Unbiased Thorne Protein Powder Review

Before dropping $65 on a tub, read my Thorne Protein Powder Review. Thorne Supplements markets its protein as a premium option for men looking to improve their health and fitness. But is it worth the price, or are there better alternatives?

🔑 Thorne Protein Powder Review, TL;DR

If you don’t want to read my full Thorne Protein Powder Review, here’s your quick protein cheat sheet.

Transparency Concerns – Thorne promotes rigorous testing but refuses to disclose the country of origin for its whey. Without a third-party Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or verified grass-fed certification, buyers are left taking Thorne’s word on quality.

Milkshake-Like Texture, Lower Protein Density – Thorne’s added thickeners create a smooth, creamy shake, but at 70-75% protein density per scoop, it falls behind premium isolates that offer 80-90%.

Heavy Metals & Proposition 65 Warning – Thorne claims to test for lead, arsenic, and cadmium, but all testing is done in-house with no independent verification. A California Proposition 65 warning signals potential contamination beyond state safety limits.

Who Should Use This Protein Powder?

• Those who prioritize a milkshake-like texture over a high-protein percentage per scoop.
• Individuals looking for a low-calorie, low-fat whey isolate with digestive enzymes for easier digestion.
• Buyers who don’t mind taking a brand’s word on quality rather than relying on third-party verification.

Final Grade: 37/50 – 74% Average

While Thorne Whey Protein Isolate delivers a creamy shake with digestive enzymes, the lack of transparency, undisclosed sourcing, and reliance on self-reported testing make it hard to justify at this price. Better options exist.

🛡️ How I Approached This Thorne Whey Protein Isolate Review

🌟 As a certified strength and conditioning expert (NSCA) and nutrition specialist (CISSN), I cut through the noise with straightforward, no-nonsense reviews. This Thorne Whey Protein Isolate Review is based on hands-on testing, ensuring you get real insights—not marketing fluff.

👥 This Thorne Whey Protein Isolate Review I write comes from personal interest or reader requests—never sponsorships or brand influence. I’ll call it out if a protein powder doesn’t meet the mark.

🔍 Transparency is everything. While I include affiliate links, my opinions remain 100% independent. This Thorne Whey Protein Isolate Review prioritizes your health and wallet over brand claims.

📖 I break down key product details in every review—ingredients, sourcing, and transparency. In this Thorne Whey Protein Isolate Review, I’ll cover taste, mixability, and protein content so you know exactly what to expect.

💼 My goal? Give you the facts in a clear, practical way. By the end of this Thorne Whey Protein Isolate Review, you’ll know whether it’s worth your money or if better options exist. That’s what honest, unbiased reviews are all about.

📖 Thorne Protein Powder Review Details

💪 Thorne Protein Shake: How Many Scoops After Training?

🔑 Where to Buy Thorne Protein Powder, TL;DR

The best places to buy Thorne Whey Protein are Thorne’s website and Amazon, both selling it for $65 per tub—but each has pros and cons.

Buying from Thorne gets you 20% off S&S (3+ products), loyalty rewards, and access to all Thorne Supplements. But standard shipping takes 3-7 days unless upgraded.

If you want fast Prime shipping and don’t want to subscribe to multiple products, buy from Amazon. S&S offers up to 10% savings, but no loyalty perks exist.

Bottom line? Thorne for subscriptions & rewards, Amazon for speed.

🛒 Where to Buy Thorne Protein Powder

If you’re wondering where to buy Thorne Supplements and Thorne Protein Powder, the best options are Thorne’s website or Amazon. Below, I break down the benefits of each.

For full transparency—I purchased my container directly from Amazon for this Thorne Protein Powder review.

Buying Option	Thorne Website	Amazon
Shipping & Delivery	Free ground shipping (3-7 days); S&S gets free shipping	Free 2-day shipping for Prime members
Subscription & Savings (S&S)	10% off single products, 20% off when subscribing to 3+ products	5% off initial S&S, up to 10% off with multiple qualifying products
Product Availability	Access to all Thorne Supplements	Most Thorne products available, especially bundled options
Loyalty & Rewards	Thorne Rewards program for repeat customers	No loyalty program
Additional Perks	Health quiz to suggest supplements	Fast shipping with Prime
Price Per Tub (30 servings)	$65 ($2.17 per serving)	$65 ($2.17 per serving)
Price Per Serving (S&S Discount)	$1.97 per serving	$2.06 per serving

If you’re a loyal Thorne customer and plan on subscribing to multiple products, buying directly from Thorne offers bigger discounts and rewards.

If you want faster shipping and don’t subscribe to multiple products, Amazon may be the better choice—especially for Prime members.

💸 Does Thorne Supplements Have A Money-Back Guarantee?

No. Thorne Supplements does not offer a money-back guarantee.

Value: 2 of 10.

If you’re dropping $65 on a protein powder from Thorne Supplements, you’d expect full transparency—especially with all the academic research and medical affiliations they promote.

So, is Thorne Whey Protein truly high-quality, or just marketing hype?

Let’s find out.

🔑 Is Thorne Protein Powder Amino Spiked? TL;DR

No, Thorne Whey Protein Powder is not amino spiked. It delivers 4.6g of BCAAs per serving, including 2.2g of leucine, consistent with a standard whey isolate.

However, Thorne Protein Powder heavy metals testing lacks transparency. Thorne Supplements claims rigorous quality control but does not provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or disclose its whey’s country of origin. Thorne Whey Protein Powder also carries a California Proposition 65 warning, indicating potential heavy metal content. Without third-party verification, buyers must rely on Thorne Supplement’s internal testing—without independent proof.

⚛️ Is Thorne Protein Powder Amino Spiked?

🔑 Is Thorne Metabolic Protein Powder 3rd Party Tested? TL;DR

Thorne Supplements promotes rigorous in-house testing, but independent third-party verification regarding whey protein Thorne is lacking. While some Thorne supplements hold NSF Certified for Sport status, this doesn’t apply to every formula—including their standard whey protein powders.

• No Public CoA—Thorne does not provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for its protein powder, so consumers do not have verifiable data on purity or potency.
• Internal Heavy Metals Testing—Thorne states that it tests for lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury in-house, not by an independent third party.
• Proposition 65 Warning – Thorne protein lead levels are high enough to require a California Prop 65 warning, signaling potential contamination beyond state safety limits.
• Lack of Transparency—Thorne refuses to disclose its whey’s country of origin, meaning there is no verification of grass-fed claims or sourcing integrity.

While whey protein Thorne meets federal contaminant standards, those standards are self-reported. If you want verified heavy metals testing, full transparency, and third-party validation, Thorne falls short.

📜 Is Thorne Metabolic Protein Powder 3rd Party Tested?

Regarding Thorne Labs Protein, third-party testing isn’t as straightforward as their marketing suggests. While Thorne offers NSF Certified for Sport® products, that certification is only for select formulas—not every Thorne Labs Protein powder undergoes the same level of scrutiny.

Thorne’s NSF Certification: What It Covers (and What It Doesn’t)

Thorne highlights its NSF Certified for Sport status, a respected third-party testing program that ensures products are free from banned substances. However, according to their admissions, the NSF-certified versions of Thorne Labs Protein cost more, as they undergo additional testing. Non-athletes tend to opt for the non-NSF versions, which do not receive the same level of independent verification.

If you’re looking for true transparency, Thorne does not provide Certificates of Analysis (CoA) for its protein powders. Although they claim to be working on making these public, no CoA is available to verify the quality of Thorne Labs Protein beyond their internal testing claims.

📜 Thorne Protein Heavy Metals Testing

When evaluating Thorne Labs Protein, transparency remains a major concern—especially regarding Thorne Protein Heavy Metals Testing. Thorne claims to test for heavy metals, pesticides, and contaminants, stating that they meet or exceed United States Pharmacopeia (USP) exposure limits, which include:

• Lead – 5 mcg/day
• Arsenic – 15 mcg/day
• Cadmium – 5 mcg/day
• Mercury – 30 mcg/day

While these levels meet federal regulations, Thorne does not provide third-party verification beyond internal quality control. They do not share a Certificate of Analysis (CoA), meaning buyers must take Thorne’s word on its Thorne Labs Protein quality claims.

📜 California Proposition 65 Warning & Lack of Third-Party Testing

Another red flag? Thorne Protein Mix carries a California Proposition 65 warning, which indicates the presence of lead, cadmium, or other heavy metals at levels that may exceed California’s safety limits. While some heavy metals occur naturally in protein powders, brands with full third-party testing disclose exact levels—something Thorne does not.

Until Thorne publicly shares CoAs or NSF testing across all protein powders, Thorne Protein Heavy Metals Testing remains a claim rather than a guarantee. If third-party transparency matters, check out my review of AGN Roots or purchase AGN Roots from Amazon. AGN Roots provides verified sourcing, full amino acid profiles, and independent heavy metal testing.

🔍 Is Thorne Metabolic Protein Powder Certified Grass Fed?

Despite the branding, Thorne Metabolic Protein Powder lacks any third-party certification verifying its grass-fed claims. The company vaguely states that its whey comes from cows “fed a diet that includes natural grass and other forage,” but that’s not the same as verified, 100% grass-fed whey.

A major red flag? The amino acid profile. Verified grass-fed whey isolates typically have higher leucine content, often exceeding 10.8% of total protein. Thorne Protein Mix lists 2.2g of leucine per 21g of protein at 10.48%—a percentage more in line with conventional whey than truly grass-fed sources.

Additionally, Thorne Protein Mix does not disclose the country of origin for its whey. Unlike brands that source from New Zealand or Ireland with Truly Grass-Fed or USDA Organic certifications, Thorne offers no transparency. This is a major concern because most U.S.-sourced whey comes from grain-fed Holstein cows, raised in concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs)—not free-range, pasture-raised dairy.

For a deep dive into what real grass-fed whey looks like, this article on AGN Roots explains how industrialized dairy has shifted away from natural feeding practices, reducing the quality of whey protein. True grass-fed whey is sourced from cows that graze year-round in optimal climates, like Ireland, where nutrient density is preserved through better farming practices.

Until Thorne Metabolic Protein Powder provides third-party verification, its marketing claim remains unproven. If you’re looking for true grass-fed whey, brands with certified sourcing and full transparency are the better choice.

🌱 Grass Fed Whey Protein Reviews

Not all whey protein labeled “grass-fed” is truly grass-fed—and Thorne Metabolic Protein Powder is no exception. While Thorne markets its whey as coming from “dairy cows fed a diet that includes natural grass and other forage,” there’s zero verification to back this up. The company refuses to disclose the country of origin, provides no third-party certification, and doesn’t meet the standards set by Truly Grass Fed, USDA Organic, or other verified sources.

If you’re serious about sourcing transparency, check out my Truly Grass Fed Protein section, where I review certified Irish whey brands with full traceability. Looking for New Zealand whey protein? Many brands claim to source from New Zealand, but only a few offer legitimate third-party verification.

USDA Organic Whey Protein is the gold standard for the cleanest USA-sourced whey, ensuring no synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or antibiotics. Unlike Thorne Metabolic Protein Powder, these options provide full certification and sourcing proof. Want a full breakdown? My Grass-Fed Whey Protein Guide covers brands that back their claims with transparency, third-party verification, and quality testing—something Thorne doesn’t deliver.

🔑 Protein Powder Comparison, TL;DR

• Thorne Protein Supplement: This supplement offers a milkshake-like texture and digestive enzymes but lacks transparency. The country of origin has not been disclosed, and no third-party verification exists.
• Transparent Labs – High protein content (28g per serving) with third-party testing, but grass-fed claims remain unverified.
• Momentous – Fully verified sourcing from UK/Germany grass-fed cows with NSF, Informed Sport, and Gluten-Free certifications. Higher price per serving.
• Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard is budget–friendly and contains 24g of protein, a whey blend, and digestive enzymes. However, it is not the cleanest formula.

Bottom Line

• Thorne Protein Supplement – Ideal for those wanting a creamy texture, but transparency concerns remain.
• Transparent Labs – Best for maximizing protein per scoop.
• Momentous – Best for verified sourcing and third-party testing.
• Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard – Best value option for budget-conscious buyers.

📊 Protein Powder Comparison

The differences between Thorne Protein Supplement, Transparent Labs, Momentous, and Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard relate to protein quality, transparency, third-party testing, and value. If you decide between these four, here’s what they offer.

Thorne Protein Supplement: Clean Label, but No Transparency

Thorne Protein Supplement is a premium whey isolate offering a milkshake-like post-workout or general use shake. Here’s what’s concerning: transparency issues. Thorne Supplements refuses to disclose its whey’s country of origin, and no third-party certifications verify its claims. At its price point, buyers get marketing claims, not proof.

Transparent Labs: High-Protein, No Grass-Fed Certification

Transparent Labs delivers 28g of protein per serving, one of the highest protein-to-scoop ratios. It’s third-party tested by Labdoor and Informed Choice, but its grass-fed claim is unverified—no USDA Organic or Truly Grass-Fed certification backs it.

Momentous: Verified Sourcing & Multi-Tier Testing

Momentous stands out because it fully discloses its source of whey from grass-fed cows in the UK and Germany. It holds NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Sport, and Gluten-Free certifications, which ensure rigorous third-party testing. With 20g of protein per serving, it’s high-quality but expensive.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard: Industry Staple, Blended Whey

ON Gold Standard delivers 24g of protein per serving at a budget-friendly price. It includes digestive enzymes for easier digestion, but it is a whey blend (isolate, concentrate, peptides) rather than a pure isolate. It is affordable and reliable, but not the cleanest option available.

🆚 Whey Protein Powder Comparison: Thorne Protein vs Optimum nutrition

Thorne Protein vs Optimum Nutrition is a battle between premium-priced whey isolate with a clean label approach and the industry’s go-to whey blend known for affordability and consistency. If you’re debating which one to add to your stack, let’s break it down.

3 Things to Know About Thorne Protein vs Optimum Nutrition

• Lower Leucine Content: If you’re focused on muscle recovery, ON provides 2.6g of leucine per serving, compared to Thorne’s 2.2g—a noticeable difference for post-workout muscle protein synthesis.
• Milkshake-Like Texture: Unlike ON’s lighter, fast-mixing formula, Thorne has thickeners that provide a creamier, milkshake-style texture.
• Price Discrepancy: Thorne Protein vs. Optimum Nutrition is a tough comparison regarding value and price point, as the former costs more than double the cost per serving.

The Bottom Line

Thorne Protein vs Optimum Nutrition is the cleaner winner in Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey. ON Gold Standards offers more leucine, more protein per serving, and a lower price, making it the better choice for serious lifters.

Thorne Protein, on the other hand, delivers a thicker texture, making it more appealing for those who prefer a milkshake-like experience over a pure post-workout shake. However, it’s hard to justify at twice the price unless you’re set on its ingredient list and texture preference.

For a detailed breakdown, check out my Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Review or grab ON Gold Standard on Amazon.

Comparison Metrics	Thorne Protein Powder Chocolate	ON Gold Standard Chcolate
Leucine (g)	2.2	2.6
Leucine Percent (%)	10.48	10.83
Total BCAAs (g)	4.6	5.5
Protein per Serving (g)	21	24
Carbs per Serving (g)	4	3
Fiber per Serving (g)	1	<1
Total Sugars (g)	2	2
Calories	100	120
Serving Size (g)	30.5	32
Number of Servings	30	28
Amazon Price	$65.00	$29.95
Price per Serving	$2.17	$1.07

🆚 Whey Protein Powder Comparison: Transparent Labs vs Thorne Protein

When comparing Transparent Labs vs Thorne Protein, both brands position themselves as clean whey isolates but take different formulation, sourcing, and transparency approaches. Here’s how they stack up.

3 Things to Know About This Transparent Labs vs Thorne Protein

• Lower Protein Density: Thorne provides 21g of protein per serving, significantly lower than Transparent Labs’ 28g.
• Undisclosed Sourcing: Thorne does not disclose where its whey comes from, whereas Transparent Labs at least claims to source its dairy in the USA—though without USDA Organic or Truly Grass-Fed certification.
• Digestive Enzymes & Texture: Thorne includes digestive enzymes and thickeners, giving it a milkshake-like consistency, while Transparent Labs keeps it clean.

The Bottom Line

Transparent Labs is the better option in this matchup of Transparent Labs and Thorne Protein. It delivers more protein and fewer carbs at a better price.

Conversely, Thorne may appeal to those seeking a low-calorie protein powder with a milkshake-like post-workout shake. However, transparency concerns and lower protein density make it a tough sell at this price point.

For a deeper analysis, read my Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Review or check out Transparent Labs on Amazon.

Comparison Metrics	Thorne Protein Powder Chocolate	Transparent Labs Chocolate
Leucine (g)	2.2	2.849
Leucine Percent (%)	10.48	10.18
Total BCAAs (g)	4.6	5.9
Protein per Serving (g)	21	28
Carbs per Serving (g)	4	1
Fiber per Serving (g)	1	0
Total Sugars (g)	2	1
Calories	100	130
Serving Size (g)	30.5	34.9
Number of Servings	30	30
Amazon Price	$65.00	$59.99
Price per Serving	$2.17	$2.00

🆚 Whey Protein Powder Comparison: Thorne vs Momentous Protein

When comparing Thorne vs Momentous Protein, the key differences are sourcing transparency, third-party testing, and protein quality. Here’s how they stack up.

Key Differences

1. Sourcing & Transparency – Momentous sources of its grass-fed whey are from the UK and Germany, while Thorne refuses to disclose the country of origin for its whey.
2. Third-Party Testing & Certifications—Both proteins are NSF Certified for Sport. However, only Momentous is Informed Sport certified, which provides additional third-party testing for banned substances. Momentous also carries Gluten-Free certification, while Thorne does not.
3. Protein Yield & Ingredients—Thorne (70%) and Momentous (69.7%) offer nearly identical protein-per-scoop percentages. However, Momentous discloses its ingredients transparently, while Thorne hides behind vague labeling.

Three Things to Know About Thorne

• Undisclosed Sourcing – No verification of grass-fed claims, making quality difficult to confirm.
• Similar Protein Yield to Momentous – At 70% protein per scoop, Thorne is slightly ahead but still behind higher-yield isolates.
• Prop 65 Warning—Thorne is a California Prop 65 warning for heavy metals without third-party verification to confirm actual levels.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a fully verified, third-party-tested protein powder, Momentous is the clear winner. It’s NSF Certified for Sport, Informed-Sport certification, and Gluten-Free verification provide more transparency and quality assurance.

Thorne Protein Powder still works for those wanting a low-calorie, milkshake-like texture, but at this price, the lack of full transparency and sourcing details makes it harder to justify.

A full Momentous Protein Powder review is coming soon. For now, check out Momentous Protein on Amazon or Thorne Protein on Amazon.

Comparison Metrics	Thorne Protein Powder Chocolate	Momentous Chocolate Protein Powder
Leucine (g)	2.2	2.2
Leucine Percent (%)	10.48	11.00
Total BCAAs (g)	4.6	4.8
Protein per Serving (g)	21	20
Carbs per Serving (g)	4	3
Fiber per Serving (g)	1	2
Total Sugars (g)	2	1
Calories	100	100
Serving Size (g)	30.5	28.7
Number of Servings	30	24
Amazon Price	$65.00	$54.95
Price per Serving	$2.17	$2.29

⭐️ Amazon Whey Protein Review: Thorne Protein Powder Reviews

When looking at Thorne Protein Powder Reviews on Amazon, Thorne Supplements holds a 4.3 out of 5-star rating, based on 950+ reviews. So, what do buyers say about it?

Pros from Verified Buyers

• Clean Ingredient Profile – Many praise the formula for being easy to digest, with minimal bloating, especially for lactose-sensitive patients.
• Enjoyable Taste – Some found it sweeter, but reviews lean positive on the flavor experience.
• Great Mixability—Users loved the texture, often comparing it to a milkshake. It has a smooth consistency in water, milk, or blended drinks.

Cons from Verified Buyers

• Allergy Concerns – A long-distance runner reported an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients.
• Quality Control Issues – A handful of users received containers from Amazon with a mildew smell, raising concerns about storage conditions.
• Stevia Confusion – Thorne lists “Rebaudioside A” instead of just calling it stevia, which led some buyers to believe it was stevia-free.

What’s my take on Thorne Protein Powder Reviews on Amazon?

I agree that Thorne Supplements delivers a clean ingredient profile and well-executed for a stevia-sweetened protein powder. This is worth considering if you’re after a milkshake-like texture in a post-workout shake that stands out from standard isolates.

The real concern is California Prop 65 warnings. Some negative reviews specifically mentioned the warning on the container. I requested a heavy metals analysis from Thorne Supplements, and while they provided assurances, they offered no proof. For a premium-priced protein powder, that lack of transparency raises red flags.

🥤 How to Make Thorne Whey Protein Isolate

Getting your hands on a Thorne Whey Protein Isolate container feels generic and bland—basic, no frills. The tub only includes the bare essentials, so you can tell where all the advertising money went.

Here’s the mixing directions for Thorne Whey Protein Isolate:

• Fill shaker with 8 ounces of your favorite beverage or juice
• Use one scoop
• Shake

I was in for a surprise when mixing Thorne Whey Protein Isolate—almost no clumps. There were just a few specks of protein powder stuck to the shaker walls and below the spout. Otherwise, mixing was effortless with little to no annoyances. Thorne Whey Protein Isolate is a solid choice if you’re on the move post-workout and want a protein shake that won’t clump.

⚖️ Does Thorne Protein Shake Come With A Scoop?

Thorne Whey Protein Isolate comes with a scoop and one scoop is one serving. 

👌 How Does Thorne Protein Powder Taste

If you’re unfamiliar with stevia, the scientific name is Rebaudioside A—the natural, zero-calorie sweetener used in Thorne Whey Protein Isolate. I was skeptical about drinking any protein powder with stevia because, historically, stevia and I mix like oil and water.

However, my first sip of Whey Protein Thorne hit with a smooth, rich milk chocolate flavor—a pleasant surprise. The second surprise? Its thickness. If you’re tired of watery post-workout shakes and want a true milkshake-like protein powder, Whey Protein Thorne is a bonafide winner—and it’s not amino spiked.

If you’re searching for more protein powders with a milkshake-like experience, here’s my list of reviewed proteins that deliver:

• PR Breaker Hitpoint Ultra Review
• BSN Syntha 6 Review
• BSN Edge Review
• BSN Isolate Review
• BPN Protein Review
• Nutrabio Protein Review
• ProJym Protein Review
    

Mixability: 9.5 out of 10.

I had no issues mixing a Thorne Protein Powder shake—it was quick, easy, and smooth. Even more surprising, Thorne Supplements balanced the stevia, delivering an enjoyable taste without overpowering sweetness. Finally, as someone who enjoys true milkshake-like protein shakes, I can say Thorne Research Whey Protein Isolate is a home run.

🔑 Thorne Protein Powder Ingredients, TL;DR

So, is Thorne Protein clean? On paper, it looks simple—whey protein isolate with a few added ingredients for digestion and mixability. But take a closer look, and the transparency falls apart. Instead of listing stevia, they call it Rebaudioside A—why? To dodge people who avoid stevia? Then there’s Carboxymethylcellulose Gum—a thickener with a name that sounds like a chemistry experiment.

Thorne also doesn’t disclose the country of origin for its whey, claiming it’s “proprietary business information.” That’s a red flag for anyone who values sourcing transparency. While the protein is whey isolate, the digestive enzymes lean more toward budget-brand formulas than high-end isolates. This protein powder is being made as a cash grab for Thorne Supplements.

Thorne markets itself as a premium supplement company. It emphasizes its commitment to clean ingredients with the Thorne No List, a collection of artificial additives and banned substances it refuses to include. Whitshis’ list highlights what Thorne avoids, but it doesn’t address their lack of transparency regarding what is in their protein powders. Thorne Protein clean? If “clean” means being free from artificial junk, then yes. But if clean means fully transparent sourcing and a minimal, high-quality ingredient list, Thorne doesn’t quite hit the mark.

📋 Thorne Protein Powder Ingredients

The Thorne Protein Powder Ingredients list keeps things relatively simple, but there are a few eyebrow-raising choices. This is a whey protein isolate formula with digestive enzymes and thickeners to enhance mixability and texture. But some labeling choices feel unnecessarily complicated—let’s break it down.

Thorne Protein Powder Chocolate
Ingredients	Purpose
Whey Protein Isolate	Only protein source
Proprietary Blend Digestive Enzymes	Aid in digesting protein
Alkalized Cocoa Powder	Chocolate flavor
Flavors	Vague flavor labeling
Evaporated Cane Juice Sugar	Natural sweetener
Rebaudioside A	Stevia extract
Xanthan Gum	Thickener and stabilizer
Carboxymethylcellulose Gum	Thickening agent to provide the milkshake-like experience

One of the odd choices in Thorne Protein Powder Ingredients is using Rebaudioside A instead of simply stating stevia—almost like they’re trying to dodge the crowd that avoids it. Then there’s Carboxymethylcellulose Gum, a long-winded name for what’s essentially a thickener. If Thorne Protein Powder aims for a clean-label approach, why not use more transparent terminology?

Thorne excludes artificial sweeteners, colorants, and preservatives from its No List, yet its choice of thickening agents and vague ingredient labeling contradict the brand’s clean-label image.

Final take: The formula is decent, but the vague ingredient labeling and unnecessary scientific jargon make it feel less transparent than it should be.

🌍 Does Thorne Protein Powder Import Their Protein Powder?

Thorne Protein Powder refuses to disclose the country of origin for its whey, citing “confidential and proprietary business information.” Instead of transparency, they offer a vague assurance that their whey protein is sourced from “dairy cows fed a diet that includes natural grass and other forage.” That doesn’t confirm whether Thorne Protein Powder is grass-fed or meets certification standards.

We know Thorne Protein Powder is manufactured in-house at their South Carolina facility. While this ensures control over processing, it doesn’t guarantee that the whey is high-quality or sourced from reputable farms. Unlike companies that openly verify sourcing with third-party certifications, Thorne asks buyers to take their word for it.

For a premium-priced product, that’s not enough. Without full sourcing transparency or a Certificate of Analysis, there’s no way to verify whether Thorne Protein Powder is imported, blended, or held to the highest standards. If country of origin matters to you, this lack of disclosure is a major red flag.

Bottom line? Thorne Protein Powder is not sourced from the USA. While it’s manufactured in South Carolina, the whey protein is imported. Thorne refuses to disclose the country of origin, making verifying whether their whey is grass-fed or meets higher-quality sourcing standards is impossible.

Ingredients List: 8.0 out of 10.

What a slam dunk ingredient list should be raises transparency concerns—especially at this price point. Why the long-winded ingredient names? Why not disclose the country of origin for the protein? And digestive enzymes? Gatekeeping information and adding in digestive enzymes are expected for a budget-priced protein. These gaps leave more questions than answers for a brand that prides itself on quality. 

🔑 Thorne Protein Nutrition Facts, TL;DR

One thing that stands out when examining Thorne Protein Nutrition Facts is its low—calorie and clean—ingredient formula. Each serving delivers 21g of protein, 100 calories, and only 1g of fat, making it a lean option for daily protein intake.

However, its protein percentage per scoop falls short, averaging 72.5% across all flavors—lower than other high-quality isolates on the market. The chocolate flavor has 70% protein per serving, while vanilla ranks slightly higher at 75%.

Another factor? Added digestive enzymes may help with absorption, but they reduce total protein density. Thorne Protein Nutrition Facts doesn’t justify the premium price compared to fully transparent isolates.

• Best for those wanting a lower-calorie protein with a smooth texture.
• Not ideal for those prioritizing the highest protein yield per scoop.

Looking for a more transparent protein powder? Thorne Protein Nutrition Facts suggest you explore other options.

🥗 Thorne Protein Nutrition Facts

The Thorne Protein Nutrition Facts highlight a lean and mean protein powder, making it a solid choice for those looking to control calories without sacrificing quality. Each tasty scoop offers 21g of protein with only 100 calories, keeping it in line with other premium isolates while maintaining a clean ingredient list.

Thorne Protein Powder Chocolate
Nutrients	Amount per Serving
Serving Size (g)	30.2
Calories	100
Total Fat (g)	1
Sodium (mg)	105
Total Carbohydrates (g)	4
Dietary Fiber (g)	1
Total Sugars (g)	2
Protein (g)	21

The low fat (1g) and moderate carb count (4g) make it suitable for post-workout recovery or a daily protein boost. With only 2g of sugar, it avoids excessive sweeteners while offering a milkshake-like experience that rivals BSN Syntha-6; read my BSN reviews here. The 105mg of sodium is on the lower end compared to many whey isolates, a plus for those monitoring intake.

A slight drawback? Thorne Protein offers 21g of protein per serving, a bit lower than research backed post-workout nutrition guidelines. While it’s still effective for muscle recovery, those aiming for higher protein-per-scoop might want to add supplementary high-protein foods. However, if you’re looking for a clean-label whey isolate with minimal additives, Thorne Protein Nutrition Facts shows that it should be at least considered.

🍗 Protein Percentage per Serving in Thorne Protein

When breaking down protein percentage per serving in Thorne Protein, the numbers aren’t bad, but they don’t compete with high-yield isolates. The Chocolate flavor sits at 70%, while Vanilla ranks higher at 75%, averaging 72.5% across all flavors. That isn’t inspiring in my book, especially at the price you are paying for a tub. 

Flavor	Protein per Serving (g)	Scoop Size (g)	Protein Percentage (%)
Chocolate	21	30.2	70
Vanilla	21	27.9	75
Average Protein Percent Across All Flavors: 72.5%

Why the lower percentage? Added ingredients like digestive enzymes, natural flavors, and a small amount of fiber and sugar reduce overall protein content per scoop. It’s a trade-off—less protein per gram, but potentially easier digestion. If protein density is your top priority, Thorne doesn’t quite hit the mark.

Nutrition Facts: 7.5 out of 10. 

Thorne Protein is worth considering if you’re after a low-calorie protein powder with a milkshake-like texture. It’s low calorie and sodium content make it an easy addition to any routine. However, Thorne Protein falls short for a whey protein isolate marketed as grass-fed, especially when stacked against competitors in the same price range. The value just isn’t there.

❓ Thorne Protein FAQ

Is Thorne actually A good brand?

Thorne promotes high-quality standards, but its lack of transparency raises concerns. While some products are NSF Certified for Sport, Thorne does not provide Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) or disclose the country of origin for its whey. Buyers must take Thorne’s word on quality without third-party testing for heavy metals.

Is Thorne Protein good?

Thorne Whey Protein Powder offers a milkshake-like texture with added digestive enzymes. However, at $2.17 per serving, it lacks transparency regarding its sourcing. It’s also not the cleanest option, with no verified grass-fed certification and a Proposition 65 warning for heavy metals.

Is Thorne Protein healthy?

Thorne Protein Powder uses whey isolate with minimal additives, making it a lean, low-calorie option. However, the lack of third-party testing and sourcing transparency means its quality claims rely on internal assurances rather than independent proof.

Is Thorne Whey Protein Powder amino spiked?

No, Thorne Whey Protein Powder is not amino spiked. The amino acid profile confirms 4.6g of BCAAs per serving, including 2.2g of leucine, which aligns with standard whey isolates. However, Thorne’s transparency is questionable—they refuse to provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or disclose the country of origin for their whey.

Does Thorne Protein Powder contain heavy metals?

Yes, Thorne Protein Heavy Metals Testing confirms the presence of heavy metals, but the testing is done internally, not through a third-party lab.

One major red flag is that Thorne Protein Lead levels are high enough to require a California Proposition 65 warning, which indicates potential contamination beyond state safety limits. While Thorne claims to follow United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards, these levels cannot be confirmed without a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or third-party verification.

At this price point, transparency should be standard, not an afterthought. Without independent verification, buyers must rely on Thorne Supplements’ word on quality.

Is Thorne Protein Powder grass-fed?

No. Thorne Whey Protein Powder is not third-party certified grass-fed. Although Thorne vaguely claims its dairy cows are “fed a diet that includes natural grass and other forage,” that does not guarantee 100% grass-fed sourcing. No Truly Grass-Fed, USDA Organic, or New Zealand certification backs up its claims.

Is Thorne Protein Powder gluten-free?

Yes, Thorne Protein Powder is gluten-free, according to their label. However, Thorne does not provide third-party gluten-free certification like NSF Gluten-Free or Informed Sport, meaning cross-contamination risks aren’t independently verified.

Is Thorne Whey Protein Good?

It depends on your priorities. Thorne Whey Protein Isolate offers clean ingredients, digestive enzymes, and a smooth texture but falls short on transparency. If you want a milkshake-like whey isolate, it’s a solid choice. However, better options exist if you prioritize verified sourcing and third-party testing.

Is Thorne Protein Powder tested for contaminants?

Yes, Thorne Protein Powder Heavy Metals Testing is conducted in-house, meaning Thorne claims to test for contaminants like lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, following United States Pharmacopeia (USP) exposure limits:

• Lead – 5 mcg/day
• Arsenic – 15 mcg/day
• Cadmium – 5 mcg/day
• Mercury – 30 mcg/day

However, Thorne does not provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or independent third-party verification of these tests. Thus, buyers must rely on Thorne’s safety claims without proof of heavy metal content in each batch.

Is Thorne Protein Clean?

Clean label? Yes. Clean sourcing? No. Thorne avoids artificial additives, but the lack of sourcing transparency, third-party testing, and verified grass-fed certification makes their “clean” claim debatable.

Is Thorne FDA Approved?

No, Thorne Supplements are not FDA approved—no dietary supplement is. However, Thorne follows cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices), which means they meet basic FDA regulations for supplement production.

Are Thorne Supplements Safe?

Thorne supplements meet federal regulations, but safety concerns remain due to undisclosed sourcing and Proposition 65 heavy metals warnings. Without public third-party testing, safety claims are based on internal testing, not independent verification.

Why doesn’t Thorne share a Certificate of Analysis (CoA)?

According to Thorne Supplements, they are “working” on making CoAs available online but do not provide proof that buyers can independently verify product quality.

Is Thorne Protein Powder non-GMO?

Thorne claims all their products, including Thorne Whey Protein, are made without genetically modified ingredients. But here’s where we caught them in a white lie—they say they don’t label their products as non-GMO because “there’s no definitive test” to verify an ingredient’s status. That’s not entirely true.

There are established non-GMO certification programs like Non-GMO Project Verified and NSF Non-GMO True North Certification that brands use to validate their claims through DNA testing and supply chain audits. Instead of pursuing these, Thorne relies on supplier affidavits—meaning you just have to trust them.

Throughout this review, we’ve highlighted transparency concerns, and here’s another one: Thorne Whey Protein doesn’t offer a certified non-GMO protein powder with that verification level.

Does Thorne Whey Protein Powder contain artificial sweeteners?

No, but they list stevia as Rebaudioside A, which can mislead buyers avoiding stevia-based sweeteners.

Does Thorne Whey Protein Powder contain fillers?

Thorne uses Carboxymethylcellulose Gum, a thickener often found in budget proteins, which raises questions about why a premium-priced product includes it.

What digestive enzymes are in Thorne Whey Isolate?

Thorne Whey Protein Powder contains a proprietary digestive enzyme blend featuring 30mg of bromelain and papain. These enzymes aid digestion but contribute to lower protein density per scoop. While they may help reduce bloating, their inclusion is more common in budget protein powders than premium isolates.

Why is Thorne Protein Powder so expensive?

Despite premium pricing, Thorne lacks full transparency. Other proteins in this price range provide verified grass-fed whey, CoAs, and third-party testing, but Thorne does not.

Does Thorne Protein Powder mix well?

Yes, Thorne Whey Isolate has a milkshake-like texture due to thickeners and enzymes. It mixes well in water or milk but isn’t as light as other isolates.

🏁 Thorne Protein Powder Review – Final Thoughts

If you’re considering whey protein Thorne, here are three key takeaways before making a purchase:

1. Transparency Concerns – Thorne whey isolate claims strict quality control but does not disclose the country of origin for its whey. It markets its protein as cows fed “natural grass and other forage,” but this does not meet the standards of a true grass-fed protein. Without third-party verification or a publicly available Certificate of Analysis (CoA), buyers must take Thorne’s word on sourcing and purity.
2. Milkshake-Like Texture, Lower Protein Density—Thorne Research Whey Protein Isolate delivers a smooth, creamy shake thanks to added thickeners. However, this comes at the cost of a lower protein-per-scoop ratio. At 70-75% protein density, it falls short of premium isolates that offer 80-90%.
3. Heavy Metals & Proposition 65 Warning—Thorne acknowledges testing for heavy metals, including lead, arsenic, and cadmium, but these tests are conducted in-house. A California Proposition 65 warning signals potential contamination beyond state safety limits; no independent verification is available.

For those prioritizing full transparency, whey protein Thorne leaves too many unanswered questions. While it provides a solid texture and added digestive enzymes, the lack of independent testing, sourcing details, and third-party CoAs makes it hard to justify at this price point.

Let’s break it down—does Thorne whey isolate truly stand out in a crowded market of grass fed claims? Or is it another protein powder relying on marketing and advertising claims over verifiable quality?

✅ Is Thorne Protein Powder Good?

Thorne Whey Protein sits in an awkward middle ground—cleaner than budget brands but lacking the transparency expected at its price point. Here’s what stands out:

What’s Good?

• Milkshake-Like Texture: Thorne Whey Protein delivers a smooth, creamy shake over thin, watery isolates, or you can add thickeners to give it a richer consistency.
• Digestive Enzymes: Offering 30mg of bromelain and papain may help those with mild dairy sensitivities digest whey more easily.
• Low in Calories and Fat: At 100 calories, 1g fat, and 21g protein per scoop, this is a lean option compared to many whey blends.

Who Should Buy Thorne Whey Protein?

• People who prioritize mixability and texture over protein density. If you like a milkshake-like protein, Thorne Whey Protein does this well.
• Those looking for an easy-to-digest formula. The enzyme blend may reduce bloating for some users.
• Consumers who are unconcerned about full sourcing transparency may still find this protein suitable. This protein may still fit your needs if country of origin and independent testing aren’t deal-breakers.

Final Score: 74% – Average

Thorne Whey Protein isn’t a bad product, but its premium pricing doesn’t justify its lack of transparency. With no third-party CoA, undisclosed whey sourcing, and a Proposition 65 warning for heavy metals, it lacks the transparency seen in industry leaders. If you want a smooth, easy-to-digest shake and don’t mind taking Thorne’s word on quality, it’s serviceable—but better options exist for those who expect verified sourcing and testing.

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. 

🧐 Thorne Protein Powder Review Round-Up

Category	Score
Value	2.0 out of 10
Amino Spiking	10 out of 10
Mixability	9.5 out of 10
Ingredient List	8.0 out of 10
Nutrition Facts	7.5 out of 10
Overall Score	37/50, 74%, Average

📑 Thorne Protein Powder Review Sources

Environmental health: Concentrated Animal feeding Operations (CAFOs). (2023, February 6). Wisconsin Department of Health Services. https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/environmental/cafo.htm

Gorissen, S. H. M., Crombag, J. J. R., Senden, J. M. G., Waterval, W. a. H., Bierau, J., Verdijk, L. B., & Van Loon, L. J. C. (2018). Protein content and amino acid composition of commercially available plant-based protein isolates. Amino Acids, 50(12), 1685–1695. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-018-2640-5

NSF Certified For Sport | Thorne. (n.d.). https://www.thorne.com/sports-performance

Roots, A. (2019, September 9). Grass-Fed whey protein – explained. Sourced the Right Whey^TM. https://agnroots.com/blogs/articles-info/why-is-grass-fed-whey-better

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

Koupantsis, T., & Kiosseoglou, V. (2008). Whey protein–carboxymethylcellulose interaction in solution and in oil-in-water emulsion systems. Effect on emulsion stability. Food Hydrocolloids, 23(4), 1156–1163. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodhyd.2008.09.004

The Non-GMO Project. (2023, December 11). Non-GMO Project Home – the Non-GMO Project. The Non-GMO Project – Everyone Deserves an Informed Choice. https://www.nongmoproject.org/

Thorne® | Extensive No list | Thorne. (n.d.). https://www.thorne.com/thorne-no-list

Thorne® Clinical Research | Thorne. (n.d.). https://www.thorne.com/company/clinical-research

Unparalleled quality | Inspired by science | Thorne. (n.d.). https://www.thorne.com/quality
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