UPC: 733739021496
# N2149

NOW® Foods Whey Protein Isolate Vanilla

Premium Microfiltered Post-Workout Nutrition for Lean Muscle Recovery

When choosing a daily protein supplement, purity, bioavailability, and digestion matter most. NOW® Foods Whey Protein Isolate Vanilla delivers an industry-leading 25 grams of clean protein per serving with virtually zero fat and less than one gram of net carbohydrates. Formulated specifically for competitive athletes, strength trainers, and health-conscious individuals, this fast-digesting formula supplies the full spectrum of essential amino acids required to trigger muscle protein synthesis, accelerate recovery, and support lean body composition. Available in a cost-effective bulk 10 lb bag (approx. 142 servings), as well as 5 lb, 2 lb, and single-serve packet options, this pure vanilla isolate provides premium sports nutrition without unnecessary fillers, artificial dyes, or synthetic sweeteners.

Quick Nutritional Snapshot (Per 32g Level Scoop)

  • 25g Pure Whey Protein Isolate (High Biological Value)
  • 3,003 mg L-Leucine (Reaches the anabolic threshold for muscle protein synthesis)
  • Over 6,300 mg Total BCAAs per serving
  • 120 Calories | 0.5g Fat | <1g Net Carbs | 0g Added Sugars
  • Naturally Sweetened with Xylitol & Organic Stevia Leaf Extract
  • Soy-Free: Instantized with non-GMO Sunflower Lecithin for effortless mixing
  • Non-Denatured & Low Lactose: Gentle on sensitive digestive systems

The Science of Cross-Flow Microfiltration (CFM)

Not all whey protein powders are created equal. Many conventional whey concentrates undergo aggressive, high-heat acid treatments that denature fragile protein subfractions and leave behind substantial amounts of lactose, fat, and cholesterol. NOW® Foods Whey Protein Isolate is extracted utilizing state-of-the-art Cross-Flow Microfiltration (CFM). This gentle, low-temperature physical membrane filtration process preserves the native, bioactive peptide fractions of whey in their un-denatured state, including:
  • Beta-Lactoglobulin: Rich in essential branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs).
  • Alpha-Lactalbumin: Highly digestible source of essential amino acids, including L-tryptophan.
  • Bovine Serum Albumin & Immunoglobulins: Bioactive microfractions that support cellular defenses and systemic recovery.
  • Lactoferrin: A multifunctional iron-binding glycoprotein supporting gut integrity.
Because CFM physically filters out excess moisture, milk sugars (lactose), and milk fat, you receive an ultra-pure protein powder with over 90% protein by weight on a moisture-free basis that digests rapidly without gastrointestinal heaviness or bloating.

High Leucine Threshold & Anabolic Muscle Recovery

The primary metabolic trigger for Muscle Protein Synthesis (MPS) is the intracellular activation of the mechanistic Target of Rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Clinical sports nutrition research demonstrates that an intake of approximately 2.7 to 3.0 grams of free L-Leucine per meal is required to saturate the "leucine trigger" and maximize MPS in active individuals. With 3,003 mg of natural L-Leucine and 6,369 mg of total Branched-Chain Amino Acids (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine) per scoop, NOW® Whey Protein Isolate Vanilla surpasses this anabolic threshold naturally—without the need for added free-form amino acid spiking. Combined with rapid gastric emptying rates, these amino acids are shuttled directly into circulating plasma within 45 to 60 minutes post-ingestion, rapidly reversing post-exercise muscular catabolism.

Clean-Label Formula: Naturally Sweetened & 100% Soy-Free

Many mass-market vanilla protein powders rely on artificial sweeteners such as sucralose, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), or aspartame, alongside artificial creamers and synthetic gums. NOW® Foods formulates for absolute purity:
  1. Natural Sweetener Blend: Flavored with natural vanilla extract and sweetened with a synergistic blend of tooth-friendly xylitol and organic stevia leaf extract, avoiding the chemical aftertaste associated with synthetic sugar substitutes.
  2. Soy-Free Instantization: While typical protein powders use genetically modified soy lecithin as an emulsifier, this formula utilizes non-GMO sunflower lecithin. It disperses smoothly in water or milk using just a shaker cup or spoon, without clumping or foamy residue.
  3. Zero Added Sugars: With only 2 grams of total carbohydrates (1 gram dietary fiber and 1 gram xylitol), this isolate aligns with strict low-carb, keto-friendly, and calorie-restricted weight management protocols.

How to Use & Stacking Recommendations

  • Post-Workout Recovery: Mix 1 level scoop (32g) with 6 to 8 ounces of cold water, skim milk, or your favorite unsweetened plant-based beverage within 30 to 45 minutes following resistance training or intensive conditioning.
  • Morning Metabolic Jumpstart: Blend 1 scoop into morning oats, Greek yogurt, or smoothies to ensure a steady supply of essential amino acids throughout the day.
  • Pre-Bedtime or Intra-Day Nutrition: Combine with a whole-food healthy fat (such as almond butter) or complex carbohydrates to moderate digestion speed when sustained amino acid release is required.
  • Pro Tip for Smooth Texture: Always add liquid to your shaker cup or blender before adding the dry protein powder to ensure immediate dissolution.

Complete Supplement Facts & Nutritional Analysis

Serving Size: 1 Level Scoop (approx. 32g / 1/3 cup) Servings Per Bulk Container: Approx. 142 (for 10 lb container #N2149)
Nutritional Metric Amount Per Serving % Daily Value*
Calories 120
Total Fat 0.5 g < 1%
    Saturated Fat 0 g 0%
    Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 5 mg 2%
Sodium 50 mg 2%
Total Carbohydrate 2 g < 1%
    Dietary Fiber 1 g 4%
    Total Sugars 0 g †
    Includes Added Sugars 0 g 0%
    Xylitol 1 g †
Protein 25 g 50%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 161 mg 10%
Iron 0.3 mg 2%
Potassium 158 mg 4%
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. † Daily Value not established.

Typical Amino Acid Profile (Milligrams Per Serving)

(Subject to natural agricultural variability)

Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)

  • L-Leucine (BCAA): 3,003 mg
  • L-Isoleucine (BCAA): 1,642 mg
  • L-Valine (BCAA): 1,724 mg
  • L-Lysine: 2,845 mg
  • L-Threonine: 2,319 mg
  • L-Methionine: 495 mg
  • L-Phenylalanine: 757 mg
  • L-Histidine: 384 mg
  • L-Tryptophan: 554 mg
  • Total Essential Amino Acids: ~13,723 mg

Non-Essential & Conditionally Essential Amino Acids

  • L-Glutamic Acid: 5,663 mg
  • L-Aspartic Acid: 2,980 mg
  • L-Proline: 1,683 mg
  • L-Alanine: 1,407 mg
  • L-Serine: 1,443 mg
  • L-Tyrosine: 786 mg
  • L-Cysteine: 613 mg
  • L-Arginine: 522 mg
  • Glycine: 417 mg

Full Ingredient Listing

Ingredients: Whey Protein Isolate, Xylitol, Natural Vanilla Flavors, Xanthan Gum, Organic Stevia Leaf Extract, Sunflower Lecithin. Allergen Information:
  • Contains: Milk.
  • Allergen Free From: Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, egg, fish, shellfish, or sesame ingredients.
  • Manufacturing Standards: Produced in a certified Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
Storage & Pet Safety Cautions:
  • Pet Safety Warning: Contains Xylitol, a natural sugar alcohol that is safe for human consumption but extremely toxic to dogs and pets. If accidental pet ingestion occurs, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
  • Storage Instructions: Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry, dark environment after opening. This product is packaged by weight, not by volume; settling of contents naturally occurs during shipping.
  • Regulatory Notice: Use this product as a food supplement only. Do not use for weight reduction.

Why Purchase Your NOW® Sports Supplements from VitaNet®, LLC?

  • Serving Wellness Customers Since 1995: Over three decades of direct retailer experience delivering authentic, fresh dietary supplements nationwide.
  • Direct Manufacturer Sourcing: Guaranteed direct rotation from NOW® Foods’ cGMP-certified manufacturing facilities in the USA.
  • 100% Quality & Potency Guarantee: Complete batch traceability, independent purity testing, and guaranteed active ingredient levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate?

Whey protein isolate undergoes additional cross-flow microfiltration to remove almost all fats, cholesterol, and naturally occurring milk sugars (lactose). As a result, isolate yields 90% or higher pure protein by weight, whereas whey concentrate generally contains between 70% and 80% protein with higher residual levels of carbs and dairy fat. Isolate digests faster and is generally preferred by those with mild lactose sensitivities or those pursuing strict low-carbohydrate diet plans.

Is NOW® Foods Whey Protein Isolate Vanilla suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals?

Because this product is microfiltered to isolate the pure protein molecule, the vast majority of lactose is eliminated during processing, resulting in less than 1 gram of carbohydrate per serving. Most individuals with mild-to-moderate lactose sensitivity tolerate this whey isolate without bloating, gas, or stomach cramps. However, because it is derived from dairy milk, individuals with severe, diagnosed milk protein allergies should avoid it.

Why does this formula contain 3,003 mg of L-Leucine?

L-Leucine is the primary branched-chain amino acid responsible for turning on the mTOR (mechanistic Target of Rapamycin) pathway, which signals muscle cells to initiate protein repair and synthesis. Research shows that reaching a "leucine threshold" of approximately 2.7 to 3.0 grams in a single feeding provides the optimal stimulus for muscle protein synthesis. NOW® Foods Whey Protein Isolate achieves this threshold naturally in one scoop.

Why does NOW® use sunflower lecithin instead of soy lecithin?

Lecithin is a necessary natural emulsifier that allows dry protein powder to dissolve smoothly into cold liquids without clumping into sticky pockets. NOW® uses non-GMO sunflower lecithin instead of soy lecithin to keep the formula 100% soy-free, making it accessible to those with soy allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions.

Is this protein powder sweetened with artificial sweeteners?

No. This formula contains zero sucralose, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), saccharin, or aspartame. It is naturally sweetened with a combination of xylitol (a natural sugar alcohol) and organic stevia leaf extract, delivering a smooth vanilla taste without synthetic aftertastes or spikes in blood sugar.

Why is there a pet warning for Xylitol on the label?

Xylitol is completely safe and non-toxic for human consumption, providing a low-glycemic, tooth-friendly sweetening profile. However, in dogs and cats, xylitol triggers an immediate, dangerous release of insulin from the pancreas, leading to severe hypoglycemia and potential liver damage. Always store this product securely away from pets.

How many servings are in the 10 lb bulk container (#N2149)?

The 10 lb bulk container provides approximately 142 full 32-gram servings. At one scoop per day, a single 10 lb bag supplies nearly five months of premium daily protein supplementation, offering significant savings compared to standard 2 lb canisters.

What is the best liquid to mix with this vanilla isolate?

For rapid absorption directly following exercise, 6 to 8 ounces of cold water or coconut water is recommended. For a richer, milk-shake-like consistency, mix with unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or dairy milk. Because it is instantized with sunflower lecithin, it blends easily in a standard shaker bottle with a wire whisk ball in under 15 seconds.
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