Unbiased Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein Review

Kicking off my 2024 New Year’s Resolution with a fresh take on protein reviews – one each week! Here’s number 3: unbiased Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein review. Let’s dive in.

What are your protein goals this year? Share in the comments and see if Levels Whey fits your plan!

🌟 As a certified expert in strength conditioning (NSCA) and nutrition (Precision Nutrition, CISSN), I bring a hands-on, unbiased approach to my protein reviews. My insights come from personal use, not just research, ensuring you get real-world feedback on each product.

👥 I choose products for review based on your requests, their relevance, and my genuine interest. This isn’t influenced by brand sponsorships, allowing me to maintain impartiality.

💼 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.

🔍 Rest assured, I focus on providing clear, honest reviews to help you make informed decisions.

📖 Unbiased Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein Review: Key Insights

Dive into the essentials of Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein:

• Cold-Processed Whey Protein Concentrate: Pure and natural processing for high quality.
• No Nonsense Ingredients: Free from added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or fillers.
• Supposed Grass Fed Goodness: “Sourced” from hormone-free cows for a cleaner protein source.

🏋️ Meal Replacement or Post-Workout?

• As a Meal Replacement, it is not the best choice. It lacks fiber and solely relies on whey protein concentrate, which may not be filling enough.
• For Post-Workout Recovery: I found that just a bit over one scoop (about 38.5g) of Levels does the trick, hitting that sweet spot for muscle recovery. Why this specific amount? 

To maximize muscle growth, aim for 25g of protein with at least 3g of leucine per serving – a sweet spot for muscle growth.

I’ve shared my experience, but I’m curious about yours. Have you tried Levels Whey for post-workout recovery? Drop your stories below!

Check out my in-depth discussion in the ‘Unbiased PEScicence Select Protein review‘ for more on the crucial role of leucine in muscle growth. 

🛒 Where to Buy Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein?

Where did I snag my Levels Whey Protein? Well, I always cheer for the home team first—local stores—but Amazon’s convenience and variety are hard to beat.

Local vs. Amazon

Local Stores: I always try to support local businesses for my protein needs, steering clear of big chains.

Amazon: My backup option for convenience. They offer various flavors and sizes, often at lower prices. Plus, Prime members enjoy free shipping and handling. Here’s the breakdown:

• 1 pound: $24.99 (14 servings, $1.79/serving)
• 2 pounds: $39.99 (28 servings, $1.43/serving)
• 5 pounds: $79.99 (71 servings, $1.12/serving)

Buying Direct from Levels

Bigger Savings: Sign up for emails and get 15% off your first order. They also offer a 10% subscribe-and-save discount. Free shipping is available on all orders. Plus, you get access to all 9 flavors and sizes!

Price Range:

• 1 pound: $22.49 (14 servings, $1.61/serving)
• 2 pounds: $39.99 (28 servings, $1.43/serving)
• 5 pounds: $79.99 (71 servings, $1.13/serving)
• 10 pounds: $155.99 (144 servings, $1.08/serving)

💸 Levels Money-Back Guarantee

• Terms: Purchase directly from Levels and return within 15 days of delivery.
• Compensation: You’ll receive a Levels gift card, not a cash refund.
• Contact: For more info or to initiate a return, contact hello@levelsprotein.com.

Price 5 out of 10. Multiple price points to fit any budget. More significant savings purchasing direct from Levels.com. No doubt, Levels is inexpensive. You’re not buying a 100% grass-fed protein.

🤯 Is Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein Amino Spiked?

Levels Grass Fed Whey is not amino spiked. The amino acid profile is printed directly on the label.

This brings us to the next point, is Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein worth your money?

Is Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein Worth It?

I’ve done multiple grass fed whey protein reviews.

• Antler Farms Grass Fed Whey Protein
• Clean Simple Eats and a Clean Simple Eats (re)Review
• Opportuniteas Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Amazon Elements

In my journey through various brands, I noticed a pattern—they all claim ‘grass-fed’, but what does that really mean? Let’s find out with Levels.

Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein is not 100% grass-fed. I’m questioning the validity of Levels protein. Levels do not have “100% grass-fed.” This begs the question…

Is Levels protein grass-fed?

Common Food Labels Explained

Labeling matters when selecting a quality protein with bold claims.

A notable point from AGN Roots’ article “Common Food Label Claims Explained” is that the USDA lacks a clear definition for “grass-fed” in dairy. This means the quality and standards can vary significantly.

Here’s a quote pulled directly from that article.

The USDA does not have an official definition for “grass-fed” claims for dairy products. Pasture access during the animal’s life is required, but producers can define the specifics themselves, resulting in many substandard variations.

Is Levels Grass Fed Protein Legit?

Due to the lack of clear certification and vagueness of “Grass Fed” on Levels protein container, I’m questioning the quality of this protein and what amount of “Grass Fed” is truly grass-fed.

Is Levels 3rd Party Tested

Levels haven’t undergone third-party testing, which adds to the uncertainty about its amino acid profile and overall quality.

The only certification you will on Levels packaging is GMP certified. “This product is produced using good manufacturing practices.”

Amino Spiking 7.5 out of 10. If Levels protein powder were truly grass-fed, you would pay more. Levels lost 2.5 points due to misleading buyers.

🤝 What’s The Best Way To Mix Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein?

A shaker bottle is the best way to mix Levels Protein post-workout or anytime shake. The directions are as follows.

Add 1 scoop of Levels Whey to 8 ounces of water, milk, or your favorite beverage. Shake for 15-30 seconds. 

Here’s a pro tip from a professional protein shaker. Always add the liquid first, then the protein powder. 

Adding the powder first may, could, and most likely will cause clumping.

⚖️Powder Scoop Size

The scoop size is advertised. A level scoop yields 32g of protein. If you’re into post-workout nutrition, a heaping scoop will get you to those games.

Protein Shake Mix 8.5 out of 10. Add the liquid first, then the powder. Adding the liquid first will yield some noticeable spots on the side of your shaker. After shaking for 30 seconds, you may experience a small amount of clumping. Those small clumps are from the concentrated whey protein.

🧪 Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein Ingredient List

Here is the ingredient list for Levels Grass Fed Whey.

• Whey Protein Concentrate: This is the primary ingredient sourced from grass-fed cows. It’s rich in protein and essential amino acids, promoting muscle growth and repair. Whey protein concentrate is preferred for its high nutritional value and digestibility.
• Cocoa Powder adds a natural and delightful chocolate flavor to the protein powder. Cocoa is also known for its antioxidants and can contribute to the supplement’s overall taste appeal.
• Sunflower Lecithin: A natural emulsifier, sunflower lecithin helps mix the protein powder smoothly with liquids. It is a healthier, non-soy alternative that supports heart and skin health.
• Sea Salt: A dash of sea salt enhances the protein powder’s flavor profile. Sea salt contains trace minerals and helps balance the sweetness and chocolate flavor.
• Stevia Leaf Extract: A natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant leaves. It adds sweetness without the extra calories or the potential blood sugar impact of regular sugar.
• Monk Fruit Extract: Another natural, zero-calorie sweetener, monk fruit extract complements stevia by providing a well-rounded sweetness. It’s known for its lack of aftertaste and is a popular choice in health-focused food products.

I saw the statement, “This product contains ingredients of international and domestic origin.” I had some questions that needed answers, so I contacted Levels.

Furthermore, I was happy to see a reply within 4-hours of reaching out. I’m still skeptical. Here’s why…

I’ve reviewed grass fed protein powders with natural sweeteners. None of those protein powders have the “international origin” statement found on Levels protein. 

🌎 Country of Origin Ingredients List

I requested a country of origin ingredients list. The CSR shared that Levels protein is from cows from the US. The country of origin list should share that information.  

Protein Ingredients: 5.0 out of 10. No artificial ingredients, added sugars, or bogus fillers. Only natural ingredients. Why have a statement sharing “contains ingredients of international origin” for only one ingredient?

✅ Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein Nutrition Facts

Here are Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein nutrition facts for Chocolate.

Serving size 1 scoop 32g

Calories 130

• Total Fat 2.5g
• Sodium 140mg
• Total Carbohydrate 4g
  • Dietary Fiber 0g
  • Total Sugars 2g
• Protein 24 grams

🍗 How Much Protein Does Levels Protein Offer Per Serving?

24 grams of protein per serving / 1 serving size of 32 grams =  75% protein per serving

🍨 Is Levels Protein Powder Lactose Free?

Levels protein powder is not lactose-free. Level’s Grass Fed whey is cold-process microfiltered. Similar to Pure Choice Farms isolate.

Due to Levels of primary protein source, whey protein concentrate. You will still experience mild to moderate GI issues. I did.

😋 Does Levels Chocolate Protein Taste Good

Levels Grass-fed whey tastes like a chocolate protein. Surprisingly, a low-sugar chocolate. 

If you have sensitive taste buds to stevia, Levels Grass Fed Whey will have a mild aftertaste that may be off-putting. 

Levels Flavor Protein Powders

Here is a list of flavors for Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein.

• Double Chocolate
• Pure Chocolate
• Chocolate Peanut Butter
• Vanilla Bean
• Strawberry
• Vinalla Cinnamon
• Chocolate Mocha
• Cappuccino
• Unflavored

What is the Best Tasting Levels Protein Powder?

Let’s talk about flavors! 

Over 4,300 users have shared their thoughts on Level.com, and the clear favorites are Vanilla Bean, Double Chocolate, and Vanilla Cinnamon. But not every flavor hits the mark—some users weren’t fans of the Strawberry, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Chocolate Mocha flavors.

Amazon users agree, with more than 13,000 reviews praising the same top flavors. However, it’s worth noting that some customers on Amazon reported issues with product quality, like contamination or spoilage, which is something to consider when making your choice.

In short, if you’re considering Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein, the go-to flavors are Vanilla Bean, Double Chocolate, and Vanilla Cinnamon. They’re the crowd-pleasers!

Flavors can be a dealbreaker. What’s your favorite protein powder flavor, and how do you think Levels stacks up? Let’s talk taste in the comments!

Flavor 8 out of 10. If you don’t mind stevia, you may enjoy Levels chocolate flavor. Although I dislike stevia, I enjoyed the chocolate.

🎬 Is Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein Good?– The Recap

So, what’s the real scoop on Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein? Let’s wrap up with some final thoughts.

Origin and Quality Concerns: While Levels boasts international ingredients, it’s not entirely sourced from the USA. This raises questions about its grass-fed status, as it’s not 100% American and lacks certification. Remember, “grass-fed” on the label doesn’t guarantee exclusively grass-fed cows, especially with varied global standards.

Potential Benefits: Despite the sourcing ambiguity, Levels does have its positives:

• No Unwanted Extras: It’s free from added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and fillers.
• Easy Mixing: Levels mix well, convenient for those on-the-go shakes.
• Taste Factor: The flavor profile is commendable, catering to various preferences.
• Wallet-Friendly: It’s a budget-conscious option for those seeking a grass-fed claim without breaking the bank.

Better Alternatives?: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey might be preferable if you’re keen on a more transparent ‘grass-fed’ claim and willing to invest more. It offers a clearer stance on transparency and quality.

Final Verdict: Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein is a solid option for budget-conscious consumers not overly concerned about the intricacies of grass-fed claims. 

However, for those seeking higher quality assurance and sourcing, exploring other options like Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey could be more satisfying.

💥 Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein vs Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey

If you’re wondering which protein powder is better, Levels or ON Gold Standard. Let’s compare the two protein powders.

Price: Levels are lower, but you receive fewer servings with the entry-level bag. Gold Standard Whey is $5 more, but you get more servings. Winner: Optimum Gold Standard 100% Whey

Amino Spiking: Both companies are transparent about their amino acid profile. However, Optimum Gold Standard 100% Whey has more naturally occurring BCAAs. Winner: Optimum Gold Standard 100% Whey

Protein Shake Mix: Both protein powders mix great. ON Gold Standard does it better. Winner: Optimum Gold Standard 100% Whey

Ingredients: Both companies state their protein is made with ingredients of international origin. Levels does offer all natural, no artificial sweeteners. Winner: Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein.

Nutrition Facts: Both protein powders are very similar nutrition facts. But you get more protein per serving with ON Gold Standard. Winner: Optimum Gold Standard 100% Whey

Flavor: Optimum Nutrition offers 19 different flavors. Levels have 9. In my opinion, Optimum Nutrition tastes better because of the lack of Stevia. Winner: Optimum Gold Standard 100% Whey

Overall winner: Optimum Gold Standard 100% Whey

If you’re looking to do a dep dive, check out my unbiased ON Gold Standard Whey Protein Review.

🎼 Levels Grass Fed 100% Whey Protein Review Round-Up

Price 5 out of 10
Amino Spiking 8.5 out of 10
Protein Shake Mix 8.5 out of 10
Protein Ingredients 5.0 out of 10
Nutrition Facts 7.5 out of 10
Flavor 7.5 out of 10

Overall Score 50.5/60, 70%, Average

Sources

Stark, M., Lukaszuk, J. M., Prawitz, A. D., & Salacinski, A. J. (2012). Protein timing and its effects on muscular hypertrophy and strength in individuals engaged in weight-training. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-9-54

Roots, A. (2020, January 13). Common food label claims – explained. Sourced the Right Whey^TM. https://agnroots.com/blogs/faq-the-best-unflavored-grassfed-whey/common-food-label-claims-explained