There’s a good reason why Elite All Blacks Ultimate Whey Protein Blend is the protein powder of choice of the all-conquering All Blacks…
Healthspan is the official nutrition supplier for the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team. So it’s no surprise its Elite All Blacks Ultimate Whey Protein Blend is one of the best protein powders; we’re big fans of its protein bars too. The powder contains 24g protein per 37.5g serving and more than 2g of leucine, used to trigger muscle protein synthesis. It uses a blend of isolate and concentrated whey protein and just has a few simple ingredients.
Men’s Fitness verdict
The flavours are nicely balanced, it’s made with digestive enzymes and is Informed Sport-approved so suitable for elite competition. It’s just a shame sizes and availability are limited.- Rich flavour but not too sweet
- Contains digestive enzymes
- Informed Sport approved
- Quite expensive
- Only available online
- Only one size available
How we test the best whey protein powders
Registered nutritionist (AFN) and sports nutritionist (SENr) Rob Hobson only tested chocolate-flavoured powders to provide consistency in his reviews. He judged them on their taste, texture, solubility and nutritional effectiveness, as well as cost per serving and availability. He also took into account the variety of flavours and any recyclable packaging.
| Protein per serving: | 24g |
| Cost per serving: | £1.65 |
| Sizes: | 750g |
| Flavours: | Chocolate, strawberry, vanilla |
Elite All Blacks Ultimate Whey Protein Blend in use
Some powders can have a grainy texture when mixed but Healthspan’s powder mixes well to give a smooth drink that tastes good when combined with milk or water. The addition of an enzyme called Actizan helps relieve any digestive symptoms associated with whey protein.
The powder has no added sugars, but the mixed product does have a slightly bitter after-taste due to the use of stevia as a sweetener. We don’t think it’s strong enough for many people to mind this though.
The Ultimate Whey Protein Blend is also soy-free, which is good new if you’re concerned with using that ingredient or are allergic to it. It’s a good option for professional athletes, too, as the powder has been Informed Sports approved.
Availability and sizes
The packaging is recyclable and as it’s a pouch it doesn’t take up too much room in the food cupboard. You can only buy it online, but it’s quick to arrive, and works out £6 cheaper if you buy two simultaneously. We do feel Healthspan is missing a trick though by not making its protein blend available in sizes other than 750g.
Overall, we really like the taste of Elite All Blacks Ultimate Whey Protein Blend. Flavours are rich without being too sweet and competitive athletes needn’t worry about unapproved ingredients. It’s available in chocolate, strawberry and vanilla flavours and each pack will give you 20 servings – which Healthspan recommends you mix with 250ml of milk or water.
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