SAN is a well-known sports nutrition company with a wide product range.  SAN supplements we’ve reviewed elsewhere on UltimateFatBurner.com include Tight (fat loss), Estrodex (estrogen control) and MyoTEST (testosterone booster). The product line also includes a number of nutritional products, such as Infusion – which is described as a “nutrient complex.”  According to the company, Infusion  “… effectively stimulates growth, increases metabolism, promotes fat loss and hormonal equilibrium.”  It comes in four flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Oatmeal, Wildberry Yogurt and Vanilla Caramel.

Manufacturer’s Description: ”The introduction of Infusion starts a whole new era in “anabolic” nutrition. Formulated with an unsurpassed anabolic nutrient matrix, Infusion effectively stimulates growth, increases metabolism, promotes fat loss and hormonal equilibrium.

Unlike any nutrient complex ever formulated, Infusion’s anabolic potentiating and fat incinerating properties are a result of the biggest and latest technological breakthroughs in Performance nutrition to date! Infused with an unparalleled protein matrix, growth factors and hormonal modulating essential fatty acids (EFA’s), Infusion sets a whole new criteria to which all nutrient formulas will be judged.”

Calories 310 Calories From Fat 90 Total Fat 10g Saturated Fat 3.5g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 25mg Sodium 115mg Potassium 750mg Total Carbohydrate 14g Dietary Fiber 7g

Soluble Fiber 1g Insoluble Fiber 6g Sugars 2g Protein 47g Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 90% Iron 10% Phosphorus 50% Magnesium 15%

Ingredients: Micellar Casein, Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate, Calcium Caseinate, Sunflower Creamer (High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Corn Syrup Solids, Sodium Caseinate, Mono And Di-Glycerides, Dipotassium Phosphate, Soy Lecithin), Oat Fiber (Avena Sativa) (Seed), Flaxseed (Linumusitatissimum), Sunflower Oil (Helianthus Annuus) (Seed), Natural And Artificial Flavors, Conjugated Linoleic Acid Calcium Salt, Medium Chain Triglycerides, Modified Food Starch, Stabilized Rice Bran (Oryza Sativa) (Seed), Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten- Glutamine Peptide(Triticum Aestivum) (Seed), Bifidobacterium Bifidum, Xanthan Gum, Di-Potassium Phosphate, Acesulfame Potassium, Colostrum Powder, Lactalbumin, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Sucralose.

Comments: Infusion is a straightforward supplement with some quality ingredients (such as micellar casein). One serving delivers a solid amount of protein (47g), fiber (7g) and calories (310). It’s virtually a meal replacement, and could probably be used as one during a cutting phase. It’s also an great source of calcium and potassium—minerals that most people don’t consume enough of. In addition, it’s low in sodium (a mineral that most people consume TOO much of), and even provides some gut-healthy, probiotic cultures.  The fat content is moderate as well, and comes from some fairly healthy sources.

Infusion doesn’t quite cut it in the TASTE department, however. I ordered a container of the Vanilla Caramel, as the last few protein powders I trialed were chocolate, and I wanted something different. This may have been a mistake, however, as the Vanilla Caramel was disappointingly flat.

Now, I don’t expect anything vanilla-flavored to knock my socks off, but there are plenty of vanilla protein powders out there that are pretty good, if not outstanding (”Cake Batter” Monster Milk comes to mind). But my container of Infusion was was dull and lifeless even by “plain vanilla” standards… edible (ok, drinkable), but well below the standard set by Cytosport, Optimum, etc.

Nonetheless, Infusion stilll appears to be a well-made product from a nutritional perspective, and of the four different flavors, maybe I just chose the clunker… the Cinnamon Oatmeal, Wildberry Yogurt and/or the Chocolate Peanut Butter have good reviews and might have worked better.

At the end of the day, Infusion is still chock-full of high-quality protein and fiber; and looks like a solid choice for anyone looking for a “value-added” protein supp.

Taste: 2.5/5.0

Quality: 4.5/5.0

Efficacy: 4.0/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

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Cytosport’s Muscle Milk is one of the all-time classic bodybuilding protein/mass-building supplements. Not only is it designed to facilitate lean gains, but it also comes in a mouth-watering assortment of different flavors. Not surprisingly, its popularity has spawned a range of related products, notably Muscle Milk Light, EvoPro, Muscle Milk Bars and Muscle Milk n’ Oats.

Evidently Cytosport isn’t through exploring the possibilities, however, as it recently introduced a new, “Monster” line of supps, with products that overlap the Muscle Milk brand. Thus, in addition to Muscle Milk, the company now offers “Monster Milk”, which has already cracked the top 50 products over at Bodybuilding.com (as of this writing it’s #42). Monster Milk doesn’t come in quite as many flavors as its predecessor, but it’s still a tempting array: Banana Creme, Brownie Batter, Cake Batter, Chocolate, Cookies ‘N Creme, Mocha Latte, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Strawberries ‘N Creme and Vanilla Creme.

Manufacturer’s Description: MONSTER MILK™ is the most powerful, easily digestible, sustained-release protein formula. Rapid-releasing anabolic whey, glutamine peptides and free form BCAA’s are complemented by slower, anti-catabolic caseins and other complete protein isolates. This powerful combination of fast and slow proteins create an “anabolic window” that lasts for hours. Although it tastes like an ultra-rich milkshake, MONSTER MILK’s advanced protein system makes it the ultimate nutritional tool for building monster-size muscle.

Calories 350 Calories From Fat 80 Total Fat 9g Saturated Fat 3g Cholesterol 30mg Total Carbohydrate 18g Dietary Fiber 5g Soluble Fiber 4g Insoluble Fiber 1g Sugars 4g

Protein 50g Thiamin (As Thiamin Mononitrate) 2mg 100% Riboflavin 2mg 100% Vitamin B6 (As Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 4mg 200% Folate (As Folic Acid) 400mcg 100% Vitamin B12 (As Cyanocobalamin) 30mcg 500% Calcium 250mg 25% Chromium (As Chromium Nicotinate) 120mcg 100% Sodium 370mg 16% Potassium 810mg 23%

Monster Amino Acid Matrix™ 5g L-Glutamine, Glutamine Peptides (Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten), L-Valine, L-Leucine, L-IsoleucineMonster Creatine Matrix™ 1g Kre-Alkalyn (Buffered Creatine, Patent #6,399,661), Creatine GCC (Betaine Anydrous, Glycocyamine). Other Ingredients: Proprietary Protein Blend (Milk Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate, Calcium Sodium Caseinate, L-Glutamine, Glutamine Peptides, Lactoferrin, L-Valine, L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine), LeanLipids™ Plus (Sunflower And/Or Safflower Oil, Medium Chain Triglycerides, Canola Oil, Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), Cocoa Powder, Maltodextrin, Digestive Resistant Maltodextrin (Soluble Dietary Fiber), Fructose, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Potassium Chloride, Monster Creatine Matrix (Kre-Alkalyn (Buffered Creatine, Patent #6,399,661), Betaine Anhydrous, Glycocyamine), Fructo-Oligosaccharide, Gum Blend (Xanthan, Cellulose, Carrageenan), Aminogen® (Patented Bioactive Polypeptide Enzyme System), Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose.

Comments: In spite of the similiarities, there are a few differences between Monster Milk and Muscle Milk. The former has a little less fat, considerably more protein (50g vs. 32g) and higher doses of certain B-vitamins, plus added amino acids and creatine. Nonetheless, it’s hard to draw a bright line between the two, as they both provide an equivalent number of calories; are fairly low in sugar/carbs, and (mostly) utilize the same protein and fat sources.

Monster Milk contains various additions: B-vitamins, creatine, l-glutamine, BCAAs and Aminogen, but – with the exception of the vites – these look pretty underwhelming.  Every little bit helps, I suppose, but these are supplied in amounts well below typical supplemental levels… thus, it’s tough to say what they really add (if anything) to the formula.

Nonetheless, Monster Milk outshines Muscle Milk in the protein and B-vitamin department, which can’t be bad. It also supplies a decent amount of dietary fiber and calories.  There really isn’t much more that I expect from a supplement of this kind. 

Oh yeah… except maybe taste. Needless to state, Monster Milk also tastes great! I sampled three different flavors: Chocolate, Brownie Batter and Peanut Butter Chocolate. Although the Brownie Batter was my personal favorite, all three were delish… rich-tasting and filling. My kids—who usually wrinkle their noses at the stuff I test—also gave them two thumbs up.

So all things considered, I liked Monster Milk. It may be a little light on the additions, but it’s heavy on the protein, taste and satisfaction—which is where it ultimately counts.

Taste: 5.0/5.0

Quality: 4.5/5.0

Efficacy: 3.5/5.0

Value: 2.5/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

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Myo Lean Evolution is a meal replacement product (MRP) made by Myogenix, a manufacturer of bodybuilding/sports supplements. It’s an even lower carb/sugar alternative to Myo Lean, the company’s low-glycemic index MRP.  Myo Lean Evolution comes in five flavors: Chocolate Chunk, Vanilla Cream, Banana Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Strawberry.

Manufacturer’s Description: “Myo Lean Evolution has set the new standard for meal supplements by providing the most technically advanced blend of whey isolates and slow releasing proteins, and combining them with the highest quality “healthy” fats, all in a low carb, low glycemic formula. We intended on making a”perfect meal” for the elite athlete. We ended up with a product so loaded with high quality raw materials, so nutrient dense, it would benefit not only elite athletes looking to add powerful lean muscle, but anyone looking to improve their health and physique through nutrition. Plus, in the tradition of all Myogenix products, it tastes great!”

Calories 280 Total Fat 8g Saturated Fat 0.5g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 240mg Potassium 1040mg Total Carbohydrate 13g Dietary Fiber 6g Sugars 1g Protein 42g Vitamin A 5000IU 100%	Vitamin B1 1.5mg 100% Vitamin B2 1.7mg 100% Vitamin B6 2mg 100% Vitamin B12 6mcg 100% Vitamin C 60mg 100% Vitamin D 400IU 100% Vitamin E 30IU 100% Vitamin K 80mcg 100% Biotin 300mcg 100% Calcium 340mg 34% Chromium 120mcg 100%	Copper 2mg 100% Folate 400mcg 100% Iodine 300mcg 100% Manganese 800mcg 100% Molybdenum 75mcg 100% Niacin 20mg 100% Phosphorus 269mg 27% Pantothenic Acid 20mg 100% Selenium 70mcg 100% Zinc 15mg 100%
Ingredients: Pentaprotein 50/50™ An Exclusive Blend Of Proteins Chosen For Their Anabolic And Anti-Catabolic Properties (Cross Flow, Micro Filtered Whey Protein Isolates, Egg Albumin, Micellar Alpha And Beta Caseinates, 90% Isolated Milk Proteins, Whole Egg Protein), BeneFat™ A Unique Combination Of Healthy Fats Chosen To Promote Thermogenesis And Support Vital Metabolic Functions (CLA, Borage Oil, Sunflower Oil, Lecithin, MCT’s, Organic Cold Pressed Flaxseed, Tocopherols), Cocoa Powder, Natural Fiber And Carb Complex Selected To Control Blood Sugar And Support Daily Regularity (Rice Bran, Chicory Extract, Oat Bran, Nutritive Saccharides Obtained From Starch, Crystalline Fructose, Cellulose, Bamboo Fiber), Essential Nutrient Complex (Peptide Bonded Glutamine, Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine, Tyrosine, Taurine, Protease, Bifidobacterium Bifidum, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Aminogen), Vitamin And Mineral Blend, Citric Acid, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum, Carrageenan, Sucralose.

Comments: I picked up a container of “Chocolate Chunk” Myo Lean Evolution from Bodybuilding.com for $30.95 (approx $2.00 per serving). It turned out to be pretty tasty. It also blended fairly well, and was quite filling—especially when mixed with milk instead of water. I thought it was great as a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack—especially since I’m (usually) working at those times and don’t like to stop and eat more complicated meals.

It also appears to be a pretty well-made product: it’s low in sugar, provides the RDAs for most of the major vites and minerals, contains a decent amount of fiber, and supplies a generous amount of protein. In addition, there are some “extras”, such as CLA, added amino acids and probiotics.  I suspect the latter may be underdosed, as nutrients like amino acids need to be taken in multi-gram doses to be effective.  Nonetheless, I think this is a minor issue – they may not add much, but certainly don’t detract from the product either.

All in all, I liked Myo Lean Evolution and would buy it again… Good stuff!

Taste: 4.5/5.0

Quality: 4.5/5.0

Efficacy: 4.0/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

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The Greens+ product line is the creation of Sam Graci, the head of Orange Peel Enterprises.  Graci created the original Greens+ superfood drink in 1990 – inspired by the desire to help his disabled sister-in-law live a healthier life.  Since that time, the line has expanded to include other drinks, protein powders, supplements and bars.  The protein bars come in 4 basic flavors: Natural Peanut Butter, Chocolate-Coated Peanut Butter, Wild Berry Burst and Whey Protein Krisp.

Manufacturer’s Description: We’ve combined organically grown superfoods, whey protein, high energy herbal extracts and a little agave nectar to produce the only cold-processed, alkaline-forming, protein-rich green food bar. The GREENS+® Protein Bar contains no processed sugar, salt, corn syrup, hydrogenated oil, synthetic sweeteners, preservatives, or genetically-modified foods of any kind.

The GREENS+® Protein Bar delivers low-glycemic carbohydrates, essential fatty acids and biologically-complete protein to help build lean muscle and balance the body’s blood sugar. Perfect for athletes seeking an edge, students, travelers, children of all ages, and anyone in need of optimum energy, superior well being, and peak performance.

Serving Size 1 bar (59g) Calories 240 Calories from Fat 100 Total Fat 11g Monosaturated Fat 4g Saturated Fat 2.5g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 45mg Total Carbohydrates 20g

Dietary Fiber 2g Sugars 17g Protein 20g Vitamin A 3200iu 70% Vitamin B6 .10mg 5% Vitamin B12 12mcg 216% Vitamin C 18mg 30% Vitamin E 40iu 133% Calcium 60mg 6% Iron 2mg 13%

Ingredients: Organic peanut butter, whey protein isolate, organic agave nectar, organic quinoa sprout powder, original GREENS+® (GMO-free soy lecithin, organic Hawaiian spirulina, organic apple fiber, barley grass powder, wheat grass powder, Japanese chlorella, hydroponic soy sprouts, organic brown rice bran, sprouted barley malt, alfalfa grass powder, dairy-free probiotics, royal jelly, Montana bee pollen, acerola berry juice, natural vitamin E, licorice root powder, milk thistle extract, echinacea root extract, Siberian eleuthero root extract, astragalus root extract, licorice root extract, organic red beet juice, dunaliella salina algae, organic Nova Scotia Dulse, organic ginkgo biloba leaf extract, organic Japanese green tea extract, grape seed and skin extract, organic Swedish bilberry extract), organic brown rice crisps, Omega 3 Chia seed oil, mixed tocopherols (natural vitamin E).

Comments: I picked up a box of a dozen Natural Peanut Butter bars from www.iherb.com for $24.40 (US). This is considerably less than the price I would have paid buying direct from the company ($35.88).

The bars look quite simple: they’re basically firm, smooth, brownish-greenish slabs of nougat – no layers or coating. They have a smooth, homogenous texture and are quite chewy, although not excessively so. Despite the color, they don’t taste “grassy” or “herby” – just mildly sweet with a pleasant – but not powerful – peanut butter flavor.

So, not great… but definitely ok.

The bars provide a decent amount of high quality protein (from whey), as well as some green “superfood” nutrition from Greens+ powder. There’s even some chia seed oil to provide some omega-3 fats. The bars are filling without being particularly high in calories, so they’d make a decent snack for someone on a reduced calorie diet.

One of the things I liked about the Greens+ bars is that – unlike many other protein bars – they’re made from actual food ingredients, vs. additives. Thus, they don’t taste much like traditional candy bars, but are also more “real”. Personally, I think they’d make good snacks for traveling, as they’re nutritious, can slip easily into a purse or pocket, and are firm enough to resist being mangled.

Taste: 2.5/5.0

Quality: 5.0/5.0

Efficacy: 5.0/5.0

Value: 3.5/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

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Muscle Milk Light is Cytosport’s answer to those who like the taste of Muscle Milk, but don’t want the extra calories.  Like the original formula, Muscle Milk Light is based on EvoPro, Cytosport’s proprietary casein-whey protein blend.  While Muscle Milk Light doesn’t come in quite as many flavors as regular Muscle Milk, it’s still a pretty impressive array: Banana Creme, Chocolate Caramel Swirl, Chocolate Milk, Chocolate Mint, Cookies N Creme, Creme Brulee, Dark Chocolate, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Strawberry Banana, Strawberry Milkshake and Vanilla Creme.

Manufacturer’s Description: “A great way to get all the great taste and performance of Muscle Milk® with half the fat and significantly less calories! Muscle Milk Light delivers the same nutrition-rich, flavor-packed indulgence of Muscle Milk, but with 50% less fat and 35% fewer calories.* So why make a light version? Because there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all body. The athlete training for football season needs more sustained energy than the athlete training for beach season.”

*comparison based on per serving of original Muscle Milk powder to Muscle Milk Light powder.

Serving Size 2 Scoops (50g) Calories 195 Calories From Fat 50 Total Fat 6g Saturated Fat 2.5g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 115mg Potassium 620mg Total Carbohydrate 11g Dietary Fiber 1g Sugars 2g Protein 25g Vitamin A 1750IU 35% Vitamin C 21mg 35% Vitamin D 140IU 35% Vitamin E 11IU 35%

Thiamine 0.5mg 35% Riboflavin 0.6mg 35% Niacin 7mg 35% Vitamin B6 0.7mg 35% Folate 140mcg 35% Vitamin B12 2.1mcg 35% Biotin 105mcg 35% Pantothenic Acid 4mg 35% Calcium 600mg 60% Iron 6mg 35% Phosphorus 350mg 35% Iodine 53mcg 35% Magnesium 140mg 35% Zinc 5mg 35% Copper 0.7mg 35% Chromium 108mcg 90%

Ingredients: EvoPro™(Micellar Alpha And Beta Caseins And Caseinates, Whey Concentrates Rich In Alpha-Lactalbumin, Whey Isolates, Whey Peptides, L-Glutamine, Taurine, Lactoferrin), Maltodextrin, Lean Lipids™(Trans Fat Free Lipid Complex Consisting Of Sunflower And/Or Safflower Oil, MCT’s, Canola Oil, L-Carnitine), Cocoa Powder, CytoVite I™ (Vitamin And Mineral Premix Consisting Of Vitamin A Acetate, Cholecalciferol, D-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate, Ascorbic Acid, Folate, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Niacinamide, Pyridoxine HCL, Cyanocobalamin, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Di-Calcium Phosphate, Potassium Iodide, Potassium Chloride, Ferrous Fumarate, Magnesium Oxide, Copper Gluconate, Zinc Oxide, Chromium Nicotinate), Fructose, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Acesulfame Potassium, Cellulose Gum, Xanthan Gum, Carrageenan, Sucralose, Soy Lecithin.

Comments: I purchased two 1.65 lb. containers of Muscle Milk Light powder from  Bodybuilding.com: Chocolate Peanut Butter (above) and Cookies N Creme.  Each container cost $24.89, which works out to $1.67 per serving… a relatively decent price for a meal replacement-type product.  Bodybuilding.com has a running “buy 2 get one free” offer, which would have made it even cheaper… however, according to the customer service rep I spoke to, all three have to be the same flavor.  So I ended up with only two, since I wanted to sample a couple different ones (bummer!).

 (It’s a shame Cytosport doesn’t take a page out of Optimum Nutrition’s book, and make a variety pack featuring all the different flavors of Muscle Milk/Muscle Milk Light.  They’d really be doing their customers a favor.)

At any rate, I can’t say I was unhappy with the choices I made: the Chocolate Peanut Butter was more dark than milk chocolatey (which I liked); and the Cookies N Creme was appropriately Oreo-like.  I enjoyed both, although taste-wise, I think Muscle Milk Light ranks a bit below regular Muscle Milk.  The difference is that it contains more gums/thickeners to replace the mouthfeel of the missing fat.  Mixed in water, this gives it a somewhat thicker texture than the original, although this was less pronounced in milk, or blended with ice cubes to make a faux “milkshake”.

Judged on its own merits, however, Muscle Milk Light is pretty tasty as well as nutritious: it contains a solid amount (25g) of high quality protein per serving, as well as decent amounts of the standard vitamins and minerals.  The high potassium content (420 – 620mg) was a pleasant surprise: Americans don’t consume enough of this important mineral.  I would have preferred a higher fiber content, though: original Muscle Milk contains 5g/serving, while the Light version contains only 1g.

This isn’t a fatal flaw, however. Overall, Muscle Milk Light is a solid product that works well as either a general purpose protein supplement or a reduced calorie meal replacement.  It’s tasty, filling and comes in a tempting range of flavors, so it’s worth checking out:  it shouldn’t be hard to find one (or more) you’ll love.

Taste: 4.5/5.0

Quality: 4.5/5.0

Efficacy: 5.0/5.0

Value: 3.5/5.0

Overall: 4.5/5.0

Muscle Milk Light is available from Bodybuilding.com!

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The Protein Cookie is the original creation of The Protein Bakery – a New Zealand company specializing in high fiber/low carb, wheat/gluten-free cookies.  Now available in the US through Fit Foods LLC, The Protein Cookie is targeted towards the sports nutrition market.  They come in four flavors: Chocolate Chip, Ginger ‘n Spice, Mochaccino and Chocolate Fudge.

Manufacturer’s Description: After 1 ½ years in development we have launched a new product called “The Protein Cookie”. A moreish, yummy, soft baked, healthy snack serving as a great alternative to all the health/protein bars & shakes. Perfect for “people sick & tired of the bar scene!” Also a great indulgent snack, minus the guilt!

These cookies are great for energy, strength, speed, endurance, body building, recovery, dieting, Celiac, general health, injury and achieving the best quality of life.

Serving Size: 1 Cookie (64g) Calories 290 Calories From Fat 120 Total Fat 13g Saturated Fat 4.5g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 20mg Sodium 200mg Potassium 290mg Total Carbohydrate 29g

Fiber 15g Sugars 0.5g Sugar Alcohols 11g Protein 15g Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 25% Magnesium 15% Iron 15%

Ingredients: Milk Protein, Almonds, Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips (Chocolate Liquor, Polydextrose, Inulin, Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Powder, Sodium Bicarbonate, Soy Lecithin, Sucralone, Vanilla, Acesulfame Potassium), Margarine (Palm Oil, Water, Salt, Whey, Vegetable Monoglycerides, Soy Lecithin, Natural Butter Flavor, Citric Acid (acidulant), Beta Carotene (color), Vitamin A Palmitate), Erythritol, Eggs, Polydextrose, Vegetable Glycerine, Oligofructose, Cocoa, Natural Flavors, Soy Lecithin, Rice Flour, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Sodium Aluminum Phosphate, Baking Soda, Cream of Tartar, Salt, Sorbitol, Sucralose.

Comments: I bought a box of 12 Chocolate Fudge Protein Cookies (shown above) for $19.99. Each cookie is individually wrapped and large enough to sink your teeth into (2.26 oz). The cookies themselves were sweet and chocolately, with a firm, dense, cakey texture. They were also rather dry…although this was less noticeable when accompanied by (my usual) large cup of tea.

Of course, consuming these with tea or some other liquid is probably a good idea, beyond compensating for the dryness, as each cookie also contains an impressive amount of dietary fiber: 15g. Fortunately, the bulk of the remaining carbs are provided by erythritol…a sugar alcohol which does not have laxative effects in moderate amounts – otherwise this would be a rather “explosive” combination.

While no one would mistake these for “Mrs. Field’s” cookies, I thought The Protein Cookie was a nice product. The cookies are a good source of fiber and provide an adequate amount of good quality protein. One made for a pretty substantial mid-morning snack: the protein and fiber + fluid (from the tea) was pretty satiating. While not really a weight loss food (the fat content is a bit high for that), I could think of worse ways to satisfy a craving for something sweet, without falling completely off your diet.

Taste: 3.5/5.0

Quality: 3.5/5.0

Efficacy: 4.0/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

The Protein Cookie is available at Bodybuilding.com!

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CNP Professional was formerly known as “Dorian Yates Approved” – after legendary bodybuilder Dorian Yates (the company was renamed following his departure). CNP’s product line is focused almost exclusively on protein powders and meal replacements.  The “Pro-MS” line is in keeping with this: it’s a high protein, meal replacement powder designed for women.  Pro-MS comes in three flavors: Swiss Chocolate, Wild Berries and Cream and Vanilla Caramel.

Manufacturer’s Description: “Pro Ms is the first and only low calorie, high quality meal replacement product on the market to provide optimal nutrition for the female form!

A comprehensive nutritional strategy that will benefit anyone, from the female Olympian to the highly stressed executive or the housewife just wanting some help getting back in shape after having a baby!

…Pro-Ms is a cutting edge weight management formula originally designed for professional athletes. Easily stirred into a glass of water, it comes in 3 delicious flavours. Each serving provides 25 g of protein, but only 11 g of carbs (2 g sugar), for a total of 160 calories. Only good fats are included; CLA and flax seed oil, -fats that burn fat. It contains natural ingredients that dramatically curbs appetite and stimulate the fat burning process.”

Serving Size 1 Packet (47g) Calories 160 Calories From Fat 20 Fat 2g Saturated Fat 0.5g + Trans Fat 0.5g Cholest. 20mg Sodium 300mg Potassium 400mg Carbohydrates 11g Dietary Fiber 2g Sugars 2g Protein 25g	Vitamin A 1500IU 30% Vitamin D 240IU 60% Niacin 20mg 100% Biotin 180mcg 60% Vitamin C 60mcg 100% Vitamin E 30IU 100% Vitamin B6 61.2mg 60% Pantothenic Acid 6mg 40% Zinc 15mg 100% Calcium 1000mg 100% Magnesium Stearate 300mg 30% Thiamin 0.9mg 60%	Folic Acid 200mcg 50% Phosphorus 900mg 90% Copper 0.8mg 40% Iron 8mg 50% Riboflavin 1mg 60% Vitamin B12 3mcg 50% Iodine 60mcg 40% Chromium 50mcg 40% Manganese 1mg 50% Selenium 30mcg 42% Choline 80mg Molybdenum 60mcg 80%
Ingredients: Pro Ms Proprietary Structured Protein Blend (Whey Protein From High Fraction Concentrate, Milk Protein Cultured With Bifidus, Acidophilus, And Yogurt Organisms, Soy Protein Concentrate, Peptide Bonded Glutamine), Whole Grain Carbohydrate Mix (Fructooligosaccharide, Organic Flax Seed Meal, Rice Meal, Oat Meal), Natural And Artificial Flavors, Vitamins And Minerals (Di-Calcium Phosphate, Di-Potassium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Magnesium Oxide, Choline Bitartrate, Ascorbic Acid, D-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate, Ferrous Fumarate, Niacinamide, Beta Carotene, Zinc Oxide, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Vitamin D3, Copper Sulfate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Thiamin Hydrochloride, Chromium Chloride, Cobalamin Concentrate (Vitamin B12), Folic Acid, Biotin, Sodium Molybdate, Sodium Selenite, Potassium Iodate), Proprietary Feminine Metabolic Fat Blend (Canola Oil, Sunflower Oil, Lecithin, Flax Seed Oil), Proprietary Antioxident/fat Burning Blend (Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), Raspberry Essence, Green Tea Extract, Jojoba Extract, White Kidney Bean Extract, Maitake Mushroom Meal, Omega-3 Fatty Acids), Cellulose Gum, Sucralose.

Comments: I purchased a box of the Vanilla Caramel Pro-MS from bodybuilding.com. A box of 15 packets cost $29.98 US – basically $2.00/serving, which is a fairly standard price for single-serving meal replacement packs.

CNP refers to the shake as “rich” in their write up…actually, when mixed in water according to the directions, I found it to be rather thin. The flavor was good, and the powder dispersed well, but there’s an ingredient in there that simply wouldn’t dissolve properly. I used a spoon, a wire wisk and – finally – a blender (for a full minute, no less)…didn’t matter. Every time I mixed one up, there was a fine, crystalline grit left at the bottom of my glass. It wasn’t unpleasant, I suppose, but noticeable.

Beyond that, Pro-MS has a decent amount of protein, and was reasonably satisfying for only 160 calories. From a basic, macronutrient standpoint, it seems like a good product. I’m a little unsure about the added nutraceuticals, however. It’s an intriguing list, to be sure: CLA, raspberry “essence” (ketones???), green tea extract, and so on. What’s missing, however, is any information about the DOSES of these compounds. This silence makes me suspect they’re largely “label decoration”. For example, the product write up boasts of an “Health promoting, anabolic mix of Canola Oil, Sunflower Oil, Flax Seed Oil, CLA, and Omega-3-Fatty Acid”…ok, but there are only 2 grams of total fat per serving. When you consider the residual fat from the protein sources, this doesn’t leave a whole lot…not nearly enough for any major “health promoting” effects.

So, I’m somewhat “iffy” on this product…it’s tasty enough, but not quite as good as it could be. For what it’s worth, however, if it was a choice between this, and some other mass-market product like Slim Fast, I’d take this one in a heartbeat. It may not be all it’s cracked up to be, but it’s still waaay better than that.

Taste: 2.5/5.0

Quality: 4.0/5.0

Efficacy: 3.0/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 3.0/5.0

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Lean Body Double-Dipped Hi-Protein Energy Bars are made by Labrada Nutrition: a company well-known to the bodybuilding world. The company was founded by Lee Labrada, who holds 22 professional bodybuilding titles, including the IFBB “Mr. Universe.” The bars are part of the larger “Lean Body” line of meal replacements and functional food products aimed at the fitness market.  They come in four flavors: Chocolate Rocky Road Crunch, Peanut Butter Chocolate Crunch, Triple Chocolate Peanut Crunch and White Chocolate Crunch.

Manufacturer’s Description: This Lean Body® Hi-Protein Energy bar provides protein and essential fats to support lean muscle tissue and fuel your body! These great tasting bars are double dipped and sinfully delicious! Each bar has a soft nougat protein center, then dipped in a creamy coating, layered in peanuts, and then smothered in rich, chocolatey goodness!

• Double Dipped Coating!
• 21g Protein!
• Loaded with Peanuts!
• Incredible Taste!

Serving Size 1 Bar (70g) Amount Per Serving Calories 330 Calories From Fat 140 Total Fat 16g Saturated Fat 8g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 5mg Sodium 240mg	Potassium 200mg Total Carbohydrate 26mg Dietary Fiber 3g Sugar 16g Protein 21g Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 8% Iron 6%
Ingredients: Lean Pro® Protein Blend (Peanuts, Soy Nuts, Soy Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate, Milk Protein Isolate, Nonfat Dry Milk, Whey), Sucrose, Fractionated Palm Kernel Oil, Hydrolyzed Gelatin, Glycerine, Evaporated Cane Juice, Cocoa Processed With Alkali, Soy Lecithin, Salt, Natural And Artificial Flavors, Palm Oil, Sucralose

Comments: I bought the Chocolate Rocky Road and White Chocolate Crunch bars at my local Walgreens for $2.99 each. That’s a pretty hefty price (even though they’re hefty-sized bars). Fortunately, the online price is more than a dollar less per bar ($22.99 for a box of 12 at bodybuilding.com, which works out to $1.92 each).

Good thing too…these bars are delish! They’re easily as good, if not better, than a real candy bar. Each coated bar has a layer of whole roasted peanuts, surrounding a gooey, sweet nougat. Overall, they’re crunchy (thanks to the peanuts) AND chewy; chocolately and sweet without being cloying.

Mmmmmm…

Admittedly, these are NOT exactly diet food, but they do provide a solid amount of protein from a good-quality blend, while supplying only half the sugar and fat of an equal-sized Snickers Bar. As such, they’re a much better deal if you’re dying for a sweet snack or chocolate fix.

Taste: 5.0/5.0

Quality: 4.0/5.0

Efficacy: 4.0/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

Lean Body Double-Dipped Hi-Protein Energy Bars are available at bodybuilding.com!

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CNP Professional was formerly known as “Dorian Yates Approved” – after legendary bodybuilder Dorian Yates (the company was renamed following his departure). CNP’s product line is focused almost exclusively on protein powders and meal replacements.  The “ProDessert” line is in keeping with this: it’s a high protein, sustained release pudding mix that comes in two flavors: chocolate and vanilla.

Manufacturer’s Description: ProDessert is an instant protein pudding mix with 25 grams of protein per serving. Available in Chocolate and Vanilla flavors.

• Made with Micellar Cassein
• Bioactive Low Temperature Processed Whey Protein
• Processed Whey Protein
• No Soy
• Contains 3 grams Glutamine Per Serving
• Sustained Release Protein Blend

Serving Size 1 Packet (39g) Servings Per Container 15 Calories 135 Calories From Fat 20 Total Fat 2g Saturated Fat 0g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 10mg Sodium 550mg

Potassium 400mg Calcium 450mg Carbohydrates 4g Dietary Fiber 0g Sugars 0g Protein 25g Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 0% Iron 4mg 10%

Ingredients: Protein Blend (Micellar Casein- Natural Form Milk Protein, Whey Protein Concentrate- Milk Protein, Peptide Bonded Glutamine, Egg Albumen), Natural And Artificial Flavors, Sunflower Oil, Low DE Maltodextrin, Thickening Agents (Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, Disodium Phosphate), Potassium Chloride, Sodium Chloride, Cellulose Gum (For Smoothness), Sweeteners (Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium).

Comments: I picked up a box of 15, single serving packets of Pro Dessert (chocolate flavor) from bodybuilding.com for $24.79. This is expensive from a purely protein point of view…it’s not hard to find good protein blends for less. For example, Cytosport’s EvoPro – another casein-based product – is less than a dollar per serving, for a comparable amount of protein. On the other hand, the price is a little more reasonable from a dessert/treat perspective…which is really what this is product is all about.

Basically, it’s instant pudding. Except it’s not loaded up with sugar and modified food starch. For approx. the same calories as a Jello Pudding Snack, you get a solid 25g of protein, with only 4g carbs and NO sugar.

So, if you like Jello pudding, you’ll like ProDessert. It’s silky smooth and chocolatey – I thought it was pretty good. I almost wished for a high protein whipped topping to go with it. It’s also quite easy to make: just pour the powder into a small bowl, mix with 5 oz. of cold water (the instructions suggest using a mixer, but a small wire whip worked admirably), let set for 3- 5 minutes and eat.

As noted above, ProDessert is expensive for a protein supplement. But as a chocolate (or vanilla) “fix” or occasional treat, it’s pretty good. It’s a neat way to indulge in a way that provides some nutritional benefit and doesn’t “cost” a lot of calories.

Taste: 4.5/5.0

Quality: 4.5/5.0

Efficacy: 5.0/5.0

Value: 2.0/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

Get CNP Professional ProDessert at bodybuilding.com

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Muscle Milk is one of CytoSport’s most popular products. It’s routinely found in the “Top 10″ seller lists maintained by online retailers such as bodybuilding.com and 1fast400.com. Thus, it’s not surprising to see spin off products, such as Muscle Milk bars and – now – Muscle Milk ‘n Oats.

Muscle Milk ‘n Oats combines two bodybuilding staples, oatmeal and protein powder, into a single, on-the-go breakfast. It comes in five flavors: Apple Cinnamon, Banana Walnut, Breakfast Cocoa, Vanilla Bean and Maple & Brown Sugar.

Manufacturer’s Description: Introducing all the big nutrition of Muscle Milk and all the goodness of oats in one great tasting combination! Muscle Milk N Oats is the quick and convenient way to get your daily protein intake….Muscle Milk contains EvoPro and Lean Lipids blends. EvoPro is a complex ratio of proteins, peptides and amino acids designed to replicate the amazing benefits of mother’s milk for rapid tissue growth and repair. Lean Lipids are special fats that are easily mobilized for workout energy, enhance your body’s fat metabolism and promote protein synthesis and mineral retention.

When you combine Muscle Milk with whole grain oats, not only do you enrich your diet with a muscle-building meal low in saturated fats and cholesterol, but you also receive a significant portion of the recommended daily amounts of whole grain foods and fiber. So Muscle Milk N Oats is a better choice for a genuinely nutritious meal-on-the-go that does what refined foods cannot do: it helps support healthy cholesterol and maintain a healthy heart.

Serving Size 1 Cup (78g) Amount Per Serving Calories 300 Calories From Fat 50 Total Fat 6g Saturated Fat 1g Polyunsaturated Fat 1.5g Monounsaturated Fat 2.5g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 5mg	Sodium 180mg Potassium 470mg Total Carbohydrate 34g Dietary Fiber 4g Soluble Fiber 2g Insoluble Fiber 2g Sugars 4g Protein 30g 60% Vitamin A 20% Iron 15%	Thiamin 20% Calcium 30% Vitamin E 4% Riboflavin 20% Niacin 20% Folate 20% Phosphorus 20% Vitamin B6 20% Vitamin B12 20% Magnesium 25%
Ingredients: Whole Grain Rolled Oats (With Oat Bran), EVOPRO™ Our Custom Protein Peptide And Amino Acid Matrix Designed To Closely Reflect The Nitrogen Components And Ratios Found In Human Mother’s Milk (Micellar Alpha And Beta Caseins And Caseinates, Whey Concentrates Rich In Alpha-Lactalbumin, Whey Isolates, Whey Peptides, L-Glutamine, Taurine, Lactoferrin), Lean Lipids™ Trans Fat Free Lipid Complex Selected For Thermogenic And Unique Energy Properties (Canola Oil, Sunflower And/Or Safflower Oil, Enzyme Engineered Polyunsaturated Long-Chain Vegetable Oils, MCT’s, L-Carnitine), Fructose, Maltodextrin, Natural And Artificial Flavor, Modified Food Starch, Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose, Niacinamide, Vitamin A Palmitate, Cyanocobalamin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Soy Lecithin.

Comments: I picked up a 6-pack of Maple & Brown Sugar Muscle Milk ‘n Oats from bodybuilding.com for $13.99. It’s considerably more expensive per serving than conventional instant oatmeal – although in fairness – the regular stuff doesn’t even come close to providing the 30 grams/serving of high quality protein that this product does. 30 grams of protein is about what you get in 100g (3 1/2 oz) of cooked chicken breast or lean sirloin steak, so from that perspective, it’s not a bad price at all.

The cereal comes in individual, microwaveable cups, so it’s a snap to prepare: according to the directions, all it takes is 2/3 c. water and about 1 – 2 minutes in the microwave.  Doesn’t get much simpler than that.

Overall, I thought it was pretty tasty, too. This wasn’t a surprise, however, as Muscle Milk is famous for its flavors (at last count, there were 27 flavors vs. Baskin Robbins’ 31). I thought it was a bit on the gummy side, too, although it made for a reasonably satsifying breakfast.

I don’t think I’ll be trading in my Bob’s Red Mill, thick-cut rolled oats for it, (I like the texture of “old fashioned” oats better), but Muscle Milk ‘n Oats is undeniably handy, tasty and faster to prepare.  It’s a good emergency meal that can be prepared without a lot of muss and fuss (or dishes!).

Taste: 4.0/5.0

Quality: 4.5/5.0

Efficacy: 5.0/5.0

Value: 2.5/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

Get Muscle Milk ‘n Oats from bodybuilding.com here!

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