Let me start by saying I've tried more protein powders than I'd like to admit. As someone with celiac disease and a medical vegan diet, finding clean protein that doesn't taste like chalk is... challenging. This Garden of Life powder has been my ride-or-die for years, but recent changes have me conflicted.

The good? When mixed with almond milk and yogurt, it's actually enjoyable - faint vanilla chai flavor with an earthy undertone (think herbal tea meets subtle pumpkin spice). The 22g plant-based protein keeps me full, and I love that it's packed with probiotics. My doctor-approved post-weight-loss staple!

Now the gritty truth (literally): Texture is DRY. Like licking a pumpkin skin dry. It never fully dissolves - I always need yogurt to mask the graininess. The comically large scoop forces measuring acrobatics (why is it corncob-shaped?!). And since Nestlé bought the brand? More pea protein fillers, less probiotics, added erythritol (hello bloating), and suspicious vitamin sourcing.

Pro tip: Works best in sweet applications - my go-to is blended with frozen banana + cinnamon. Avoid savory mixes unless you want weird sweet undertones in your tomato soup.

Final verdict: Still better than most vegan proteins taste-wise (especially the updated formula), but declining quality breaks my heart. Stock up if you find old batches, or brace for Nestlé's 'improvements.' 4/5 stars - loses one for corporate greed ruining a good thing.