Optimum Nutrition Hormone-Free Recovery Protein Powder

Last updated: June 1, 2023


The primary ingredient here is whey protein isolates. When combined with ultra-filtered whey protein concentrate, this protein powder packs serious muscle-building power. There are 20 different flavors to choose from. Plus, it's user-friendly and easy to shake into a smooth, lump-free drink.

Optimum Nutrition Hormone-Free Recovery Protein Powder

We looked at the top Protein Powders and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Protein Powder you should buy.

Product Details

Key Takeaway: This protein powder comes in 20 flavors and is easy to use.

In our analysis of 108 expert reviews, the Optimum Nutrition Hormone-Free Recovery Protein Powder placed 25th when we looked at the top 25 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

OPTIMUM NUTRITION’S GOLD STANDARD 100% Whey uses pure Whey Protein Isolates as the primary ingredient. Combined with ultra-filtered whey protein concentrate, each serving provides 24 grams of all-whey protein and 5.5 grams of naturally occurring Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) which are prized by athletes for their muscle building qualities. With more than 20 tempting flavors to choose from, ON GOLD STANDARD 100% Whey gives you plenty of ways to keep workout recovery interesting. Search “ON Apparel TRUE STRENGTH” to see our new ON clothing line!

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

It’s easy to mix in a shaker bottle or to blend with a spoon; after we shook or stirred it for 30 seconds, the texture was smooth with no chunks or lumps left, unlike several other powders we tried.
Gets excellent ratings for taste and effectiveness. The go-to powder for those who want an all-whey supplement.
It mixes well with both water and milk, likely due to the lecithin, which helps to improve mixability. I typically shake up my protein in a mason jar, but even if you’re just stirring with a spoon, it dissolves nicely into the fluid — just make sure you’re stirring fast!
These are digestive enzymes intended to help someone break down dietary protein and lactose (milk sugar) respectively. Digestive enzymes are have been taken by bodybuilders, weightlifters, and fitness enthusiasts for many years to assist with performance and physique goals.
Comes in a wide variety of flavors. There are several users who have tried it and have enjoyed the results.
Different flavors and sizes to choose from.

What reviewers didn't like

The main complaints we have about this powder are complaints we have about all powders—the taste is not, shall we say, delightful.
If you don't want all whey, this may not be ideal for you.
Contains artificial sweeteners
Whey protein powder can cause a number of digestive problems, whether due to the milk content or soy lecithin.
The Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Isolate is pretty high in lactose
The texture is very sandy and thick
View our Protein Powder buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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