First off, I've purchased a bunch of different flavors of ON Gold Standard Whey. All of them have close to the same nutritional value, but they vary greatly in taste. Both my wife and I drink these protein shakes as part of our daily diet, and as a product, Optimum Nutrition is great. I've mixed with both milk and water, and all of the shakes mix well and don't seem to clump. I've tried other manufactures whey, and I keep finding myself going back to ON for the price, nutritional value, and above all the taste.
So the flavor question. As I mentioned, each flavor has a different characteristic from the others. Some are bland, some taste sweet, some taste overly fake. We loved some, and we hated some. Below is a list based on what we like so far and why. Bear in mind that I hate diet drinks for their bad aftertaste. The drinks don't have to be sweet for me to like them, but I can't stand the garbage aftertaste of fake sweeteners.
The best flavors:
Rocky Road - By far the single best tasting flavor. The downside is that it does taste a little sweet. The nutritional value is right on with the other flavors, but it is a bit sweet. I could drink this all day. If you only buy one flavor, this is it. There is no real aftertaste, and the flavor is great.
Extreme Milk Chocolate - Another good flavor with almost no aftertaste. This one tastes like chocolate, and doesn't have a fake taste to it. If you are looking at the chocolate flavors, this one is perfect.
Natural Vanilla - This is a slightly different product, and it comes in a tub with yellow labeling instead of the red. It's on Amazon for the same price, and it has the same nutritional values. They claim it has less artificial sweeteners in it, hence the natural label. In any case, this is the best vanilla out there. There is no aftertaste, and it tastes like vanilla milk. It is not as sweet as the others, but it the single best vanilla flavor I've found.
The middle of the road flavors:
Cookies and Cream - This one is both good and bad. If you like the creamy vanilla taste, you will like the flavor. It doesn't have a bad aftertaste, but it is sort bland. It is sweet, but bland. Also, the cookie chunks in it don't dissolve. This is the only flavor so far that has bits of stuff that you are swallowing when you drink it. It's odd. That said, I have reordered it in the past.
Chocolate Malt - It's just OK. The flavor is a little odd because of the malt. Given the choice, just order the Extreme Milk Chocolate.
Caramel Toffee Fudge - Again, just OK. They tried too hit to many flavors with this one, and it just turned out odd. Not a bad flavor, but don't start out here. I got bored so I tried it. I doubt I'll order it again.
And the bad:
Double Rich Chocolate - This flavor sucks. It tastes like fake chocolate. Not good fake chocolate, but generic fake chocolate. It has that bad aftertaste of fake sweetener, and is all around not good.
Vanilla Ice Cream - Another swing and a miss. This flavor tastes like bad fake powdered milk. It has that bad aftertaste, and is probably the single worst flavor they have. If you are looking for vanilla, avoid this at all costs and get the Natural Vanilla.
Tropical Punch - Another fake tasting flavor. When I got this, I could barely get through the first few shakes. Eventually it grew on me a little bit, and I was able to drink it without hating it. It tastes like strawberry milk with a bunch of fake sweetener. It's just wrong, and is not something you want to drink after a workout.
I know that taste varies from person to person, so take this with a grain of salt. I hate the taste of fake sweetener, so this list draws from that. I've taken to buying the 2lb tubs to try out a flavor, and then going with the 5lb tubs if I like it. It costs a bit more that way, but it means there is only 2lbs to choke down if you get a flavor that you hate.
Enjoy!
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From the brand
From the manufacturer
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Optimum Nutrition Protein
Gold Standard Whey Protein, Gold Standard Quality
We hold ourselves to the highest production standards – so you can unlock your body’s full potential
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Gold Standard Whey
24g of protein primarily from whey isolate
Excess carbohydrates, fat, and lactose ‘isolated out' using sophisticated filtering technologies
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Peak strength & recovery
For both performance & active lifestyle occasions
Protein can help build and maintain muscle when taken over time with regular resistance training
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Smash daily protein goals
Shake a scoop with 8oz water before/after exercise
Or try:
- A shaker cup with milk / water
- Mix in a smoothie or in your coffee
- Your favorite baking recipe
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Post-workout recovery
Wide range of great-tasting flavors- try them all!
Optimum Nutrition's whey protein is also instantized for easy mixing plus:
- 5.5g BCAAs
- 11g EEAs
1 Gold Standard Quality 2 World's #1 Protein Powder 3 Why Use ON's Whey Protein 4 ON Whey Protein Usage 5 ON Whey Protein Benefits
Stack your gains across Optimum Nutrition:
 ON WHEY PROTEIN POWDER |  CREATINE MONOHYDRATE |  GOLD STANDARD PRE WORKOUT |  ENERGY + HYDRATION DRINK |  CASEIN PROTEIN POWDER |  SERIOUS MASS PROTEIN |  AMINO ENERGY POWDER | |
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Customer Reviews
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204,722
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68,050
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1,844
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2,612
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14,432
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25,605
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15,483
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Price
| $83.53 | $37.52 | $41.95 | $24.99 | $47.95 | $49.03 | $24.67 |
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OPTIMUM BENEFIT
| Helps build & maintain muscle | Support muscle building | Pumps, energy & performance | On-the-go energy drink | Overnight muscle recovery | Mass gainer protein powder | Anytime energy & electrolytes |
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PRIMARY SUPPLEMENT
| Whey protein powder | Micronized creatine powder | Advanced preworkout powder | Caffeine with added hydration | Slow digesting protein powder | High calorie & performance | Energy powder with hydration |
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USAGE
| Before or after your workout | Supplement with your protein | 20 minutes before your workout | Anytime energy | After dinner or before bed | Before or after your workout | Anytime energy |
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Gluten Free
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
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Stackable with ON products?
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
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This Item  Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Rocky Road, 5 Pound (Packaging May Vary) |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Price | $84.99 | $88.55 | $84.99 | $84.99 | $49.88 | $22.51 |
| Price Per Unit | $1.06 / Ounce | $0.98 / Ounce | $1.06 / Ounce | $1.06 / Ounce | $0.79 / Ounce | $0.78 / Ounce |
| Delivery | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 | Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11 |
| Customer Ratings | ||||||
| Ingredient quality | ||||||
| Value for money | ||||||
| Flavor | ||||||
| Blending power | ||||||
| Sheerness | ||||||
| Sold By | Amazon.com | OnSaleNow! | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
| flavor | Rocky Road | S.MORES | Mocha Cappuccino | Chocolate Malt | (100% Whey) Chocolate Fudge | Deluxe Vanilla |
| protein source | whey | whey | whey | whey | whey | whey |
| weight | 5 pounds | 5 pounds | 2.27 kilograms | 5 pounds | 4 pounds | 0.21 pounds |
| target gender | unisex | — | unisex | unisex | unisex | unisex |
| carbohydrate info | 3.0 grams, 3.0 grams | — | 4.0 grams, 3.0 grams | 3.0 grams, 3.0 grams, 3.0 grams | 3 grams | — |
| energy info | 120.0 calories, 120.0 kilocalories | — | 120.0 calories, 120.0 kilocalories | 120.0 calories, 120.0 kilocalories | — | — |
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Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
Dan Spencer
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The Flavor, Macros, and Consistency Of This Protein Powder
Noah Nellis
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HONEST Review of Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder
Flawless After 40
Reviews with images
Gold Standard Whey Protein: A Flavorful Fitness Companion
Anyone looking for a protein powder that tastes great and performs as advertised should consider Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder. You're sure to enjoy at least one of the many flavors on offer. For me, it's the Vanilla Ice Cream, which I like to blend with milk and eat with cereal. Regardless of how you take it, though, it dissolves well and yields a creamy texture free of clumps and residues.This protein powder's potency in promoting muscle growth and recuperation from training is evident. You get high-quality protein with essential amino acids from a blend of whey protein isolates, concentrates, and peptides, all of which helps to increase muscle tone and strength. For frequent users, the 5-pound tubs are probably the most cost-effective way to go, but ON sells its protein powder in smaller sizes if you're still figuring out which flavor you like best.In my opinion, Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder provides the ideal balance of flavor, effectiveness, and affordability. Overall, it's a surprisingly tasty way to reach your health and fitness goals, regardless of where you are in the journey.
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States on May 13, 2013
Flavor Name: Double Rich ChocolateSize: 5 Pound (Pack of 1)Verified Purchase
Reviewed in the United States on February 20, 2024
Taste: Finding a protein powder that tastes good with just water can be a challenge, but the Delicious Strawberry flavor hits the mark. It's not overly sweet or artificial tasting, which is a significant plus. When mixed with almond milk or blended into smoothies, it's genuinely enjoyable, making it easy to look forward to my post-workout shake.
Mixability: One of the standout features of this whey protein is its mixability. It dissolves smoothly in both water and milk, without leaving any clumps or residues. Whether I'm using a shaker bottle or a blender, the result is always a smooth, easy-to-drink beverage. This ease of use enhances the overall experience and convenience.
Effectiveness: As for its core purpose—supporting muscle recovery and growth—I've noticed tangible benefits. My recovery times have improved, and I feel a noticeable difference in my muscle tone and strength since incorporating this protein powder into my routine. The high-quality protein content, including BCAAs and glutamine, certainly contributes to its effectiveness.
Value: With 5 pounds of protein powder, this tub offers a good number of servings, making it a cost-effective option for regular users. The quality of the product, combined with its taste and the reputable brand behind it, presents great overall value. It's an investment in my health and fitness that I feel good about.
Overall Experience: Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard 100% Whey in Delicious Strawberry is more than just a protein supplement; it's a part of my daily nutrition that I actually enjoy. The commitment to quality is evident in every aspect, from flavor to functionality. Whether you're an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone simply looking to add more protein to your diet, this product is a versatile and effective choice.
In conclusion, Optimum Nutrition lives up to its name, providing a gold standard product that supports fitness goals while pleasing the palate. The Delicious Strawberry flavor is a standout, proving that health and indulgence can go hand in hand. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a high-quality, great-tasting protein supplement.
Flavor Name: Delicious StrawberrySize: 5 Pound (Pack of 1)Verified Purchase
A Perfect Blend of Taste and Performance: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Review
Reviewed in the United States on February 20, 2024
Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder in Delicious Strawberry has been a game-changer for my fitness and dietary regimen. Offering a blend of whey protein isolates, concentrate, and peptides, this 5-pound tub not only supports muscle recovery and growth but does so with a flavor that makes each shake a treat. Here's a deeper dive into my experience:Reviewed in the United States on February 20, 2024
Taste: Finding a protein powder that tastes good with just water can be a challenge, but the Delicious Strawberry flavor hits the mark. It's not overly sweet or artificial tasting, which is a significant plus. When mixed with almond milk or blended into smoothies, it's genuinely enjoyable, making it easy to look forward to my post-workout shake.
Mixability: One of the standout features of this whey protein is its mixability. It dissolves smoothly in both water and milk, without leaving any clumps or residues. Whether I'm using a shaker bottle or a blender, the result is always a smooth, easy-to-drink beverage. This ease of use enhances the overall experience and convenience.
Effectiveness: As for its core purpose—supporting muscle recovery and growth—I've noticed tangible benefits. My recovery times have improved, and I feel a noticeable difference in my muscle tone and strength since incorporating this protein powder into my routine. The high-quality protein content, including BCAAs and glutamine, certainly contributes to its effectiveness.
Value: With 5 pounds of protein powder, this tub offers a good number of servings, making it a cost-effective option for regular users. The quality of the product, combined with its taste and the reputable brand behind it, presents great overall value. It's an investment in my health and fitness that I feel good about.
Overall Experience: Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard 100% Whey in Delicious Strawberry is more than just a protein supplement; it's a part of my daily nutrition that I actually enjoy. The commitment to quality is evident in every aspect, from flavor to functionality. Whether you're an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone simply looking to add more protein to your diet, this product is a versatile and effective choice.
In conclusion, Optimum Nutrition lives up to its name, providing a gold standard product that supports fitness goals while pleasing the palate. The Delicious Strawberry flavor is a standout, proving that health and indulgence can go hand in hand. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a high-quality, great-tasting protein supplement.
Images in this review
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Reviewed in Brazil on February 19, 2024Flavor Name: Double Rich ChocolateSize: 2 Pound (Pack of 1)Verified Purchase
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