Is Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein Powder Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always look beyond the marketing claims and dive straight into the formulation. The first thing to note about Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein Powder is its primary protein source. It utilizes a Plant Protein Blend consisting of Pea Protein, Fava Bean Protein Isolate, and Brown Rice Protein Concentrate. None of these ingredients inherently contain gluten, which is a great start for a clean label.

Next, we examine the texture and mouthfeel agents. The formula uses a Gum Blend made of Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum, and Gum Acacia. These are standard thickeners derived from fermentation processes or plant sap, and they are naturally gluten-free. The sweetener used is Steviol Glycosides (Stevia), a plant-based extract, which eliminates the need for barley malt or other gluten-linked sweeteners.

Finally, the Oil Creamer component is interesting. It contains Coconut Oil and/or Sunflower Oil, Rice Syrup Solids, and Pea Protein. While Rice Syrup Solids are safe, it is worth noting that oats are often cross-contaminated with wheat during harvesting. However, since oats are not listed in the ingredients, this specific risk is mitigated. The verdict remains that the raw ingredients are free of gluten.

Nutritional Value

When evaluating the nutritional profile, this powder is designed for maintenance and lean muscle support. A standard serving typically contains around 120 calories, which is fairly standard for a protein isolate. The fat content is moderate, largely due to the Oil Creamer inclusion, providing a creamier texture without relying on dairy.

In terms of carbohydrates and sugar, this product is relatively low. It uses Steviol Glycosides to keep sugar content down, usually sitting at 1-2 grams per serving. This makes it suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets, provided you account for the trace carbohydrates from the rice syrup solids. It fits well within the limits of a calorie-controlled diet.