Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review: Is It Worth Your Money or Just Inflated Claims?

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1 Unbiased Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review

Unbiased Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review

This Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review is a special request via email and a YouTube subscriber. Is Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate a budget-priced protein powder you should invest in? No. No. Simply, no. 

If you want a non-amino-spiked Now Foods Protein Powder, check out my Now Sports Organic Whey Protein Review. It may not be a heavyweight as a post-workout shake, but for everyday use to reach your daily protein intake, you can’t deny the value you are receiving.

It’s been a recurring theme with these budget-priced brands: transparency issues and protein inflation. Keep reading my Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review for the details. 

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review
FEATURED
now whey protein isolate review

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review: Transparency Issues Raise Red Flags

2.6

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate mixes smoothly in a shaker bottle and offers solid protein content, but significant transparency issues overshadow its appeal. While it carries an “Informed Choice” certification, this only covers banned substances, leaving questions about ingredient sourcing and amino acid content. Variations in amino acid profiles between flavored and unflavored versions suggest potential protein inflation. Additionally, the absence of detailed third-party testing makes it difficult to trust what’s inside each scoop fully.

  • Affordable 💰
  • Mixes well with no clumps 💧
  • Low carbohydrate content ⚖️
  • Suspected protein inflation 🕵️‍♂️
  • Relies on in-house testing, lacking third-party verification 🔍
  • Inconsistent amino acid profiles across flavors ⚠️
  • Questionable ingredient sourcing 🌍
Save Your Money

🌟 As a certified expert in strength conditioning (NSCA) and nutrition (CISSN), I provide hands-on, unbiased reviews. My insights are based on personal use, giving you real-world feedback and confidence in the product.

👥 I review products based on your requests and my interest, with no influence from brand sponsorships, ensuring impartiality and relevance.

💼 Transparency is key. I may use affiliate links, but they don’t affect my opinions. I believe in honesty and empowering you to make informed decisions.

🔍 I’m dedicated to clear, straightforward reviews so you can trust the information and feel confident in your choices.

📖 Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review Details

now whey protein isolate review
Seeing Informed Choice may be worth the purchase. Xylitol isn’t a natural sweetener.

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate is a go-to choice for those watching their budget. It mixes smoothly using water, so there are no clumps in your post-workout shake. At around $1.50 per serving, it’s priced right, especially if you snag deals on Amazon with Prime or take advantage of Vitacost’s subscription discounts.

However, there are transparency issues. While Informed Sport certifies it for banned substance testing, the in-house testing raises red flags. Questions about amino spiking persist, especially with varying amino acid profiles between the flavored and unflavored options.

If you’re all about mixability and keeping costs down, Now Foods Whey Isolate might work for you. But if you care about full transparency and consistent quality, you may want to think twice before adding it to your cart.

Now, let’s talk about getting the most out of your shake after a workout.

💪 After Training Shake: How Many Scoops of Protein Post Workout

How Many Scoops of Now Foods Whey Isolate after training? Research suggests that to stimulate muscle growth post-workout, you need a minimum of 25 grams of protein, with up to 3 grams of leucine. 

I highly encourage mixing Now Sports Protein Isolate with skim milk. The USDA’s leucine information states that one cup of skim milk offers 8 grams of protein with .8 grams of leucine. You can also use a cup of Skim Fairlife milk. You will surely exceed the 25 grams of protein with 3 grams of leucine while covering any gaps due to Now Foods’ potentially inflated amino profile. 

Keep reading to discover how many scoops of Now Foods Whey Isolate you need post-workout.

🧪 How Many Scoops of Now Foods Whey Isolate Do You Need

now foods whey protein reviews
Now Sports Whey could be amino spiked.

Unflavored: Each serving provides 25 grams of protein and 2.7 grams of leucine. You will need over one serving to reach the 3 grams leucine threshold. Mixing one scoop with 1 cup of skim milk can compensate for any concerns about amino spiking.

Vanilla: Each serving offers 25 grams of protein and 3.003 grams of leucine. While one scoop technically meets the 3 grams of leucine requirement, combining it with milk for additional protein is wise, especially considering possible amino inflation.

Chocolate: Each serving provides 25 grams of protein and 2.909 grams of leucine—just shy of the 3 grams mark. Despite concerns about protein quality, using 1.1 scoops or adding 1 cup of skim milk ensures you meet your leucine needs.

Now that we’ve covered how many scoops of Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate post-workout, let’s look at the best places to buy it. Keep reading if you’re hunting for the best price or want to know where to order.

🛒 Where To Buy Now Sports Whey Protein

You may be wondering where to buy Now Sports Whey Protein. If you’re looking for the price, I’ll review the outlets where you should buy Now Sports Whey and share my top three places to buy Now Sports Whey. I’ll clarify: I purchased my protein powder directly from Amazon. 

💵 Buy Directly From Vitacost

I’ve purchased protein powders in the past from www.vitacost.com. I believe they are a great outlet for value and price. Buying directly from Vitacost, you get these advantages:

  • Autoship 5% savings
  • Pop-up discount sales
  • PayPal four payment interest-free option
  • Typical S&H will charge you an additional $8.99

Here are the oddities when purchasing through Vitacost:

  • Pay differential for Now Foods Whey
  • A limited selection of Now Foods products
vitacost sale

Here’s a breakdown of the pricing when purchasing from Vitacost:

  • The average price for Now Foods Whey Isolate: $37.39 for 25 servings, $1.50 per serving (Subscribe & Save: $1.43 per serving)
  • Now Foods Whey Isolate, Unflavored Sizes:
  • $27.49 for 19 servings, $1.45 per serving (Subscribe & Save: $1.38 per serving)
  • $81.00 for 81 servings, $1.00 per serving (Subscribe & Save: $0.95 per serving)
  • $150.19 for 162 servings, $0.93 per serving (Subscribe & Save: $0.88 per serving)

Now that we’ve seen what Vitacost offers let’s examine the pricing and benefits of buying directly from NowFoods.com. 

🏷️ Shop Directly From NowFoods.com

Here are the benefits when you purchase directly from NowFoods.com.

  • Full selection of Now Foods products
  • Free S&H for orders over $50
  • Store locator for Now Foods products sold in your area

Here is the pricing for Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate, flavored and unflavored. As you know, Now Foods Isolate offers different serving amounts based on the flavor you select. If you want the most servings, buy vanilla.

Flavored

  • $54.99, 25 servings, $2.20 per serving
  • $119.99, 69 servings, $1.74 per serving
  • $199.99, 138 servings, $1.45 per serving

Unflavored

  • $39.99, 19 servings, $2.20 per serving
  • $119.99, 81 servings, $1.48 per serving
  • $199.99, 162 servings, $1.45 per serving

Finally, let’s examine any potential benefits of buying directly from Amazon.

📦 Order Directly From Amazon

As shared, I purchased my container of Now Foods Isolate directly from Amazon. If you’re a Prime Member, here are the benefits.

  • Free 2-day S&H
  • S&S bonus of 5% or 10%
  • The lowest price for either flavored or unflavored isolates

I’m here to share that Amazon pricing is all over the board. The price fluctuates depending on the flavor; it may be +/- $5. The pricing shared is for a limited time, 35% off.

Flavored

  • $30.52, 25 servings, $1.21 per serving
  • $77.83, 69 servings, $1.13 per serving 
  • $117.99, 138 servings, $0.86 per serving (not available in chocolate)

Unflavored

  • $27.12, 19 servings, $1.42 per serving
  • $77.84, 96 servings, $1.48 per serving
  • $121.41, 162 servings, $0.75 per serving

The best place to buy Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate depends on your preferences for price and convenience. Amazon is a strong option for Prime members, offering free 2-day shipping and Subscribe & Save discounts of 5% or 10%, but pricing can fluctuate depending on the flavor. 

Vitacost provides steady value with auto-ship savings and occasional pop-up sales, though their selection is more limited. NowFoods.com offers the full range of products and free shipping on orders over $50 but at a higher cost per serving.

Let’s examine if Now Foods offers a money-back offer for unsatisfied customers. 

💸 Does Now Foods Have A Money-Back Guarantee?

Now, Foods does not have a money-back guarantee for its products. They do have a 30-day return policy for unopened items. However, when you purchase Now Foods Whey Protein, you’re in it for the long haul.

Value: 1 out of 10. If you’re looking for the best place to purchase Now Foods Isolate. Buy from Amazon. However, I firmly believe Now Foods has issues with its isolate, namely protein inflation and brand transparency concerns. 

⚛️ Is Now Foods Whey Isolate Amino Spiked

The age-old question that most gym-goers and protein users usually want to know about protein quality is, “Is Now Foods Whey Isolate amino spiked?” When examining a container of Now Foods Sports Whey Protein Isolate, there are some oddities. Based on my professional research, I believe Now Foods Sports Whey Protein Isolate is an amino spiked protein. 

When examining the whey isolate product page on Amazon or NowFoods.com, you are greeted with an odd badge, “With BCAAs.” That can mean two things

  1. Naturally occurring
  2. Added BCAAs

When researching the Designer Whey Protein Powder Review, I learned that the company was brought to court for knowingly abusing its protein powder. However, Designer Protein was not found guilty due to how it labeled its protein powder. Designer Whey Protein used a recurring term: full-spectrum peptides. The precedent in that case proves that supplement companies are knowingly, artificially inflating protein and protecting themselves.

That is my hypothesis. I believe Now Sports is using the term “With BCAAs” to protect themselves against potential lawsuits for amino spiking. The next oddity about Now Foods Sports Whey Protein Isolate is the various amino acid profiles for each flavor. 

🧪 Now Foods Whey Isolate Amino Acid Flavor Comparison

This is what is nice about Now Foods Protein Isolate: a readily available amino acid profile on the website and the container. When protein reviews are done, protein powders usually have similar amino acid profiles. The only protein powder with various amino acids was the research for the Naked Whey Protein Powder Review. Add Now Foods Protein Isolate to that list.

Sometimes, added ingredients can change the amino acid profile, especially for protein powders that use only all-natural ingredients and flavors, like chocolate or peanut butter. Upon further review, Now Foods Protein Isolate offers a wide spectrum of amino acid profiles. Oddly enough, Creamy Vanilla, offered by Now Foods Protein Isolate, has the highest total BCAAs per serving. 

I added a link to each to Now Sports Protein Isolate page so you can view the amino acid profiles.

My table examines the BCAAs offered for all Now Foods Protein Isolates.

Now Sports
Whey Isolate
Unflavored
Now Sports
Whey Isolate
Chocolate
Now Sports
Whey Isolate
Vanilla
Valine1.288 grams1.671 grams1.724 grams
Isoleucine1.568 grams1.591 grams1.624 grams
Leucine2.716 grams2.909 grams3.003 grams
BCAAs per Serving5.572 grams6.171 grams6.351 grams
Leucine Percent10.86%11.64%12.01%
Protein per Serving25 grams25 grams25 grams
Carbs per Serving<1 gram2 grams2 grams
Fiber0 grams2 grams1 gram
Serving Size28 grams33 grams32 grams
Now Foods Whey Isolate Amino Acid Flavor Comparison

As you can see, the amino acid profiles offered are very unusual. This is my thought process for reputable protein powder manufacturers. The unflavored protein powder is the base. The amino acid profile should not change when adding non-natural or artificial ingredients. A deeper examination shows the opposite. Further, showing evidence of practices used at Now Foods: artificially inflating protein count. 

Why would the total BCAA count be higher with flavored protein powders? Great question! Keep reading to see my evidence of protein inflation found in Now Foods Protein Isolate.

⚠️ Evidence of Amino Spiking Concerns for Now Sports Whey Isolate

I firmly believe that Now Sports Whey is an amino spiked protein. Here is my evidence and why I believe that Now Sports artificially inflates their Whey Protein Isolate. 

📊 Leucine Percentage Differences

Research suggests the leucine content of commercial whey ranges from 9 to 11%. The average is 10%. Therefore, we can infer that the whey used in Now Sports Whey is of below-average quality. Factoring in the statement “With BCAAs” on the front label, the intact leucine amount (and protein) may be lower. 

The differences in leucine percentages and amounts across all flavors show significant variance, raising concerns about consistency. Let’s now take a closer look at the BCAA differences.

🧬 BCAA Differences

Unflavored protein is the base for all flavored protein. The BCAA content should not change regardless of flavoring. Unless natural ingredients are used (and in enough weight), that may factor in differences in amino acid profiles. Upon further examination, does Now Sports Whey have a different amount of BCAAs per serving? Yes. 

The follow-up question should be, “Why does Now Sports Whey have varying amounts of BCAAs per serving?”

🍞 Carbohydrate and Amino Inflation

When researching for my Panda Fuel Protein Review, I found an article examining intact carbohydrates in whey protein isolate. Research suggests that whey protein isolate has less than 2% intact milk sugar, known as carbohydrates. 

Here is a table examining the amount of carbohydrates found in each flavor of isolate offered by Now Sports. Naturally occurring milk sugar in whey protein isolate ranges from 0% to 2%. 0% isn’t necessarily true because we know that regardless of the filtration process, milk sugar will remain. However, we don’t know the amount of carbs for Now Sports Whey unflavored protein because it is listed as <1g. 

Here is a table examining an estimated amount of net carbohydrates in Now Sports Whey Isolate.

FlavorProtein
Per
Serving
Total
Carbs 
FiberCarb Range
For WPI
Estimated Carb AmountListed
Carb Amount
Unflavored25g<1g0g0%-2%0g to <2g<1g
Vanilla25g2g1g0%-2%0 to 4g2g
Chocolate25g2g2g0%-2%0g to 4g2g
Now Sports Whey Isolate; Carbohydrate and Amino Inflation

Here’s what we don’t know about Now Sports Isolate: filtration method. We know that Sports Whey Isolate is a budget brand of protein powder. We can throw out these filtration methods: cold processing and hydrolysis. The filtration method is likely either Microfiltration, Ultrafiltration, or Cross-Flow Microfiltration.

I hypothesize that Microfiltration is used with Now Sports Isolate. Even though this table may not prove conclusive, Now Sports is an amino-tampered product. We can examine the difference in serving size for each flavor. 

⚖️ Serving Size Differences

It is normal to have different serving sizes based on the protein powder’s flavor. What is not normal is having a flavored protein powder have more BCAAs per serving. Let’s examine Now Foods Whey Isolate serving size and the amount of BCAAs per serving.

Now Sports
Whey Isolate
Unflavored
Now Sports
Whey Isolate
Chocolate
Now Sports
Whey Isolate
Vanilla
Serving Size28 grams33 grams32 grams
BCAAs per Serving5.572 grams6.171 grams6.351 grams
Now Sports Whey Isolate serving size differences

The table shows that Now Foods Whey Isolate has a wide range of BCAAs per serving. A close examination of the flavored protein powder shows that Vanilla offers higher BCAAs per serving. Why is that? Shouldn’t chocolate offer more due to a slightly higher serving size?

To put these findings into perspective, let’s compare Now Sports to one of the industry’s most trusted brands: ON Gold Standard Whey. This comparison will show what a consistent and transparent amino acid profile should look like.

🆚 Comparing Protein Sources: ON Gold Standard Whey vs Now Sports Whey Isolate

Let’s compare Now Foods Whey Isolate against On Gold Standard Whey. After compiling information for my ON Gold Standard 100% Whey Review, I believe the amino acid profile is not artificially inflated. Furthermore, Optimum Nutrition has developed a reputation for trust and transparency in its flagship whey. 

Now Sports Whey Isolate
Creamy Vanilla
ON Gold Standard
Vanilla Ice Cream
Leucine3.003 grams2.6 grams
Leucine Percent12.01%10.83%
Total BCAAs6.351 grams5.5 grams
Protein per Serving25 grams24 grams
Carbs per Serving2 grams4 grams
Total Sugars0 gram1 gram
Calories120120
Serving Size32 grams31 grams
Number of Servings26 servings29 servings
Amazon Price$35.55$39.04
Price per Serving$1.37$1.34
ON Gold Standard Whey vs Now Sports Whey Isolate

There is no denying that both brands are budget-priced. However, what makes Optimum Nutrition a superior choice is my golden rule of BCAA ration: For every 5 grams of protein, there should be 1.1 grams of protein. My golden rule has yet to be verified by science. However, most reputable brands have the same protein-to-BCAA ratio. 

The BCAA content for Now Foods Whey Isolate does not follow the golden ratio. Plus, Now Foods Whey Isolate is not an advertised grass-fed protein. Here’s a question: why does Now Foods Whey Isolate have a higher amount of BCAAs when compared to a reputable and non-amino-inflated brand?

My next question is, who is doing 3rd party testing for Now Sports? Keep reading, and you’ll find out.

🆚 Comparing Protein Sources: Now Sports Whey Isolate vs BulkSupplements.com Whey Protein Isolate Powder

I firmly believe that Now Sports Whey Isolate is amino-spiked. Let’s compare Now Sports Whey against a similar-quality, budget-friendly protein powder: BulkSupplements.com Whey Protein Isolate Powder.

Read my  BulkSupplements.com Whey Protein Isolate Powder Review. The similarities and characteristics between the two brands are uncanny. Here is what is similar about the two brands:

  • Budget-priced
  • Variety of health and fitness supplements
  • Similar transparency
Now Sports
Whey Isolate
Unflavored
Bulk Supplements
Whey Protein Isolate
Unflavored
Leucine2.716 grams2.46 grams
Leucine Percent10.86%9.46%
Total BCAAs5.57 grams5.46 grams
Protein per Serving25 grams26 grams
Carbs per Serving<1 gram0 gram
Total Sugars0 gram0 gram
Calories110110
Serving Size26 grams30 grams
Number of Servings26 servings33 servings
Amazon Price$35.55$48.96
Price per Serving$1.37$1.48
Now Sports Whey Isolate vs BulkSupplements.com Whey Protein Isolate Powder

Examining the table, there are a couple of things to note. 

  • BulkSupplements.com is a cheaper protein powder.
  • At face value, Now Foods has a higher-quality protein powder.
  • Both protein powders have strong evidence of protein inflation.

Based on my research and professional opinion, there are better options than both. 

📜 Is Now Sports Whey Isolate 3rd Party Tested

now sports protein powder review
Unwilling to provide a CoA with sourcing claims of “USA-sourced whey.”

On every Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Powder container, you will see the “Informed Sport” badge. The Informed Sport badge indicates that every product batch is being tested for banned substances or performance-enhancing drugs. Rest assured, collegiate and professional athletes, Sports Whey Protein Isolate Powder may be a protein powder in your supplement cupboard. 

Here’s the major red flag for Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Powder: in-house testing. 

I contacted Now Sports customer service, requesting a Certificate of Analysis for their whey isolate. They replied, sharing, “…we do not have the infrastructure to efficiently translate massive amounts of raw lab results…” The representative was nice enough to direct me to their ‘Quality & Safety’ page. Rest assured, when you see the following statement, I find it difficult to stand by a product that is not third-party tested. Claims found on the container, non-GMO or soy-free, have not been verified by an independent 3rd party.

For the record, I did ask customer service if they add BCAAs to their protein powder. I received the typical response: “The BCAA’s are naturally occurring. We do not fortify the whey protein.” Transparency is out the window with this brand. 

Amino Spiking: 1 out of 10. My evidence shows a high chance that Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Powder is fortified with BCAAs. My evidence stems from the varying amount of BCAAs per serving, the low carbohydrate count, different amino acid profiles based on flavor, and different leucine percentages for each flavor.  Finally, Now Sports is not transparent with its brand with in-house testing and certification.

🥤 What’s The Best Way To Mix Now Foods Whey Isolate

now sports whey protein isolate review

Here are the mixing directions on the Now Foods Whey Isolate container.

  • One level scoop daily
  • To 8 oz. of cold water, milk, or your favorite juice
  • Stir or blend

I never stir my protein powders anymore; I always use a shaker. However, if you’re using Now Foods Whey Isolate post-workout, you’ll be happy with how easily it mixes up in a shaker bottle. No clumps or residual cake bits are on the shaker wall or in the shake. Two thumbs up!

⚖️ Does Now Sports Whey Come With A Scoop?

Now Sports Whey comes with an unusual scoop. The actual serving size is indicated with a line.

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review
Most people will fill Now Sports Whey Isolate Powder to the top of the scoop.
Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review
A serving of Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Powder is indicated with a line.
now sports whey protein isolate review
You can see the fill line for Now Sports Whey scoop.

Shakability Test: 10 out of 10. I have no problems using a shaker bottle to dissolve the powder. It mixes great with little to no effort!

FEATURED
now whey protein isolate review

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review: Transparency Issues Raise Red Flags

2.6

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate mixes smoothly in a shaker bottle and offers solid protein content, but significant transparency issues overshadow its appeal. While it carries an “Informed Choice” certification, this only covers banned substances, leaving questions about ingredient sourcing and amino acid content. Variations in amino acid profiles between flavored and unflavored versions suggest potential protein inflation. Additionally, the absence of detailed third-party testing makes it difficult to trust what’s inside each scoop fully.

  • Affordable 💰
  • Mixes well with no clumps 💧
  • Low carbohydrate content ⚖️
  • Suspected protein inflation 🕵️‍♂️
  • Relies on in-house testing, lacking third-party verification 🔍
  • Inconsistent amino acid profiles across flavors ⚠️
  • Questionable ingredient sourcing 🌍
Save Your Money

📋 Now Sports Protein Isolate Ingredients List

There is no denying it. Now Sports Protein Isolate offers a minimal ingredient list that uses only natural sweeteners. While derived from natural sources like corn cobs, Xylitol undergoes an industrial process that converts these sugars into sweeteners. This extensive processing may lead some consumers to view it as less natural.

Sports prominently displays a badge claiming the product contains no artificial sweeteners. I’ll let you decide if xylitol is an artificial sweetener. Here is the ingredient list for all three Now Sports Protein Isolate. 

IngredientVanilla FlavorChocolate FlavorUnflavoredPurpose
Whey Protein IsolateYesYesYesMain protein source; potentially enriched with amino acids
XylitolYesYesNoNatural Sweetener
Natural Vanilla FlavorsYesNoNoVanilla flavoring
Xanthan GumYesYesNoThickener
Organic Stevia Leaf ExtractYesYesNoNatural Sweetener
Sunflower LecithinYesYesYesEmulsifier
CocoaNoYesNoFlavoring
Natural Flavors
(Chocolate)
NoYesNoFlavoring
Sea SaltNo YesNoFlavoring

Now that we’ve examined what’s inside the ingredient list. Let’s look closer at where Now Sports sources its protein powder.

🌍 Does Now Sports Import Their Protein Powder?

now foods whey protein isolate natural unflavored
It’s possible that Now Sports Whey uses USA-sourced whey, but a CoA does not want to be shared.

The cGMP badge assures quality manufacturing practices but doesn’t clarify the source of the raw ingredients used in Now Sports Protein Isolate. When thoroughly examining the container, you won’t see any statements or badges of “internationally sourced ingredients.”

While the product is packaged and tested in the USA, understanding where the raw materials originate is crucial for those prioritizing ingredient quality. The lack of clear information on the container could concern some buyers. Where do you want your whey from? China, India, South Korea, or the United States?

While in-house testing and packaging are done in the USA, the ingredients are sourced internationally. To see any statements of international origins, scroll to the bottom of the product description page at NowFoods.com. For Now Foods flavored proteins, you will find the statement, “Made and quality tested in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.” However, the unflavored still has the cGMP badge. It could go either way.

Ingredients List: 7 out of 10. The simplicity of the ingredient list is a plus, but the use of xylitol—a less common sweetener—and the lack of transparency around ingredient sourcing keep it from a higher score. I also believe that Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate might not disclose all ingredients, possibly adding free-form amino acids to inflate the protein count.

🥗 Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Nutrition Facts

Since then, Sports Whey Protein Isolate has offered limited flavors in its product line. I decided to provide the nutrition facts for all isolates: 

NutrientUnflavoredVanillaChocolate
Serving Size28 grams32 grams33 grams
Calories110120120
Sodium45mg50mg85mg
Total Carbs<1 gram2 grams2 grams
Fiber01 gram2 grams
Sugars00 gram0 gram
Protein25 grams25 grams25 grams
Nutrition facts for all flavored offered by Now Foods.
Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review
Nutrition Facts for Whey Now Foods Unflavored Protein.

At face value, nothing unusual or odd about Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate nutrition facts. Let’s now examine what percent protein you are receiving based on flavor. 

🍗 Now Foods Whey Isolate Percent Protein per Serving

Unflavored: 25 grams / 28 gram serving = 90% Protein per Serving
Creamy Vanilla: 25 grams / 32 gram serving = 78% Protein per Serving
Dutch Chocolate: 25 grams / 33 gram serving = 76% Protein per Serving

Average amount of protein per serving: 81%

The unflavored version’s higher protein percentage is typical, as it lacks the additional flavoring agents that slightly dilute the protein content in the flavored versions. Next, let’s see if this whey protein suits those sensitive to lactose.

🍨 Is Now Foods Whey Isolate Lactose-Free?

I experienced minimal issues drinking Now Foods Whey Isolate. However, if you have specific dietary needs, you notice a couple of badges on the container or the product description page. These badges are Kosher, Halala, soy-free, non-GMO, and no artificial sweeteners

The formulation of Now Foods Whey Isolate accommodates individuals with these dietary restrictions. However, those with severe allergies should be aware that the product is manufactured in a facility that may process other allergens, posing a risk for cross-contamination. 

now sports protein powder review
Statements like “non-GMO” can be certified by an independent 3rd party.

Nutrition Facts: 7 out of 10. This score reflects the average protein content across flavors, but a point was deducted due to potential amino inflation, as indicated by the variance in protein percentages. 

😋 Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Unflavored Review: How Does It Taste?

Even though I no longer provide a score for a brand’s flavor, I will select the flavor with the lowest number of servings. I don’t have a problem with Now Unflavored Whey and its taste.

Most individuals will select either chocolate or vanilla. Chocolate would be the most popular flavor if I were a betting person. Now Unflavored Whey, however, is a solid choice for those who prefer simplicity. Regarding how Now Unflavored Whey tastes, you’d expect a mild, nutty flavor from an unflavored protein.

Now that we’ve examined the details of Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate, it’s time to see what real customers think. Let’s examine Amazon buyers’ star ratings and feedback to see how this protein powder measures up.

⭐️ Amazon Whey Protein Review: Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Review

As of writing this Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Review, Amazon reviewers have graded it a 4.3 out of 5 stars, based on 8,500 reviews. Here is what the 5-star reviews shared:

  • Supposed quality at a budget-priced
  • Low carbohydrate option
  • Minimal ingredient profile and no artificial sweeteners
  • Easy to mix with no issues

Where Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate is questionable is its flavor. Some say it has an odd chocolate aftertaste, while others have stated it is mild. 

Here is what the one-star review shared:

  • It doesn’t emulsify well with hot beverages
  • Quality issues, odd aftertaste for unflavored 
now sports whey protein isolate powder
Now Sports Whey Protein has earned mostly positive reviews.

If you select a flavor based on Amazon’s opinions, avoid unflavored; chocolate is hit or miss and is least mentioned in vanilla. However, most 1-star reviews stem from users mixing it with a hot beverage, coffee. Don’t mix Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate with coffee. 

If you’re basing your choice on Amazon reviews, avoid unflavored, and remember that chocolate might be hit or miss. But remember—mixing it with hot coffee is where many one-star reviews pop up. Now that we’ve seen what Amazon says, let’s tie it together with my final thoughts onNow Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review.

🏁 Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review – Final Thoughts

Here’s the bottom line on Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate:

  • Amino Spiking Concerns: Variations in leucine and BCAA content across flavors suggest possible manipulation, raising red flags.
  • Transparency Issues: In-house testing and the lack of third-party verification add to the uncertainty about what’s in the tub.
  • Mixability and Low Carb: It mixes well, and the low-carb profile could appeal to those watching their intake.
  • Informed Choice Certified: The certification ensures that each batch is free from banned substances, providing athletes with peace of mind.
  • Budget-Friendly: If you can overlook the transparency concerns, this protein could be on your radar as an affordable option.

So, is Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate the right choice for you? Let’s see how it compares to a similar brand, BulkSupplements.com, and see which delivers the most value.

🤔 Is Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate Good?

There are many similarities between BulkSupplements.com and Now Foods. Both are budget-priced and offer a variety of health supplements. Some eye-raising characteristics apply to Now Foods, as with BulkSupplements.com Isolate.

  • In-house testing
  • Internationally sourced ingredients
  • Artificial inflation of protein

However, the winner is Now Foods if you’re set on a budget-priced protein and trying to select between Now Foods or BulkSupplements.com. Here’s why:

  • Superior container: easier to close. Plus, you’re getting a scoop.
  • Informed Choice testing: Every batch is tested for illegal or performance-enhancing substances. You’re paying for peace of mind.
  • Better transparency: far from perfect; however, communication is superior and clear.

Although both brands’ transparency is questionable, at least you know what you’re getting without wasting much mental energy. 

My final grade for Now Sports Whey Protein Isolate is “Save Your Money.” Despite offering some advantages over its competitor, concerns about transparency and potential protein inflation make it hard to recommend fully, even at a budget price point.

Are you looking for more protein reviews? Here are all of JKremmer Fitness unbiased protein powder reviews. Are you looking for a protein review that I haven’t done yet? Email me at my ‘Contact Me’ page, and I’ll do my best to get an unbiased review out in 4 weeks. 

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now whey protein isolate review

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review: Transparency Issues Raise Red Flags

2.6

Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate mixes smoothly in a shaker bottle and offers solid protein content, but significant transparency issues overshadow its appeal. While it carries an “Informed Choice” certification, this only covers banned substances, leaving questions about ingredient sourcing and amino acid content. Variations in amino acid profiles between flavored and unflavored versions suggest potential protein inflation. Additionally, the absence of detailed third-party testing makes it difficult to trust what’s inside each scoop fully.

  • Affordable 💰
  • Mixes well with no clumps 💧
  • Low carbohydrate content ⚖️
  • Suspected protein inflation 🕵️‍♂️
  • Relies on in-house testing, lacking third-party verification 🔍
  • Inconsistent amino acid profiles across flavors ⚠️
  • Questionable ingredient sourcing 🌍
Save Your Money

🧐 Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate Review Round-Up

Value: 1 out of 10
Amino Spiking: 1 out of 10
Shakability Test: 10 out of 10
Ingredients List: 7 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: 7 out of 10

Overall Score 26/50, 52%, Save Your Money

📑 Sources

Jäger, R., Kerksick, C. M., Campbell, B. I., Cribb, P. J., Wells, S. D., Skwiat, T. M., Purpura, M., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Ferrando, A. A., Arent, S. M., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Stout, J. R., Arciero, P. J., Ormsbee, M. J., Taylor, L. W., Wilborn, C. D., Kalman, D. S., Kreider, R. B., Willoughby, D. S., . . . Antonio, J. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8

Norwood, E., Pezennec, S., Burgain, J., Briard-Bion, V., Schuck, P., Croguennec, T., Jeantet, R., & Floch-Fouéré, C. L. (n.d.). Crucial role of remaining lactose in whey protein isolate powders during storage. Journal of Food Engineering, 195, 206–216. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2016.10.010

Stark, M., Lukaszuk, J., Prawitz, A., & Salacinski, A. (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

Umai, D., Kayalvizhi, R., Kumar, V., & Jacob, S. (2022). Xylitol: Bioproduction and Applications-A Review. Frontiers in Sustainability, 3. https://doi.org/10.3389/frsus.2022.826190

USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Legacy. (2018). Nutrient content in household measure. https://www.nal.usda.gov/sites/default/files/page-files/leucine.pdf

James Kremmer

Meet James, a decade-long devotee to transforming fitness journeys, both in-person and online. As a virtual and remote personal trainer, he merges passion with expertise to deliver unparalleled fitness guidance. James isn’t just about workouts; he’s a protein powder aficionado, always on the hunt for the next best blend to enhance your gains. Holding Bachelor’s Degrees in Exercise Sports Science and Pre-Law, James's academic foundation is as solid as his fitness regimens. His certifications read like a who’s who of fitness excellence: NSCA (CSCS), Precision Nutrition Level 1, Online Trainer Academy (OTA), C-ISSN, and more. Whether you’re looking to overhaul your fitness routine, find the perfect protein, or navigate the intersection of wellness and law, James is your go-to guide for all things fitness.

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