here is the ingredient list for ON Gold Whey Protein, Cookies & Cream.

Protein Blend (Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate, Hydrolyzed Whey Protein), Natural and Artificial Flavor, Cookie Crumbs [Sugar, Rice Flour, Cocoa (Processed with Alkali), Canola Oil, Salt], Sunflower and/or Soy Lecithin, Gum Blend (Guar Gum, Gum Acacia, Xanthan Gum), Salt, Sucralose

Another thing to note about the ingredients for ON Gold Whey Protein is that soy is the most commonly used emulsifier. Soy lecithin is often used in protein powders to improve mixability and texture. However, if you have a soy allergy or sensitivity, this is an important factor to consider.

I wrote an article examining an isolate vs whey protein comparison. If you’re already experiencing digestion issues with your blended protein, ON Gold Whey Protein, it could be due to the use of Soy Lecithin. 

Let’s examine Whey Dymatize ISO 100 ingredient list.  

Dymatize ISO 100 Ingredients

Here is Dymatize ISO 100 ingredients for Cookies & Cream. 

Hydrolyzed whey protein isolate whey protein isolate, natural and artificial flavors. Less than 2% of: cocoa powder (processed with alkali), soy lecithin, sucralose, salt, potassium chloride, steviol glycosides (stevia).

What I liked about Dymatize Whey ISO 100 is its small ingredient profile. It offers only two blended proteins: hydrolyzed whey protein isolate and whey isolate. Here is what Dymatize Whey ISO 100 is hiding from you in its ingredient list.

Once again, soy lecithin is an emulsifier. Dymatize needs to state that the type of soy found in ISO 100′ contains a Bioengineered Food Ingredient.’ This means that the soy used in the product has been genetically modified, which may have implications for some individuals.

Winner 

In the first round of this Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey faceoff, Whey Dymatize ISO 100 takes the lead. Its smaller ingredient profile and use of only two high-quality protein sources give it an edge over ON Gold Whey protein.

Smaller ingredient profile and using only two high-quality protein sources instead of the three sources utilized in ON Gold Whey protein. 

Let’s examine the sweeteners in the next round of Dymatize ISO 100 vs. Gold Standard Whey. 

Are Artificial Sweeteners in Protein Powder Bad?

I wrote an article examining what are the most dangerous artificial sweeteners. That link also examines other artificial sweeteners; it might be worth a look. 

It is better to avoid protein powders containing these sweeteners. Here’s why that may not be necessary.

Research Studies and Sweeteners

In the ‘Research Studies and Sweeteners’ section, I’m sharing one research study for each sweetener in this Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey comparison. These studies provide scientific evidence to support the information I’m sharing about the sweeteners used in these protein powders. 

Sucralose 

Research involving rats shows that even high doses of sucralose don’t lead to serious health issues. In one study, rats consumed 5% of their diets of sucralose. They ended up eating less, gaining less weight, and experiencing changes in their organ health. 

However, other studies where sucralose was given directly to the stomach for several months showed no harmful effects. Research suggests that any issues could be due to changes in how tasty or digestible the food was, not because sucralose is harmful. 

Since protein powders contain much smaller amounts of sucralose than those tested in studies—and since bodies like the FDA approve it—it’s generally considered safe. Protein powders with sucralose are a safe option for those watching their calories but still looking for sweetness.

Acesulfame Potassium

Acesulfame Potassium is also widely studied. The body quickly absorbs and eliminates Ace-K, indicating that it doesn’t accumulate and poses no long-term health risks. 

In detailed animal studies, rats and mice were given large amounts of Acesulfame Potassium over extended periods. This research study showed minimal impact on their food and water intake or body weight.

While there were some initial concerns about potential tumor development, these findings were not consistent and didn’t definitively link the sweetener to any cancer risk. Given its broad use and the extensive testing showing its safety, Acesulfame Potassium continues to be approved for use in food and drink around the globe.

Stevia

Stevia, a natural sweetener derived from the Stevia Rebaudiana plant, has been studied to understand its effects on health, especially for people with type 2 diabetes. Research shows that stevia can significantly lower blood pressure, which is great news for those monitoring their heart health. 

However, according to the reviewed studies, stevia doesn’t make a big difference in managing blood sugar levels. It doesn’t help reduce blood sugar or change insulin levels much. 

Also, stevia doesn’t lead to weight gain or loss, as it does not significantly impact body weight. You are making stevia a safe choice for a sweetener if you’re looking to cut down on sugar without affecting your weight or blood sugar levels.

Let’s examine the sweeteners used in this Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey.

What Sweeteners Are in Dymatize ISO?

In previous reviews, I found that protein powders that use two sweeteners (whether natural or artificial) tend to be overly sweet. 

The following sweeteners are in Whey Dymatize ISO 100: Sucralose and Steviol Glycosides (Stevia).

This is the case for Whey Dymatize ISO. If you’re wondering which protein powders use two sweeteners, here’s the list. 

• Unbiased Jacked Factory Authentic Whey Review
• Unbiased Jacked Factory Whey Isolate Review
• Unbiased Rule 1 Source 7 Protein Review 
• Unbiased R1 Whey Blend Protein Review
• Unbiased R1 Whey Protein Review

Does Gold Standard Whey Have Artificial Sweeteners?

Personally, when a protein powder only uses one sweetener, I tend to enjoy the flavor profile more. Another personal preference is that I prefer the taste of stevia, an artificial sweetener. Here’s why.

Some protein powders tend to overuse stevia. The flavor profile is too much for my pallet. 

Gold Standard Whey has an artificial sweetener called acesulfame potassium.

Winner

Both protein powders have a listed artificial sweetener. If you’re an anti-artificial sweetener, you’re not purchasing either. As shared, Dymatize ISO 100 offers a sweeter experience, Whereas ON Gold Whey Protein offers a milder flavor. 

Draw. Let’s continue into the next round of protein types in this Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey. 

Are There Different Types Of Protein Powders?

We already know that Whey Dymatize ISO 100 offers a two-protein blend to ON Gold Whey Protein’s three-protein blend.  Let’s examine the research behind muscle protein synthesis and the different protein types in each brand. 

What Type of Protein Powder is Best for Building Muscle?

With all the marketing hype behind each protein powder, it can be challenging to select one. I’ll limit the research articles to one per protein source. 

I’ll share the benefits of each protein powder and explain why it is good for building muscle. 

Hydrolyzed Whey Protein

In a 2019 study from the journal Nutrition & Metabolism, researchers found that whey protein hydrolysate (WPH) helps build muscle better than regular whey protein after exercise, especially if taken in small amounts. They tested this on rats and discovered that WPH, which is digested more quickly than regular whey protein, gets into the bloodstream faster and in more significant amounts. 

This quick digestion is crucial for muscle repair and growth after workouts. When rats took 0.5 grams of WPH per kilogram of their body weight, their muscles built up more than when they took more significant amounts or just regular whey protein. This suggests that WPH might be a better choice for athletes or anyone looking to increase muscle strength without consuming large amounts of protein.

Whey Protein Isolate

Whey protein isolate is a favorite supplement among athletes because it’s thought to help build muscles, especially when combined with exercise. In this study, young adults who were already good at doing workouts were randomly given either whey protein or a fake supplement (placebo).

The study found that all the participants’ muscles got more extensive, but those who took whey protein didn’t get stronger than those who took the placebo. However, the whey protein group did see a slight increase in muscle size in certain areas. 

While whey protein might help muscles become more prominent with regular workouts, it doesn’t make them stronger.

Whey Protein Concentrate

Whey protein concentrate (WPC) is a popular supplement for helping maintain muscle. This protein is packed with essential amino acids, including leucine, which are the building blocks of muscle. 

A study showed that when middle-aged men drank a shake with 20 grams of WPC, their muscle protein synthesis, which is the process of building muscle, increased. The study found that WPC was equally effective at stimulating muscle building after consumption. 

Whey protein concentrate is an excellent choice for those looking to support their muscle health, especially as they grow older.

Which Protein is Best for Building Muscle?

When building muscle, not all whey proteins are created equal. In a study comparing the effects of different types of whey protein on muscle building, three popular forms were examined: whey protein concentrate (WPC), whey protein isolate (WPI), and whey protein hydrolyze (WPH). Here’s how they stack up:

1. Whey Protein Hydrolyze (WPH)—This whey protein is the best for muscle building. It’s pre-digested, meaning it has undergone a process that breaks it down into smaller pieces, making it the fastest to absorb. This rapid absorption can particularly benefit after workouts, helping kick-start muscle repair and growth.
2. Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) – Coming in second, WPI is also highly effective for muscle growth. It’s processed to remove fat and lactose, leaving a protein about 90% pure protein. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a high-protein option with less fat and who may be lactose intolerant.
3. Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) – While still a good option for muscle building, WPC contains less protein by weight compared to WPI and WPH, usually around 70-80%. It retains more beneficial nutrients in whole whey but is absorbed more slowly than the other forms.

Overall, each type of whey protein has its benefits, but for the quickest absorption and muscle repair post-workout, WPH might be the best choice. WPI is a close second, offering a purer protein source, while WPC offers a balance of protein and other nutrients.

Dymatize Protein Quality

The protein quality found in Whey Dymatize ISO 100 is of the highest quality. The emphasis on mostly Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate and Isolate means you will stimulate MPS. 

Furthermore, if you’re lactose intolerant, Dymatize was nice enough to share a simple infographic about the hydrolysis process. If you’re unaware, Hydrolyzed protein further reduces milk lactose. 

Plus, two protein sources mean it won’t be diluted with an inferior third protein powder, bringing us to ON Gold Whey Protein.

Finally, I just remembered that I should mention this. Dymatize Hydro Whey uses 100% USA-sourced protein powder.

Optimum Nutrition Protein Quality

Here is what we know about ON Gold Whey Protein: Three protein sources arranged from most to least amount.

1. Whey Protein Isolate
2. Whey Protein Concentrate
3. Hydrolyzed Whey Protein

It’s safe to say ON Gold Whey Protein is mostly protein with concentrate. An interesting protein source is hydrolyzed whey protein. 

I wrote an article examining is whey isolate low lactose. I shared that “whey powder” has the most lactose. This type of whey is usually used to enrich food with protein. 

ON Gold Whey Protein uses this type of protein powder. Hence, it’s been hydrolyzed. Whey Protein is a lower-quality protein powder and less effective at stimulating MPS. 

Amino Acid Profile of Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey

The amino acid of ON Gold Standard Whey and the amino acid profile of Dymatize ISO 100 Whey are nearly identical. 

Winner

When examining strictly the protein sources, Whey Dymatize ISO 100 offers superior quality and quantity. However, when you factor in the amino acid profile, specifically the leucine content of each protein, they are nearly identical. 

ON Gold Standard Whey. Even though Dymatize ISO 100 Whey offers higher quality protein sources, with the two-source isolate profile. Examining the amino acid profile, ON Gold Standard Whey is similar to that of ISO 100. 

You will purchase Dymatize ISO 100 Whey because you’re lactose intolerant and lactose sensitive. 

Let’s conclude this Dymatize ISO 100 vs Gold Standard Whey comparison.

Which is Better ISO 100 or Gold Standard?

Wrapping up this Dymatize ISO 100 vs gold standard whey comparison, we need to know which is better, ISO 100 or Gold Standard?

Here is what even with the two protein powders: nutrition facts, label transparency, and preference of sweeteners utilized. However, each protein does have its quirks. 

ISO 100 is limited to only pre- and post-workout protein, uses GMO soy, and could be an overly sweet drinking experience. On the other hand, ON Gold Standard Whey uses three protein sources that are internationally sourced. 

Deciding which is better will depend on your weight and fitness goals. 

Whey Dymatize ISO 100 is your best purchase for strictly pre-and post-workout nutrition. However, considering the number of servings per container, you may look elsewhere if it’s outside your budget. 

If you’re looking for a protein powder that is best for anytime use and has more servings per container, ON Gold Standard Whey is your option.

However, when examining the amino acid profiles of both protein powders, they are nearly identical. Then, you include the price point (ON Gold Standard Whey is cheaper and offers more servings per container), making the decision easier. 

When examining the amino acid profiles, both proteins are eerily similar at stimulating MPS. 

However, when you factor in price, ON Gold Standard Whey will win purely based on the amino acid comparison.

Do you agree with my Dymatize ISO 100 vs gold standard when verdict?

Sources

Anker, C. C. B., Rafiq, S., & Jeppesen, P. B. (2019). Effect of Steviol Glycosides on Human Health with Emphasis on Type 2 Diabetic Biomarkers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients, 11(9), 1965. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11091965

Castro, L. H. A., De Araújo, F. H. S., Olimpio, M. Y. M., De B Primo, R. B., Pereira, T. T., Lopes, L. a. F., De M Trindade, E. B. S., Fernandes, R., & Oesterreich, S. A. (2019). Comparative Meta-Analysis of the effect of concentrated, hydrolyzed, and isolated Whey protein supplementation on body composition of physical activity practitioners. Nutrients, 11(9), 2047. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11092047

Goldsmith, L. (2000). Acute and subchronic toxicity of sucralose. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 38, 53–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0278-6915(00)00028-4

Irwin, R., Malarkey, D., Bristol, D., Bucher, J., French, J., Hailey, J., Haseman, J., Herbert, R., Maronpot, R., Peckham, J., Roycroft, J., Smith, C., Travlos, G., Vallant, M., Witt, K., Wenk, M., Lanning, L., Hardisty, J., Willson, G., . . . Willis, R. (2005, October 1). INTRODUCTION. NTP Genetically Modified Model Report on the Toxicity Studies of Acesulfame Potassium (CASRN 55589-62-3) in FVB/N-TgN(v-Ha-ras)Led (Tg.AC) Hemizygous Mice and Carcinogenicity Studies of Acesulfame Potassium in B6.129-Trp53tm1Brd (N5) Haploinsufficient Mice (Feed Studies) – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576288/

Kremmer, J. (2023, November 1). Sweet Poison: Unmasking the most lethal artificial sweeteners of all. JKremmer Fitness. https://jkremmerfitness.com/post/what-are-the-most-dangerous-artificial-sweeteners/

Kremmer, J. (2024a, February 7). Ever Wondered the Real Difference? Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard vs Pure Choice Farms Showdown! JKremmer Fitness. https://jkremmerfitness.com/post/isolate-vs-concentrate-whey-protein-comparison/#Optimum_Nutrition_Gold_Standard_vs_Pure_Choice_Farms_Isolate_vs_Concentrate_Whey_Protein_Comparison_-_Digestibility_Face-Off

Kremmer, J. (2024b, April 21). 🚫 Understanding the best whey protein for lactose intolerance. JKremmer Fitness. https://jkremmerfitness.com/post/is-whey-isolate-low-lactose/#What_Protein_Has_the_Least_Lactose

Mitchell, C., D’Souza, R., Fanning, A., Poppitt, S., & Cameron-Smith, D. (2017). Short communication: Muscle protein synthetic response to microparticulated whey protein in middle-aged men. Journal of Dairy Science, 100(6), 4230–4234. https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.2016-12287

Nakayama, K., Tagawa, R., Saito, Y., & Sanbongi, C. (2019). Effects of whey protein hydrolysate ingestion on post-exercise muscle protein synthesis compared with intact whey protein in rats. Nutrition & Metabolism, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-019-0417-9

The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness 2020 January;60(1):75-84. (n.d.). https://www.minervamedica.it/en/journals/sports-med-physical-fitness/article.php?cod=R40Y2020N01A0075