10 Best Healthy Protein Powders in 2022 (Registered Dietitian-Reviewed)
Protein powder is a popular dietary supplement that can be used for different purposes. Some people use it to increase daily protein intake while others use it to promote muscle growth and recover after workouts. Whatever your reason for taking one, protein powder should contain good ingredients that don't harm your health.
That's why we've combed through reviews and picked the 10 most popular healthy protein powders that have safe ingredients or contain fewer additives than other brands on the market. Iconic Protein's Grass-Fed Milk Protein Isolate was our favorite as it's highly nutritious and crafted with clean ingredients. Besides the list of suggestions, we've provided you a buying guide reviewed by a registered dietitian to suggest what to look at.
Rachel Binkley is a registered dietitian who helps individuals develop healthy habits that fit into their lifestyle. She recommends adequate intakes of all micronutrients to help prevent deficiency as well as chronic conditions that may arise. You can keep up with her recipes, lifestyle, and more on Instagram or her blog, S'more Satisfaction.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
How to Choose a Healthy Protein Powder - Buying Guide
When it comes to healthy protein powders, it's important to check nutrition facts, read ingredient labels, and understanding the meaning of some terms.
Choose Between Different Types of Protein
There are many types of protein powder, but the four most popular ones are whey protein, soy protein, other plant-based protein, and egg white protein.
Whey Proteins are Fast-Absorbing
Whey is one of the main proteins in milk, and it are is the most popular type of protein powder. They contain all nine essential amino acids and contain a low level of lactose. They are known for being quick-absorbing, so many people usually consume them right after workouts for quick recovery, repairing muscles, and preventing muscle loss. Despite being milk-derived, it is lactose intolerant-friendly.
Soy Proteins Provide Cardiovascular Benefits
Soy proteins are a good alternative to whey proteins. They're made from soybeans, which are excellent sources of the essential nutrient. Many studies have found that soy proteins can lower blood pressure and cholesterol. They are also rich in vitamin B12, vitamin C, folate, zinc, and iron.
Other Plant-Based Proteins Offer Different Nutrients
There are many types of plant-based proteins like hemp seed, chia seed, pea, or brown rice. Some protein powders come with one pure ingredient while others are plant-based blends consisting of many types of greens and superfoods. These are a good option for someone who wants to add extra nutrients.
Egg White Proteins Have Zero Cholesterol
Egg white proteins have become popular recently because they contain a high amount of protein but are low in calories. Pure egg white protein powders are free from cholesterol and fat, too! So, they are a good option for weight-loss.
Understand the Terms on the Labels
Knowing the meaning of the terms on labels will help you choose the right protein powders. Also, don't believe the manufacturer's claims! Instead, always check all listed ingredients by yourself.
Look for Grass-Fed, rBST-Free or rBGH-Free, and No Antibiotics
For dairy protein powders, there are some important terms that you need to know the meaning of to choose a safer option. "Grass-fed" means it comes from cows that are raised naturally and not treated with hormones or antibiotics.
"No antibiotics" labels are regulated by the USDA and have a straightforward meaning: cows are raised without the use of antibiotics.
No one knows whether or not growth hormones and antibiotics have negative impacts on the human body since there is still ongoing research for long-term effects of antibiotics. Still, it's good to take these terms into consideration when it comes to dairy products.
A Non-GMO Label May be Used for Plant Ingredients
A lot of plant-based proteins contain GMOs, especially soy proteins. Statistics show that in the U.S., 94 percent of crops were GMOs in the year 2019.
GMOs may cause allergies and asthma, but some studies from Harvard University show that there is no evidence that GMOs are linked to these diseases. However, some benefits of using GMOs are reducing the cost of production and controlling pests and diseases.
Although there is no proof yet of the impact of GMOs on the human body, many people try to avoid GMO products. You can easily see “Non-GMO Project Verified” on labels of protein powders.
Don't Trust Catch Phrases on the Label
Most brands try to attract customers with words like “low-fat”, “sugar-free”, “natural”, “diet”, "healthy", and “organic.” However, these can be misleading.
For example, "low-fat" doesn't necessarily mean the product is healthy and good for weight-loss. Although it may contain a low amount of fats, it might contain a high amount of sugar or carbs.
“Organic” is another tricky word. Many people think organic protein powders are made with 100 percent organic ingredients; however, it’s not always true. Instead, it means 95 percent of the ingredients must be organic while the other 5 percent can be non-organic ingredients.
Try to Avoid These Additives
This might be difficult to do in reality, but it’s better if you can try to avoid additives as much as you can. Additives are found in most protein powders to preserve the flavor, improve the taste, and extend the shelf life.
The most common additives found in protein powders are artificial flavors and colors, thickeners and gums, soy lecithin, silica, sweeteners, and maltodextrin. Some of them are considered to be safe if used in a small amount, like soy lecithin, but some can be dangerous for certain groups of people even if using it in a small amount.
For example, maltodextrin is an additive that people with diabetes should avoid. It has a direct effect on blood sugar levels. In other words, it causes spikes in blood sugar.
Choose a Safe Protein Powder Based on Research
According to the Clean Label Project, a non-profit organization, the five safest protein powders out of 134 products are Puori, BioChem, Body Fortress, Performix, and Pure Protein. On the other hand, the five worst products are the common ones that we see on the market, which are Vega, 360Cut, Quest, Nature’s Best, and Garden of Life.
Plant-Based and Organic are Not Always Safe!
A lot of protein powders in the U.S. contain toxic chemicals like BPA, lead, cadmium, mercury, arsenic, and other heavy metals.
In 2018, 134 protein powder products were tested for their levels of chemicals and it was found that 55 percent contained BPA, 70 percent contained lead, and 74 percent contained cadmium. These statistics may be quite shocking to many of us.
But is even more surprising is that plant-based protein powders and organic protein powders contain higher levels of heavy metals than non-plant-based and non-organic protein powders!
Check What the Packaging is Made of, Too
It’s impossible to find out all the toxic chemicals by yourself; however, you can avoid some chemicals. BPA is a chemical that is used to make plastics and sports water bottles. Most protein powders' packaging contains BPA. But you can try to avoid it by choosing the product with “BPA-free” on the label.
Another way to check is to look at the number (1 to 7) at the bottom of the packaging that is surrounded by a triangle shape. Numbers 1, 2, 4, and 5 generally mean BPA-free, and numbers 3, 6, and 7 usually mean the packaging contains BPA.
Understand the Nutrition Facts
Some people consume more than one serving size, so we suggest you think about your portion size when it comes to considering the nutrition facts.
Focus on Protein, Sugar, Carbs, Fats, and Calories
Obviously, the first thing you should check is the amount of protein. Among all types, whey protein powder usually offers the highest amount of protein while hemp and pea proteins contain a lower amount of protein.
Some protein powders like Isopure Zero Carb vanilla flavor come with zero grams of fats, sugar, and carbs. But some protein powders contain a high amount of added sugar and carbs, which you should try to avoid.
Greens and Superfoods Can Provide More Nutrients
Many plant-based protein powders contain a variety of leafy greens like kale, barley grass, wheatgrass, and "superfoods" like quinoa, chia seeds, and hemp seeds.
They are rich in vitamins, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fiber, and more. It’s always good to add different types of nutrients to your body, but they may contain many chemicals, too, so watch out!
Kale is one of the most pesticide-contaminated vegetables. According to The Environment Working Group (EWG), more than 92 percent of kale samples tested contain at least two pesticide residues detected in the year 2019.
You might want to consider organic vegetables and organic superfoods. Try to look for "100 percent organic ingredients" for peace of mind. These may not necessarily be free of pesticides, but they do use less of the chemicals. Note that it isn't yet clear whether there is a difference between the two's impact on health, however.
10 Best Healthy Protein Powders
| Products | Image | Click to purchase | Popularity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Grass-Fed Milk Protein Powder｜Vanilla Iconic Protein |  | No.1 | |
2 | Hemp Protein Hi-Fiber｜Unflavored Nutiva |  | No.2 | |
3 | Pea Protein｜Unflavored Source Organic |  | No.3 | |
4 | Grass Fed Whey Protein｜Unflavored Levels Nutrition |  | No.4 | |
5 | Soy Protein｜4 pack, unflavored Bob's Red Mill |  | No.5 | |
6 | Paleo Protein Powder｜Unflavored PaleoPro |  | No.6 | |
7 | Pasture Raised Whey Protein Powder｜Bourbon vanilla Puori |  | No.7 | |
8 | Vegan Protein Supershake｜Vanilla EarthChimp |  | No.8 | |
9 | Egg White Protein｜Chocolate Jay Robb |  | No.9 | |
10 | 100% Whey Isolate Protein｜Vanilla Biochem |  | No.10 |
Iconic ProteinGrass-Fed Milk Protein Powder ｜ Vanilla
This protein powder features a combination of whey protein and casein protein which will help you stay full for a long time. Plus, it's free from growth hormones, additives, and chemicals like BPA and pesticides. It also has good nutritional value. One serving size contains 20 grams of protein, but zero grams of sugar!
A few reviewers note that the powder clumps up in liquids and doesn't blend well. Some others complain that the powder is very dusty and goes everywhere when they try to scoop some out.
Nonetheless, the majority are pleased with the pleasant vanilla flavor, saying it doesn't have any off-putting aftertaste. They say that it works great in baked goods to reduce carbs. People also love that it doesn't upset their stomach and actually fills them up well. It's a good protein powder for people with lactose intolerance, too!
NutivaHemp Protein Hi-Fiber ｜ Unflavored
If you want to add extra nutrients to your body, you should consider hemp protein. This protein powder is made only from high-quality cold-pressed hemp seeds without any additives and has a total of 10 grams of protein per serving.
Besides protein, hemp seeds are a great source of fiber and essential fatty acids. In one serving, you'll get 12 grams of fibers and two and one-tenth grams of omega-three and omega-six fatty acids!
Some reviewers claim that it can cause digestive problems and abdominal pain. In addition, they say it doesn't have a good taste! Although it's a little bit gritty, it tastes better if mixed with almond milk or blended with fruit. This is a healthy protein powder that can help boost energy levels as well as promote healthy skin.
This protein powder is certified by Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and made from yellow peas that are sourced from organic farms in Canada. In addition, it doesn't contain artificial flavor or added sugar, and is great for someone with food allergies like dairy, soy, egg, and gluten.
Each serving will provide you with a whopping 22 grams of protein per serving with zero grams of sugar. However, some caveats of this product for some buyers are the strong odor and chalky taste.
Nonetheless, many others are pleased with its smooth texture and further add that it tastes great when being added to smoothies. They also find it blends well and doesn't upset their stomach. Moreover, they say it can help them feel full for longer, which is good for weight-loss.
Levels NutritionGrass Fed Whey Protein ｜ Unflavored
This is a whey protein that contains only two ingredients: grass-fed whey concentrate and non-GMO sunflower lecithin. It's free from added hormones and antibiotics.
This protein powder comes with 5.9 grams of BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), which will help to reduce muscle soreness and fatigue, build muscle, and improve workout performance.
Reviewers claim that it causes gas and bloating, but others had no bad effects. On the other hand, most reviewers claim that it's smooth, creamy, and not sweet, which makes it easy to drink. It's a simple protein powder with no hidden ingredients.
Bob's Red MillSoy Protein ｜ 4 pack, unflavored
Soy is good for your heart health because it helps to reduce LDL cholesterol, a main factor in causing cardiovascular disease. This non-GMO soy protein powder is a good substitute for dairy protein because it's free from lactose. It also has low calories but is high in minerals like iron.
This soy protein doesn't contain any sugar, so it can be consumed by people with diabetes. Since it's unflavored and pretty much tasteless, it can also be used for a variety of purposes like shakes, smoothies, baking, or cooking.
Though it is unflavored, there is still some taste to it. Some people don't like the flavor and find this product to be a bit gritty. However, others share that it dissolves thoroughly without leaving any clumps or chunks. In addition, reviewers mention it's easy on the stomach and doesn't contain any additives.
PaleoPro Paleo Protein Powder ｜ Unflavored
The two main sources of protein in this powder are grass-fed pastured beef and non-GMO egg whites. It's a plain protein powder that suits paleo and ketogenic diets. Moreover, you'll also get collagen and potassium from natural sources!
Some people say it has a chunky texture and is a bit too sweet for their preferences. But others say it's neutral in flavor and tastes good with bulletproof coffee and smoothies.
They find it a great alternative to whey and love how it doesn't contain any sweeteners or fillers. Many others also say it mixes well in a blender without leaving behind any clumps.
PuoriPasture Raised Whey Protein Powder ｜ Bourbon vanilla
A new study by Clean Label Project shows that among 134 tested products in 2018, this protein powder contains the lowest amount of heavy metals! It's also free from GMOs, growth hormones, and pesticides. Besides whey protein concentrate, this product is crafted with coconut sugar, vanilla powder, and vanilla seeds for flavor.
Some reviewers claim that it's difficult to mix. But other reviewers say it has simple ingredients, doesn't taste too sweet, and doesn't contain any harmful chemicals. They say that this protein powder tastes great by itself as well. Consuming this protein before workouts can make them have more energy.
An organic plant-based protein blend suits someone who wants to add different nutrients to their diet. The main sources of this protein powder are from pea, pumpkin, coconut, and sunflower. It's packed with superfoods like flax seeds, cinnamon, turmeric, and baobab.
You'll get extra nutrients from fruits and vegetables like the baobab included, banana, chicory root fiber, and dates, too! In addition to that, it contains digestive enzymes and probiotics to help balance bacteria in your digestive system.
A few buyers complain that the product has a gritty texture and the vanilla flavor is a bit overwhelming. Nonetheless, others say this product isn't too sweet and tastes better than other vegan protein powders. They further add that it works great for sensitive stomachs. Customer service is very supportive, too.
Jay RobbEgg White Protein ｜ Chocolate
This unflavored egg white protein powder offers zero grams of fat and sugar but 24 grams of protein! It doesn't contain any artificial ingredients or preservatives. Plus, you can choose from many different packaging sizes: 14, 28, and 80 ounces.
Reviewers claim that it doesn't blend thoroughly and tastes a bit too sweet. But others say it tastes great in smoothies and mixes well in a blender! Reviewers find the texture isn't gritty and further mention that it gives them energy for a workout,
Biochem100% Whey Isolate Protein ｜ Vanilla
If you're looking for a great-flavored whey protein isolate with safe ingredients, this protein powder may satisfy your needs. Although it contains added sugars, it has complete amino acids and is free from artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors.
Each serving will provide you with 20 grams of protein. In addition, it's one of the protein powders that contains few heavy metals.
Some people say it's very sweet and would be better if it didn't have cane sugar. But others are happy with the fact that it's free from heavy metals. It contains minimal ingredients and is good for a meal replacement.
Looking to Have a Healthier Lifestyle?
Eating healthy and exercising regularly are keys to having a healthy lifestyle. Check out our suggestions for healthy supplements and foods that you can enjoy!
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
