Scoop buying guide

Protein powder scoop size: how to choose the right scoop

Short answer

There is no single protein scoop size. Scoop volume (ml) = serving size (g) ÷ your powder's bulk density (g/ml). Start from the serving on your label and the density you measure for your own powder; the chart below shows the volume for common servings.

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Step 1: measure your powder's bulk density

  1. Put a 100 ml measuring cup on a kitchen scale and zero it.
  2. Spoon in powder until it is level with the 100 ml mark. Do not tap or press it down, because your customer won't either.
  3. Read the grams and divide by 100. That is your bulk density in g/ml.

Repeat three times and use the average. Flavored, instantized and plant proteins can differ a lot from plain whey, so measure each formula.

Step 2: find the scoop volume for your serving

Step 2: find the scoop volume for your serving
Serving0.35 g/ml0.45 g/ml0.55 g/ml0.70 g/ml
3 g9 ml7 ml5 ml4 ml
5 g14 ml11 ml9 ml7 ml
10 g29 ml22 ml18 ml14 ml
20 g57 ml44 ml36 ml29 ml
25 g71 ml56 ml45 ml36 ml
30 g86 ml67 ml55 ml43 ml
35 g100 ml78 ml64 ml50 ml

Find your density column, then your serving row. That is the level-fill volume your scoop needs.

Step 3: pick the closest stock scoop

Our stock stainless steel scoops come in these capacities:

1 · 1.25 · 2.5 · 3 · 5 · 7.5 · 8.5 · 10 · 12.5 · 13 · 15 · 20 · 22.5 · 25 · 30 · 35 · 50 · 60 · 70 · 100 ml

Choose the stock size closest to your number and test it with your powder: fill level, weigh, repeat ten times. If the average matches your label serving, you are done. If your number falls between two sizes, we can tool a new scoop to your exact volume; new tooling takes about 30 days.

Examples:

  • 30 g whey at 0.45 g/ml → 67 ml. Test the 70 ml model; if your powder measures 0.50 g/ml, the result is 60 ml, the 60 ml (¼ cup) BS2534.
  • 5 g creatine at 0.70 g/ml → 7 ml. Test the 7.5 ml models.
  • 10 g collagen at 0.45 g/ml → 22 ml. Test the 22.5 ml model.

Step 4: check the fit in your container

  • Headspace. After filling, the scoop must lie on top of the powder under the lid, or stand in a holder in the lid.
  • Handle length. The scoop must reach the powder near the bottom without the customer's fingers touching it.
  • Bowl shape. Round, deep bowls level off cleanly with a straight edge, which keeps servings consistent.

Creatine scoops

Creatine monohydrate servings are small: 3–5 g per day is the common maintenance amount. Choose the scoop from the serving on your label and the density you measure for your product, using the chart above. Do not assume one scoop size fits every creatine; formats differ.

FAQ

How many grams is a scoop of protein powder?

It depends on the scoop and the powder. The label states the grams per scoop for that product.

What size scoop is 30 grams of protein powder?

Divide 30 by your powder's density in g/ml: at 0.35 g/ml it is 86 ml, at 0.45 g/ml 67 ml, at 0.55 g/ml 55 ml.

What size is a 5 gram scoop?

Divide 5 by your powder's density in g/ml: at 0.35 g/ml it is 14 ml, at 0.70 g/ml 7 ml.

Is a ¼ cup scoop the same as 60 ml?

Yes. A US ¼ cup is 59 ml.

Are stainless steel scoops better than plastic scoops for supplements?

Stainless steel scoops are reusable, do not crack and can be laser-marked with your logo. Our standard grade is 304 stainless steel.

For supplement brands

We make stainless steel scoops for protein, creatine, collagen and pre-workout brands: 58 stock models from 1 ml to 100 ml, or a new scoop tooled to your volume. Logo laser-marked on the handle, minimum order 100 pieces, sample of a stock model within 3 days. Request a quote or see scoops for powder brands.

Sources

  • Kreider R.B. et al., International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 2017 (3–5 g per day maintenance).
  • National Institute of Standards and Technology, NIST Handbook 44, Appendix C (1 cup = 8 fl oz = 236.6 ml).