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After news about fake paneer and garlic, reports suggest that protein powder can also be “spiked” — by using “inexpensive amino acids.”
Nutritionist Neetha Pratheep, MSc dietetics and applied nutrition, said that the majority of customers are unaware that some businesses engage in a trick known as amino/protein spiking, in which they add cheap ingredients to their powders to pass inspections and falsely claim that their products contain more protein than they do. “Protein powders can be ‘amino/protein spiked’ by using inexpensive amino acids like glycine and taurine as well as non-proteinogenic (protein-building) amino acids like creatine and beta-alanine,” Neetha told indianexpress.com.
You can easily detect fake protein powders with these tips:
The logo test
Without a current license, supplements cannot be imported or dispensed. “The product label must prominently display the license number. The license will be a label or tag on the dietary supplement that will provide important data, such as the date of manufacture, the date of import, and other specifics,” informed Neetha.
The seal test
If the goods have no seal, it is probably a fake protein powder or supplement. “Verify the lid’s interior seal. Loosely sealed fake goods will be of lower quality. The seal should have appropriate edges if the product is genuine and has consistent attachment. The brand name is typically applied on seals,” said Neetha.
Check what you consume (Source: Pexels)
The mixing test
Add a scoop of the protein powder to room-temperature water. “Shake this mix for about 30 seconds. It can be fake if the product has any lumps, residue, or clumps. Companies now pay close attention to taste and lump formation. Any imitation protein powder will not have the same nutritious value as its authentic equivalents,” said Neetha.
The taste test
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Read product reviews before making a decision. Learn more about the expected taste. “You might have a fake protein powder on your shelves if the taste does not match your reading. This version might not be the real deal if you’ve previously used the same brand but with a completely different taste,” Neetha mentioned.
The barcode/QR code test
The bar and QR codes should provide a sufficient URL link to the product’s details. “To get the correct product information, you can use your smartphone’s QR code scanner feature. Before purchasing a supplement or protein powder, conduct your research. Avoid making purchases from unlicensed sellers. The bar code and QR code tests are excellent tools for determining a product’s authenticity,” said Neetha.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.