Are protein supplement brands lying to you? Most likely!

Protein supplements, including protein powders, are often labeled with a stated percentage of protein content, but this doesn't mean the entire product is pure protein. The labeled percentage refers to the proportion of the total weight that comes from protein, but the rest of the product may consist of other components, such as carbohydrates, fats, minerals, flavorings, and additives.

Here are a few reasons why protein supplements are not 100% protein as labeled:

1. Additives and Flavorings: Manufacturers often include additives, sweeteners, flavorings, and other ingredients to improve the taste, texture, and overall palatability of the protein supplement. These additions contribute to the overall weight of the product but don't add to the protein content. This is why it is important to look at how many grams of protein are in the product versus how much the product actually weighs per serving. If a serving is 24 grams of protein, but weighs 52 grams, half of your scoop of protein is filler and additives. Your best bet is to find a protein supplement that keeps these numbers as close together as possible.

2. Fillers and Bulking Agents: Some protein supplements may contain fillers or bulking agents to enhance the product's volume and appearance. These substances do not contribute to the protein content but can increase the overall weight.

3. Moisture Content: Protein supplements, especially those in powder form, can absorb moisture from the environment. The moisture content adds weight to the product but doesn't increase the protein content.

As for solubility, it refers to how well a protein dissolves in a liquid. The solubility of a protein can affect its digestibility and absorption in the body. Proteins must be broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids during digestion for the body to absorb and utilize them.

Solubility is influenced by factors such as pH, temperature, and the specific protein source. Protein supplements with good solubility dissolve easily in water or other liquids, facilitating digestion and absorption. On the other hand, proteins with poor solubility may clump together or form precipitates, making them less bioavailable or causing you to not ingest all of it.

In summary, while protein supplements are labeled with a specific protein content percentage, the actual product is not 100% pure protein due to the presence of additives, fillers, and other non-protein components. Additionally, the solubility of the protein can impact how well it is digested and absorbed by the body.

Results from an independent protein experiment showing actual protein percentage per serving.