Because it is Gold

One of the most common questions I get asked by my clients is why is one brand charging Rs. 4500/kg while another brand is charging Rs. 2000/kg of protein powder. The most common reason is purity. More expensive brands of whey contain higher concentration of protein meaning per 100g you get over 90% protein. This is called as “Isolate” protein. This is similar to how gold is categorized with 18K, 22K and 24K. The higher the purity the more expensive gold is.

Healthy Additives

Some protein powders can cost more because they would have fortified with vitamins, minerals and sometimes even creatine. All this can add to the increased cost. Some protein powders contain BCAAs and complete amino acid profiles which means all the essential amino acids are there in a single scoop. Thus the value you are getting per scoop is justified. In fact, these protein supplements can also fix your vitamin B12 and Vitamin D deficiency which is common today. You also get some rare minerals like magnesium and even zinc. Zinc is found mostly in sea food and meat which can be difficult for vegetarians to add in their normal diet.

Say No To Lactose

Another reason for higher price can be the presence of lactose in whey protein. Lactose in known to make you a biochemical weapon aka a fart machine. Some protein powders can be made of whey and have negligible or no lactose in them. This extra step in manufacturing increases cost and is passed on to the consumer.

Other brands can be vegan and can cost more. Generally vegan goods are priced at a premium and that can be an excuse why your protein powder is costlier.

Ee Sala Cup Namde

There are celebrities and athletes who endorse brands. This can be expensive for the manufacturer. This cost is something the consumer needs to bear. In fact, take a look at these two products. On Protein is 93% protein. NakPro is 90% protein. But On is endorsed by the cricket team Royal Challengers Bengaluru and is priced at nearly Rs. 4000/kg. However, NakPro has no such endorsement by anyone and is priced at less than half the cost for double the quantity (2kg pack)!

What Should I Buy?

Choosing a protein supplement which is inexpensive and not heavy on your wallet is always advisable. Ask yourself these questions:

1. Am I at risk of diabetes? If yes then go for isolate protein which is more expensive and has no carbs. Else whey concentrate shall do.
2. Do I need vitamins and minerals from whey or can I get it from a multivitamin pill? If you feel the latter is cheaper and it almost always yes… well you got your answer.
3. My favorite celebrity is endorsing a whey protein brand, buying it means I will help him afford his next farm house. Should I buy what he has endorsed? – Do I really need to answer this now?