The Benefits

Benefits of Third-Party Tested Protein | Protect Against Nitrogen Spiking

Certification by Informed Protein is a mark of assurance for athletes, dietitians, coaches, and those living an active lifestyle that the amount of protein they're paying for—or recommending—is actually in the product. This third-party testing helps protect against misleading practices like nitrogen spiking in protein supplements, ensuring the product meets label claims with verified accuracy.

What Is Nitrogen Spiking in Protein?

The protein market is a highly competitive segment within the dietary and functional food industry. However, not all supplements are created equally, and some less scrupulous manufacturers cut corners to improve their margins. There have been documented cases of brands engaging in amino spiking or nitrogen spiking protein products to artificially inflate the listed protein content. This deceptive practice misleads consumers and allows lower-quality products to undercut reputable brands, which often results in the loss of valuable shelf space. Numerous published studies—and our own in-house testing—have revealed that 25% of products on the market fail to meet label claims and, in some cases, contain harmful substances. These findings reinforce the importance of third-party testing and transparent labeling.

Having previously completed a Survey of Products in the US Market in 2022, we recently published a new report titled "Lab Tests vs Label Claims - Protein Supplement Product Survey" that delivered important findings about protein claims on 41 UK products including powders and ready-to-drink beverages across six different protein sources.

Download our Survey of Products in the UK Market

Consumers want value, but they are not willing to give up quality. Trust is all they have to go on, and so they often look for reviews to help them make decisions. Third-party independent testing and certification provide that assurance. It provides assurance that the produce is safer to take, and meets label claims. It is therefore a reflection of the brand’s integrity and helps build customer loyalty.

What Are the Benefits of Third-Party Testing Protein?

• Providing transparency in the industry and setting your brand apart from disreputable brands.
• Ensures the protein ingredients consumers are paying for are in the final product.
• Cost-effective ‘add-on’ with other INFORMED quality assurance programs offering bundled pricing.
• Listing on the INFORMED Protein website to showcase your brand and products.
• Providing assurance to your customers allowing you to build loyalty.
• This is backed up by independent research, carried out by Birkbeck University, which shows that certified brands increase market share, revenue, and profitability. It also provides greater brand reputation and consumer trust.

If you'd like to learn more about the benefits of certifying your products, fill in the form below and we will be in touch.