How to check if whey protein is original

Seven checks before you open the tub

1. Buy from the brand or an authorised seller. Many brands list their authorised sellers on their own website. A price far below MRP from a seller you do not know is a common warning sign.
2. Check both seals. The outer wrap or cap seal and the inner foil seal under the lid should be intact, with no cuts, glue marks or signs of resealing.
3. Verify the authenticity code. Many brands print a scratch code, QR code or hologram sticker that you check on their website or by SMS. Type the brand’s web address yourself instead of trusting a QR code that opens an unfamiliar site.
4. Find the FSSAI licence number. Supplements sold in India carry the FSSAI logo and a 14-digit licence number. Look it up on FSSAI’s FoSCoS portal and check that the business name matches the company on the label.
5. Read the batch number and dates. The batch number, manufacturing or packing date and best-before or expiry date should be clearly printed, not smudged or covered by a sticker, and should match on the tub and the box.
6. For imported tubs, look for the importer label. Packaged goods sold in India must show the MRP, net quantity, the manufacturer, packer or importer’s name and address, and customer care details. Imported supplements should carry the Indian importer’s details.
7. Compare the look and feel. Blurry printing, spelling mistakes, a missing scoop, an odd smell or hard clumps can point to tampering or poor storage. They are clues, not proof, so confirm with the checks above.

Home tests that do not prove anything

Videos often suggest mixing whey in hot water, burning a spoonful, or checking how much it foams. None of these reliably tells real whey from fake: genuine powders behave differently depending on whether they are concentrate or isolate, the flavouring and the added thickeners. Rely on the seals, the brand’s code and the label.

If you think your whey is fake

• Stop using it and keep the tub, box and invoice.
• Photograph the label, batch number and seals, then contact the seller and the brand’s customer care.
• You can also raise a complaint with FSSAI through its FoSCoS portal or the Food Safety Connect app.

Buying whey from Total Fitness

Our protein collection lists sealed products with live prices and stock. Unopened supplements can be returned within 7 days of delivery with the seal and authenticity sticker intact; see the refund policy. On a budget? Compare whey protein under ₹2,000.