Standard Process: The Whole Food Philosophy
Standard Process is known for its commitment to using whole food ingredients, a philosophy championed by its founder, Dr. Royal Lee, since 1929. Instead of relying solely on isolated synthetic substances, the company sources many of its ingredients from its own certified organic farm. This approach aims to provide nutrients in a state as close to nature as possible, enhancing their potency and bioavailability. This whole-food principle extends to their protein powders, which are fortified with complex blends of fruits, vegetables, and other botanicals.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients in SP Complete
SP Complete is one of Standard Process's most popular protein powders, offered in several varieties. The unflavored version, as detailed on the official product page, features a comprehensive blend of protein and whole-food compounds.
Core Proteins in SP Complete
- Whey protein: A high-quality, complete protein source derived from milk, providing all essential amino acids. SP Complete uses nondenatured whey, meaning it has not been exposed to high heat that could damage its nutritional integrity.
- Rice protein: A plant-based protein source used to round out the amino acid profile.
Proprietary Whole Food Blend
The 24.8g proprietary blend in SP Complete includes numerous nutrient-dense, whole-food ingredients:
- Flax meal: A source of dietary fiber and essential fatty acids.
- Organic buckwheat (aerial parts): Contributes to the overall nutritional profile.
- Organic Brussels sprouts (aerial parts): Provides a vegetable-based source of nutrients.
- Organic kale (aerial parts): Another organic green vegetable addition.
- Organic alfalfa (aerial parts) juice powder: A concentrated source of nutrients.
- Organic carrot: Adds a further whole-food vegetable component.
Additional Ingredients
- Calcium citrate and magnesium citrate: Mineral compounds to support body functions.
- Inositol and choline bitartrate: Important nutrients that support healthy liver function.
- Sunflower lecithin powder: An emulsifier that helps the powder mix smoothly.
- Grape seed extract: Provides antioxidant activity.
Ingredients in Whey Pro Complete
For those seeking a more focused whey-based formula, Whey Pro Complete offers a different set of ingredients with a specific emphasis on immune and digestive health.
Primary Ingredients in Whey Pro Complete
- Nondenatured whey protein concentrate and isolate: Provides a complete amino acid profile, with the isolate form containing lower levels of fat and carbohydrates.
- Colostrum (bovine): Supports GI-based immune system health.
- Inulin (chicory root fiber): A prebiotic fiber that supports gut balance.
- Lecithin: An emulsifier for better mixability.
SP Complete Dairy-Free Ingredients
Standard Process also provides a dairy-free option for those with dietary restrictions. This formula replaces the whey with plant-based protein.
Core Proteins in SP Complete Dairy-Free
- Rice protein: The main protein source, offering a non-dairy, amino acid-rich option.
Similar Whole Food Blend
This version includes a comparable blend of fruits, vegetables, and supplements, mirroring the unflavored SP Complete but formulated without milk-derived ingredients.
Comparison of Standard Process Protein Powders
| Feature | SP Complete (Unflavored) | SP Complete Dairy-Free | Whey Pro Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Sources | Whey protein, Rice protein | Rice protein | Nondenatured whey protein concentrate and isolate |
| Dairy Content | Contains milk (whey) | Dairy-free | Contains milk (whey) |
| Key Additional Blends | Whole food proprietary blend (vegetables, flax meal) | Whole food proprietary blend (vegetables, flax meal) | Colostrum, inulin |
| Primary Goal | General nutritional support, muscle growth | Nutritional support for dairy-free diets, muscle growth | Muscle growth, immune and gut support |
| Gluten-Free | Yes | Yes | Yes |
The Role of Whole Food Ingredients
The inclusion of whole-food ingredients is a distinguishing feature of Standard Process protein powders. Instead of relying solely on isolated nutrients, the blends offer a broader spectrum of naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. For example, the organic Brussels sprouts, kale, and alfalfa juice powder provide a natural source of vitamins and antioxidants that work synergistically with the proteins. This comprehensive approach is designed to provide robust nutritional support that can benefit various bodily systems, from digestive health to immune function.
The Benefit of Nondenatured Whey Protein
The careful processing of whey protein is another hallmark of Standard Process products. Using a nondenatured form means the protein has not been subjected to harsh high-heat treatments, which can damage the delicate protein structures. By preserving its nutritional integrity, the body can more effectively utilize the protein and amino acids for muscle repair and other biological processes. The inclusion of colostrum in Whey Pro Complete further enhances its unique profile by offering concentrated immune support.
Conclusion
Standard Process protein powders stand out due to their whole-food philosophy and multi-faceted ingredient profiles. Far from simple protein supplements, formulas like SP Complete combine whey and/or rice protein with a rich, organic proprietary blend of vegetables and botanicals. This provides users with a comprehensive source of essential amino acids, fiber, and antioxidant-rich ingredients for broader nutritional support. The availability of dairy-free and specialized whey versions ensures options for various dietary needs, all while maintaining the brand's core commitment to high-quality, whole-food nutrition. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to consult the product's official label.
Check out the official Standard Process website for more product details: https://www.standardprocess.com/products/sp-complete
