The Top 5 Plant-Based Protein Powders

Just because you eat a plant-based diet doesn't mean you should skip on the protein (although it's also true that you probably need less protein than you think you do. Over-consuming meat can have environmental, ethical, and health-based implications. Enter the world of plant-based protein powders. The right plant-based protein powder contains enough protein, fiber, and other nutrients, to keep you feeling satiated for hours; no animal products necessary. And, the best part is that you don't have to be vegan or vegetarian: Choose from one of the healthy, delectable vegan protein powders on this list, and reap the benefits of eating plant-based today.

Organic Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder

Simply the best

This is the gold standard of plant-based protein powders.

Best Overall

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Chock-full of 21 grams of organic, plant-based protein, Organic Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder is the premier pick when it comes to getting your veggie-based protein fix. All in all, the formula contains six grams of organic dietary fiber, just four grams of net carbs, zero grams of sugar, and a scant 150 calories per serving, in addition to a tasty protein mix that consists of brown rice, chia seeds, and pea. Simply mix with your preferred beverage for an on-the-go breakfast, post-workout treat, or midday snack—this powder is awesome at boosting your protein intake, aiding in muscle recovery, building lean muscle, and providing a near-instant energy boost.

Pros:

Contains a whopping 21 grams of plant-based protein, and just four grams of net carbs and, crucially, zero grams of sugar.
Makes for a wonderfully healthy, filling snack or quick breakfast.
Great for muscle recovery, building lean muscle, and boosting energy.

Cons:

It would be nice if there were more flavor options, although the Chocolate flavor is inarguably delicious.

Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein

The perfect pea protein base

Gotta love a good pea protein powder, and they don't get better than this one from Anthony's.

Best Pea Protein

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Pea protein? You better believe it. Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein is an all-natural, efficient protein source that consists entirely of the starch and fiber content from yellow peas. It’s low-carb, non-GMO, and since it’s unflavored and unsweetened, you can add it your favorite smoothie or protein shake without it changing the flavor of your drink. And, crucially, although some protein powders contain staggering amounts of sugar or starch (which defeats the purpose of a healthy snack), this one doesn’t.

Pros:

Made entirely from the starch and fiber content of yellow peas.
Zero carbs and no added starch or sugar.
100 percent non-GMO.
Unflavored, so you can add it to your preferred beverage without changing the flavor of your drink.

Cons:

If you want a protein powder that tastes more like a milkshake or smoothie, then this isn’t the powder for you.

Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein

Work out smarter and better

Refuel and repair your sore muscles with a plant-based protein for workout recovery.

Best Workout Recovery

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Just finished a sweaty, grueling workout and need to boost your energy levels? It’s always nice to have Garden of Life Organic Plant-Based Protein on hand. This organic sport protein powder is certified USDA organic, non-GMO certified, vegan, and gluten-free, with no added sugars. Replenish and repair your muscles after a particularly tough workout, thanks to a formula that includes 30 grams of complete protein, over 5 grams of BCAA amino acids, and a blend of organic apples, turmeric, Goji berries, and blueberries.

Pros:

This is an awesome workout recovery drink, thanks to the blend of 30 grams of protein, over 5 grams of BCAA amino acids, and a host of organic antioxidants, with no added sugars or carbs.
Certified organic, non-GMO, and NSF-certified for sports.
Helps to repair and replenish sore, aching muscles.
Available in two delicious flavors.

Cons:

On the pricey side.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

Whey better than the rest

This Optimum Nutrition protein will keep you satisifed for hours on end.

Best Whey Protein

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The Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder contains 24 grams of blended protein that’s made from whey protein concentrate, which helps to support lean muscle mass, fuel muscles, and help your body get the protein that it needs. Available in several delectable flavors, this powder also has over 5 grams of BCAA amino acids, just three grams of carbs and one to three grams of sugar. It’s also instantized, which helps to improve mixability and prevent clumps, so you can easily add it to your beverage of choice.

Pros:

Has 24 grams of whey protein concentrate, which helps to support and maintain lean muscle mass.
Also contains over five grams of BCAA amino acids, which are protein sources that your body can’t make on its own.
Instantized, which helps to improve mixability and prevent clumps.
Comes in a variety of delicious flavors.

Cons:

The actual container needs to be improved; the zip-lock closure doesn’t last.

KOS Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

Oh-so-yummy and healthy, too

Why choke down gross-tasting protein powder when you could ingest chocolate-y delicousness?

Best Chocolate Flavor

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Who says healthy can’t be tasty? The KOS Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder is the best of both worlds, with its rich, chocolate-y flavor and high-quality protein blend. The (very good) flavor profile comes from a concoction of organic Himalayan pink salt, coconut milk, organic stevia, and organic monk fruit, and the five-protein blend incorporates non-GMO pea, flaxseed, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and chia seed. The healthy fibers and digestive enzymes help your digestive system run efficiently, and you’ll feel full for longer periods of time, without ingesting a ton of calories. What’s not to love?

Pros:

Actually tastes good (unlike some other protein powders), thanks to ingredients like organic Himalayan pink salt, coconut milk, stevia, and more.
Contains heart-healthy protein sources like non-GMO pea, flaxseed, and quinoa.
Leaves you feeling full for long periods of time.

Cons:

Has a bit of a chalky aftertaste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is plant-based protein powder?

Vegan or plant-based protein powder contains protein that’s derived from plants, without using animal products like cow’s milk. Some of the most common plant-based protein powders contain rice, hemp, soy, and pea.

Who should consume plant-based protein powder?

Vegan protein powder isn’t just for vegans or vegetarians. For those who struggle with a dairy intolerance, allergy, or sensitivity (and there are many who do), consuming a plant-based protein powder is recommended.

Is protein powder a good meal substitute?

It should be noted that vegan protein powder, or any type of protein powder, isn’t a full-on meal replacement; rather, it can help to boost your diet and provide your body with much-needed nutrients.