Reading Labels on a Budget

Reading the label on this organic peanut powder with cocoa, you're looking at 25g of sugar per 100g. It whips up into a shake that's genuinely rich and chocolatey, hitting that craving for a Reese's cup without the actual candy. I tossed this in my gym bag for a quick recovery drink, and the flavor was a solid reward after a tough session. While the 7.5 score is decent, that sugar content is something to watch if you're trying to cut back. It mixes okay, but you might get a few gritty bits if you don't shake it hard enough. It's a convenient treat, but maybe not an everyday staple if you're watching your intake.

This Oat Milk Powder lists 28g of sugar per 100g, which is on the higher side for a non-dairy creamer. It dissolves pretty well into hot coffee, creating a creamy, slightly sweet latte vibe without the fridge space. I used this on a camping trip where keeping fresh milk cold was impossible, and it was a lifesaver for my morning brew. The 7.2 score reflects that it's functional, but the sweetness can overpower the coffee if you're heavy-handed. It's not as rich as fresh oat milk, so don't expect a super frothy texture. It's a solid backup for travel, but the sugar adds up quickly if you're having multiple cups.

With a stellar 9.9 score and 0g of sugar, this Plant Based Protein Powder is built for the serious label-reader. The blend of pea, pumpkin, and chia provides a solid amino acid profile, including those key BCAAs for recovery. It has a distinct earthy, green taste that's common with plant proteins, which might be a trade-off if you're used to whey. I mixed this into a smoothie for my post-run routine, and it kept me full for hours without a sugar crash. It's not the cheapest option, but the clean ingredients and zero sugar make it a winner for daily use. Just be prepared for a thicker, more 'natural' texture compared to dairy-based powders.

This Chocolate Whey Protein Powder boasts a 9.8 score with only 2g of sugar per 100g, making it a standout for clean nutrition. The ingredients list is straightforward, and the low sugar means it won't spike your energy levels right before bed. I packed this in my work bag for a late-afternoon slump, mixing it with water in a shaker bottle. It's smooth and mixes easily, avoiding that chalky texture that plagues cheaper whey. The flavor is mild, not overly sweet, which is a plus for some but might feel a bit bland if you're craving a dessert-level shake. It's a reliable, high-quality option, though the price can be a bit steeper than basic grocery store brands.

This is just straight COCOA POWDER (NON-ALKALIZED) with a 9.9 score, 0g of sugar, and nothing else added. It's intensely dark and bitter, perfect for baking or mixing into oatmeal where you control the sweetness. I used this to make a batch of brownies for a potluck, and the deep chocolate flavor really stood out against the other ingredients. It won't dissolve as smoothly in cold liquids as an alkalized (Dutch-processed) cocoa, so it's better for recipes where you can whisk it into a paste. If you're just looking for a quick chocolate milk, this might be too bitter and gritty on its own. It's a pure, high-quality ingredient for the DIY crowd.