The ingredient list of a food names all the components it contains in descending order of their share by weight, so the ingredient present in the largest amount comes first. In a protein powder, this is often the protein source used, such as whey concentrate or pea protein, followed by flavourings, sweeteners and other additives. For compound ingredients, such as a flavouring, additional components may be listed in brackets.
A look at the ingredient list shows more reliably what is actually in a product than relying on the advertising claims on the packaging. Allergens that must be labelled, such as milk, soya or egg, are usually highlighted within the list. The order can also give hints, for example whether water or sugar is named before or after the actual protein source. Regularly comparing the ingredient lists of different products makes it easier to choose consciously.
A detailed guide to reading the ingredient list of a protein powder is offered by the guide Reading the ingredient list of protein powder, and for classifying the sweeteners it contains, see more in the entry Sweeteners in powder.
