The worst supplement purchase is the one you don't finish. A $130 tub of protein you can't stand the taste of costs more than any discount saves. That's why Supps247 stores, including our new store at Westfield Plenty Valley in Mill Park, let you taste before you buy.
Here's how to choose a protein powder or pre-workout you'll actually use.
Choosing a protein powder
1. Pick the type
- Whey protein isolate (WPI): higher protein per scoop, very little fat and carbs, and usually easier on people who are sensitive to lactose. Usually costs more.
- Whey blend or concentrate (WPC): creamier and usually cheaper per serve, with a little more fat and carbs.
- Plant protein: dairy-free, often a pea and rice mix. Good if you're vegan or dairy doesn't agree with you.
2. Check three numbers on the label
- Protein per serve and the scoop size in grams.
- Serves per tub, so you can work out how long it lasts.
- Price per serve: tub price divided by serves. This is the fairest way to compare brands.
3. Taste it
Ask the team to try a flavour, and ask whether it's sweeter with water or milk. If you're stuck between two, a twin pack lets you pick a different flavour for each tub.
Our protein powder guide goes deeper, and you can browse the full protein range.
Choosing a pre-workout
1. Start with the caffeine
Most of what you feel from a pre-workout is caffeine. Check the milligrams per scoop, not just the flavour. If you're new to pre-workout or sensitive to caffeine, start with half a serve, and avoid it in the late afternoon if it affects your sleep. Food Standards Australia New Zealand has also set a limit on caffeine in formulated supplementary sports foods. Our pre-workout caffeine guide explains the Australian rules.
2. Consider stim-free
Train at night? A stimulant-free pump formula gives you the flavour and the routine without the caffeine. Ask in store to compare.
3. Taste and mix
Pre-workouts vary a lot in sweetness and sourness. A quick taste in store saves you from 40 serves of a flavour you dread.
See our pre-workout guide and the full pre-workout range.
Who should check first
Pre-workouts aren't for anyone under 18, anyone pregnant or breastfeeding, or anyone with a heart condition or high blood pressure. If you take medication or have a medical condition, talk to your GP or pharmacist before starting any supplement. If your sport drug tests, read our guide to supplements for drug-tested athletes.
FAQs
Can I really taste before I buy?
Yes. Ask the team in store and they'll let you try what's open for tasting.
When does the Mill Park store open?
The date hasn't been announced yet. Until then, you can taste before you buy at Supps247 Reservoir or Supps247 Craigieburn, or read our Mill Park opening post.
What's the best value protein?
Work out the price per serve and compare. Bundles and twin packs are usually the cheapest way to buy the same product.
This article is general information, not medical advice.
