Imagine that you are standing in a supplement aisle and feel overwhelmed. Every container is flavored with chocolate lava or maple. But maybe you just want the plain Jane of unflavored protein powder! This unsung superhero deserves a spotlight. Find out why it is worth its gold weight.

First and foremost: Freedom! Protein powders that are unflavored offer the most blank canvas. They aren’t overpowered by sugary sweetness. Add it anything! Smoothies or sauces. Even soups. The chameleon is the star of the culinary world. Admit it. Now you have one less decision to make.

“No flavor” may be a turnoff for some. You’ll be surprised to learn that simplicity has a hidden beauty. Some may struggle with flavor fatigue. For example, who else can’t stare a banan in the face at 10am without feeling sick? Cooking with versatility will make you a hit. What about sausage-stuffed peppers that are packed with protein? Yes, please.

But let’s get to the meat of the matter. The added sugars or ingredients sneak up on you with flavored-powders. The flavored powders are a distraction from the simple goal of obtaining your protein fix. Unflavored proteins keep things honest. Straight protein is what you get when stripped down. Plus, the taste adventure is under your control. Control freaks can rejoice!

Nutrition is another important factor. While fads are the talk of the town, protein that is unflavored remains reliable. It encompasses the key benefits–muscle repair, recovery aid, hunger satisfaction–without the hoopla. Do not hesitate to use your kitchen scale.

Now let’s tackle the elephant: taste. Or, lack of taste. Sure, you won’t find it on a Michelin star restaurant anytime soon. What’s so beautiful about that? It becomes whatever you decide it will be. Add it to your frappes, chilis, or even just your morning oatmeal. You won’t regret the opportunity to taste this bubblegum candy.

Just a warning, because my middle name is honesty, mixing unflavored protein sometimes requires finesse. Add an extra shake. Stir a bit. If you can get the coffee to taste good without tasting like sludge then you’re half way there. It’s nothing to worry about, folks!

Explore the unflavored world and experiment. In my banana bread I have a spoon hidden, and in the creamy tomato bisque another. When you discover Waldo, it’s impossible to stop. You will be creating a pupu platter with unflavored foods within minutes.

Unflavored powder might not be trendy today or tomorrow but it is reliable enough to know its value. It’s worth a shot if there is a corner in your pantry dedicated to something that looks unassuming and yet has a lot of power. Once you get used to it, you can’t imagine a kitchen with out it. It’s important to remember that the best discoveries are sometimes hidden within the plainest packages.