How to check optimum nutrition authenticity?

As someone who's been using Optimum Nutrition products for years and has encountered counterfeits, here's how to verify authenticity:1. Check the Packaging Quality- Authentic: Sharp, clear printing with vibrant colors- Fake: Blurry text, faded colors, poor quality materials- Seams and seals should be clean and professional2. Scratch-off Code Verification- Locate the scratch-off panel on the container- Scratch to reveal unique code- Enter at OptimumNutrition.com/verify or the regional verification website- First-time verification should show "authentic"- Already used codes indicate counterfeit3. Examine the Container- Tub quality - should feel substantial, not flimsy- Lid seal - should be intact and secure- Label alignment - centered and properly applied4. Product Characteristics- Texture - should be fine and consistent (varies by product)- Mixability - should dissolve reasonably well in water/shaker- Taste - consistent with flavor description (fakes often taste chalky or off)5. Purchase Source- Authorized retailers: GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, bodybuilding.com- Be wary of: Amazon third-party sellers, eBay, unknown websites- Too-good-to-be-true pricing = major red flag6. Batch Code Verification- Contact ON customer service with batch code and manufacturing date- They can verify if it matches their production records7. Mobile App Verification- Some regions have official ON apps with verification featuresRed Flags:- No scratch-off code or already scratched- Verification website doesn't exist or looks suspicious- Poor English on packaging (for English-speaking markets)- Significant price discounts (more than 30% off retail)The Optimum Nutrition official website has the most current anti-counterfeiting features and authorized retailer lists. When in doubt, buy directly from reputable sources even if it costs slightly more.

I got burned by a fake ON protein tub last year, so I've become super careful about verification. Here's my personal checklist:My step-by-step inspection:1. Feel the tub - genuine ON tubs have a specific texture and weight2. Check the lid - should snap on securely, not feel loose or cheap3. Look at the label - colors should be bright, not washed out4. Scratch the code - use a coin, not your nail (can damage it)5. Verify immediately - before I even leave the store if possibleWhat the fake I bought had wrong:- Label was slightly crooked- Colors were dull compared to my previous genuine tub- Scratch-off area felt different - rougher texture- Powder clumped more and didn't mix as well- Taste was noticeably different - more artificial sweetener tasteWhere I find reliable products:- Direct from ON website (most expensive but guaranteed)- Major supplement chains (GNC, Vitamin Shoppe)- Reputable online retailers with direct distributor relationships- Local gyms that are authorized dealersWhat I learned: The small savings from questionable sellers isn't worth the risk. Counterfeit supplements can contain anything from fillers to potentially harmful substances. The verification system exists for a reason - use it every time!Now I only buy during legitimate sales from authorized retailers and always verify the code immediately. It's become part of my routine, just like checking expiration dates on food products.