LGC Publishes Protein Supplements Survey

16 May 2025

LGC Science recently published a new product survey title, "Lab Tests vs Label Claims: Protein Supplement Product Survey".

The product survey evaluates the accuracy of protein label claims for 41 UK products including powders and ready-to-drink beverages across a range of protein sources: casein, egg, milk, pea, soy, and whey.

The protein industry is expected to reach a market valuation of $41.1 billion USD by 2033¹. Protein products are the most popular form of sports nutrition supplements used by athletes, bodybuilders, and those living an active lifestyle.

Unfortunately for consumers, the rise in both popularity of the product, as well as the cost of protein, has led less reputable manufacturers to use a process called "protein spiking" in their products. "Protein spiking" refers to adding cheaper nitrogen-containing ingredients, such as lower-grade free amino acids, to the product to artificially inflate the determined protein content.

For consumers, especially athletes and individuals with specific dietary needs, accurate protein intake is essential for achieving fitness goals and maintaining overall health.

This is why LGC developed Informed Protein certification. Using a combination of protein supplement test procedures and a manufacturer assessment, Informed Protein provides athletes and consumers with the assurance that certified protein brands and product label claims have been verified independently; providing confidence that the amount of protein within a product matches what's listed on the label.

Supplement brands that have certified their product with Informed Protein are therefore able to build trust and reinforce brand integrity. Precise protein quantification allows for accurate nutritional information, enabling businesses to provide reliable data to their customers and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Review our Protein Supplements Survey today!

For those interested in US products, LGC conducted a similar survey in 2022, which tested 61 products across 35 brands. Access the full version of our US Protein Supplements Survey 

1 Protein Supplements Market Analysis by Protein Powders, Ready-to-drink, Protein Bars, and Others from 2023 to 2033.