Why is 100% Whey Native Whey Protein Blend classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product receives a NOVA 4 rating because it combines isolated whey proteins, cocoa processed with alkali, and several functional ingredients that are industrially refined; the listed additives are lecithin (E322i) as an emulsifier, stevia leaf extract (E960) as a natural sweetener, and natural flavors, all of which contribute to its ultra‑processed status.

How does the sugar and salt content of this protein powder affect people with diabetes or hypertension?

With 3 g of sugar per 100 g, the powder is low in sugar and unlikely to cause large blood‑glucose spikes, but individuals with diabetes should still account for the carbohydrate amount. The salt content of 0.87 g per 100 g is lower than many protein supplements yet adds to daily sodium intake, so hypertensive persons should monitor total consumption.

Is this whey protein blend suitable for gluten‑free, keto, or vegan diets?

The product is certified gluten‑free, making it safe for those avoiding gluten. Its low carbohydrate (4 g per 100 g) and sugar content fit well with keto guidelines, but it contains whey, a dairy protein, so it is not suitable for vegan diets.

Ascent

100% Whey Native Whey Protein Blend

Dietary Supplements

Product Insights

100% Whey Native Whey Protein Blend is a high-protein, gluten-free supplement made from a blend of native whey protein isolate, whey protein isolate, and whey protein concentrate, flavored with cocoa, natural flavors, and sweetened with stevia. Each 33 g serving provides 25 g protein, 4 g carbohydrates (including 1 g sugar), 1 g fat, 0.5 g saturated fat, and 0.29 g salt, placing it close to the category average for protein but higher in salt and lower in sugar, while its NOVA 4 classification reflects its ultra-processed nature and the presence of additives such as lecithin (E322i) and stevia (E960). According to the French PNNS classification it belongs to the milk-and-dairy products group, and although it offers a convenient source of high-quality dairy protein, consumers should consider the salt level and additive content.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal364 kcal

Iron3 mg

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average protein powder, this blend contains less fat (3.0 g vs 4.8 g), slightly less sugar (3.0 g vs 3.8 g) and salt (0.87 g vs 1.71 g), while delivering substantially more protein (75.8 g vs 66.1 g) per 100 g.

Ingredients

WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE BLEND (NATIVE WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE, WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE), WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE, COCOA (PROCESSED WITH ALKALI), NATURAL FLAVORS, LECITHIN, SEA SALT, STEVIA LEAF EXTRACT

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about 100% Whey Native Whey Protein Blend.

Ascent

68 oz