If you’re a gym regular, you’re probably no stranger to the morning routine of spooning protein powder into your porridge or whipping up a quick protein shake to start your day. Protein is probably the world’s most supplemented nutrient, with sales projections suggesting that the worldwide protein market is set to grow to over $47.4 billion (£36bn) by 2032 – more than double the figure from 2021.

However, as our taste for protein has grown, so too has our awareness of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). A diet high in UPFs – or food that is industrially produced using complex processes and additives – has been linked to health problems including heart disease, cancer and – and this from a huge study published in the British Medical Journal – early death. Despite coming in packaging that promotes health and vigour, some protein powders contain ultra-processed ingredients such as gut-damaging sweeteners and emulsifiers.

Should you be switching to ‘clean’ protein? Nutrition experts explain the benefits of more gut-friendly protein powders