10 Best Vegan Protein Powders in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed)
After a workout, you probably need something that can refuel and repair your muscles. Look no further, as vegan protein powders can surely give you some extra boost in energy! Made from plant-based ingredients such as pea, soy, and rice, they can supply your body with the essential amino acids to enhance the protein synthesis in your body.
After combing through various products, Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard 100% Plant-Based Protein Powder won the grand prize in our list of favorites. Formulated with a blend of pea, rice, and sacha inchi protein, it brings you a complete protein profile and delivers 24 whopping grams of protein per serving! Curious to know what other products made the cut for our top 10 list? Keep reading! We also compiled a buying guide at the end reviewed by a personal trainer to give you some tips for choosing the right product.
Quick List - Top Vegan Protein Powders
Optimum Nutrition
Complete Protein Profile to Support Muscle Recovery
I am the manager and head personal trainer for a local fitness facility. I graduated from college with my bachelor's in Exercise Science and have been in the industry for the past 5 years since. I am super passionate about fitness and how our bodies work!
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How to Choose Vegan Protein Powders
Choosing a vegan protein powder that is suitable for your body is not easy since you need to take into consideration important factors such as the protein source and the amount of protein per serving.
Keep in mind to check for third party verifications as well to ensure the quality of your protein powder. Hopefully, this buying guide can provide you with some useful tips!
Choose the Right Protein Source for You
While looking at vegan protein powders, you'll probably see different protein sources coming from pea, hemp, soy, and so on. Each type has its own pros and cons, so consider them carefully before making your selection!
Pea Protein is Rich in Iron and Provides 9 Essential Amino Acids
Pea protein has been used widely in sports training. Derived from yellow split peas, it's a high-quality protein source that contains approximately 23 grams of protein per 30-gram serving.
This source of protein also provides approximately 50% more calcium than cow's milk and is crammed with iron as well. In fact, a 15-gram serving can deliver about 5 grams of iron!
Despite consisting of nine essential amino acids that can only be obtained from foods, pea protein is not a complete protein since it's pretty low in methionine, an amino acid crucial for protein synthesis. Therefore, you might want to pair this type of protein with rice protein powder to supply your body with methionine.
On the other hand, pea protein works wonderfully for various diet plans since it is completely vegan and free from common allergens such as eggs, cow's milk, wheat, and soy. It's pretty high in carbs though, so you might want to take caution if you're on a ketogenic diet.
Texture-wise, pea protein powder mixes well with water and doesn't feel gritty like hemp powder. Most people can digest pea protein without any trouble as well!
Soy is a Complete Protein and Has a Neutral Flavor
Soy protein is the most widely used protein source since it contains all of the essential amino acids that our body needs. While pretty low in fat, it's packed with protein and has a high mineral content. Another selling point is that soy protein has a neutral flavor and can be added to virtually all types of recipes without altering the taste.
Many studies have also shown that using soy protein can aid weight loss and slightly reduce your LDL (bad) cholesterol level. Nonetheless, soy is one of the most common food allergens, so there are tons of people out there having digestion issues with this type of protein.
Another concern about soy protein is related to its production method, which might involve the use of fertilizers and other types of chemicals. If this is a concern, you can opt for an organic product to avoid ingesting any unwanted substances.
Hemp Has a High Fiber Content and is Easy to Digest
Hemp protein is extracted from hemp seeds and contains all types of amino acids that are essential for our body. Plus, it's a rich source of fiber (7-8 grams per 30-gram serving size!) so most people don't experience any hassles with digestion.
On top of that, hemp protein has a high content of unsaturated fats and minerals, so there are even more benefits to this type of protein. Not only does it help you develop and maintain your muscles and organs, but hemp protein also improves your metabolism, facilitates your skin and hair growth, and regulates your blood sugar level.
However, in comparison to other types of protein powder, hemp is lower in protein content. On average, a 30-gram serving of hemp protein contains about 15 grams of protein only. It also has a unique earthy flavor and grainy texture which some people might not be fans of!
Moreover, keep in mind that thermal processing might lower the nutritional values of hemp protein, so you might want to choose a cold-pressed product that still retains all of the original nutrients.
Rice Protein is Hypoallergenic but Low in Lysine
Rice protein is mainly derived from brown rice and is easy to digest. This type of protein is also generally regarded as hypoallergenic and safe for those who are highly sensitive to different kinds of foods.
Yet, rice protein is not considered a complete protein since it has a low concentration of lysine. You might want to combine rice protein with other types for a complete amino acid profile.
Mixed Proteins for a Complete Amino Acid Profile
Since some protein sources do not contain all the amino acids, many manufacturers actually combine multiple types of proteins to provide consumers with a complete amino acid profile. Mixed protein powders might be formulated with additional nutritious ingredients such as chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and alfalfa as well.
But in the end, it's a matter of personal preference! If you have any kinds of food allergies or just prefer the taste of a particular protein powder, then choosing a single-ingredient powder might be a better choice.
Calculate How Much Protein Per Serving You Need
Not all products contain the same protein content, so consider how much protein intake you need for your diet before making a selection. Usually, an average adult needs to consume at least 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight each day, but you should consult with your physician or trainer to get a more accurate estimate.
But depending on your activity level, this protein intake might change. For athletes or those who want to build body mass, you might want to take in 1 to 1.5 grams of protein per pound. And for those who are trying to lose weight, go for a protein intake of approximately 25 to 30% of your daily calories.
Also, pay attention to the number of servings per product. Protein powders might use either one or two scoops, so make sure that the serving size and its protein content actually match your need.
Protein needs vary from person to person. To calculate your specific protein needs in grams, you need to calculate your weight in kilograms by dividing your weight in pounds by 2.2. You can then decide how many grams of protein per kilogram of your bodyweight is appropriate for you. This might sound too daunting, but it is actually super easy.
Stay Away from Products Overloaded With Sweeteners
Protein powders can taste pretty bad, so some manufacturers overload their products with sugar and additives to give them a better taste, which can be detrimental to your diet plan.
According to the American Heart Association, men should consume no more than 9 teaspoons of sugar per day, and that number for women is 6. So check the amount of sugar per serving and choose a product that doesn't ruin your whole diet with sugar. If you're looking to lose weight, you might want to go for a product with a low to zero sugar content.
Yes yes yes! I can't stress this enough! Companies make their products look super healthy and filled with so many vitamins, vegetables, protein, and such, But you have to look at the labels. Seriously. Whenever buying anything that you are going to put in your body, check the label! There are so many "healthy foods" loaded with sweeteners.
Decide Between Flavored and Unflavored Powders
Another important thing to take into consideration is the flavor of your powder. Chocolate and vanilla-flavored powders are the go-to for many people since they can be mixed with your choice of non-dairy milk to make a milkshake.
There are fruit-flavored protein powders that you can use to make your favorite smoothie as well! However, both natural and artificial flavors might pose certain risks to your health, since they might still include some additives.
So if you want to avoid all types of chemicals in your powder, an unflavored product might be your lifesaver! It's also great to be added to savory dishes. And keep in mind that you can always add natural ingredients such as chunks of chocolate or real fruits to your unflavored powder to enhance its taste!
This is personal preference, and again, your choice might depend on the sweeteners added to it. I can go without flavor depending on when and how I drink my protein powders. But sometimes, I do need a little flavor to get it down. It all depends on the quality of the protein powder and your own personal preference.
Look for Products With Third-Party Verification
The production and extraction processes of vegan protein powder are much more complicated than those from animal products. In fact, the plant sources of your powder might be contaminated by harmful chemicals such as lead and mercury without you knowing.
And unfortunately, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate protein powders. That means the manufacturers decide the safety of their own products. So to make sure your vegan protein powder is truly safe for you and processed in a responsible manner, check to see if it's verified by any third parties.
One of the most trustworthy organizations is the National Sanitation Foundation International. Products that bear their seal are rigorously inspected and certified as free from contaminants and safe for consumers.
This is something super important to look into when choosing the right protein powder for you. Third-party verification utilizes an independent organization to review the actual manufacturing process. This makes sure that the final product complies with specific standards. This might not be important to some, but it helps keep companies accountable for what they say their product is.
10 Best Vegan Protein Powders Ranking
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant-Based Protein Powder | | Complete Protein Profile to Support Muscle Recovery | |
2 | Orgain Organic Protein | | Certified Organic Protein to Bring You Clean Nutrition | |
3 | Nutiva Hemp Protein | | Cold-Pressed Hemp Protein Rich in Omega-3 Fats and Antioxidants | |
4 | Vega Plant-Based Protein and Greens | | Enriched With Greens to Give You an Extra Dose of Veggies | |
5 | KOS Organic Plant Protein | | Decadent Chocolate Flavor Derived from Peruvian Cacao, Coconut Milk, and Monk Fruit | |
6 | Garden of Life Organic Plant-Based Protein | | 30 Grams of Protein and 5 Grams of BCAAs Per Serving | |
7 | The Genius Brand Genius Vegan Protein | | All-Natural Protein Powder With Velosital to Enhance Your Amino Acid Uptake | |
8 | Source Organic Pea Protein | | Unflavored, Unsweetend Pea Protein Great to Blend in Different Foods | |
9 | Olly Plant Powered Protein | | Pea Protein and Flaxseed to Get You Ready for the Day | |
10 | Sprout Living Epic Protein | | Third Party-Tested Product With No Artificial Additives |
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant-Based Protein Powder
Complete Protein Profile to Support Muscle Recovery
This powder boasts a combination of various protein-rich ingredients including pea, brown rice, ancient grains, and pomegranate to give you the most complete amino acid profile.
On top of that, each serving brings you 100% of the daily recommended dose of vitamin C to help improve your immunity! The formula is also certified organic and contains no GMO ingredients to give you some peace of mind.
Some reviewers didn't really like how the product was sweetened with stevia. A few people also found the texture to be a bit chalky.
Nonetheless, many reviewers claimed this product to be their favorite, saying it was easy to digest. Reviewers loved that the powder dissolved easily with just shaking or a spoon.
Certified Organic Protein to Bring You Clean Nutrition
Formulated with a blend of pea, brown rice, and chia seeds, this protein powder delivers 21 grams of protein per serving and 6 grams of dietary fiber. It also contains 0 grams of sugar and is the perfect choice for those who want to regulate their sugar intake!
And in case you're concerned about the quality of this product, rest assured! This protein powder is certified organic by the USDA to bring you clean nutrition without any artificial colors or preservatives.
However, a few people were not fans of the taste or chalky texture of the powder. But many reviewers considered this product to be a staple food in their diet with all of its essential nutrition and kept them energized for hours without feeling hungry. Others also didn't have any digestion issues with this powder!
Cold-Pressed Hemp Protein Rich in Omega-3 Fats and Antioxidants
This simple, single-ingredient hemp protein powder is a powerhouse of nutrition. Indeed, it's is crammed with minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids to help give you all the necessary energy before and after your workout!
Each serving contains a ridiculously high amount of fiber (12 grams!), so you probably won't experience any digestive problems. Also, hemp is compatible with various types of diet, ranging from keto, to paleo, to gluten-free!
Some reviewers said the product had a gritty texture, and the taste was kind of earthy. So others suggested adding the powder to yogurt, non-dairy milk, or almond butter to enhance the flavor. Some found the product great to add to savory dishes like soups as well.
Besides, many reviewers commented the product gave them much more energy for the day and helped suppress their appetite. Those who followed a weight loss diet also noticed actual results within a few weeks!
Enriched With Greens to Give You an Extra Dose of Veggies
No one can eat too many green leafy veggies, not even vegans! Packed with vegetable powders such as broccoli, spinach, kale, and alfalfa, this product can surely help you reach your daily recommendation of vegetable intake.
Of course, as a protein powder, it serves its purpose well by delivering 20 grams of protein per serving. The product is also sweetened with stevia and contains no added sugar.
Some reviewers weren't really impressed with this product, saying it had a gritty texture. Nevertheless, many others complimented how the powder didn't clump up and indeed blended easily.
Customers further added that the product gave them an energy boost and was able to hold them through the day. Most people seemed to not have trouble digesting the powder.
Decadent Chocolate Flavor Derived from Peruvian Cacao, Coconut Milk, and Monk Fruit
This non-GMO, certified organic protein powder is crafted from a blend of pea, flaxseed, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and chia seed to give you a boost in energy and keep you full for the whole day. Another point that sets this product apart is its decadent chocolate flavor!
The flavor is actually extracted from real organic ingredients such as Himalayan pink salt, coconut milk, monk fruit, and Peruvian cacao. So there's no room for artificial flavors that are synthesized from harmful chemicals.
Many reviewers were absolutely smitten with this product, saying it was super healthy and contained a high amount of fiber as well as essential vitamins. Some noted that it contains stevia, so be careful if you're sensitive to this ingredient.
Still, reviewers found it easy to digest, and further added that the powder had a velvety texture and blended up smoothly.
Garden of Life Organic Plant-Based Protein
30 Grams of Protein and 5 Grams of BCAAs Per Serving
This protein powder is exactly what you're looking for after a workout. Each serving contains a whopping 30 grams of complete protein to help repair and revitalize your muscles.
Plus, it's packed with antioxidant-rich ingredients such as turmeric, apples, and goji berries to accelerate the recovery of your body. The product is also free from toxic substances and certified by many reputable organizations such as the NSF and USDA!
Some reviewers thought the texture was a bit gritty and warned that the powder separated and settled afterward. It's better to consume this quickly rather than make it ahead of time.
Meanwhile, others loved many things about this product; it was easy to digest and actually contained no added sugar, although it does contain stevia. Reviewers found the product a great addition to their diet as well, saying it kept them strong for the whole day.
The Genius Brand Genius Vegan Protein
All-Natural Protein Powder With Velosital to Enhance Your Amino Acid Uptake
This all-natural protein powder boasts Velosital, a nutrient enhancer that helps facilitate muscle protein synthesis and improve your amino acid uptake. Besides, the product is lab-tested and processed in an FDA-registered facility. So you know the quality is top-notch!
Some reviewers were quite disappointed that the powder had an unpleasant aftertaste. Some mentioned that the product was too sweet for their taste as well.
But many customers were pleased that the product dissolved easily and didn't clump up. The texture was another great point for many. They found the product to be quite creamy instead of gritty like other typical plant-based powders. Others also didn't notice any digestive issues such as bloating and irritation.
Unflavored, Unsweetend Pea Protein Great to Blend in Different Foods
This pea protein is extracted from yellow peas and contains approximately 22 grams of protein per serving. On top of that, it's unflavored and unsweetened! That means you can easily add it to all types of drinks and foods from protein shakes, to smoothies, to yogurt, and to baked goods and savory dishes without altering the taste.
Some reviewers weren't able to get over the chalky texture of the product. A few people also noted that the product went rancid quickly, so make sure to store it carefully.
Still, many reviewers were happy with their purchase, mentioning that the powder provided pure, clean nutrition, didn't contain heavy metals, and is organic. Another plus point for many was that it was quite gentle on their stomach and didn't cause any digestive issues.
Pea Protein and Flaxseed to Get You Ready for the Day
Powered by pea protein and flaxseed, this product delivers 18 grams of protein per serving and will get you ready for the day ahead. Moreover, the product contains no artificial sweeteners. It's also free from GMO ingredients to give your health some further protection.
Some reviewers complained about receiving unsealed products. Nonetheless, many others were satisfied that the powder kept them full and energized for all types of activities. Reviewers further added that the powder mixed smoothly in different types of drinks, and didn't seem to cause any bloating or irritation.
Third Party-Tested Product With No Artificial Additives
This nutrient-rich protein powder touts a blend of yellow pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, sacha inchi, and cranberry seed to bring you a complete protein profile. Moreover, its flavor is derived straight from lucuma fruit and vanilla beans.
There are no artificial flavors that might give you some nasty aftertaste. Even better, the product is absolutely clean and actually tested by a third party as safe for consumption.
Many reviewers appreciated the taste, saying it went well with fruits in smoothies. Many also didn't experience any digestive issues like bloating. Others further said that it mixed smoothly and didn't have a chalky texture like other regular plant-based products.
Gentry's Recommended Vegan Protein Powder
ALOHA protein is my absolute favorite! I've been taking this protein for four years now and don't plan on changing. ALOHA's products are made from USDA organic certified, non-GMO plant protein. Their plant-based protein contains 18 grams of protein in every serving. It is super tasty and does not leave a chalky after-taste like some other protein powders do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Along with reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Gentry also took the time to answer a commonly asked question.
Does vegan protein powder expire?
"Yes, just like any protein powder, vegan protein powder does expire as well," Gentry explains. "Usually they expire two years from their manufacturing date."
Need Help Finding Vegan Products?
If you have trouble finding items that fit your vegan lifestyle, take a look at these other articles with great products and tips for shopping!
In Collaboration With Personal Trainer Gentry Washburn
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary, as well as extra tips and advice. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
Top 5 Vegan Protein Powders
No. 1: Optimum Nutrition ｜Gold Standard 100% Plant-Based Protein Powder
No. 2: Orgain ｜Organic Protein
No. 3: Nutiva｜Hemp Protein
No. 4: Vega｜Plant-Based Protein and Greens
No. 5: KOS ｜Organic Plant Protein
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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