Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey: Complete Review
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey has been the world's best-selling whey protein for over 20 years (Jäger et al., 2017). But does that reputation still hold up today? In this review, we break down the ingredients, flavors, mixing, and price to help you decide if it's worth your money.
Who Is This Review For?
This article is for trainees considering the ON Gold Standard purchase, and for those wondering whether cheaper alternatives deliver the same quality. After reading, you'll know exactly what you're getting for your money.
TL;DR
- 24g protein per 30.4g scoop
- 5.5g BCAAs and 4g glutamine naturally occurring in whey
- Available in 900g (30 servings, €43.90) and 2.27kg (74 servings, €89.90)
- Price per serving: €1.21–€1.46 depending on package size
- Excellent mixability, wide flavor selection
- Contains isolate, concentrate, and peptides blend
Ingredients Analysis
Gold Standard uses three forms of whey protein:
1. Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) — Listed first, highest purity (>90% protein)
2. Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) — Good value (70-80% protein)
3. Whey Peptides — Pre-digested for fast absorption
Per 30.4g scoop you get:
- 24g protein (79% protein by weight)
- 1.5g fat (low)
- 3g carbohydrates (1g sugar)
- 120 calories
- Lactose is present but in small amounts
This is a solid formula. Isolate is listed first, meaning it's the most abundant ingredient in the blend. Some cheaper brands list concentrate first and add a token amount of isolate — Gold Standard doesn't cut that corner.
Amino Acid Profile
Each serving naturally contains:
- 5.5g BCAAs (including ~2.5g leucine)
- 4g glutamine and glutamic acid
- All 9 essential amino acids
Research shows that 2.5g leucine is the minimum threshold for triggering muscle protein synthesis (MPS). Gold Standard hits that mark with every serving.
Flavors and Mixing
ON is known for its flavors. Available at MaxFit.ee:
- Vanilla Ice Cream (2.27kg — €89.90) — The classic, sweet and creamy
- Strawberry (900g — €43.90) — Light, natural berry taste
Vanilla Ice Cream is the most popular flavor worldwide, and for good reason — it's sweet enough without tasting artificial. Strawberry is a solid choice for those who prefer lighter flavors.
Mixing: Gold Standard dissolves well in water, milk, and smoothies. Clumps are rare, even when stirring with a spoon. With a shaker, the result is perfectly smooth. The consistency is light and thin — not thick and sludgy like some mass gainers.
How to Use
Dosing
- Standard serving: 1 scoop (30.4g) mixed with 200-300ml water or milk
- Post-workout: 1–2 scoops within 30 minutes after training
- Morning: 1 scoop to increase daily protein intake
- Snack: 1 scoop with water between meals
Timing
Whey protein absorbs quickly (30-60 minutes). Best times:
1. Post-workout — The most important window
2. Morning — If you can't get enough protein from food
3. Between meals — To hit daily protein targets
Whey protein doesn't replace whole food. Aim for 1.6–2.2g protein per kg bodyweight per day, with protein powder filling the gap.
Who Should Buy ON Gold Standard?
Ideal For:
- Beginner lifters — Trusted brand that doesn't cheat on its formula
- Strength athletes — Adequate BCAAs and leucine for muscle growth
- Busy people — Simple, convenient protein source
- Taste-conscious buyers — Among the best-tasting proteins on the market
Less Ideal For:
- Lactose-intolerant individuals — Contains lactose (consider whey isolate like Dymatize ISO 100)
- Vegans — Animal-based product (see plant protein)
- Extreme budget shoppers — Cheaper alternatives exist
ON Gold Standard vs Alternatives
| Product | Price | Servings | Price/serving | Protein/serving | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ON Gold Standard 2.27kg | €89.90 | 74 | €1.21 | 24g | Isolate + concentrate |
| Scitec 100% Whey Professional 2.35kg | €68.90 | 78 | €0.88 | 22g | Concentrate |
| OstroVit 100% Whey Protein 2kg | €55.90 | 100 | €0.56 | 20g | Concentrate |
| MyProtein Impact Whey 1kg | €35.90 | 40 | €0.90 | 21g | Concentrate |
What This Table Shows
Gold Standard is the most expensive option but also delivers the highest protein content and an isolate-first formula. OstroVit is the best budget pick at €0.56/serving but uses concentrate only. Scitec offers a good compromise between price and quality.
Our take: If your budget allows and you value quality, Gold Standard is worth the premium. If budget is tight, OstroVit or Scitec are smart choices.
Common Mistakes with Protein Powder
1. Over-relying on protein powder — It's a supplement, not a meal replacement. Eat real food first.
2. Eyeballing scoops — Always use the included scoop. Guessing leads to inconsistent intake.
3. Mixing with hot water — Whey protein coagulates at high temperatures. Use cold or room-temperature water.
4. Drinking it all at once — Spread daily protein intake across 3–5 meals for optimal absorption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ON Gold Standard good for weight loss?
Yes. At 120 calories and 24g protein per serving, it's a solid choice during a cut. Protein helps preserve muscle mass in a caloric deficit and keeps you fuller for longer.
Does it contain lactose?
Yes, in small amounts. If you're lactose intolerant, consider a whey isolate like Dymatize ISO 100, which is virtually lactose-free.
Is Gold Standard Informed Sport certified?
Yes, select Optimum Nutrition products are Informed Sport tested, meaning they're screened for banned substances. This matters for competitive athletes.
Can I use this at any age?
Whey protein is a food supplement suitable for adults. Those under 18 should consult a doctor. Older trainees can benefit too — research shows older adults often need more protein (2.0g/kg).
Where to Buy in Estonia
MaxFit.ee carries Gold Standard Whey in both sizes with fast delivery across Estonia. Free shipping on orders over €75.
- ON Gold Standard Whey Strawberry 900g — €43.90
- ON Gold Standard Whey Vanilla Ice Cream 2.27kg — €89.90
Final Verdict
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey is the standard other brands measure themselves against — and for good reason. The formula is honest (isolate first), BCAA content is high, and flavors are among the best on the market. The only downside is a higher price tag, but in the larger tub it drops to €1.21 per serving, which is competitive for the premium segment.
---
Browse our protein powder selection at MaxFit.ee →
References
- Jäger, R. et al. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, 20.
- Morton, R.W. et al. (2018). A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 52(6), 376–384.
- Tang, J.E. et al. (2009). Ingestion of whey hydrolysate, casein, or soy protein isolate: effects on mixed muscle protein synthesis. Journal of Applied Physiology, 107(3), 987–992.
See also:
