Body Art Protein, LLC

Photo: Art Sidner

Mankato: Body Art Protein, LLC

When Tommy Inkrott became director of strength and conditioning at Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2009, he began to hear the same question over and over from his student athletes: “What’s the best protein supplement to use?”

While Inkrott tried to explain the basics of protein to these athletes, they’d often still come back to the gym with something overpriced or low in quality.

“It’s not really about brand name,” he explained. “It’s about the quality of the product and being able to trust the company. It was kind of frustrating seeing students [pick poor supplements].”

Finally, Inkrott decided to just start making his own protein supplement that they could use. He started working on his product in late 2013 and opened his supplement business, Body Art Protein, earlier this year.

Inkrott grew up in Ohio, playing football and basketball during high school. He attended college at Bowling Green State University and studied athletic training. After graduating in 2006, he came to MSU to earn a master’s degree in cardiac rehab and ended up starting a career there.

When Inkrott decided to start his own supplement business in 2013, he came up with a whey supplement formula that included extra leucine, an amino acid that stimulates muscle growth and recovery. The supplement, which only has 120 calories, can be put in milk or water and tastes like chocolate milk.

From there, Inkrott partnered with his brother, Mark, and worked with All American Foods to produce the powder. In January, he placed his first order, though his website wasn’t up and running until May. He has no physical store, but his product is available in several area locations, including Kato Crossfit, Mankato Coffeehouse and Ideal Weight To B. He said he hopes to also offer his product in grocery stores and gyms in the future.

“As of the last couple weeks, it’s picked up,” he said. “The word is starting to get out.” 

Body Art Protein, LLC

Telephone: (419) 796-9366
Website: bodyartprotein.com