If you’re following a NOVA-based approach to eating, you may have wondered whether any whey protein powder falls into Groups 1, 2 or 3.
The short answer is no. All whey protein powders are technically classified as NOVA Group 4. However, the reasons they’re classified this way, and the differences between products within that group, are worth understanding.
Understanding NOVA Classification
The NOVA framework classifies foods according to the nature and extent of industrial processing.
Group 1 includes unprocessed or minimally processed foods, such as fruit, vegetables, plain milk and eggs.
Group 2 includes processed culinary ingredients like oils, butter, and flour.
Group 3 includes processed foods made by combining Group 1 and Group 2 ingredients, such as cheese or freshly baked bread.
Group 4 includes ultra-processed foods produced using industrial processes and formulations that aren’t typically replicated in a home kitchen.
Because whey protein is separated from milk, concentrated and dried to create a powder, it falls into NOVA Group 4.
Ultra-Processed Differences
Although every whey protein powder is classified as NOVA Group 4, that doesn’t mean every product is formulated in the same way.
At The Organic Protein Co., we never use artificial additives in any of our organic whey protein powders. Other brands may include emulsifiers, gums, sweeteners, flavourings and other additives to modify taste, texture or shelf life.
The NOVA framework classifies both minimal-ingredient protein and protein containing numerous additives as Group 4 because of how they’re made, not because they’re nutritionally identical. Looking beyond the classification to the ingredients list can therefore provide a more complete picture of how a protein powder has been formulated. While no whey protein powder can be classed as UPF-free, there can be huge differences between the many products classified as Group 4.
How to Approach This If You Prefer to Consume Real Foods
If you’re trying to eat a diet based on minimally processed foods, a protein powder with just a few ingredients may suit your dietary preferences. To minimise synthetic additives, look for products with a short list of recognisable ingredients. Comparing labels can help you understand the difference between products that all carry the same NOVA classification.
At The Organic Protein Co., we’re transparent about the fact that all whey proteins are NOVA Group 4. Our difference is in how we formulate our products. Pure Unflavoured contains just one ingredient: certified organic whey protein concentrate, while our blends contain the same high-quality organic whey with just a few real ingredients. Every one of our products is free from the additives most associated with UPF concerns.
We think it’s helpful to look beyond the NOVA label and consider the ingredients list as well. If you’d like to understand more about why all whey protein powders fall into Group 4, you can explore our full guide.
