A Guide to the Best Vegan Protein Powders for 2023

Protein is an important building block for many areas of your health including skin, muscles, digestive system, and hormone regulation. But for many people, making sure they hit their daily protein intake can be challenging. So, if you find you need to up your protein intake, protein powders are a quick, easy way to do so. These convenient powders can be mixed in with your green juices, smoothies, and even your morning oatmeal to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Our Top Picks

Complement | Organic Vegan Protein Powder | Shop on LoveComplement.com
Natreve | Vegan Protein Powder & Animal-Free Whey Protein | Shop on Natreve.com
No Cow | Dairy Free Protein Powder | Shop on NoCow.com
Truvani | Organic Plant Based Protein Powder | Shop on Amazon.com
Ka’Chava | Nutrient Rich Superblend with Plant Protein | Shop on KaChava.com
Ritual | Plant Based Protein Powder for 18+, 50+ and Pregnancy & Postpartum | Shop on Amazon.com

Just as their name implies, protein powders are powdered forms of protein that are used as a dietary supplement. If you scour the aisles (or the Internet) looking for protein powders, you’ll find that the market is overflowing with options. We’ve outlined everything you need to know about protein powders below, including how vegan alternatives stack up to the traditional options (that utilize animal products), and the brands we love.

Vegan Protein Powder Brands We Love

Complement

You won’t find any caulking or unpleasant aftertaste with Complement’s line of vegan protein powders — just a range of pea, pumpkin seed, almond, chia, and sunflower protein options that taste good and do good for your body.

Natreve

If you’re looking for a vegan protein powder or animal-free whey protein powder, then look no further than Natreve. They have lots of delicious flavors and are also the world’s first Plastic Neutral and Carbon Neutral wellness company.

No Cow

No Cow offers pea and brown rice protein powders as well as protein bars perfect for on the go. The brand also works with sustainable suppliers that prioritize quality ingredients, fair wages, and safe working environments.

Truvani

Truvani organic plant based protein powder is made with as little as three high-quality organic plant ingredients, such as pea, pumpkin, and chia seeds, and they have over 10 delicious flavors to chose from!

Ka’Chava

Looking for a meal replacement thats also packed with plant protein? Ka’Chava’s pea and brown rice-based nutrient rich super blend protein shakes fit the bill. The brand has a partnership with Rainforest Trust to protect acres and save endangered species.

Ritual

Ritual is a wellness brand with a solid line of vegan protein powders for all groups of people including those aged 18 to 49, those over 50, and pregnant and postpartum women. The type of plant based protein varies by product, but you’ll find a mix of pea, artichoke, chia, algae, amaranth, quinoa, and flax protein in their powders.

There are so many great vegan protein powders available, and the above brands are our go-tos. But we’ve also tested and enjoy the following protein powder flavors.

Vegan Protein Powder Flavors We Love

Unflavored Protein Powders

Looking for complete control over flavor profile? Here are a few unflavored protein powders from brands we love including:

• Complement | Unflavored Organic Protein
• Natreve | Unflavored & Unsweetened Vegan Protein Powder
• Ora | Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein
• Garden of Life | Raw Organic Plant Based Protein
• Truvani | Certified Organic Plant Based Protein

Chocolate Protein Powders

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these deliciously chocolatey protein powders from brands like:

• Complement | Chocolate Organic Protein
• Ka’Chava | Chocolate Nutrient Rich Superblend
• Kos | Chocolate Organic Superfood Protein
• No Cow | Chocolate Protein Powder
• Orgain | Creamy Chocolate Fudge Organic Protein Powder

Vanilla Protein Powders

What’s creamy, slightly floral, and sweet? These vanilla protein powders are our go-tos:

• Natreve | French Vanilla Wafer Sundae Vegan Protein Powder
• No Cow | Creamy Vanilla Protein Powder
• Ka’Chava | Vanilla Nutrient rich superblend
• Vega | Creamy Vanilla Plant Based Protein

Coffee-Based Protein Powders 

Need a pick-me-up? These coffee-based protein powders make that morning cup of joe a non-necessity:

• Kos | Salted Caramel Coffee Flavored Organic Superfood Protein
• Orgain | Cafe Latte Organic Vegan Protein Powder with 50 Superfoods
• Vega | Cold Brew Coffee Flavored Plant Based Protein & Energy

Berry Protein Powders 

Is it a smoothie or is it a protein shake? Try these berry protein powders from:

• Orgain | Strawberries ‘n Cream Vegan Protein Powder with 50 Superfoods
• Sunwarrior | Berry Flavored Vegan Organic Protein Powder with BCAA Amino Acids
• Vega | Wildberry Bliss Vegan Protein Powder

Matcha Protein Powders 

We love matcha as much as the next person. Scoop up one of these matcha protein powders from:

• Truvani | Matcha Organic Vegan Protein Powder
• Ka’Chava | Matcha Nutrient Rich Superblend

Animal-Free Whey Protein Powders

All the protein, none of the whey. Natreve’s animal-free whey protein powders are super tasty and come in a bunch of delicious flavors.

Soy Protein Powder

Soy protein powder is a versatile plant based protein source derived from soybeans, offering a complete amino acid profile. Give these soy based protein powders a scoop:

• Bob’s Red Mill | Soy Protein Powder
• Soylent | Plant Based Protein with 39 Essential Nutrients

What is Vegan Protein Powder?

Vegan protein powders are powder supplements that offer high amounts of protein. They’re commonly consumed by those who don’t eat animal products, but they can be eaten by anyone wanting a plant-based option (as traditional protein powders often container dairy, eggs and collagen). The vegan protein powders of the past typically relied on soy as their main ingredient, but, more recently, vegan protein powders are made using plant-based ingredients such as nuts and seeds.

Why Vegan Protein Powder?

In general, protein powders help your body receive the proper amount of protein it needs to thrive. In fact, one study found that diets containing low amounts of protein affected energy and digestibility. Many people choose to consume vegan protein powders because they follow a vegan diet (meaning, they don’t consume any foods that contain animal products). But, vegan protein powders are also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant and those with dairy allergies (in this case, look for products labeled dairy-free protein powder or non-dairy protein powder). 

Concerned if vegan protein powders are just as nutritious as ones that are based on dairy? Interestingly enough, vegan protein powders offer the same benefits as traditional protein powders. One study looked at two groups of high-intensity functional trainees who consumed whey protein and plant based protein, and concluded that both groups of people experienced similar outcomes in terms of strength, body composition, and muscle thickness. 

What to Look For in Vegan Protein Powder

For starters, look for vegan protein powder ingredients that don’t contain any animal byproducts including dairy or eggs. Ingredients like peas, chia seeds, and hemp seeds will be the base of the protein powder, and it may contain other useful ingredients that are a good source of things like iron and potassium in addition to protein. When it comes to vegan protein powders, it’s important to ensure they offer complete protein versus a single-source protein. A complete protein powder will contain all of the nine essential amino acids that the body doesn’t produce on its own: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Vegan protein powders that contain a mix of different protein sources will ensure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.

Ingredients aside, you should also consider whether or not you want a flavored or unflavored protein powder. Protein powders of the flavored variety make for a quick and easy way to get your desired taste (whether it be chocolate, vanilla, or even matcha) without having to do much shaking or blending. An unflavored protein powder, however, may offer more versatility if you plan on using it for baking or cooking (protein powder pancakes, anyone?). They’re also great if you plan on switching up your flavors daily and want more flexibility with an unflavored base.

You may also want to take into account if the protein powder is organic or not. Organic protein powders mean that the product was made using certified organic ingredients. And unlike words like “clean” and “sustainable,” organic actually has some merit — the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates “all organic crops, livestock, and agricultural products certified to [their] organic standards,” they write on their website. Organic protein powders are made without artificial additives or preservatives. Look for the USDA Certified Organic seal (and don’t rely on buzzwords like “natural,” “clean,” or “sustainable”).

Sugars and Fillers in Vegan Protein Powder

If you’re looking for a vegan protein powder, chances are you’re looking for the cleanest option out there — one that doesn’t sneak in any unnecessary additives like sugar. Protein powders, in general, vary in their sugar content depending on the specific product. Some are sweetened with sugar, artificial sweeteners, or natural sweeteners like stevia and xylitol. Others may be unsweetened or have minimal added sugars. Looking to limit your sugar intake? Opt for a protein powder that contains no added sugars or minimal added sugars. (FYI: Some brands also offer low-sugar or sugar-free options.) Remember: It’s always important to check up on the ingredient label of the product you’re eyeing, as there could be hidden sugars lurking (for instance, carbohydrates like maltodextrin and dextrose are quickly converted to sugar in the body).

A few common fillers and additives you may come across in protein powders include: artificial sweeteners like sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame potassium, which add sweetness without adding calories; thickeners like xanthan gum, guar gum, and carrageenan to improve the powder’s texture and consistency; emulsifiers like lecithin to prevent separation; and preservatives like tocopherols and citric acid to extend their shelf life. While fillers are generally considered safe, it’s important to consider your personal health goals and dietary needs — are you sensitive to thickeners and sweeteners? Concerned with the potential long-term effects of artificial colors? Allergic to certain preservatives? Do your due diligence and be sure to read ingredient labels carefully.

Plant-Based Protein Powder Ingredients to Look For

There are several plant based protein powder ingredients available. Here are the most common ones.

Pea

Pea protein powders are a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. They’re revered as being a great option for vegans as well as those looking for a dairy-free alternative. Pea protein powders are made of yellow split peas that are ground up into a finely-milled powder. They’re a high-quality source of protein, that also offers so many health benefits. For one, they’re high in iron, which can help keep you energized and make for better sleep. They’re also great at building muscle, perfect for enjoying before and after a workout.

Hemp

Hemp protein powders are made of hemp seeds, which are high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and offer impressive anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, studies have found. Hemp protein powders, like pea protein powders, are a complete source of protein — they’re also an excellent source of fiber, so beware of bloating and gas if you’re new to the ingredient.

Chia

You may be used to tossing chia seeds in your morning smoothie or midday shakes, but chia seeds also make for a great protein powder. Packed with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds are naturally gluten-free, making them great for those with gluten intolerances or celiac disease. They also absorb water quickly to prolong hydration — perfect for those who engage in physical exercise. Naturally high in fiber, chia seed protein powders can aid in keeping you feeling full for longer.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seed protein powders are a nutrient-dense and convenient way to add protein to your diet. Like other vegan protein powders, pumpkin seed powders can be made with just blended pumpkin seeds, or they can be blended with other forms of plant based protein like quinoa. Aside from being a good source of protein, pumpkin seed protein powders are rich in iron, magnesium, and potassium. They’re also high in antioxidants, making them a great choice to help boost your immune system.

Soy

Derived from soybeans, soy protein powder is a plant based protein source that many vegetarians, vegans, and those with dairy or other food allergies or intolerances turn to, as it’s a complete protein and offers several health benefits. One of its main benefits? It’s high in vitamins and minerals and can aid in muscle growth. 

There has been some controversy surrounding soy in recent years, particularly as it relates to hormone levels in men. Soy contains isoflavones, which are plant compounds that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. However, research on these concerns are varied: While some studies point to soy protein having anti-estrogenic effects in men, others suggest it may have no effect. Still, soy has remained a top contender when it comes to plant based protein powders, and is a go-to in several recipes requiring protein powder.

Vegan Protein Powder vs. Whey Protein Powder

Vegan protein powders and whey protein powders are both popular options for those looking to supplement their protein intake. However, their protein sources differ. Whey protein powder gets its protein from cow’s milk (specifically, it’s derived from the liquid portion of cow’s milk that separates from the curd during the cheese-making process). Vegan protein powders, on the other hand, are made from plant-based sources like pea protein, rice protein, or soy protein. Of course, those looking to steer clear from animal products should opt for vegan protein powders as opposed to whey, though animal-free whey protein powders that use whey protein from microflora (not cows) exist.

Another place the two differ? Their amino acid makeup. Whey proteins contain all nine essential amino acids and are considered a complete protein. Vegan protein powders from brands such as Complement, Natreve and No Cow contain all essential amino acids and have a complete protein profile (as is the case for our favorite brands).

Conclusion

Protein powders are an essential supplement for many looking to increase their intake of protein. For vegans or those with dairy intolerances, there are several vegan protein powder brands to choose from. We have also added a bunch of our favorite vegan protein powders to our Amazon store.