The Green Brick Dilemma

Scanning the label, this is pure dextrin—a soluble fiber that dissolves into a clear, neutral liquid. It won't add sweetness or flavor, so it's easy to mix into your morning coffee without noticing it's there. The texture is smooth, avoiding that gritty sediment you get with some powders. For anyone looking to upgrade their daily fiber intake without a sugary gummy, this is a straightforward tool. It's a clean slate. I'd toss this into a shaker bottle with water for a mid-afternoon gut-health boost at the office, keeping things moving without a heavy snack. The trade-off is the lack of any flavor complexity; it's purely functional, not a treat.

The ingredient list shows a blend of concentrate and isolate, with maltodextrin for texture. This suggests a creamy, classic shake experience—likely thick and satisfying. The soy lecithin helps it mix easily, preventing clumps. However, the inclusion of maltodextrin means it might spike energy differently than a pure isolate. It's a reliable choice for post-workout recovery. I can see tossing this in the gym bag for a quick protein hit after a heavy lift session. The trade-off is the texture: some people find maltodextrin-based blends can feel slightly heavy or bloating compared to ultra-filtered options, and the additives list is a bit long for the purist.

This formula uses pea and quinoa protein, plus cocoa powder. The cocoa likely gives it a deep, earthy chocolate flavor, though the 'alkalized' processing might mellow the bitterness. The gum blend (cellulose and xanthan) is key here—it creates a thicker, almost chewy texture that can feel slimy if not shaken vigorously. It's a solid option for vegans. I'd pack this for a long hike where the sustained energy from plant protein is useful. The trade-off is the texture; if you hate the 'slimy' mouthfeel of some plant shakes, this gum blend might be a hurdle to clear.

This is a gelatin-based chew with polydextrose and xylitol. The label indicates a soft, gummy texture, likely sweetened to mask the fiber content. The oils and waxes in the ingredients suggest a smooth exterior that prevents sticking. It's a convenient alternative to powders. I'd keep this in the car's glovebox for a late-night drive snack that helps curb hunger without sugar. The trade-off is the chewiness; if you prefer a quick drink, the act of eating a gummy might feel like a chore. Also, xylitol can be a digestive irritant for some people if consumed in excess.

The ingredient list is currently updating, but a kelp supplement typically offers a distinct, oceanic salinity. It's often gritty and carries a strong 'sea' aroma that can be polarizing. This is a functional iodine source, not a culinary delight. I'd take this with a large glass of water first thing in the morning to support thyroid function. The trade-off is the flavor profile; it can taste swampy or overly salty if you aren't used to sea vegetables. Without the full label, it's hard to judge the texture, but kelp powders rarely dissolve completely.