November 7, 2024
Best Vegan Plant Based Protein Powders of 2024 – Pea, Rice, Hemp and More
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Best Vegan Plant-Based Protein Powders of 2024
According to 2024 statistics, there are approximately 88 million vegans globally, and this year veganism is likely going to increase. With so many people following a plant-based diet, it is no wonder that the desire for vegan protein powders to support plant-based nutrition has exploded.
With growing awareness of the health benefits, ethical considerations, and environmental concerns associated with plant-based diets, the shift from animal-based protein powders has brought with it an overwhelming amount of vegan protein powder options, from pea protein, hemp protein, rice protein and soy protein.
Whether you’re an athlete looking for muscle recovery, a fitness enthusiast aiming to meet your protein needs, or simply exploring a plant-based lifestyle, the current market offers a plethora of options.
While some people face issues with allergies and digestibility, in general vegan protein powders offer a highly nutritious option for maintaining optimal protein intake and this article we have distilled down a handful of the best vegan plant-based protein powders on the market, considering factors like taste, ingredients, sourcing quality, benefits, and more.
Best Vegan Plant-Based Protein Powders – Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Nuzest Clean Lean Protein
Best Expert Recommended: Momentous Essential Plant Protein
Best on Amazon: Amazonia Raw Protein Isolate
Best Ingredients: WelleCo Nourishing Protein
Best Taste: Naked Nutrition Chocolate Naked Pea Protein
Best for Gut: Inka Wellness Skin Body Gut Protein
Best Weight Loss: Vital Slim and Trim Protein Formula
Best Hemp: Soulseed Natural Hemp Protein
Best for Baking: Happy Way Vanilla Vegan Protein Powder
Benefits of Using Vegan Protein Powders
Before diving into our product comparisons, let’s explore the science-based benefits of incorporating vegan protein powders into your diet:
Complete Amino Acid Profile
Vegan protein powders are typically derived from a variety of plant sources, including peas, rice, hemp, and soy. When these protein sources are combined, they offer a complete amino acid profile, which is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall health.
For instance, pea protein is rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which play a vital role in muscle recovery, while rice protein complements it with additional amino acids that may be lower in peas. Hemp protein not only provides protein but also essential fatty acids and fiber, contributing to a well-rounded nutritional profile. Soy protein is a complete protein on its own, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent option for those looking to build muscle mass.
By incorporating a blend of these plant-based proteins, vegan protein powders can effectively support athletic performance, enhance recovery after workouts, and help meet daily protein requirements, making them an ideal choice for anyone, including athletes and fitness enthusiasts, seeking to maintain a balanced diet without animal products.
Digestibility
Plant-based proteins are generally easier to digest than some animal-based counterparts, making them a popular choice for those seeking a gentler option for their digestive systems. Many individuals report that vegan protein powders, derived from sources like peas, brown rice, and hemp, are less likely to cause bloating or gastrointestinal distress.
This improved digestibility can be attributed to the absence of lactose and lower saturated fat content typically found in animal proteins. Additionally, many plant-based protein powders contain fiber, which not only aids digestion but also supports a healthy gut microbiome.
As a result, incorporating vegan protein powders into your daily routine can help ensure that you meet your protein needs while promoting digestive comfort and overall well-being. This makes them an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities, allowing for a more enjoyable and sustainable protein source.
Lower in Saturated Fat
Plant-based protein powders are naturally low in saturated fat, making them a heart-healthy choice compared to some animal-derived protein sources. With a link between saturated fat intake and heart disease, it is important to consider the amount of saturated fat consumed and explore vegan protein powder as a low saturated fat content form of nutrition which still offers the benefits of achieving adequate protein intake.
Rich in Fibre and Nutrients
Vegan protein powders often retain beneficial fiber and micronutrients present in the source plants, making them not just a source of protein, but a holistic addition to your diet. The fiber found in these powders supports digestive health by promoting regularity and feeding beneficial gut bacteria. This can enhance nutrient absorption and overall gut function.
In addition to fiber, plant-based protein powders are typically rich in vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and metabolic processes. This added nutritional value helps to complement your protein intake and can contribute to a more balanced diet.
Furthermore, the presence of phytonutrients—compounds that provide antioxidant benefits—can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. By choosing vegan protein powders, you not only boost your protein intake but also enrich your diet with a variety of health-promoting compounds that support your wellness goals.
Ethical and Sustainable
Choosing plant-based protein powders aligns with ethical considerations, as it avoids animal exploitation. Additionally, plant-based protein production tends to have a lower environmental footprint compared to animal agriculture.
Versatility
Vegan protein powders can be easily incorporated into various recipes, such as smoothies, baking, and cooking, making them a versatile addition to your diet.
How We Choose the Best Vegan Protein Powders
To determine the best vegan protein powders, we consider several factors:
Ingredients: We assess the quality and purity of ingredients, including protein sources and additives.
Nutritional Profile: We evaluate the protein content, amino acid profile, fibre content, and micronutrient content.
Taste and Texture: We take into account user reviews and expert opinions to gauge taste, texture, and mixability.
Certifications: We consider certifications like USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and others that indicate product quality and adherence to ethical and environmental standards.
Price: We evaluate the value for money, considering the cost per serving relative to the product’s quality and benefits.
The Best Vegan Plant Based Protein Powders of 2024 – Review and Comparison
Best Overall: Nuzest Clean Lean Protein
Price: Approximately $3.50 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Why We Like It
Nuzest Clean Lean Protein stands out for its exceptional purity, using golden pea protein isolate as its primary ingredient. Nuzest Vegan Protein powders are GMO free, dairy free and soy free, meaning they are an ideal solution for those following a vegan or plant based diet looking to add extra protein to their diet. Nuzest Clean Lean Vegan Protein powder is $35AUD for 250g tub, $55.60AUD for 500g or $99.95AUD for the 1kg tub.
A little more expensive than a lot of other vegan protein powders, but this is an independently tested products to ensure no common allergens, heavy metals, pesticides or chemicals used in production. Not only that, all the water used to create Nuzest Clean Lean protein is recycled and all waste is converted to bio-fuel and animal feed which shows this brand has a dedication to quality ingredients and quality processes.
Best Expert Recommended: Momentous Essential Plant Protein
Price: Approximately $3 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Why We Like It
Momentous Essential Plant Protein is highly recommended by experts in the fitness and nutrition industry like Dr. Andrew Huberman. It contains a blend of pea and rice protein, ensuring a complete amino acid profile.
It’s also third-party tested for quality and safety and use ProHydrolase in their formula, a clinically researched enzyme blend, which aids in protein absorption and digestion, reducing discomfort and promoting optimal nutrient utilisation. Although it’s on the pricier side, its exceptional quality and trustworthiness make it a top choice for those seeking expert-backed products.
Best on Amazon: Amazonia Raw Protein Isolate
Price: Approximately $1.50 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Why We Like It
Amazonia Raw Protein Isolate is readily available on Amazon and is actually the most purchased and highly reviewed vegan protein powder o Amazon, offering a plant-based protein option with a balanced nutritional profile. It’s sourced from multiple plant proteins, including pea and brown rice.
The Amazonia Raw protein can be bought in Cacoa and Coconut, Natural, or Vanilla flavours, with options for a 1kg or 500g packet. At $46.49 for the 500g packet, for someone looking for a more budget protein, this gives you just under double the amount of protein for the same price as other options like Nuzest or Momentous.
Best Ingredients: WelleCo Nourishing Protein
Price: Approximately $3.20 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Why We Like It
WelleCo Nourishing Protein is known for its high-quality, organic ingredients. It features pea and rice protein along with a blend of superfoods and nutrients like matcha green tea and B vitamins. While it comes at a premium price, it’s praised for its nutritional richness and purity, with other ingredients we love like L-Glutamine, probiotics, Turmeric and Dandelion which make it a top pick in our eyes for best ingredients. This brand also won the award for 2019 Jones Beauty Awards for ‘The Best Vegan Buy’, and with over 3200 5 star reviews of their protein powder, they are delivering a very well rounded vegan protein powder.
Best Taste: Naked Nutrition Chocolate Naked Pea Protein
Price: Approximately $1 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Why We Like It
Naked Nutrition Chocolate Naked Pea Protein is celebrated for its delicious taste, especially in the chocolate flavour. They pride themselves in using only three ingredients: cacao powder, coconut sugar, and pea protein extracted from yellow split peas grown on US and Canadian farms. It uses non-GMO pea protein and avoids artificial additives. We love the use of cacao powder for that natural chocolate taste rather than using artificial sweeteners.
Best for Gut: Inka Wellness Skin Body Gut Protein
Price: Approximately $2.50 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Why We Like It
Inka Wellness Skin Body Gut Protein sets itself apart with a focus on gut health. It contains organic sprouted brown rice protein and prebiotic fibres for digestive wellness. The Inka Wellness Protein is a game changer for gut healthy protein powders, with options for Creamy Vanilla or Chocolate, both including 50mg of Hyaluronic Acid per serve and loaded up with prebiotics and probiotics for its gut healing qualities. Inka Wellness is also one of the only brands we have come across using Australian Faba beans as its protein source which has added benefit of being a great source of iron.
Best Weight Loss: Vital Slim and Trim Protein Formula
Price: Approximately $2.90 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Why We Like It
Vital Slim and Trim Protein Formula is tailored for weight loss with a protein blend. It’s designed to promote satiety and support lean muscle mass while being lower in calories, at roughly. This unique thermogenic formula is crafted to jumpstart your metabolism, alleviate cravings, and support your ongoing weight management efforts when incorporated into your daily routine alongside a wholesome diet.
The Vital Slim protein powder ingredients include 100% Pea Protein Isolate, 24.4g, L-Carnitine 2g, Cayenne Pepper 15mg, Turmeric 1g, Ginger 300mg. The Vital Slim and Trim protein is about $50AUD for 500 grams which places it around mid-range for the average vegan protein powder price.
Best Hemp: Soulseed Natural Hemp Protein
Price: Approximately $1.20 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Why We Like It
Soulseed Natural Hemp Protein is derived from organic hemp seeds and offers a unique nutrient profile rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fibre. It’s a great choice for those looking to incorporate hemp into their diet. If you like an earthy and nutty flavour for your protein powder, hemp protein powder is the way to go. For $50, you will get a pack of 5 x 250g pouches, which makes this protein powder a very cost effective option.
Best for Baking: Happy Way Vanilla Vegan Protein Powder
Price: Approximately $1.50 per serving
Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Why We Like It
Happy Way Vanilla Vegan Protein Powder is versatile and suitable for baking. It features a blend of pea and rice proteins and is enhanced with organic vanilla bean. Users enjoy its flavour and find it ideal for creating protein-packed baked goods. At $41 for a 500g packet, this is also one of the best value vegan protein powder options.
Vegan Protein Powder FAQ
What is vegan protein powder?
Vegan protein powder is a dietary supplement made from plant-based sources, such as peas, rice, hemp, fava beans or soy, that provides a convenient and concentrated source of protein. It’s suitable for vegans and vegetarians, as well as individuals looking to reduce their intake of animal products.
Are vegan protein powders complete proteins?
Some vegan protein powders are complete proteins, meaning they contain all essential amino acids in sufficient quantities. Protein blends that combine different plant sources, such as pea and rice protein, tend to offer a complete amino acid profile. However, it’s a good practice to vary your protein sources in your diet for optimal nutrition.
How do I use vegan protein powder?
Vegan protein powder can be mixed with water, plant-based milk, or added to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, or recipes like pancakes and baked goods. Follow the serving instructions on the product label for guidance.
Can I use vegan protein powder for weight loss?
Yes, vegan protein powder can be part of a weight loss plan. It can help promote satiety and preserve lean muscle mass while reducing overall calorie intake. Choose a protein powder with lower calories and minimal added sugars for weight loss goals.
Are vegan protein powders suitable for athletes and muscle building?
Yes, vegan protein powders are suitable for athletes and individuals looking to build and repair muscle. Look for products with a high protein content and a balanced amino acid profile to support muscle recovery and growth.
Are there any potential side effects of using vegan protein powders?
Vegan protein powders are generally safe when consumed as directed. However, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating or gas, due to the fiber content in some products. Start with a smaller serving size and gradually increase as your digestive system adapts.
Are vegan protein powders environmentally friendly?
Plant-based protein powders typically have a lower environmental footprint compared to animal-based protein sources. They require fewer resources like water and land and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Choosing vegan protein powders can align with sustainability goals.
Do vegan protein powders contain allergens?
Many vegan protein powders are free from common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten. However, it’s essential to check the product label and consult the manufacturer if you have specific allergies or sensitivities.
Are there certifications to look for in vegan protein powders?
Certifications like USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and third-party testing for quality and safety can provide confidence in the product’s quality and adherence to ethical and environmental standards.
Conclusion
After carefully evaluating the best vegan plant-based protein powders available, I have to say that my personal favourite is Nuzest Clean Lean Protein. Its purity, exceptional protein content, dedication to ingredient sourcing and product testing make it stand out as the best overall choice. It provides a clean, natural taste and is free from common allergens, making it suitable for various dietary restrictions. While it may be slightly higher in price, its quality and benefits justify the investment.
Remember that the best vegan protein powder for you will depend on your specific preferences, dietary needs, and fitness goals. Whether you prioritise taste, specific ingredients, or expert recommendations, there’s a vegan protein powder on the list to match your requirements. As always, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian to make the best choice for your individual health and wellness journey.