With the rising popularity and demand for whey protein, many protein powder manufacturers have been found to be “spiking” their protein supplements with cheap amino acids. The problem is that many of these essential amino acids are already found within the raw protein ingredients, meaning that customers may be paying more money for less of what they actually want. With these amino acids showing up as proteins with test results, it is more important than ever for both athletes and fitness enthusiasts to take the necessary steps to ensure their protein supplements are free from amino acid spiking.

Why Do Companies Spike their Supplements

Partially due to its recent spike in popularity and demand, the cost of whey protein concentrate has seen a steady climb in recent years. For the best quality whey protein concentrates that many protein supplements claim to be using for their powders and supplements, one can expect to pay a rate that is double the average costs in 2009 and showing no signs of slowing down in its growth.

By using less protein and replacing it with amino acids, companies can save money and improve their bottom line. Taurine and glycine are the two most common types of amino acids used in this “padding” of supplements and powders. With the average costs of those being significantly less per pound, a company can cut back their cost and save up to 4 times the amount they would if they used only whey protein. Since amino acids don’t have the same beneficial effects as whole protein, a customer purchasing a spiked product won’t see the potential benefits that could have with a complete protein supplement.

When one of these “spiked” products are run through a certificate of authenticity test (a test that to this day remains true to its original methods despite being developed in 1883) by the AOAC, both taurine and glycine show up as nitrogen-based bounds, a type of bond that is considered to be protein by the FDA. Furthermore, a product can be declared as protein as long as it has some amount of protein included in it. Many companies seeking to make a quick profit have interpreted this as meaning that added amino acids are fine as long as they only make a part of the overall protein content in a supplement or powder.

How to Tell if Your Supplements are Spiked

The best and most effective way to avoid buying a spiked protein product is to read the label. Several of the top brands have been accused of protein spiking, so no matter what brand you are buying, it is crucial you understand what is in your protein supplements. Some common amino acids to keep an eye out for within the ingredient list include arginine, glycine, creatine and taurine.

When purchasing any product from G6 Sports, you are ensured that you are receiving what you paid for, an all –natural product that is 100% whey protein. We manufacture all of our products in house at our state of the art facility, ensuring you consistent and high quality products that pass our testing systems before release for purchase. For the maximum amount of protein in your supplements, go with a product you can trust, go G6!