Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Double Rich Chocolate
A long-running, widely available whey blend with 24g protein per scoop, low sugar, and Informed Choice banned-substance testing, a reliable everyday option for active shoppers.
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Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard whey is a long-running whey protein powder from Optimum Nutrition. This listing is the Double Rich Chocolate flavor in a 5 lb container, made from a blend of whey isolate, whey concentrate and hydrolyzed whey.
Who it suits
It suits active people who want an everyday chocolate shake that mixes easily and carries banned-substance testing. If you avoid artificial sweeteners, or want a single-ingredient whey, look at Naked Whey Grass-Fed or Transparent Labs Whey Isolate. Browse the full protein powder collection for more.
Comparing options? Our protein powder buying guide explains what to check on the label and spec sheet.
Key facts
- Each 31 g scoop lists 24 g of protein and 120 calories (Optimum Nutrition; BarBend)
- Protein comes from whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate and hydrolyzed whey protein (Optimum Nutrition; BarBend)
- The brand lists 5.5 g of naturally occurring BCAAs per serving (Optimum Nutrition; BarBend)
- Labeled gluten free and carries the Informed Choice banned-substance testing mark (Optimum Nutrition; BarBend)
- Sweetened with acesulfame potassium; this flavor is labeled artificially flavored (Optimum Nutrition; BarBend)
- Mix with 6 to 8 fl oz of cold water, milk or another drink (Optimum Nutrition)
What reviewers say
BarBend praised the huge flavor range, smooth mixing, Informed Choice certification and solid lab results, but flagged the artificial sweeteners and flavors and possible stomach upset for people sensitive to whey concentrate. Reviewed (USA Today) named it the best overall protein powder in its testing for its flavor choice and easy mixing.
Pros and cons
- Pro: Mixes smoothly and comes in many flavors
- Pro: Informed Choice tested and labeled gluten free
- Con: Uses artificial flavor and acesulfame potassium
- Con: Whey concentrate may upset sensitive stomachs
Cautions
- Contains milk and soy.
- Contains whey concentrate, so it has some lactose; people with lactose intolerance may prefer an isolate.
- Contains artificial flavor and acesulfame potassium.
Additional information
| Brand | Optimum Nutrition |
|---|---|
| Size | 5 lb |
| Serving size | 31g (about 1 scoop) |
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Total carbohydrate | 3 g |
| Added sugars | not a significant source |
| Allergens | Contains milk, soy |
| Certifications | Informed Choice (banned substance tested), Gluten free (label claim) |