Top Vegan Protein Powders

Vegan protein is a great choice if you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, have lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, or simply want to add variety to your protein sources. It is also a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option than animal-based protein.

Vegan protein is a type of protein that is derived from plant-based sources, rather than animal sources such as meat, dairy, and eggs. Some common sources of vegan protein include:

 

• Legumes: such as lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and kidney beans.

• Grains: such as quinoa, rice, and oats.

• Nuts and seeds: such as almonds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds.

• Soy products: such as tofu, tempeh, and edamame.

• Vegetables: such as broccoli, spinach, and peas.

   

 

Many excellent vegan protein sources exist, each offering unique benefits and nutritional profiles. Here are some of the top options:

 

• Pea protein is a high-quality, easily digestible protein that is derived from yellow split peas. It is rich in essential amino acids, particularly leucine, which is important for muscle growth and repair.

• Soy protein, a vegetarian protein derived from soybeans, is rich in essential amino acids, including lysine—often scarce in plant-based diets. It’s also packed with antioxidants and has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

• Brown rice protein is a hypoallergenic and easily digestible protein extracted from whole grain brown rice. It’s packed with essential amino acids, especially cysteine and methionine, which are crucial for muscle growth and repair.

• Hemp protein is a complete protein that is derived from hemp seeds. It is rich in essential amino acids and is also a good source of healthy fats and fiber.

• Quinoa is a plant-based, complex protein source also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious and versatile addition to any diet.

 

When choosing a vegan protein source in the United States, it’s important to consider factors such as taste, texture, and nutritional content, as well as any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have. It’s also a good idea to vary your protein sources to ensure you’re getting a wide range of essential amino acids and other nutrients.

 

 

Best Vegan Proteins

 

Vegan protein is available in many different forms in the United States, including powders, bars, and snacks, and can be used to supplement a healthy diet and support fitness goals.  They can be added to smoothies, shakes, and other recipes to increase protein intake.

 

Here are some popular and highly rated vegan protein options in the United States:

 

Garden of Life Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

 

This organic, non-GMO protein powder is a blend of pea protein, brown rice protein, and other plant-based sources, free from artificial ingredients, and available in several flavors. Each serving delivers 30 grams of complete protein, over 5 grams of BCAAs, glutamine, and glutamic acid, plus a 2 billion CFU probiotic blend for digestive support.

 

It’s also USDA organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, NSF Certified for Sport, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and has no added sugars.

 

 

 

 

Vega Sport Premium Protein

 

This protein powder is made from a blend of pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, and alfalfa protein, and is designed to support athletic performance and recovery. It is vegan, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy, and dairy.

 

 

Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

 

This organic protein powder combines pea protein, brown rice protein, and chia seeds, available in various flavors. Each serving offers 21 grams of plant-based protein, 2 grams of dietary fiber, and 150 calories. It’s also USDA Organic, vegan, Kosher, gluten-free, dairy-free, and contains no artificial ingredients.

 

 

 

 

Sunwarrior Classic Plus Organic Vegan Protein Powder

 

This protein powder is made from a blend of pea protein, brown rice protein, quinoa, chia seeds, and amaranth, and is available in several flavors. It is organic, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy, and dairy.

 

 

Bob’s Red Mill Hemp Protein Powder

 

Bob Red Mill offers several types of protein powders such as gluten free soy protein, hemp protein, almond protein powder, and more.

 

 

 

 

Nuzest Clean Lean Protein

 

This protein powder, made from pea protein isolate, comes in several flavors. It’s vegan, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy, and and dairy.

 

 

Benefits of vegan vs animal protein

 

Both vegan and animal-based protein sources offer benefits and play an important role in meeting our daily protein needs. Both vegan and animal proteins are beneficial, but their unique characteristics might make one a more suitable choice for certain individuals or situations.

 

Vegan protein offers several benefits over animal protein:

 

• Lower in saturated fat: Generally contains less saturated fat, which can support heart health.

• Higher in fiber: Rich in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting fullness.

• More sustainable: Requires fewer resources to produce, making it environmentally friendlier.

• Lower risk of chronic diseases: May lower the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

• Easier to digest: Some find plant-based proteins gentler on the digestive system.

 

It’s important to note that animal-based protein sources also offer benefits, such as being rich in certain nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.

 

Ultimately, your best protein source depends on your individual needs, preferences, dietary restrictions, and any health conditions you might have.