Ascent 100% Micellar Casein Isolate Protein Powder, Chocolate, 2 lb

Ascent micellar casein is a chocolate casein protein powder from Ascent, sold in a 2 lb bag. Casein is the slower-digesting milk protein, and the brand pitches this one for bedtime shakes and thick casein puddings.

Who it suits

It fits people who want a chocolate shake with no artificial flavors or sweeteners, and athletes who look for the Informed Sport mark. If you want a fast-mixing daytime shake, a whey isolate such as Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Isolate may suit you better. See more options in our protein powders and shakes section.

Comparing options? Our protein powder buying guide explains what to check on the label and spec sheet.

Key facts

• Each 36 g scoop lists 25 g of protein and 120 calories, with 25 servings per bag (Ascent)
• Ingredients: micellar casein isolate, alkalized cocoa, natural flavors, guar, acacia and xanthan gums, sea salt and stevia leaf extract (Ascent)
• 0 g added sugars and 1 g total sugars per scoop (Ascent)
• 661 mg of calcium per scoop, 50% of the Daily Value (Ascent)
• The bag states no artificial flavors or sweeteners and carries the Informed Sport mark (Ascent)

What reviewers say

Healthline chose it as its top certified gluten-free casein, pointing to the gluten-free certification, Informed Sport testing and lack of artificial ingredients, while warning that it is made on equipment shared with peanuts and tree nuts. BarBend liked the testing and simple formula but found the flavor fairly mild, preferred it mixed with milk over water, and noted it costs a bit more than many rivals.

Pros and cons

• Pro: No artificial flavors or sweeteners, 0 g added sugar
• Pro: Informed Sport tested
• Con: Mild chocolate taste, better with milk than water
• Con: Costs more than many competing caseins

Cautions

• Contains milk.
• Healthline reports it is made on equipment shared with peanuts and tree nuts; check the package if you have those allergies.
• Contains guar, acacia and xanthan gums, which may bother sensitive stomachs.