NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate
Value seekers who want the most protein per dollar with Informed Sport certification
Garden of Life SPORT Organic Plant-Based Protein
Organic-focused consumers who prioritize NSF and USDA certifications (note heavy metal flag)
Score Comparison
Pricing & Features
Making Your Decision
When to Choose NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate
Value seekers who want the most protein per dollar with Informed Sport certification
NOW Sports delivers the best value in this comparison at $0.89/serving for 81 servings. The unflavored single-ingredient isolate is as pure as it gets. Informed Sport certification adds credibility. The trade-off is taste and aesthetics — this is no-frills protein at its most practical.
Strengths
- Best protein-per-dollar value — 81 servings at $0.89/serving
- Single-ingredient unflavored option for maximum purity
- Informed Sport certified with GMP-compliant manufacturing
Limitations
- Unflavored version has a bland dairy taste — best mixed into smoothies
- Lower protein per serving (25g) in unflavored compared to some competitors
- Basic packaging and branding lacks the premium feel of boutique brands
When to Choose Garden of Life SPORT Organic Plant-Based Protein
Organic-focused consumers who prioritize NSF and USDA certifications (note heavy metal flag)
Garden of Life SPORT checks every certification box — NSF for Sport, USDA Organic, Non-GMO Verified. However, Consumer Reports flagged elevated lead levels at 4-6x their daily safety limit, which significantly impacts the heavy metal safety score. Buyers should weigh the strong certifications against the contamination data.
Strengths
- NSF Certified for Sport plus USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified triple certification
- Organic plant blend with probiotics and enzymes for digestive support
- 30g protein per serving from organic pea, navy bean, lentil, and garbanzo sources
Limitations
- Consumer Reports flagged lead at 4-6x daily safety concern level — significant safety concern
- Grittier texture than whey-based competitors due to plant protein blend
- Organic certification adds cost without directly addressing heavy metal contamination
