Basic MASS: High-Calorie Muscle Gainer with Premium Ingredients

Basic MASS delivers over 1000 calories with 50g of premium protein in each serving. Simple, effective nutrition from Basic Supplements for serious mass gains with quality ingredients and third-party testing.

In an industry crowded with complex formulas and flashy marketing, Basic Supplements continues to deliver straightforward, effective products that focus on quality over hype. Their latest offering, Basic MASS, exemplifies this philosophy perfectly – a high-calorie muscle mass gainer designed to provide serious caloric support for athletes looking to build size and strength.

Basic Supplements emerged onto the scene with a refreshingly transparent approach, as detailed when Marc Curcio and Laura Valley introduced the brand on Episode #156 of the PricePlow Podcast. After successfully launching their flagship Basic Whey and Basic Isolate protein powders, Basic has expanded their lineup to address another fundamental need for many athletes – adding quality mass.

Basic Mass: Over 1000 Calories in 4 Scoops with Great Protein Sources

What sets Basic MASS apart in the crowded mass gainer market isn’t exotic ingredients or outlandish claims – it’s the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality and testing. Like all Basic Supplements products, Basic MASS is manufactured at Nutrablend Foods’ state-of-the-art facility in Buffalo, NY, with third-party lab testing confirming both potency and purity. Recent testing has even demonstrated exceptionally low heavy metal content, making this one of the cleanest mass gainers available.

Before diving into the formula, check PricePlow for the best deals on Basic MASS and stay updated with Basic Supplements news alerts:

Basic MASS Nutrition Facts

Each 4-scoop (265g) serving of Basic MASS provides a robust nutritional profile designed to support muscle growth and recovery. While there’s some slight variation between flavors, you can expect approximately:

• Calories: 1020-1030

• Protein: 50g

• Total Carbohydrates: 190g

  • Dietary Fiber: 3g

  • Total Sugars: 11-13g

  • Added Sugars: 8g

• Total Fat: 7-8g

  • Saturated Fat: 6g

• Cholesterol: 130-135mg

• Sodium: 300-330mg (13-14% DV)

• Potassium: 341-723mg (7-15% DV)

The macronutrient ratio provides approximately 74% of calories from carbohydrates, 20% from protein, and 6% from fats – an ideal distribution for supporting muscle growth and glycogen replenishment.

Basic MASS Ingredients

Now let’s break it down further:

Premium Carbohydrate Blend

Basic MASS utilizes a thoughtful carbohydrate complex consisting of multiple sources that work together to provide both immediate and sustained energy. This strategic blend supports muscle glycogen replenishment, training performance, and recovery while delivering the substantial calorie intake needed for muscle growth.

• Maltodextrin

  Maltodextrin serves as a primary carbohydrate source in Basic MASS, providing rapidly available energy to fuel intense training and support post-exercise recovery. This complex carbohydrate is created through partial hydrolysis of starch and consists of glucose polymers of varying chain lengths, giving it properties between simple sugars and complex starches.^[1]

  What makes maltodextrin useful in a mass gainer is its high glycemic index, which promotes a quick insulin response. This insulin spike helps shuttle amino acids and glucose into muscle cells, potentially enhancing protein synthesis and glycogen replenishment after training.^[2] Research has shown that consuming carbohydrates like maltodextrin immediately post-workout can accelerate glycogen resynthesis by up to 45% compared to delaying intake by just 2 hours.^[3]

  

  For athletes engaged in high-volume resistance training, muscle glycogen serves as a critical energy substrate. Studies have demonstrated that a single resistance training session can deplete muscle glycogen by 24-40%, highlighting the importance of efficient replenishment for recovery and subsequent performance.^[4] When consumed after exercise, maltodextrin has been shown to support rapid glycogen synthesis rates of up to 40 mmol/kg dry weight per hour under optimal conditions.^[2]

• Sweet Potato Starch

  The inclusion of sweet potato starch in Basic MASS provides a complex carbohydrate source with a moderate glycemic index, creating a more sustained energy release compared to maltodextrin alone. This high-quality starch contains naturally occurring resistant starch, which passes through the small intestine undigested and acts as a prebiotic in the large intestine, potentially supporting gut health for better nutrient absorption.^[5]

  Sweet potato starch also offers nutritional benefits beyond just carbohydrates, containing naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and recovery. These micronutrients include potassium, which helps maintain proper muscle function and hydration.^[6]

  For athletes looking to maximize performance while supporting overall health, sweet potato starch represents an excellent “food-based” carbohydrate source that aligns with clean eating principles while still delivering the energy needed for muscle growth. The combination of higher and lower glycemic index carbohydrates creates what nutritional scientists call “carbohydrate availability” – ensuring both immediate and sustained fuel for intense training sessions and recovery.^[7]

• Quinoa Powder

  

  Basic Supplements shares heavy metals test results showing their whey protein has significantly lower levels than meat and fish. See the data on how their rigorous testing and quality control sets new standards for supplement safety.

  Quinoa powder brings a unique nutritional profile to Basic MASS, setting it apart from typical mass gainers. As a complete protein source containing all nine essential amino acids, quinoa complements the primary protein blend while adding complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.^[8]

  Beyond its macronutrient content, quinoa provides valuable micronutrients including magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, and zinc—minerals crucial for muscle function, energy production, and recovery. Its exceptional mineral content makes quinoa useful for supporting the increased metabolic demands of muscle building.^[9]

  Studies have shown that incorporating diverse carbohydrate sources can improve overall glycemic control compared to single-source carbohydrates, potentially providing more stable energy levels throughout the day.^[10] The inclusion of quinoa helps create a more balanced carbohydrate profile while adding nutritional density to each serving of Basic MASS.

  The strategic inclusion of quinoa aligns with current sports nutrition research showing that carbohydrate intake should be periodized based on training demands and exercise intensity.^[11] For athletes in a mass-gaining phase requiring high-volume training, having multiple carbohydrate sources ensures appropriate fuel for varying exercise intensities and recovery needs.

• Oat Fiber Powder

  Rounding out the carbohydrate blend is oat fiber powder, which provides both functional and nutritional benefits to the formula. This soluble fiber source helps moderate the digestion rate of other carbohydrates, potentially creating a more sustained energy release while supporting digestive health.^[12]

  

  For athletes consuming high-calorie diets to support muscle growth, maintaining digestive health becomes increasingly important. The beta-glucans in oat fiber have been shown to support beneficial gut bacteria, potentially improving nutrient absorption and overall gastrointestinal function.^[13]

  Additionally, oat fiber helps create a smoother texture and improved mouthfeel in the finished product, enhancing the overall experience of consuming Basic MASS. This attention to both functional and sensory qualities demonstrates Basic Supplements’ commitment to creating products that are not only effective but also enjoyable to use consistently.

  The inclusion of fiber in a mass gainer is valuable given that high-calorie diets sometimes neglect adequate fiber intake. Research indicates that maintaining proper fiber consumption can help optimize nutrient absorption and utilization – critical factors for athletes consuming large amounts of calories to support muscle growth.^[7]

High-Quality Protein Sources

True to Basic Supplements’ commitment to transparency, Basic MASS features several premium protein sources from Glanbia Nutritionals:

I’ll write informative sections about each of these three protein sources for your Basic Mass article. Here they are:

• Whey Protein Concentrate (Avonlac)

  

  We can count on one hand the number of times a protein powder has disclosed its protein manufacturer — this is how you build consumer trust.

  Avonlac Whey Protein Concentrate from Glanbia Nutritionals forms one of the primary protein components in Basic MASS. This premium WPC delivers approximately 80% protein by weight, while retaining many of the beneficial bioactive compounds naturally found in whey. These include beneficial immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, and lactoglobulins that support immune function beyond just providing protein.^[14]

  What makes Avonlac special is its exceptional flavor profile and smooth, creamy texture that contributes to the overall mouthfeel of Basic MASS. The instantized form used in this formula ensures excellent mixability and dissolution, even when blended with the other ingredients. Unlike highly processed proteins, Avonlac maintains more of the naturally occurring protein fractions that contribute to its nutritional profile, including higher levels of growth factors and bioactive peptides that support recovery.^[15] This is the same premium protein featured in Basic’s standalone Whey formula, ensuring consistent quality across their product line.

• Whey Protein Hydrolysate

  Basic MASS incorporates Whey Protein Hydrolysate, a pre-digested form of whey that has undergone partial enzymatic hydrolysis, effectively breaking larger protein molecules into smaller peptides. This specialized processing results in an ultra-fast-absorbing protein that enters the bloodstream more rapidly than other forms of whey.^[16]

  

  The strategic inclusion of hydrolyzed whey provides several advantages. First, this rapid-absorption protein triggers a more immediate amino acid surge post-workout, optimizing the anabolic window when muscles are primed for growth.^[17] Second, the smaller peptides in hydrolyzed whey may be easier to digest for some individuals, minimizing digestive discomfort during high-calorie consumption. Finally, these peptides have demonstrated enhanced bioactivity, potentially offering additional performance and recovery benefits beyond intact proteins.^[18] By including this specialized protein alongside WPC and WPI, Basic MASS provides a multi-phase absorption profile for sustained amino acid delivery.

• Whey Protein Isolate (Provon)

  Provon Whey Protein Isolate, another premium Glanbia Nutritionals ingredient, represents the purest protein source in Basic MASS. Produced through an advanced cross-flow microfiltration process, Provon delivers approximately 90% protein by weight with minimal fat, lactose, or other non-protein components.^[19]

  This highly refined protein provides several key advantages in the Basic MASS formula. Its exceptional purity means more protein per gram, contributing to the impressive 50g protein content per serving. The advanced filtration process preserves the protein in its undenatured state, maintaining higher levels of bioactive peptides and protein fractions that might otherwise be damaged during processing.^[20]

  Provon’s excellent Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS) of 1.25 indicates superior digestibility and amino acid utilization compared to most other protein sources. It’s rich in leucine, the primary amino acid responsible for triggering muscle protein synthesis through the mTOR pathway.^[21] By including the same premium Provon WPI used in their standalone Isolate product, Basic Supplements ensures consistent quality and effectiveness across their entire product line.

  

  Basic Supplements Promises something simple: To get back to the basics

  By using Glanbia’s Avonlac whey protein concentrate and Provon whey protein isolate – the same premium proteins featured in their standalone whey products – Basic ensures consistent quality across their entire product line. These ingredients underwent rigorous testing as detailed in Basic’s third-party lab test results.

• Milk Protein Concentrate

  Milk Protein Concentrate provides Basic MASS with a protein source that closely mirrors milk’s natural protein ratio of approximately 80% casein to 20% whey. This combination creates a dual-phase absorption profile, where the whey component delivers immediate amino acids while the casein fraction provides a sustained release over several hours.^[22]

  The inclusion of MPC offers several advantages beyond just providing protein content. Its unique ratio of casein to whey has been shown to support longer-lasting muscle protein synthesis compared to either protein alone.^[23] Research indicates that this natural ratio may extend the anabolic window post-exercise, making it an ideal protein source for a mass gainer designed to support extended recovery and growth.^[24]

  

  Basic Supplements launches three research-backed essentials manufactured at Nutrablend Foods with third-party testing. Pure BCAA, Creatine, and Glutamine in clinical doses without the hype.

  MPC also retains many of milk’s bioactive components that support immune function and overall health, including calcium-binding proteins and growth factors that may enhance recovery during intensive training phases. By incorporating this high-quality protein source, Basic MASS provides not just macronutrients but a truly functional protein blend that supports the entire muscle-building process.

• Micellar Casein

  Micellar Casein represents the premium slow-digesting protein in Basic MASS, engineered to provide a steady release of amino acids over 6-8 hours. Unlike caseinate (a processed form of casein), micellar casein preserves the natural micelle structure of the protein as found in milk, maintaining its superior digestive properties and bioactivity.^[25]

  This slow-release protein is crucial for a mass gainer formula, helping to prevent muscle breakdown during extended periods between meals and overnight. Research demonstrates that micellar casein produces a more prolonged but moderate amino acid elevation in the bloodstream compared to the rapid spike and decline seen with whey proteins.^[26]

  For athletes in a muscle-building phase, this sustained amino acid availability becomes particularly valuable. Studies show that casein’s anti-catabolic effects may be more pronounced than whey’s anabolic properties during prolonged fasting periods.^[27] By incorporating premium micellar casein alongside faster-digesting proteins, Basic MASS creates a comprehensive amino acid delivery system that supports muscle growth 24 hours a day—not just immediately post-workout.

Functional Supporting Ingredients

Basic Supplements has shared their lab tests, raising the bar for transparency in the supplement industry. They just released comprehensive Dyad Labs test results showing their products not only meet but often exceed label claims.

Beyond the primary macronutrients, Basic MASS contains several functional ingredients to enhance absorption and overall effectiveness:

• Coconut Oil Powder – This healthy fat source delivers medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in an easily mixable powder form, supporting sustained energy and hormone production. The powder form prevents separation during mixing while adding a subtle richness to the overall flavor profile.
• MCT Powder – A concentrated source of medium-chain triglycerides that provides rapidly available energy without the need for extensive processing by the liver. These fast-metabolizing fats support energy levels during intense training while potentially enhancing the body’s ability to maintain an anabolic state.
• Flaxseed Oil Powder – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this ingredient supports healthy inflammation response and joint health during periods of intense training. The powder format incorporates these essential fats without affecting mixability or requiring refrigeration, making it a convenient way to enhance the nutritional profile.

Amino Acid Profile

Basic MASS provides a complete amino acid profile, including essential branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and essential amino acids (EAAs) crucial for muscle protein synthesis. Each serving delivers approximately:

Basic Supplements has launched their first supplement, Basic Whey, and beyond some fun new flavors, they’re doing things different by disclosing the Glanbia proteins used inside, where their products are manufactured (Nutrablend Foods in Buffalo, NY), and showing the total protein percentage by weight on the front of each tub!

• Leucine: 4943mg
• Isoleucine: 2925mg
• Valine: 2709mg
• Lysine: 4605mg
• Threonine: 3607mg
• Phenylalanine: 1475mg
• Methionine: 1137mg
• Histidine: 694mg
• Tryptophan: 777mg

These amino acids, especially leucine, play critical roles in triggering muscle protein synthesis through mTOR pathway activation.^[21]

Food for Thought: Strategic Carbohydrate Timing

The carbohydrate blend in Basic MASS is ideally suited for strategic nutrient timing around workouts. Research indicates that consuming carbohydrates within the post-exercise window (especially within the first 30 minutes) can maximize glycogen replenishment rates.^[28]

For athletes engaged in high-volume training, daily carbohydrate intake of 8-12g/kg/day may be optimal for maximizing glycogen stores and supporting performance. Basic MASS helps achieve these targets with its substantial 190g of carbohydrates per serving.^[28]

The combination of fast-digesting maltodextrin with the more sustained-release carbohydrates from sweet potato starch, quinoa, and oat fiber creates an ideal blend for both immediate and extended glycogen replenishment, supporting recovery and subsequent training performance.

Available Flavors

Basic MASS is available in several delicious flavors to keep your mass-gaining journey enjoyable. Here’s a current list of all flavors:

Basic Isolate uses Glanbia Nutritionals’ Provon WPI, offering unmatched transparency and quality. Pure protein, no gimmicks — just what you need for peak performance.

How to Use Basic MASS

Basic Recommendation: Mix 4 scoops (265g) with 8-16 oz of cold water and consume 1 serving per day. Shake or blend thoroughly.

For best results, Basic MASS can be used:

• Post-workout to capitalize on the anabolic window
• Between meals to increase daily caloric intake
• Before bed to provide sustained nutrition during overnight recovery

You can, of course, split the serving up – your consistency to hitting daily macronutrient goals are more important than specific timing strategies.

Who Should Use Basic MASS?

Basic MASS is ideal for:

• Hardgainers struggling to consume enough calories
• Athletes in bulking phases of training
• Individuals recovering from illness or injury who need additional calories
• Those with high metabolic rates requiring caloric density

Consider stacking Basic Mass with Basic Creatine, found in the Basic Essentials supplements.

Basic MASS: Building Serious Size Without Complexity

In fall of 2024, Mike and Ben flew to Buffalo, NY to Nutrablend Foods, manufacturer for the new upstart brand, Basic Supplements. They interview Marc Curcio and Laura Valley for Episode #156, discussing how they’re simplifying the supplement industry with high-quality, essential products that are both affordable and transparent.

Basic Supplements has delivered once again with a product that stays true to their “back to basics” philosophy. Basic MASS provides exactly what serious athletes need for muscle growth – quality proteins from trusted sources, an effective carbohydrate blend, and an impressive nutritional profile – all without unnecessary additives or inflated claims.

By partnering with premium ingredient suppliers like Glanbia Nutritionals and manufacturing at Nutrablend Foods’ state-of-the-art facility, Basic continues to demonstrate their commitment to quality. Their transparency, exemplified by their willingness to share comprehensive lab test results showing consistently low heavy metal levels, sets a new standard in the supplement industry.

Whether you’re a hardgainer struggling to add size, an athlete in a bulking phase, or simply looking for a convenient way to increase your caloric intake, Basic MASS delivers exactly what you need – nothing more, nothing less.

For more about Basic Supplements’ approach to quality and transparency, check out our coverage of their third-party lab testing and heavy metals analysis on Basic’s Supplements, or listen to our in-depth conversation with Basic founders Marc Curcio and Laura Valley on Episode #156 of the PricePlow Podcast.

You can find the best deals on Basic MASS and other Basic Supplements products below: