With around 230 million vegans in the world, plant based protein powders have exploded in popularity. But are they all created equal? In this article, we will break down the best plant based protein powders in 2024.
The surge in popularity of plant-based diets, driven by health, ethical, and environmental factors, has led to a significant increase in vegan protein powder options. This growth encompasses a variety of sources, including pea, hemp, rice, and soy proteins. These plant-based protein powders cater to a diverse audience, from athletes seeking muscle recovery to fitness enthusiasts looking to fulfill their protein requirements, and those embarking on a plant-based lifestyle journey.
The current market is abundant with choices, each offering its unique blend of ingredients and benefits. While some individuals may encounter allergies or digestive issues with certain types, generally, vegan protein powders are recognized for their nutritional value and are an effective way to ensure adequate protein intake. In this article, we have carefully selected some of the best vegan plant-based protein powders available in 2024. Our selection criteria focus on taste, ingredient quality, sourcing, and overall benefits, providing you with reliable options to enhance your diet and meet your health goals.
Best Plant Based Protein Powders Top Picks
Best Overall: Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Best Expert Recommended: Momentous Essential Plant Protein Powder
Best Value: Vega Sport Premium Vegan Protein Powder
Best for Gut: Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Best Ingredients: Garden of Life Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Best Weight Loss: KOS Vegan Protein Powder
Best Hemp: Anthony’s Organic Hemp Seed Protein
Best for Baking: Isopure Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder
Plant Based Protein Powder Benefits
Before we compare our top picks for vegan protein powders, let’s understand the science-backed benefits of including these plant-based supplements in your diet.
Complete Amino Acid Profile
Vegan protein powders, sourced from plants like peas, rice, hemp, and soy, offer a complete amino acid profile. This is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily health.
Digestibility
Plant-based proteins are typically easier to digest than animal-based proteins. Many users report that vegan protein powders are gentler on the stomach and help minimize digestive discomfort.
Lower in Saturated Fat
Being naturally low in saturated fat, plant-based protein powders are a heart-healthier option. Reducing saturated fat intake is linked to lower heart disease risks, making vegan powders a smart choice for those looking to balance protein intake with heart health.
Rich in Fibre and Nutrients
These powders often retain the fibre and micronutrients from their source plants, aiding in digestion and adding extra nutritional value.
Ethical and Sustainable
Opting for plant-based protein powders supports ethical choices by avoiding animal exploitation. Moreover, their production usually has a lesser environmental impact than animal-based proteins.
Versatility
Vegan protein powders are incredibly versatile and can be easily added to various recipes, including smoothies, baked goods, and meals, enhancing their appeal as a dietary supplement.
How we chose the Best Plant Based Protein Powders of 2024
To identify the top vegan protein powders of 2024, we focus on several critical factors:
Ingredients
We carefully examine the quality and purity of the ingredients, including the sources of protein and any additives used. This helps ensure that the protein powders are made from high-quality, clean ingredients.
Nutritional Profile
The protein content, amino acid profile, fibre, and micronutrients are key factors in our evaluation. We look for powders that offer a balanced nutritional profile, contributing effectively to dietary needs.
Taste and Texture
Taste, texture, and mixability are assessed through user reviews and expert opinions. A good protein powder should not only be nutritious but also appealing to consume.
Certifications
We consider important certifications like USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. These certifications are indicators of product quality and the brand’s commitment to ethical and environmental standards.
Price
Value for money is crucial. We compare the cost per serving with the overall quality and benefits offered by the product, ensuring that you get the best deal without compromising on quality.
Best Plant Based Protein Powder Reviews
Best Overall: Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Orgain Organic Sweet Vanilla Bean Protein Powder stands out as the best overall plant-based protein powder, offering a blend of high-quality, organic ingredients. Each 2.03-pound container provides 21 grams of organic plant-based protein, sourced from pea, brown rice, and chia seeds, making it a powerful nutritional choice. Additionally, it includes 2 grams of organic dietary fiber, has low net carbs, and contains no added sugar, with just 150 calories per serving. This makes it not only a nutritious option but also a calorie-conscious one. The powder is USDA organic, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, lactose-free, soy-free, kosher, non-GMO, carrageenan-free, and devoid of artificial ingredients, ensuring it meets diverse dietary needs and preferences.
What sets this product apart is its versatility and commitment to sustainability. It’s perfect for quick breakfasts, snacks, or post-workout shakes, and can even be used in baking for a nutritious boost. Ideal for everyone including men, women, and kids, it serves as a meal replacement, muscle recovery aid, and an energy source for pre or post-workout routines. The sustainability aspect is commendable, with the ingredients sourced from responsibly managed farms, certified by USDA Organic. This commitment to organic content and biodiversity preservation, along with no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, makes Orgain Organic Sweet Vanilla Bean Protein Powder not just a healthful choice but also an environmentally conscious one.
Best Expert Recommended: Momentous Essential Plant Protein Powder
Momentous Essential Plant Protein Powder is highly recommended by experts for those seeking a top-tier, plant-based protein source. Its 100% plant-based blend is meticulously crafted to help build and repair lean muscle mass, making it an ideal choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The protein powder is a complete protein, boasting all nine essential amino acids that the body doesn’t naturally produce. This ensures comprehensive muscle support and tissue repair, crucial for physical health and recovery. Furthermore, Momentous Essential Plant Protein Powder has earned the highest quality certifications, including NSF and Informed Sport, guaranteeing safe and effective results for all users, from casual gym-goers to elite athletes.
Performance
The product’s appeal extends beyond its nutritional profile to its taste and usability. It blends smoothly with water, almond milk, or in smoothies, offering a versatile and enjoyable protein supplement experience. Its reputation for great taste is supported by user feedback, although taste preferences can vary. Momentous Essential Plant Protein Powder is developed with the goal of maximizing performance, a commitment reflected in its adoption by over 150 professional and collegiate sports teams and the U.S. Military. Customers appreciate its quality and ease of blending, noting that it effectively boosts their overall protein intake. This combination of expert endorsement, nutritional excellence, and practical usability firmly establishes Momentous Essential Plant Protein Powder as the best expert-recommended choice in the realm of plant-based protein powders.
Best Value: Vega Sport Premium Vegan Protein Powder
Vega Sport Premium Vegan Protein Powder offers exceptional value, combining a robust nutritional profile with affordability. Each serving boasts 30 grams of plant-based protein, including 5g of BCAA amino acids and 5g of Glutamic Acid, ensuring a comprehensive amino acid profile with all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an ideal choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need high-quality protein for muscle recovery and growth. The inclusion of ingredients like tart cherry and 2 billion CFUs of probiotics further supports post-workout recovery, enhancing its appeal to those focused on physical health and fitness. Vega Sport is also NSF Certified for Sport, Non-GMO Project Verified, vegan, and gluten-free, catering to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences.
Beyond its nutritional benefits, Vega Sport stands out for its commitment to sustainability and quality. As a Certified B Corporation, it aims for a sustainable future, with goals to be plastic negative, carbon negative, and nature positive by 2030. This focus on environmental responsibility adds to its value proposition. The powder’s smooth taste and texture, blending well with water or other beverages, make it a versatile and enjoyable protein source. It’s also keto-friendly, with 6g carbs, and free from artificial flavors, preservatives, and non-whey ingredients. Available in a variety of flavors, from Chocolate and Vanilla to Peanut Butter and Mocha, Vega Sport Premium Protein is a top choice for those seeking a high-quality, plant-based protein powder that delivers both in terms of performance and value.
Best for Gut: Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder stands out as the best plant-based protein powder for gut health, thanks to its premium, hand-selected ingredients that promote a clean and healthy lifestyle. Each serving of Truvani provides a variety of vegan ingredients in decadent flavors, making it not just beneficial for your health but also enjoyable to consume. Its clean formula is free from artificial sweeteners, additives, fillers, soy, wheat, dairy, gluten, and stevia, ensuring it’s suitable for those with sensitivities or dietary restrictions. The inclusion of organic monk fruit adds just the right touch of sweetness without compromising the powder’s natural integrity.
In terms of quality and sustainability, Truvani’s protein powder is certified USDA Organic, non-GMO, stevia-free, and vegan-friendly. This commitment to organic and straightforward ingredients underlines the brand’s dedication to supporting your health journey. It’s an excellent choice for a delicious vegan protein shake, blending seamlessly into your morning smoothie or post-workout recovery drink without any chalky or grainy texture. Furthermore, it supports muscle recovery and growth, offering a substantial protein boost to build and maintain lean muscle mass. Truvani’s dedication to sustainability is evident in their farming practices, with ingredients sourced from responsibly managed farms and a focus on protecting biodiversity, as recognized by USDA Organic certification. This blend of health benefits, delicious taste, and environmental responsibility makes Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder a top choice for those prioritizing gut health and overall wellness.
Best Ingredients: Garden of Life Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Garden of Life Organic Vegan Protein Powder excels with its high-quality ingredients, making it the best option for those seeking a nutrient-rich plant-based protein. Each serving provides 22g of complete protein derived from organic peas, sprouted grains, seeds, and legumes, ensuring a comprehensive amino acid profile essential for muscle repair and growth. The low-temperature processing preserves the integrity of these proteins, making them more accessible to the body. Additionally, each serving contains 5g of fiber and only 130 calories, supporting satiety and healthy weight management. This protein powder is also sugar-free, with only 1g of total net carbs, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free.
What sets Garden of Life apart is its inclusion of 13 organic sprouted grains, seeds, and legumes, enhancing digestibility and nutrient bioavailability. Sprouting increases the availability of essential nutrients, making them more beneficial to the body. Moreover, this protein powder is packed with 3 billion CFU of live probiotics and 13 non-GMO enzymes, which aid in digestion and protein absorption, ensuring that your body maximizes the benefits of each serving. The product’s commitment to high standards is evident in its certifications – it’s USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan, Kosher, and NSF Certified Gluten-Free. Garden of Life’s Raw Organic Protein not only offers a delicious Vanilla flavor and improved mixability but also ensures that you receive clean, third-party certified nutrition, making it the top choice for anyone looking for a plant-based protein powder with the best ingredients.
Best Weight Loss: KOS Vegan Protein Powder
KOS Vegan Protein Powder stands out as the best weight loss plant-based protein powder, combining great taste with effective weight management properties. Its unique blend of organic vanilla, Himalayan salt, organic coconut milk, stevia, and monk fruit results in a deliciously creamy vanilla flavor that is both enjoyable and satisfying. Each serving contains 20g of protein, helping to curb hunger and manage weight effectively. The soluble fiber in the plant protein blend of pea, flaxseed, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and chia seed promotes a feeling of fullness for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent snacking without compromising on calorie intake. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight while maintaining high energy levels.
In addition to its weight management benefits, KOS Vegan Protein Powder also supports healthy digestion. It includes DigeSEB, a proprietary digestive enzyme blend, which enhances nutrient absorption and maximizes the benefits of each nutrient consumed. This aspect is particularly valuable for individuals focused on weight loss, as efficient digestion is key to maintaining a healthy metabolism. Furthermore, the powder is responsibly sourced, with nearly every ingredient being certified organic and free from gluten, dairy, soy, hormones, artificial sweeteners, colors, and GMOs. This commitment to quality and sustainability, combined with its USDA and CCOF certifications, ensures that KOS Vegan Protein Powder is not only effective for weight loss but also aligns with health-conscious and environmentally aware lifestyles.
Best Hemp: Anthony’s Organic Hemp Seed Protein
Anthony’s Organic Hemp Seed Protein stands out as the best hemp plant-based protein powder, offering a pure and natural protein source that is both versatile and nutritious. This USDA Certified Organic Hemp Seed Protein is processed through cold pressing, ensuring that all the natural nutrients are preserved. As a gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan-friendly, and non-irradiated product, it caters to a wide range of dietary preferences and needs. Its unflavored nature makes it an ideal addition to various recipes, enhancing the protein content without altering the taste. Whether added to smoothies, dips, baked goods, oatmeal, or homemade energy bars, it provides a significant protein boost.
In terms of preparation and purity, Anthony’s Organic Hemp Seed Protein maintains high standards. The organic hemp seeds are meticulously cleaned, destoned, and sorted, followed by oil extraction, milling, and sifting to create a fine powder. This careful process results in a protein powder that retains the earthy, nutty flavor characteristic of hemp seeds. Its versatility in the kitchen makes it a popular choice for those looking to increase their plant-based protein intake in a creative and enjoyable way. This protein powder is an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals seeking a simple, additive-free protein source that integrates effortlessly into their daily diet.
Best for Baking: Isopure Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder
Isopure Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder is a standout choice for those seeking the best plant-based protein powder for baking. Its natural blend of organic pea and rice protein provides a substantial 20 grams of protein per serving, ensuring your baked goods are not only delicious but also nutritionally enriched. The simplicity of its composition, with only four ingredients, makes it an ideal addition to any recipe, enhancing the protein content without compromising the flavor. This unflavored and unsweetened protein powder blends seamlessly into a variety of recipes, from sweet brownies to savory pizza crusts, offering a versatile solution for boosting protein intake in a creative and enjoyable way.
The powder’s plant profile perfectly balances fast-digesting, bioavailable pea protein with essential amino acid-rich rice protein. This combination not only supports muscle growth and aids in recovery but also helps keep you fuller for longer and curb cravings. It’s completely clean and free from common allergens like gluten and soy, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. The fact that Isopure’s protein is unsweetened and unflavored adds to its versatility in baking, ensuring it doesn’t alter the taste of your favorite recipes. Its ability to mix smoothly and flavorlessly into various dishes makes it an indispensable kitchen ingredient for health-conscious bakers and cooks.
Best Plant Based Protein Powders FAQ
What type of plant based protein powder is best?
The best type of plant-based protein powder largely depends on individual dietary needs, preferences, and goals. Pea protein is a popular choice, known for its high protein content and complete amino acid profile, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. It’s also typically easy to digest and hypoallergenic, making it a great option for those with sensitive stomachs or allergies to dairy or soy. On the other hand, brown rice protein is another excellent choice, especially for those who prefer a gluten-free option. It’s known for being gentle on the digestive system and provides a good balance of essential amino acids.
Hemp protein stands out for its additional health benefits, as it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. This makes it beneficial not just for muscle building but also for heart health and digestion. Soy protein, one of the most complete plant-based proteins, mimics the amino acid profile of animal proteins and is ideal for those transitioning from a meat-based diet. Each type of plant-based protein has unique benefits, and sometimes a blend of different plant proteins can provide a more balanced profile of amino acids and nutrients. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual dietary requirements, taste preferences, and specific health goals.
Is whey or plant protein better?
Choosing between whey and plant protein depends on individual dietary preferences and health goals. Whey protein, derived from milk, is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids, making it highly effective for muscle growth and recovery. It’s often favored by athletes for its rapid absorption and high leucine content, a key amino acid for muscle building. Conversely, plant protein, sourced from foods like peas, rice, and hemp, offers a lactose-free, vegan-friendly alternative. While some plant proteins may lack one or more essential amino acids, blends can provide a complete amino acid profile. Plant proteins are also beneficial for those seeking additional nutrients like fiber and antioxidants. Ultimately, the choice hinges on personal dietary needs, tolerance, and ethical considerations.
Which plant protein is healthiest?
Determining the “healthiest” plant protein depends on individual nutritional needs and preferences. Pea protein is a popular choice, offering a high protein content and a good amino acid profile, including branched-chain amino acids which are important for muscle growth. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with food sensitivities. Soy protein is another option, providing a complete amino acid profile similar to animal proteins, and is rich in vitamins and minerals. Hemp protein, meanwhile, is not only a good protein source but also contains omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, promoting heart and digestive health. Ultimately, the best plant protein varies based on dietary requirements, potential allergies, and specific health goals.
The Bottom Line on the Best Plant Based Protein Powders 2024
In conclusion, the landscape of plant-based protein powders in 2024 offers an impressive range of options, catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences. From the comprehensive amino acid profiles in blends like pea, rice, and hemp proteins, to the unique qualities of soy and pumpkin seed proteins, there’s a plant-based powder for everyone. These proteins not only support muscle growth and recovery but also align with various health goals, including weight management and improved digestion. They are particularly beneficial for those with dietary restrictions or ethical concerns about animal products. Additionally, many of these plant-based proteins come with the added benefits of being environmentally sustainable and ethically sourced.
When choosing the best plant-based protein powder, it’s essential to consider factors like nutritional content, ingredient quality, taste, and mixability. Certifications such as USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified can guide consumers towards high-quality, safe products. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone simply seeking a healthy, plant-based supplement, the market in 2024 offers a range of products to meet your needs. From expert-recommended blends to options ideal for baking, weight loss, or those with sensitive stomachs, the best plant-based protein powder is one that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle while providing the nutritional support you need.
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