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#3 in Protein Powders Third-Party Tested

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Naturally Flavored

by Optimum Nutrition

"24g whey protein with no artificial sweeteners — the naturally flavored Gold Standard for those avoiding sucralose and acesulfame-K"

Amazon Rating
4.6/5
Reviews
8,400+
Price Range
$56-68
Servings
68 servings
Informed ChoiceBanned Substance Tested
Our Editorial Rating
8.2
Very Good
FormPowder
SubcategoryWhey Protein (Natural Flavoring)
View on Amazon

Overview

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Naturally Flavored provides the same 24g protein blend (whey isolate primary, whey concentrate, whey peptides) as the original Gold Standard but sweetened with stevia instead of sucralose and acesulfame potassium. This addresses the #1 complaint about the original Gold Standard — artificial sweeteners. The formula maintains the same amino acid profile (5.5g BCAAs, 4g glutamine) and mixability that made Gold Standard the world's best-selling protein powder. Available in Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry.

Key Ingredients

IngredientAmount
Whey Protein Blend24 g
BCAAs (naturally occurring)5.5 g
Glutamine & Glutamic Acid4 g

Pros & Cons

What We Like

  • No artificial sweeteners
  • 24g protein
  • Gold Standard quality
  • 68 servings
  • 8,400+ reviews

What Could Be Better

  • Stevia aftertaste for some
  • Premium over original
  • Fewer flavor options
  • Still contains soy lecithin

Who Is This For?

Best For

  • Those avoiding artificial sweeteners
  • Natural ingredient preference
  • Gold Standard loyalists
  • Clean label seekers

Not Ideal For

  • Those who dislike stevia
  • Budget seekers
  • Those wanting more flavors
  • Soy-sensitive individuals

Our Verdict

8.2/10 — Very Good

ON Gold Standard Naturally Flavored is the clean-label Gold Standard — same 24g protein, same quality, but stevia instead of sucralose/acesulfame-K. The natural alternative for the world's best-selling protein.

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