Precision-Engineered Whey Protein: The Price is Right, but is the Protein?

While the obesity epidemic has been making headlines across America, the country is also in the grips of a fitness frenzy. Grocery stores are lined with products promising a "trimmer, slimmer you," and gyms and fitness centers are swelling with members.

In addition, according to the National Sporting Goods Association, retail sales of sports goods have exploded; while Americans spent an astonishing $50,725,000,000 on athletic equipment and accessories in 1990, the number grew to nearly $90 billion in 2005.

In order to tap into this growing market of fitness freaks, manufacturers have unleashed a flood of sports nutrition products. Unfortunately, many are little more than over-hyped, excessively expensive frankenfoods.

One particularly popular product, especially among the weight-training crowd, is whey protein. Whey, which is derived from milk, is an excellent choice for those looking to build muscle, as it contains many essential amino acids and is also absorbed by the body quicker than traditional protein sources.

With so many brands, though, it can be hard to make a choice. Prices range widely, but are the more expensive products really better? To find out, I picked up one of the cheapest whey powders I could find - Precision Engineered Creamy Vanilla. Retailing for less than $20 for two pounds, Precision Engineered is a cheaper alternative to other companies such as Optimum Nutrition.

However, the lower price comes with some sacrifices. First, Precision Engineered has a very limited flavor portfolio, as it is available only in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and unflavored. This wasn't too much of a problem, though; the Creamy Vanilla version tasted very good. It wasn't very impressive in water alone, but when mixed with milk, it had a smooth, full and creamy taste. It also mixed well with oatmeal, adding a subtle, but pleasant flavor, and of course, a nice kick of protein.