Protein Powder: A Vegan Diet's Best Friend?

Vegan protein powders are a convenient way to supplement your protein intake, especially for those following a plant-based diet. They are typically made from a variety of plant protein sources, including peas, brown rice, soy, chickpeas, and other legumes.

Vegan protein powders can be beneficial for people who don't get enough protein in their regular diet, such as vegetarians and vegans, as well as those who are pregnant, healing from injury or surgery, or simply looking to support their fitness goals.

When choosing a vegan protein powder, it is recommended to look for powders that are third-party certified, have multiple plant protein sources, and are free of added sugars, artificial flavours, and preservatives. It is also important to consider your personal taste and texture preferences, as well as any dietary restrictions or allergies you may have.

While there are many options available on the market, some popular brands include Orgain, Garden of Life, KOS, and Vega. These powders offer a range of flavours, from vanilla and chocolate to more unique options like cinnamon cereal and blueberry cheesecake.

In addition to their convenience and flavour, vegan protein powders can be a good choice for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, and some people may find them easier to digest than animal-based protein powders. They can also be a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly option.

However, it is important to note that protein powders are considered dietary supplements and are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, it is recommended to choose products that have been independently tested by third-party agencies to ensure safety and accuracy in labelling.

The best vegan protein powders for athletes and active adults

For athletes and active adults who don't eat animal products, getting enough protein from diet alone can be challenging. A vegan protein powder can help. Here are some of the best options on the market:

Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder

This powder is NSF Certified for Sport, meaning it's safe for athletes. It contains 30 grams of protein per serving, which is the highest on this list. The protein sources include pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, and alfalfa, which provide a complete amino acid profile. It also includes ingredients like tart cherry and turmeric that may support muscle recovery. It has a sweet, tootsie roll-like flavor and blends well in both water and smoothies.

Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

This powder contains 30 grams of protein per serving and is NSF-Certified for Sport, making it a great option for athletes. It has a blend of protein sources, including pea, navy bean, lentils, garbanzo bean, and cranberry, which provide a well-rounded amino acid profile. It also includes added probiotics for gut health. However, it doesn't mix well with just water or plant-based milk and has a strong stevia aftertaste.

Naked Pea Premium Pea Protein Powder

This powder contains 27 grams of protein per serving and is certified by Informed Choice, meaning it's free of impurities and banned substances. It's also vegan and gluten-free and made using environmentally friendly farming practices. It doesn't have any artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors. However, it's exclusively sourced from raw yellow peas, which are relatively low in methionine, so it's best to use this powder as part of a balanced diet.

KOS Organic Superfood Protein

This powder contains 20 grams of protein per serving from a blend of pea protein, flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seed protein, and chia seeds. It also includes an organic superfood blend of fruits and vegetables, as well as a vitamin and mineral blend, making it a good source of additional nutrients like iron, B12, and selenium. It has a subtle chocolate flavor and mixes well with no grittiness. However, it does include a digestive enzyme blend that some may not want, and it's not independently tested.

Truvani Plant-Based Protein Powder Chocolate

This powder contains 20 grams of protein per serving from a blend of peas, pumpkin seed, and chia seed. It has a rich, natural chocolate flavor and mixes smoothly with no clumps. It's also free of artificial ingredients and common allergens. However, it's not a good source of any other nutrients besides protein.

Ora Vanilla Chai Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein

This powder contains 21 grams of protein per serving from a blend of pea, rice, cranberry, sacha inchi, amaranth, and sprouted quinoa. It also includes a blend of superfoods and greens, like apples, blackberries, broccoli, and kale, which boost its nutritional value. It has an accurate vanilla chai flavor and blends well, even in just water. However, it does contain digestive enzymes that may not be beneficial for everyone.

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake

This powder contains 20 grams of protein per serving and is made from organic pea protein. It's Informed Sport Certified and has strong independent testing, making it a good option for pregnant women. It blends well in both water and smoothies and has a slight artificial taste. However, it does include xanthan gum, which may cause bloating in some people.

The best vegan protein powders for women

Vegan protein powders are a convenient way to supplement your protein intake, especially if you are a vegan athlete, pregnant, or breastfeeding. Here are some of the best vegan protein powders for women:

Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

This powder contains 30 grams of protein per serving and is NSF Certified for Sport, making it a good option for competitive athletes. It has a subtle vanilla or chocolate flavour and blends well in smoothies. However, it may be challenging to mix with just water or plant-based milk. It also contains proprietary blends, which some people prefer to avoid.

Sprout Living Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma

This vanilla-flavoured powder is subtly sweet and received high ratings for taste, even when mixed with just water. It contains 20 grams of protein per serving and is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and iron. However, it may cause digestive discomfort for those sensitive to inulin or following a low FODMAP diet.

Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder

This powder is ideal for athletes looking to boost their post-workout protein intake. It contains 30 grams of protein per serving and is NSF Certified for Sport. It has a sweet, tootsie roll-like flavour and blends well in smoothies. However, it contains additional ingredients that may interact with certain medications.

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+

This powder is a good option for pregnant women as it is independently tested and contains choline, an essential nutrient during pregnancy. It has a slight vanilla flavour and blends well with other ingredients. However, it may have a bit of an artificial taste when mixed with just water.

KOS Organic Plant Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter

This powder blends well and has a subtle chocolate flavour with no aftertaste. It contains 20 grams of protein per serving and is a good source of iron. It also includes a fruit and veggie blend, providing a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, it contains a probiotic blend that may not be necessary for everyone.

Truvani Plant-Based Protein Powder Chocolate

This powder has a rich, natural chocolate flavour and blends smoothly, leaving no clumps. It contains 20 grams of protein per serving and is made with only six organic key ingredients. However, it is not a good source of additional nutrients like fibre or minerals.

Nutiva Hemp Protein Powder

This unflavoured powder can be easily mixed with other flavours and has a mild taste with no aftertaste. It is a good source of fibre, iron, zinc, and magnesium. However, it is lower in protein per serving compared to other options.

Ora Vanilla Chai Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein

This vanilla chai-flavoured powder blends well and has an accurate, pleasant taste. It contains 21 grams of protein per serving and is a good source of sodium, making it suitable for replenishing electrolytes after a workout. However, it contains a digestive enzyme blend that may not be necessary for everyone.

The best vegan protein powders for weight gain

Naked Vegan Mass Gainer

The Naked Vegan Mass Gainer is a weight gainer supplement that combines premium pea protein and brown rice protein to create a blend of complete plant-based proteins and complex carbohydrates. Each serving contains 1230 calories and 50 grams of protein, with no artificial additives or sweeteners. The product is gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free, making it a good option for those with dietary restrictions. It also has a good mixability, according to some customers, and blends well in smoothies without clumping. However, some customers have expressed concerns about the taste and sugar content, with some finding it too sweet or bland.

Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder

The Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder is a good option for those looking for a high-protein content, as it offers 30 grams of protein per serving. It is NSF Certified for Sport, making it suitable for competitive athletes, and it is also non-GMO. The powder has a sweet, tootsie roll-like flavor and blends well, resulting in a thick and creamy texture. However, some customers have noted that it requires a large amount of powder to reach the full serving size.

Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

The Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder contains 30 grams of protein per serving and is NSF Certified for Sport, making it suitable for athletes. It includes protein derived from peas, navy beans, lentils, garbanzo beans, and cranberries, providing a balanced amino acid profile. It is certified organic, gluten-free, and Informed Choice certified. However, it can be difficult to mix without a blender, and it has a strong stevia taste that may be off-putting for some.

Truvani Plant-Based Protein Powder

The Truvani Plant-Based Protein Powder offers a rich chocolate flavor with only six simple organic ingredients, including pea protein, alkalized cocoa, vanilla powder, pumpkin seed, monk fruit extract, and chia seed protein. The brand is committed to sourcing top-quality ingredients and testing for heavy metals and other contaminants. The powder has a smooth texture and blends well, leaving no clumps. However, it is not a good source of additional nutrients like fiber or minerals.

Ora Vanilla Chai Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein

The Ora Vanilla Chai Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein is a good option for those looking for a blendable protein powder with a high-quality ingredient list and a flavorful profile. It includes a blend of superfoods and greens, such as apples, blackberries, broccoli, kale, and turmeric, in addition to 21 grams of protein per serving. It is also high in sodium, with 390 mg per serving, making it suitable for replenishing electrolytes after a workout. However, it does contain digestive enzymes that may not be necessary for everyone.

Naked Pea Premium Pea Protein Powder

The Naked Pea Premium Pea Protein Powder is a good unflavored option, with 27 grams of protein per serving and no artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors. It is certified vegan and gluten-free, and produced using environmentally friendly farming practices. It is also Informed Choice certified, ensuring it is free of impurities, contaminants, and banned substances. However, it is sourced exclusively from raw yellow peas, which are relatively low in methionine, so it is best to enjoy as part of a balanced diet with other protein-rich plant foods.

The best vegan protein powders for flavour

Vegan protein powders are a convenient way to supplement your protein intake, especially if you are vegan, allergic to whey, or simply prefer plant-based products. They are typically made from peas, rice, hemp, and soy, and can be a great way to get extra fibre, minerals, and other nutrients.

KOS Organic Plant Protein

KOS Organic Plant Protein is a great choice if you're looking for a protein powder that blends well without a blender. It has a subtle chocolate flavour that's not too overwhelming, and it mixes well with other ingredients without any grittiness. The main protein source is pea protein, and it also includes a blend of flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and chia seeds. It's a good source of iron, B12, and selenium, and is certified organic, non-GMO, kosher, soy-free, and dairy-free.

Sprout Living Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma

If you're a fan of vanilla, Sprout Living's Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma Powder is a great option. It has a delightful, subtle, warm vanilla flavour with notes of cinnamon and ginger root. The protein sources include yellow peas, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sacha inchi, and cranberry seeds, making it a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin C. It mixes well and has a slightly grainier texture than some other options.

Truvani Plant-Based Protein Powder Chocolate

For chocolate lovers, Truvani's Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder is a rich, natural cacao flavour with a smooth texture. It has only six organic key ingredients: pea protein, alkalized cocoa, vanilla powder, pumpkin seed, monk fruit extract, and chia seed protein. It's a good choice if you want a protein powder that's simple and free of common allergens.

Garden of Life Organic Creamy Protein with Oat Milk

Garden of Life's Organic Creamy Protein with Oat Milk has a rich, decadent milkshake-like texture and blends extremely well, even with just water. The flavour is sweet and vanilla-forward, which may be a bit overwhelming for some. It includes coconut oil, coconut water, and oat milk powders, and is a good source of fibre and MCTs.

Ora Vanilla Chai Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein

Ora's Vanilla Chai Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein is a great choice for smoothies, with a blendable, high-quality formula and an accurate vanilla chai flavour. It includes a blend of superfoods and greens, such as apples, blackberries, broccoli, kale, and turmeric, and is a good source of sodium to replenish electrolytes after a workout.

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake

Ritual's Essential Protein Daily Shake is a great option if you're looking for a protein powder that is independently tested and has a mild flavour. It is sweetened with stevia and monk fruit extract and has a slight artificial taste, but it blends well in a smoothie. It is Informed Sport Certified and contains 20 grams of protein per serving.

Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder

Vega's Sport Premium Protein Powder is a good choice for athletes or those with higher protein needs, with 30 grams of protein per serving. It has a sweet, Tootsie Roll-like flavour and a thick, creamy texture. It includes tart cherry and turmeric for recovery and is NSF Certified for Sport, ensuring it is free of harmful contaminants and banned substances.

Orgain Organic Simple Vegan Protein Powder

If you're looking for an organic option, Orgain's Organic Simple Vegan Protein Powder is a good choice. It is sweetened with coconut sugar, giving it a nutty taste, and has a creamy texture. It includes protein from peas, peanuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds, and is free of artificial ingredients.

Nutiva Hemp Protein Powder

Nutiva's Hemp Protein Powder is an excellent choice if you want an unflavoured protein powder that can be easily mixed and matched with other flavours. It is made from hemp seeds and is a good source of fibre, iron, zinc, and magnesium. It has a mild flavour with no aftertaste and is independently tested to ensure it is free of contaminants.

Future Kind Organic Vegan Protein Powder

Future Kind's Organic Vegan Protein Powder is a great entry-level vegan protein powder. It has a mild, barely sweet flavour and mixes well, even in a shaker bottle. It is made from peas and has 20 grams of protein per scoop, with no artificial flavours, sweeteners, or colours.

BEAM Be Amazing Vegan Protein Powder

BEAM's Be Amazing Vegan Protein Powder is a trendy option with sleek packaging and quirky flavours like birthday cake and cinnamon cereal. It has a great taste and texture, with 20 grams of protein per serving, but it does contain sucralose, an artificial sweetener.

The best vegan protein powders for men's health

Vegan protein powders are a convenient way to supplement your protein intake, especially if you're an athlete or bodybuilder, pregnant, or have a restricted diet. Here are some of the best vegan protein powders for men's health:

Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder

NSF Certified for Sport, this powder contains 30 grams of protein per serving, making it a great option for athletes and bodybuilders. It has a full range of essential amino acids, including 2.9 grams of leucine, and is sweetened with stevia for a light taste. It's also non-GMO verified and certified vegan.

Naked Pea Protein Powder

This powder is ideal for those who want a straightforward, no-additive option. It's made entirely from yellow pea protein, providing 27 grams of protein per serving. It's non-GMO, gluten-free, and third-party tested for purity and quality. It mixes easily and comes in both flavoured and unflavoured options.

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+

Ritual's vegan protein powder contains 20 grams of protein and three grams of fibre per serving, with a pleasant vanilla flavour. It's Informed Sport Certified, meaning it's free of banned substances, and made from traceable ingredients, including organic pea protein sourced from the US. It's also third-party tested.

Promix Nutrition Plant-Based Vegan Protein Powder

This powder contains 20 grams of protein per serving and has a complete amino acid profile, making it ideal for muscle recovery and growth. It's made from organic pea and brown rice protein and is easy to digest. It's also free of common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten. The chocolate flavour is rich and satisfying.

Garden of Life Organic Protein Powder

Garden of Life's protein powder is a popular choice among the vegan fitness community. It's made from a blend of 14 organic plant sources, including pea protein, millet sprout, and adzuki bean, providing 22 grams of protein per serving. It's also NSF certified, contains added probiotics, and is unflavoured, making it versatile for use in smoothies or baked goods.

NOW Sports Pea Protein Powder

The NOW Sports Pea Protein Powder is a great option if you're looking for a low-carb, high-protein option. It contains 24 grams of protein and less than 1 gram of carbs per serving. It's Informed Sport Certified, ensuring it's free of banned substances, and is free of GMOs, dairy, gluten, and soy. It comes in a range of flavours as well as an unflavoured version.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant-Based Protein Powder

This powder is made from a blend of pea, brown rice, and sacha inchi protein, providing a complete amino acid profile. Each serving contains 24 grams of protein, 4.8 grams of BCAAs, and 4 grams of glutamine and glutamic acid, making it ideal for post-workout recovery. It's free of artificial flavours, sweeteners, and colours, and comes in a variety of flavours, with peanut butter being a favourite.

Thorne VeganPro Complex

The Thorne VeganPro Complex is a comprehensive nutrition option, containing a wide range of vitamins and minerals. It's made from pea protein, rice protein, and pumpkin seed protein, providing a complete amino acid profile. It's also fortified with L-glutamine and branched-chain amino acids for enhanced muscle protein synthesis. It has a rich vanilla flavour and smooth texture.

Dymatize Vegan Plant Protein

Dymatize's vegan protein powder is smooth and mixes well, with 25 grams of protein and BCAAs per serving. It's non-GMO, gluten-free, and free of artificial colours, flavours, and sweeteners. It's also third-party certified, and the brand is committed to sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices.

Nutiva Organic Cold-Pressed Raw Hemp Seed Protein Powder

This hemp-based powder is made from a single ingredient: raw hemp seed, which is cold-pressed to preserve maximum nutrients. It provides 15 grams of protein and 6 grams of fibre per serving, which can aid in digestion, cholesterol management, and blood sugar stabilisation. It has a pleasant taste when blended into a smoothie, but some find the earthy flavour and gritty texture noticeable when mixed with water or milk.

Frequently asked questions