Optimum Nutrition on Tuesday expanded its Gold Standard protein line with the brand's first plant-based protein powder. ON Gold Standard 100% Plant has a multisource blend of plant-based protein that delivers a complete profile of essential amino acids without any artificial flavors, colors or sweeteners.
"As a global leader in protein, we worked to develop a premium offering to serve the growing population that prefers plant-based protein sources as part of their personal diet plans. It was our goal to develop a plant-based protein option that represents the level of quality, nutritional value, texture and great taste that is so closely associated with the ON Gold Standard brand," Stuart Heflin, director of North American marketing for ON, said.
A recent Nielsen global survey revealed that 23% of consumers want more plant-based protein options on the market. The survey also found that 39% of Americans are trying to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets, and that preference for plant-based options is not limited to only those who practice a strictly vegetarian or vegan diet. Among the reasons for the interest in a plant-based diet, people cite improved overall health, weight management, a desire to eat clean or personal convictions.
"Whatever their reasons for choosing a plant-based protein, consumers should not have to compromise on taste and texture," Heflin said. "We heard the common concerns about plant proteins – including aftertaste or chalky texture – and innovated to eliminate them. We created ON Gold Standard 100% Plant to taste great and mix easily, and we believe people will be very excited about the result."
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant is made from a blend of organic pea, organic rice and organic sacha inchi proteins, delivering 24 grams of complete protein per serving. It includes a gluten-free complex of ancient grains including amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, millet and chia as well as organic pomegranate powder. In addition to supporting muscle recovery, ON Gold Standard 100% Plant also contains 100% of the Daily Value for vitamin C and is a source of vitamin B12.
ON Gold Standard 100% Plant is available in three flavors – chocolate, vanilla and mixed berry.
Consumers can find ON Gold Standard 100% Plant online or at nutrition retailers nationwide at a suggested retail price of $39.99.