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April Edwards, MSc, PT, a licensed physiotherapist and Endomondo editorial team member, has reviewed this article. Her expertise ensures that our content provides reliable insights into our product recommendations.
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The global supplement market is estimated to be worth USD 300 billion by 2028. According to the Food and Drug Administration, there were an estimated 4000 supplement brands in the US alone in 2024. As the supplement industry continues to rise, so does the number of brands competing for the top spot.
Founded in 2015, Transparent Labs is a Utah-based supplement company. The brand focuses on using transparent labeling and third-party testing to produce high-quality supplements at a slightly higher price. Their product range includes protein powders, pre-workouts, fat burners, multivitamins, and gym apparel.
As a rising star in the industry, Transparent Labs caught our attention. Therefore, we decided to perform a detailed review to see what makes them special. Our Transparent Labs review looks at their brand values, product offerings, and some common competitors.
Transparent Labs
- All supplements use transparent labeling and are third-party tested.
- Some supplements are Informed Choice certified.
- Their supplements are made without artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and colors.
- They offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.
- All of their products offer certificates of analysis for the ingredients used.
- Their supplements are relatively expensive compared to their competitors.
- Some of their products contain unnecessary additives and fillers.
- Their products are not widely available in common retail stores.
Transparent Labs Reviews
Before we look at their top sellers, we start by reviewing the main factors that make Transparent Labs stand out. We’ve split this into quality, reputation, and price.
Quality
Transparent Labs aims to create supplements of the highest quality, and this is reflected in the types and amounts of each ingredient used. Everything is included in research-backed doses. So, you know you’re getting a supplement that’s proven to work.
Transparent Labs prides itself on being fully transparent about what’s inside its products. Their supplement labels are set out without proprietary blends, which is when brands choose not to disclose the quantity of certain ingredients in a mixture.
This is the main thing that separates them from their main competitors. Their dedicated team ensures each product is carefully formulated, safe for consumption, and effective for performance.
Support Research
| Claimed Benefits | Transparent Labs |
|---|---|
| Improved Muscle Growth | Concrete Evidence |
| Enhanced Muscular Strength | Concrete Evidence |
| Increased Fat Burning | Concrete Evidence |
Improved Muscle Growth
Muscle growth, also known as muscular hypertrophy, refers to an increase in the amount and size of muscle fibers.
For muscle growth to occur, a suitable exercise stimulus and adequate protein intake are needed. Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks for the repair and regeneration of muscle tissues.
Transparent Labs claims their 100% Grass-Fed Whey Isolate supports muscle growth and recovery. The 28 grams of whey isolate offers a high-quality protein source included in an excellent amount.
The research examining the importance of protein for muscle growth shows firm conclusions. That is, a higher protein intake leads to increased muscle mass when combined with a suitable exercise stimulus. Thus, Transparent Lab’s claim is based on well-proven scientific research.
Enhanced Muscular Strength
Muscular strength is the maximum amount of force that a muscle can generate. During high-intensity exercise, the body uses adenosine triphosphate or ATP as its main energy source.
Creatine is proven to increase the ability to generate ATP in the muscles. It’s converted to phosphocreatine in the muscle cells, which then allows the formation of ATP. With this, creatine supplementation is convincingly shown to improve muscular strength.
Transparent Labs Creatine HMB uses 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving. Alongside being the highest quality of creatine, this is at the upper limit of the scientifically proven daily dosage. Hence, Transparent Labs’ claim that muscular strength is improved is well-founded.
Increased Fat Burning
Your dietary intake and the amount and intensity of exercise primarily determine the quantity of energy used. If you eat less and move more, you will burn more calories or energy. Alongside this, supplements such as fat burners may help by increasing your metabolism and suppressing your appetite.
Caffeine is one of the most well-proven aids to increase energy expenditure, or the amount of energy you use.
Green tea extract contains caffeine and polyphenols. These are plant compounds that act as antioxidants. Studies looking at the effects of green tea extract on increasing energy expenditure show promising results.
Transparent Labs Body Recomp Fat Burner contains caffeine and green tea extract above the research-backed doses. Therefore, its claim of increasing fat burning is based on proven research.
Reputation
Transparent Labs has built its reputation from a firm dedication to operating with full transparency. Customers know exactly what they’re putting in their bodies. They also learn about the impact different ingredients can have on their performance.
Because of this, Transparent Labs is well-trusted by general gymgoers and high-performance athletes.
Customers can make informed choices about the supplements they’re taking. This is especially important for tested athletes. They get peace of mind if they compete in sports where regular testing protocols are used.
Transparent Labs ensures all ingredients used are third-party tested. Certificates of analysis are provided for all their formulas. With this, their reputation as a trusted brand is firmly cemented at the top of the supplement industry.
Price
The price of most Transparent Labs supplements is higher than other brands. However, the higher price reflects their superior ingredient quality and rigorous testing processes.
That being said, Transparent Labs is marketed as a high-end brand for those who are happy to pay for quantity and quality. General gymgoers are paying to know exactly what they’re putting in their bodies. Performance athletes are paying to know they’re not taking contaminated ingredients.
While the prices tend to be much higher than other brands, the extra cost is worth it. You’re still getting value for money when compared to cheaper brand offerings. Because of this, we would say that their supplements are correctly priced.
Transparent Labs’ Best Sellers
100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
- Contains 28 grams of high-quality grass-fed whey isolate.
- 14 flavor options to choose from.
- Lactose-free with no artificial ingredients.
- Expensive price point.
- High sodium content.
Transparent Lab’s 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is the brand’s top offering. Each serving includes 28 grams of high-quality protein. Using North American cows as their protein source gives you one of the highest-quality proteins you can get.
Furthermore, it’s naturally sweetened with stevia. This means that no artificial flavors or additives are used. This is a huge plus if you want a clean protein source.
With 14 flavors available, Transparent Labs offers a great range of options. Alongside this, many users report that the flavors mix well with both water and milk.
If you’re looking for a high-quality protein source for your favorite hypertrophy workout, this sits at the top of the pile. The fact that it’s lactose-free makes it well-suited for those with sensitive stomachs.
However, future formulations should look to reduce the high sodium content. This may increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Alongside this, the high price point may be too much for those on a budget.
Lean Pre-Workout
- L-Citrulline is included above the research-backed dose.
- Added micronutrients to support general health and thyroid production.
- No artificial colors or sweeteners
- Some customers report an unpleasant taste for certain flavors.
- The caffeine is slightly underdosed.
Transparent Labs Lean Pre-Workout is formulated for those looking for an added boost when cutting. Each serving contains 180 milligrams of caffeine, 6 grams of l-citrulline, and 2 grams of beta-alanine as the main ingredients.
Other ingredients include 1.5 grams of betaine and 1 gram of l-carnitine. However, these doses are slightly below the research-backed amounts.
The added micronutrients are a nice addition that most pre-workouts don’t offer. Therefore, daily supplementation can help to reduce potential nutritional gaps.
Transparent Labs offers eight different flavors. Each of them is naturally flavored and sweetened with stevia. This gives you a good choice of flavors for those looking for natural pre-workout options.
At $1.67 per serving, the Transparent Labs Lean Pre-workout is one of the best pre-workout options at a mid-range price. While it’s a good pre-workout choice, future formations should increase the amount of beta-alanine and caffeine.
Body Recomp Fat Burner
- The main ingredients use research-backed doses.
- The formulation is specifically designed for fat-burning.
- Great price point per serving.
- Not suitable for vegetarians.
If you’re looking for a supplement to complement your weight loss workout plan, this is Transparent Lab’s main offering. They claim to have formulated their Body Recomp Fat Burner to increase metabolic rate and reduce appetite.
Each serving contains 120 milligrams of caffeine anhydrous, 200 milligrams of green tea extract, and 50 milligrams of cayenne pepper. With the suggested two daily servings, this puts the main ingredients way over the research-backed doses. Therefore, it’s a well-formulated fat burner that uses effective doses.
The 150 milligrams of 5-HTP in each dose may work well as an appetite suppressant.
Alongside this, the forskolin and synephrine are great additions. Both of these are plant-based compounds that may help increase fat burning and weight loss.
If you’re taking the suggested daily dose, each daily serving comes out at $1.83. This is a pretty good price point if you consider the type and amount of ingredients used. Again, you’re also paying for the third-party testing and peace of mind.
If you’re looking for a research-backed fat-burning formulation, this is one of the best fat burners on offer. You’re getting a well-formulated fat burner that does exactly what it claims.
Creatine HMB
- 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving.
- No artificial sweeteners, added sugars, dyes, and fillers.
- 13 flavors which includes an unflavored option.
- Some users report issues with mixability.
- Some users report an overly sweet taste.
The Transparent Labs HMB combines 5 grams of creatine monohydrate with 1.5 grams of Hydroxymethylbutyrate. This gives you a well-formulated supplement designed for muscle growth and recovery. Both ingredients are included in the research-backed doses.
The 12.5 micrograms of added vitamin D is a nice addition. This is included to support muscle strength and fatigue while helping regulate calcium levels. Alongside this, the black pepper extract improves nutrient absorption.
With 13 flavors to choose from, you have a great range of options for creatine power. The unflavored one is good for those who want to add it to a flavored protein or pre-workout.
You also have the option of a 30 and 60-serving tub, which allows you to purchase a two-month supply. Furthermore, the handy travel pack option is great for those who want to take it on the go.
Each serving costs $1.67. This is a good price point when you consider the creatine quality and added ingredients. Purchasing the 60-serving tub takes this cost down to $1.50.
Mass Gainer
- 770 calories per serving.
- 3 grams of added creatine monohydrate.
- No added sugar or artificial ingredients.
- The carbohydrate-to-protein ratio is quite high.
- Large amounts of saturated fat.
Most mass gainers contain high amounts of artificial ingredients and fillers. They offer minimum nutritional value, which can lead to inefficient weight gain. However, Transparent Labs Mass Gainer is totally different.
Each serving includes 770 calories, 53 grams of protein, and 3 grams of creatine monohydrate. All ingredients are third-party tested, which ensures a good-quality mass gainer without cheap additions. However, it is slightly pricey at $5.33 per serving.
Transparent Labs use a one-to-two protein-to-carbohydrate ratio. The carbohydrate sources include sweet potato, oats, and tapioca. This may be on the slightly higher side for those looking for less carbohydrates.
Two flavor options are available. Both are sweetened with stevia and monk fruit. While this means they are made using natural sources, future formulations could offer more flavors.
As is the case with all Transparent Labs products, the label clearly shows the type and amount of each ingredient. Unlike most mass gainers, you’re getting something that shows exactly what’s in it.
Is Transparent Labs Worth It?
If you’re looking for high-quality supplements with rigorous testing protocols, Transparent Labs offers a worthwhile investment. They are a great choice for health-conscious gymgoers and performance-athletes who need transparent supplements.
For beginners and average consumers, the Transparent Labs supplement range represents a significant investment. Because of this, the suitability of their supplements depends on how much value you place on ingredient quality and transparency.
Alternatives To Transparent Labs
Nutricost
- Budget-friendly supplements.
- Third-party testing for most of their products.
- A wide variety of product offerings.
- Concerns regarding ingredient formulations and quality.
- Reports of customer service issues concerning exchanges and returns.
Legion
- Based on scientific research and third-party tests.
- Natural flavors and ingredients.
- Money-back guarantee on all supplements.
- Concerns concerning unfair business practices.
- More expensive than most of their competitors.
Transparent Labs Customer Reviews – What Do Real Users Say?
Simply The Best: 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
JDM: June 24, 2024
I have tried other protein powders but nothing comes close to TL Grass Fed Protein! I like knowing what is on the label is what I am getting. Mixes well and tastes great!
The best pre-workout: PUMP Pre-Workout
Jason W: June 2, 2024
Excellent prep workout! Works great, tastes great, and excellent ingredients. So happy I found high-quality supplements that aren’t full of junk!
Final Thoughts
Transparent Labs are leading the way when it comes to supplement transparency and quality. They offer a wide range of products that continue to gain popularity as more users try their samples. However, be prepared to pay more than your usual supplement brands.
If you’ve got a bigger budget, Transparent Labs supplements are well worth the money. You’re getting proven products containing ingredients that are exactly as stated on the label.
Frequently Asked Questions
All Transparent Labs products are third-party tested for potency and purity. This marks the brand’s commitment to being fully transparent and offering high-quality supplements.
Yes, it is. Transparent Labs is based in Utah.
Transparent Labs was acquired by Nutra Holdings in 2019. The company stated they were impressed by the brand’s dedication to providing evidence-based, high-quality supplements.
Transparent Labs offers several vegan-friendly products, such as Orgain Vegan Protein Powder and Creatine HMB.
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Endomondo.com refrains from utilizing tertiary references. We uphold stringent sourcing criteria and depend on peer-reviewed studies and academic research conducted by medical associations and institutions. For more detailed insights, you can explore further by reading our editorial process.
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About the Author
Chris Marshall, MSc, PT Personal Trainer
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