I have recently tried a new protein powder. I was looking for a supplement high in protein and low in carbohydrates to use as a post-workout shake during the cutting phase of my competition preparation. So, I went to the local health food store and stumbled across the “Organic Vegan Protein” from Body Science.
It is as the name says: a certified organic product, 100% vegan, gluten free, nut free, and lactose free. It doesn’t contain any artificial colours or flavours, and it is sweetened with stevia, a natural plant based sweetener that is very low in calories. The protein source is a blend of brown rice, pea, amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, millet and chia powder. Also, on the label, the manufacture brags that it contains super food extracts such as açai berry, mangosteen, goji berry, and green tea. With 18 g of protein and only 404 KJ (97 kcal) per scoop, I thought it was a winner.
So, I bought a small container (350 g) to give it a try. It contains 14 servings per package and a serving is only one scoop (25 g). I got the chocolate flavour, but vanilla is also available. I tried the protein in three ways: just with water (as my post-workout shake), mixed in my oatmeal, and blended with fruit.
When I had it just with water, it was quite disappointing to say the least. The liquid was thin and powdery. Even though it dissolves well in water (no big lumps floating around), there was a chalky texture that was hard ignore. Moreover, the chocolate flavour is very mild, barely noticeable with a strange after taste (probably from the stevia). I guess, the only plus was that it was a tiny portion (250 ml) so I could pretend it as a “medicine” and chug it down without thinking too much about it.
Next, I tried sneaking it into my oatmeal. I thought it would be a good way to add some protein to my bland breakfast. However, the result wasn’t very impressive. Again, I could still feel the funky powdery texture, and the flavour was quite bland, certainly not enough to sweeten the oatmeal.
Then, I went for a super shake which is when you add several ingredients such as fruits, veggies, nuts to the protein protein powder. On my shake, I used 1/2 banana, 200 ml of milk, 1 teaspoon of peanut butter, 1 scoop of the protein powder, and ice. For my surprise it actually tasted good! I guess it’s because I put back everything that the manufacture took off. But no matter how many ingredients I added or for how long I blended it, that grainy feeling on the tongue was still there.
The bottom line is the Organic Vegan Protein from Body Science has an awesome ingredient list, but let’s say that it looks better on paper than in real life. However, if you don’t mind the chalky texture, it can be a great addition to your super shake.
For more information on the product click here.
