Frequently asked questions about scoops

A scoop, scoopie, or measuring scoop is not the most interesting topic. Still, there are many misunderstandings, and we continue to receive a lot of questions about it. A scoop is standard in every container of powder. Sometimes it takes a bit of searching, but it’s always there! You’ll find a scoop in your container of protein, pre-workout, or weight gainer.

To finally provide more clarity, we have collected the 4 most frequently asked questions/misunderstandings about scoops in one article for you.

Pull out the physics books!

Before we start with the questions, it's good to realize that we use a scoop to measure a volume of powder, while we are actually trying to measure a weight. These are two different physical units. Let that sink in, and then we’ll start with the questions.

#1 The content of my scoop does not match your instructions; how can that be?

The content of a scoop that does not match the instructions 100% can have many causes. First of all, it is important that we measure in the same way: namely, a fully filled scoop that is leveled off at the top. Avoid having a mound of powder on top of the scoop, as this will result in a higher measurement than stated in the instructions.

Additionally, it is good to realize that we are dealing not only with weight but also with volume. Let's take protein powder as an example. Powder that has been sitting in a container for a while tends to settle (compact) and thus has a higher density than if you were to shake the powder first.

Compare this to freshly fallen snow versus a snowball. You gather a handful of fresh snow in your hands with a certain weight and density. When you make a snowball from it, you compact it, which decreases its volume while the weight remains the same. This results in a higher density. The same happens with protein powder in the container; it settles over time and becomes denser. Therefore, we recommend that you always shake your (protein) powder first to aerate it before using your scoop.

The same amount of powder, but pressed or not pressed.

#2 Is a scoop always 100% accurate?

The question above probably already answered it, but the answer is: no, a scoop is never 100% accurate. A scoop is the golden mean between convenience and precision, but if you want to be 100% sure, we recommend using a kitchen scale or even a precision scale. This way, you can be certain that you’re always handling the correct portion. However, we should mention that this is probably not worth the effort for most people, unless you are, for example, in competition preparation.

To measure is to know!

#3 Are the numbers on a scoop the number of grams?

Good question! The numbers on the scoop often lead to confusion, so it’s important to know that they refer to a volume measurement, usually in the form of cc’s (cubic centimeters) / ml’s (milliliters). As mentioned earlier, how this translates to grams depends on the density of the powder. Compare a protein powder to a pre-workout, and you’ll see that the latter is much denser.

For that reason, we recommend that you don’t focus on the numbers on the scoop but simply follow the instructions. And once again: if you want to be 100% sure, use a scale.

The numbers in the scope? Don't pay too much attention to them.

#4 How can the content per scoop vary from jar to jar?

Most products are made from a natural raw material, such as whey in the case of protein powder. Since this involves a natural raw material, it automatically means that there may be slight differences in taste and texture from batch to batch. Additionally, ingredients are often added for flavor, color, and shelf life of the product. Because these products are mixed in large quantities (think over 1000 kilograms at a time), there is always a chance that the mixing ratio may be slightly different. Furthermore, certain finer particles may settle at the bottom of the jar while the finer powder remains on top. Due to all these factors, the content per scoop can vary slightly.

In short: how to scoop correctly!

1. Loosen the powder in the jar with the scoop.
2. Fill the scoop with loose powder.
3. Shake the scoop back and forth to remove excess powder until you end up with a flat top. Note: do not press against the side of the jar.
   This way, you have used the scoop correctly and can make your shake!
   However, we always recommend using a scale, as that remains the most precise method.

Other questions?

If you have any other questions after reading this article, no problem! Feel free to contact our customer service, and they will be happy to answer all your questions.