10 Best Vegan Protein Powders for 2024

The best vegan protein powders come from brands such as Optimum Nutrition, Naked, and True Nutrition. Consuming protein powders is an easy way for someone to include extra protein in their diet or support muscle gain.
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A quick look at 10 of the best vegan protein powders
Best pea protein powder: Naked Pea Premium Pea Protein Powder | Skip to review
Naked Pea Premium Pea Protein Powder
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Best vegan protein powder for athletes: Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder | Skip to review
Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder
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Best flavor range: True Nutrition Soy Protein Isolate – non-GMO | Skip to review
True Nutrition Soy Protein Isolate – non-GMO
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Best easy-to-digest vegan protein powder: Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein | Skip to review
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein
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Best vegan protein powder for baking: Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein | Skip to review
Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein
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Best vegan protein powder for muscle gain: Momentous Essential Plant-Based Protein | Skip to review
Momentous Essential Plant-Based Protein
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Best protein powder with superfoods: Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean Plant-Based Superfood Protein | Skip to review
Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean Plant-Based Superfood Protein
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Best for protein from a range of sources: Orgain Simple Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder | Skip to review
Orgain Simple Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder
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Best personalized subscription: Gainful Protein Powder | Skip to review
Gainful Protein Powder
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Best for taste: KOS Organic Superfood Protein | Skip to review
KOS Organic Superfood Protein
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How we chose the best vegan protein powders
Medical News Today features vegan protein powders that meet the following criteria:
Quality of ingredients: All of the protein powders in this article contain high quality proteins suitable for vegans. We also choose products that are free from artificial ingredients, such as flavoring, colors, or additives.
Low fat and sugar content: Where possible, we suggest products that do not contain high amounts of added sugar or fat.
Complete amino acid profile: We chose protein powders that provide people following a vegan diet with all of the essential amino acids they need in their diet.
Testing and brand reputation: We aim to feature products that go through third-party testing for quality and safety. We also choose brands on their reputation among customers.
Certifications: We aim to select products with certifications for non-GMO or organic ingredients, among others relating to quality.
Price: We feature protein powders that suit a range of budgets.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Learn more here
Best vegan protein powders
Medical News Today has tested some of the products below. Reviewers may have received some products from the manufacturers for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers’ own.

Naked Pea Premium Pea Protein Powder

Protein type pea
Number of servings 15 per container
Certifications Informed Choice Certified, certified gluten-free
Nutrition stats per serving (Unflavored) Calories: 120, Total carbs: 2 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0.5 g, Protein: 27 g
$19.99 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.

Naked is a company that specializes in selling supplements. The Unflavored version of this protein powder only contains one ingredient: split yellow peas from farms in North America. The company states that it sources all of its peas from farms that practice environmentally conscious farming.

This vegan protein powder contains 27 g of protein per serving and free from GMOs, soy, gluten, and dairy.

Naked recommends adding 2 scoops per serving to a liquid, such as water or a smoothie.

This product is available in five flavors: Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate, Chocolate and Peanut Butter, and Double Chocolate.

We consider Naked Pea Protein Powder to be the best pea protein powder because it only contains one ingredient, which the company sources through environmentally conscious farming.

will last a long time due to high number of servings
one ingredient formula means it could suit people with a range of dietary needs
free from GMOs, soy, glutens, and dairy
will only last around 2 weeks with daily use
people cannot return food products through Amazon
will last a long time due to high number of servings
one ingredient formula means it could suit people with a range of dietary needs
free from GMOs, soy, glutens, and dairy
will only last around 2 weeks with daily use
people cannot return food products through Amazon
Serving size: 2 scoops (4.3 tbsp)
Available flavors: Unflavored, Chocolate, Vanilla
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Serving size: 2 scoops (4.3 tbsp)
Available flavors: Unflavored, Chocolate, Vanilla
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder

Protein type pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, alfalfa
Number of servings 20 per container
Certifications non-GMO verified, NSF Certified for Sport
Nutrition stats per serving (Mocha) Calories: 170, Total carbs: 5 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 3.5 g, Protein: 30 g
$43.73 AT IHERB
*Price may vary.

Vega is a company that sells only vegan supplements. Its Vega Sport Protein powder contains probiotics and branched-chain amino acids, which it states may help people recover from intense activity.

This product contains 30 g of protein per serving and is free from gluten and GMOs. It contains no artificial flavors or sweeteners.

It comes in four flavors: Chocolate, Mocha, Berry, and Peanut Butter.

Vega recommends mixing 1 scoop of the powder into ice cold water and drinking it after a workout.

We consider Vega Sport Protein the best vegan protein powder for athletes because it contains ingredients that Vega designed to help people recover after a workout. It also features a higher serving of protein than other options, which may help athletes wanting to support their muscle health after a workout.

available in a range of flavors
a relatively high amount of protein per serving
higher number of servings per container, offering better value for money than some rivals
some reviews state it has an unpleasant taste and a gritty texture
manufactured in a facility that also processes peanuts, milk, soy, egg, tree nuts, and sesame
available in a range of flavors
a relatively high amount of protein per serving
higher number of servings per container, offering better value for money than some rivals
some reviews state it has an unpleasant taste and a gritty texture
manufactured in a facility that also processes peanuts, milk, soy, egg, tree nuts, and sesame
Serving size: 1 scoop (41 g)
Available flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
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Serving size: 1 scoop (41 g)
Available flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
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True Nutrition Soy Protein Isolate – non-GMO

Protein type soy
Number of servings 14 per packet
Certifications none
Nutrition stats per serving (Unflavored) Calories: 120, Total carbs: 0 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0 g, Protein: 30 g
$15.00 AT TRUE NUTRITION
*Price may vary.

This soy protein isolate powder contains non-GMO soybeans and is vegan and gluten-free. It is unsuitable for people with an allergy or sensitivity to soy.

True Nutrition gives people a choice of 34 different flavors. The Unflavored version contains 30 g of protein per serving and 120 calories. The calorie and protein content of other flavors may differ.

True Nutrition recommends mixing 1 scoop into 12 to 24 ounces (oz) of water, juice, or milk.

The company offers a subscribe and save option.

We consider True Nutrition Soy Protein Isolate to be the vegan protein powder with the best flavor range because it is available in 34 different flavors. Typically, protein powders come in a range of up to five flavors.

relatively low cost may make it suitable for lower budgets
a large variety of different flavors
contains a relatively large amount of protein per serving
unsuitable for people with a soy allergy or sensitivity
only available in smaller containers
some reviews state it is difficult to use, due to messy, dusty texture
relatively low cost may make it suitable for lower budgets
a large variety of different flavors
contains a relatively large amount of protein per serving
unsuitable for people with a soy allergy or sensitivity
only available in smaller containers
some reviews state it is difficult to use, due to messy, dusty texture
Serving size: 1 scoop (34 g)
Available flavors: Unflavored, Chocolate Fudge Brownie, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup, Cookies N Cream, Cookie Butter, Cafe Mocha, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Sorbet, Chocolate Churro, Strawberry Banana Shake, Chocolate Coconut Bar, Marshmallow Treat, Banana Smoothie, Natural Fruit Punch, Toasted Coconut, Chocolate Covered Banana, Caramel Macchiato, Cinnamon Toast Swirl, Lemon Cake, Cinnamon Bun, Orange Cream, Chocolate Covered Strawberry, Horchata, Solw Whipd, Red Velvet Cake, Maple Pecan, Frosted Carrot Cake, Chai Latte, Chocolate Thin Mint, White Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $99
Serving size: 1 scoop (34 g)
Available flavors: Unflavored, Chocolate Fudge Brownie, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup, Cookies N Cream, Cookie Butter, Cafe Mocha, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Sorbet, Chocolate Churro, Strawberry Banana Shake, Chocolate Coconut Bar, Marshmallow Treat, Banana Smoothie, Natural Fruit Punch, Toasted Coconut, Chocolate Covered Banana, Caramel Macchiato, Cinnamon Toast Swirl, Lemon Cake, Cinnamon Bun, Orange Cream, Chocolate Covered Strawberry, Horchata, Solw Whipd, Red Velvet Cake, Maple Pecan, Frosted Carrot Cake, Chai Latte, Chocolate Thin Mint, White Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $99
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein

Protein type plant protein blend
Number of servings 20 per bottle
Nutrition stats per serving (Vanilla) Calories: 130, Total carbs: 6 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 2.5 g, Protein: 22 g
Certifications Non-GMO Project Verified
$35.69 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.

This plant-based protein powder contains organic peas, sprouted grains, seeds, and legumes. Garden of Life states that this product is certified vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and USDA organic.

It also contains several vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, probiotics, and digestive enzymes. The company states that this may make the protein powder easier to digest.

The protein powder is available in two flavors: Chocolate and Vanilla.

Each serving of 1 scoop contains 22 g of protein. The company recommends mixing the scoop with 10 oz of water.

We consider Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder the best vegan protein powder for easier digestion. This is due to the addition of vitamins, probiotics, and digestive enzymes that the company says aid digestion.

contains vitamins and probiotics that may make it easier to digest
Garden of Life is a certified B Corporation, meaning it meets high standards regarding social and environmental responsibility, and business transparency
suitable for people who prefer an organic diet
only available in two flavors
may not last as long as other products
some reviews state it is difficult to dissolve the powder in liquid
contains vitamins and probiotics that may make it easier to digest
Garden of Life is a certified B Corporation, meaning it meets high standards regarding social and environmental responsibility, and business transparency
suitable for people who prefer an organic diet
only available in two flavors
may not last as long as other products
some reviews state it is difficult to dissolve the powder in liquid
Serving size: 1 scoop (33 g)
Available flavors: Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate, Vanilla Chai
Returns: no returns
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Serving size: 1 scoop (33 g)
Available flavors: Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate, Vanilla Chai
Returns: no returns
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein

Protein type pea
Number of servings 91 per container
Certifications third-party tested, certified gluten-free
Nutrition stats per serving Calories: 35, Total carbs: <1 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 0 g, Protein: 8 g
$22.99 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.

This product has one ingredient: vegetable pea protein isolate. According to the manufacturer, it removes fiber and starch from yellow peas and grinds the remains into powder.

Anthony’s states that this protein is gluten-free and free from sweeteners and flavors.

Due to not having a flavor, this powder may be suitable for protein shakes, smoothies, yogurts, baked goods, and protein bars.

This powder contains 8 g of protein per serving and 40 calories. Due to its lower protein content, there may be better options for people who wish to strength train.

We consider Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein the best vegan protein powder for baking because it is unflavored and has a small serving size. Adding it to recipes should not affect the taste or texture of the final product. It is also gluten-free, so individuals can use it in gluten-free baking.

contains one ingredient, so it may be suitable for people with a range of dietary requirements
suitable for a range of uses
suitable for people on a lower budget
contains only a small amount of protein per serving
small serving size may lead to a thin texture in smoothies or milkshakes
only available unflavored
contains one ingredient, so it may be suitable for people with a range of dietary requirements
suitable for a range of uses
suitable for people on a lower budget
contains only a small amount of protein per serving
small serving size may lead to a thin texture in smoothies or milkshakes
only available unflavored
Serving size: 1 tbsp (10 g)
Available flavors: Unflavored
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Serving size: 1 tbsp (10 g)
Available flavors: Unflavored
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Momentous Essential Plant-Based Protein

Protein type pea, brown rice
Number of servings 20 per container
Certifications NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Sport Certified, non-GMO
Nutrition stats per serving (Chocolate) Calories: 140, Total carbs: 10 g, Added sugar: 2 g, Fat: 3 g, Protein: 20 g
$47.50 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.

This protein powder features a blend of pea and rice protein. Momentous claims that this makes it a suitable option for people looking to build and repair muscle.

Momentous states this protein powder is suitable for vegans and contains nine essential amino acids.

The company recommends using this powder soon after a workout. It reportedly mixes easily with water or milk.

This protein powder is available in Chocolate and Vanilla Chai flavors.

Momentous Essential Protein contains 20 g of protein per serving and 140 calories.

We consider Momentous Essential Protein to be the best vegan protein powder for muscle gain because of its blend of proteins. The company also states that these proteins aid muscle repair.

reportedly helps build and repair muscle
reportedly blends well
contains nine essential amino acids
reviewers report the powder does not mix well and tastes unpleasant
best for people immediate use after a workout, which may not be convenient
relatively high price may make it unsuitable for lower budgets
reportedly helps build and repair muscle
reportedly blends well
contains nine essential amino acids
reviewers report the powder does not mix well and tastes unpleasant
best for people immediate use after a workout, which may not be convenient
relatively high price may make it unsuitable for lower budgets
Serving size: 1 scoop (37.7 g)
Available flavors: Vanilla Chai, Chocolate
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Serving size: 1 scoop (37.7 g)
Available flavors: Vanilla Chai, Chocolate
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean Plant-Based Superfood Protein

Protein type pea, rice
Number of servings 20 per container
Certifications USDA organic, certified vegan, third-party tested for purity and potency
Nutrition stats per serving (Chocolate) Calories: 130, Total carbs: 5 g, Added sugar: 0 g, Fat: 3 g, Protein: 22 g
$44.99 AT ORA ORGANICS
*Price may vary.

This protein powder contains organic pea protein and 19 superfoods, including organic cranberry, sprouted quinoa, and kale.

This product is free from dairy, gluten, and GMO ingredients.

So Lean & So Clean comes in four flavors: Unsweetened, Vanilla, Chocolate, and Vanilla Chai.

The Unsweetened protein powder contains 23 g of protein per serving and 120 calories. Protein and calorie content may differ between flavors.

The company recommends mixing 2 scoops with 8 to 12 oz of water or plant-based milk.

We consider Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean to be the best vegan protein powder with superfoods because it contains 19 different superfoods — many more than other vegan protein powders.

contains 19 superfoods
reportedly helps people avoid bloating
contains digestive enzymes that may aid digestion
only available in a few different flavors
high number of different ingredients may mean it is unsuitable for people with different allergies or sensitivities
some reviews state it has a chalky taste
contains 19 superfoods
reportedly helps people avoid bloating
contains digestive enzymes that may aid digestion
only available in a few different flavors
high number of different ingredients may mean it is unsuitable for people with different allergies or sensitivities
some reviews state it has a chalky taste
Serving size: 2 scoops
Available flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Vanilla Chai, Unflavored
Serving size: 2 scoops
Available flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Vanilla Chai, Unflavored
Orgain Simple Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

Protein type pea, brown rice, almond, pumpkin seed, peanut
Number of servings 15 per container
Certifications USDA organic, certified plant-based, third-party tested for purity and potency
Nutrition stats per serving (Vanilla) Calories: 150, Total carbs: 10 g, Added sugar: 5 g, Fat: 3 g, Protein 20 g
$24.99 AT AMAZON
*Price may vary.
This protein powder contains a protein blend of organic peas, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and chia seeds.
This product is also free from GMO ingredients, gluten, and soy. It is organic, vegan, and kosher, so it may appeal to people with a variety of dietary requirements. However, it will be unsuitable for people with a nut allergy.
This powder is available in two flavors: Chocolate and Vanilla. The Chocolate version contains 20 g of protein per serving and 150 calories. Protein and calorie content may differ between flavors.
Orgain recommends adding 2 scoops to water or milk.
We consider Orgain Organic Protein Powder to have the most varied protein blend, although it is unsuitable for those allergic to nuts.
uses protein from a wide range of sources
customers say the product tastes good and leaves no unpleasant after taste
unsuitable for people allergic to nuts
offers less protein per serving than other options
uses protein from a wide range of sources
customers say the product tastes good and leaves no unpleasant after taste
unsuitable for people allergic to nuts
offers less protein per serving than other options
Serving size: 2 scoops
Available flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Peanut Butter
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members
Serving size: 2 scoops
Available flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Peanut Butter
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Gainful Protein Powder

Protein type customized blend
Number of servings 14 per container
Nutrition stats per serving varies based on your customized formula
Certifications none
$45.00 AT GAINFUL
*Price may vary.

Unlike the other products in this article, Gainful states that it personalizes this protein powder to each person’s needs.

People can fill in an online questionnaire detailing their dietary requirements, activity level, and their purpose in regard to purchasing protein powder. The company then offers people a subscription service that includes access to a registered dietitian.

People can choose between eight flavors, including Madagascar Vanilla, Strawberry Cream, and Chocolate Peanut Butter.

This protein powder contains 19 to 26 g of protein per serving. All Gainful protein powders are free from gluten, soy, dairy, and artificial flavors and sweeteners.

We consider Gainful Personalized Protein Powder to be the best vegan protein powder with a personalized subscription. Gainful takes into account each individual’s dietary requirements, activity level, and aim in regard to using protein powder.

free from gluten, soy, dairy, and artificial flavors and sweeteners, so it is suitable for people with a range of dietary requirements
available in a range of different flavors
personalized to each individual’s preferences and needs
personalized nature of this product may mean it is more time-consuming to purchase than other protein powders
relatively high price may make it unsuitable for people on a lower budget
variations in serving size and amount of protein per serving may mean that other products are better value for money
free from gluten, soy, dairy, and artificial flavors and sweeteners, so it is suitable for people with a range of dietary requirements
available in a range of different flavors
personalized to each individual’s preferences and needs
personalized nature of this product may mean it is more time-consuming to purchase than other protein powders
relatively high price may make it unsuitable for people on a lower budget
variations in serving size and amount of protein per serving may mean that other products are better value for money
Serving size: 1 scoop (30 g)
Available flavors: Strawberry Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Chocolate, Caffe Mocha, Cookies & Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Toast, Sea Salt Caramel
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping over $60
Serving size: 1 scoop (30 g)
Available flavors: Strawberry Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Chocolate, Caffe Mocha, Cookies & Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Toast, Sea Salt Caramel
Returns: no returns or refunds
Shipping: free shipping over $60
KOS Organic Superfood Protein

Protein type pea, flaxseed, quinoa, pumpkin seed, chia seed
Number of servings 30 per container
Certifications USDA organic
Nutrition stats per serving (Chocolate) Calories: 60, Total carbs: 9 g, Added sugar: 2 g, Fat: 6 g, Protein: 20 g
$55.99 AT IHERB
*Price may vary.
This USDA-certified organic offering from KOS contains 95% organic ingredients.
It contains 20 g of protein per serving and is free from gluten, dairy, soy, hormones, artificial sweeteners, colors, and GMOs.
It is a complete protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, manganese, and vitamins B12, D, and E.
People can choose from six flavors. These include Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate, Salted Caramel Coffee, and unflavored.
The company claims this protein powder is suitable for weight management due to its soluble fiber from plant proteins, which may help people feel fuller for longer. It may also support digestive health due to the digestive enzymes amylase, protease, lipase, lactase, and cellulase.
amylase
protease
lipase
lactase
cellulase
The company recommends people add two scoops to cold water. Alternatively, people can add it to smoothies and snacks.
We consider KOS organic pea protein blend the best tasting in this article. Customers say they like the taste of the protein powder and that it is the perfect blend of sweetness, without being too sweet.
reportedly has a pleasant taste and mixes well
some customers report it helps take out the bitterness of the creatine
people can choose from six flavors
may support digestive health due to digestive enzymes
contains inulin so it may cause digestive issues for some people
some reviewers report that the price is a little too high for the product
other reviewers report it has an unpleasant smell
may be unsuitable for people with severe gluten allergies
reportedly has a pleasant taste and mixes well
some customers report it helps take out the bitterness of the creatine
people can choose from six flavors
may support digestive health due to digestive enzymes
contains inulin so it may cause digestive issues for some people
some reviewers report that the price is a little too high for the product
other reviewers report it has an unpleasant smell
may be unsuitable for people with severe gluten allergies
Serving size: 2 scoops
Available flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Chocolate Chip Mint, Peanut Butter, Blueberry Muffin, Salted Caramel Coffee, Unflavored
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Serving size: 2 scoops
Available flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Chocolate Chip Mint, Peanut Butter, Blueberry Muffin, Salted Caramel Coffee, Unflavored
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Vegan protein powder comparison
The following table compares the protein powders in this article on price, flavors, serving sizes, and more.
Naked
Vega
True
Garden
Anthony’s
Momentous
Ora
Orgain
Gainful
KOS
Why is protein important for a vegan diet?
The vegan diet may provide certain health benefits. However, a common concern regarding this diet is that it may lack sufficient protein, especially if people consume a limited amount of nuts, seeds, and legumes.
certain
limited amount
Protein is important for the function of almost every body part, including skin, bones, muscles, and organs. Protein helps the body repair and make new cells.
repair
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Although the body makes some amino acids, people must obtain nine through their diet.
building blocks
According to The European Food Information Council, a plant-based diet can provide all the protein necessary if people plan it carefully. It suggests people choose protein-rich plants and combine various protein sources throughout the day. Examples of protein-rich plants include green peas, spinach, and artichokes.
The European Food Information Council
green peas
Vegans can also get protein from nuts, seeds, grains, and peanut butter. Non-animal products like tofu and soymilk also provide protein.
tofu
In addition to eating different proteins daily, vegans can supplement their protein intake with powders and other high-protein supplements.
Vegan protein powders can be a quick and easy way to meet daily protein needs. This is especially important if a person exercises regularly. Powders can also help supply the body with the essential amino acids it needs to support protein synthesis, which is the creation of proteins by cells.
The recommended daily protein intake depends on age, sex, health status, and activity levels. However, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that most United States adults require around 50 g of protein daily.
50 g
Vegan protein powders provide an average of 20 to 30 g per serving. People should not rely on protein powders as their main source of protein.
People can also get more protein by consuming foods that have unexpectedly high protein content. These include:
tempeh, which contains 23.5 g of protein per 100 g serving
tempeh
seitan, which contains 17.9 g of protein per 100 g serving
seitan
edamame, which contains 10.6 g of protein per 120 g serving
edamame
kidney beans, which contain 23.6 g of protein per 100 g serving
kidney beans
nutritional yeast, which contains 50 g of protein per 2-tablespoon serving
nutritional yeast
What to know about vegan protein powder
Many protein powders include whey or animal proteins. However, people on a vegan diet and other people who do not or cannot eat whey can use products that contain soy or other plant protein sources.
protein powders
whey
vegan
soy
plant protein
A small 2019 study in which people participated in an 8-week high intensity functional training program found that pea protein gave similar results as whey protein. The researchers considered various measures, including strength and body composition.
small 2019 study in which people participated in an 8-week high intensity
According to the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, adults require 46 to 56 g of protein daily. However, the optimal intake may vary according to the amount of exercise or activity a person does.
46 to 56 g
For more science-backed resources on nutrition, visit our dedicated hub.
our dedicated hub
What to look for in a vegan protein powder
People may wish to consider the following when purchasing protein powder.
People who build muscle may prefer a powder with a higher protein content. Some companies offer products with a small amount of protein. These may be a good option for people who require less protein supplementation.
People can consider the ingredients in the powder. Some companies offer organic powders, and others may also be suitable for people who require a gluten- or soy-free product. People can pay attention to the fat content and any added sugars in their chosen protein powder to ensure it is a balanced powder to try.
It is important to read the ingredient label before purchasing to ensure a person does not consume powder that contains allergens. However, it is worth noting that many companies cannot guarantee there has not been cross-contamination in the facilities they use to make products.
Many vegan protein powders contain pea protein or a protein blend of different plants. Some people may prefer to use a powder that masks the taste of these ingredients.
People may wish to read customer reviews to ensure that the powder they purchase blends in water, smoothies, or juices without leaving a gritty texture.
Instead of looking at the overall price of a protein powder, some people may prefer to look at the price per serving. More expensive options may be more cost-effective due to needing less powder per serving.
When choosing a vegan protein powder, people may look for brands that send their products to third-party labs to test for quality and purity. This means they can ensure they are getting a good quality product.
People will have different goals they hope to achieve by using protein powder, such as gaining muscle. People may wish to consider the ingredients, amount of protein per serving, and calories per serving when choosing a vegan protein powder. These elements may have different effects on a person’s health goals.
Anyone who experiences adverse side effects, such as a stomachache, after using protein supplements can stop taking them immediately. Pregnant or breastfeeding people may wish to speak with a doctor before trying protein powders.
Frequently asked questions about vegan protein powder
A 2019 study suggests that a higher protein diet can lead to benefits for muscle mass. However, according to a 2023 study, vegan diets may not include sufficient protein. Different vegan protein powders contain different amounts of protein per serving. However, supplementing a balanced vegan diet with vegan protein powder may help people consume more protein, leading to muscle gain.
2019 study
2023 study
A 2019 study suggests that a higher protein diet can lead to benefits for muscle mass. However, according to a 2023 study, vegan diets may not include sufficient protein. Different vegan protein powders contain different amounts of protein per serving. However, supplementing a balanced vegan diet with vegan protein powder may help people consume more protein, leading to muscle gain.
2019 study
2023 study

The best vegan protein powder may vary between people, and individuals may consider different factors when choosing products. Protein and calorie content can vary widely between companies and even between flavors from the same company. Price may also be a factor, with some people preferring to spend more on personalized products. Carefully studying a product’s ingredients, available nutritional information, and pricing can help a person make an informed choice.
A complete protein contains all nine essential amino acids, which are specific amino acids required for growth or nitrogen balance in humans. Most animal-based protein sources, such as milk and eggs, are complete protein sources. However, plant proteins may have insufficient levels of essential amino acids.
all nine essential amino acids
insufficient levels
A 2020 study shows that soy, canola, potato, pea, and quinoa proteins have comparable levels of essential amino acids to milk. Vegan protein powders containing these sources of protein may be suitable options for people aiming to increase the amount of complete vegan proteins in their diets.
2020 study
A complete protein contains all nine essential amino acids, which are specific amino acids required for growth or nitrogen balance in humans. Most animal-based protein sources, such as milk and eggs, are complete protein sources. However, plant proteins may have insufficient levels of essential amino acids.
all nine essential amino acids
insufficient levels
A 2020 study shows that soy, canola, potato, pea, and quinoa proteins have comparable levels of essential amino acids to milk. Vegan protein powders containing these sources of protein may be suitable options for people aiming to increase the amount of complete vegan proteins in their diets.
2020 study
Different vegan protein powders come from different plants. Some vegan protein powders contain very few ingredients, so they may suit people with allergies or sensitivities. Other vegan protein powders use many different plant-based ingredients and may suit people looking to supplement their diet with other vitamins and nutrients in addition to protein.
Different vegan protein powders come from different plants. Some vegan protein powders contain very few ingredients, so they may suit people with allergies or sensitivities. Other vegan protein powders use many different plant-based ingredients and may suit people looking to supplement their diet with other vitamins and nutrients in addition to protein.
Summary
The best vegan protein powders offer the full range of amino acids a person needs. They will also be free of allergens and artificial flavors and colors. Some vegan protein powders contain protein from various sources, such as rice and soy, whereas others contain protein from one ingredient, such as peas.
Although these protein powders can supplement a person’s daily protein intake, they are not a substitute for a nutritious, balanced diet.

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