Top 10 Best Plant-Based Proteins
UpdatedOctober 23, 2024
Plant-based protein is gaining more and more attention among the people who care about their health and lifestyles as well as those who want to eat less meat. The use of protein from animal sources has in the past been deemed as the most effective way of getting muscle and a healthy diet, but those from plant sources are also efficient. Besides, plant based proteins are more digestible and do not harm the environment as much as animal proteins.
There are so many plant based protein sources that one can consider taking. However, not all plant protein sources are equal, some are complete proteins, meaning they contain all the nine essential amino acids that the body cannot synthesize. In this article, we will be looking at the best sources of plant protein that are not only complete but also highly nutritious.
Top 3 Best Plant-Based Protein Powders
- Nutricost White Kidney Bean Extract Capsules 650mg 120 Capsules
- LYFEfuel Performance Shake
- Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Vanilla Bean
Searching for the highest quality plant-based protein powders? Look no further! Here are the best products that would enable you to take the necessary protein without having to take any animal products. If you’re a vegan, vegetarian or simply want to increase your protein intake from plant-based sources, these powders will come in handy. Take a look at our recommendations below to discover the ideal protein powder for you.
Nutricost White Kidney Bean Extract Capsules 650mg 120 Capsules
Nutricost White Kidney Bean Extract Capsules 650mg 120 Capsules
Each capsule has 650mg of white kidney bean extract for weight management and lean muscle support. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-GMO, these capsules cater to dietary preferences and restrictions, emphasizing quality and purity.
This supplement offers 650mg of pure white kidney bean extract per capsule, perfectly suited for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions, being gluten-free and non-GMO.
Pros
- High-quality plant-based protein
- Vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-GMO
- Convenient capsule form
Cons
- Some may find capsules large to swallow
- Requires consistent use for optimal results
Each capsule contains 650mg of white kidney bean extract, renowned for its potential in supporting weight management and promoting lean muscle mass. The vegetarian capsules ensure that those with dietary preferences or restrictions can confidently include this supplement in their routine. Additionally, being gluten-free and non-GMO highlights the brand's commitment to quality and purity.
The capsules offer a consistent supply of plant-based protein that supports the development and upkeep of muscle, and they are simple to incorporate into our everyday routine. We saw a decrease in cravings and improved appetite control with regular use, despite the delayed benefits on weight management.
Achieve ultimate performance with LYFEfuel Performance Shake – your ultimate plant-based protein source. Made with utmost care, this shake represents the best of plant-based protein nutrition.
Pros
- Experience the dynamic synergy of pea and brown rice proteins, optimizing amino acid profiles for superior muscle nourishment.
- Fuel your workouts with sustained energy, thanks to LYFEfuel's carefully selected plant-based ingredients, ensuring peak performance from start to finish.
- Support your overall well-being with a shake that not only fuels your body but also aligns with your values – LYFEfuel Performance Shake is vegan-friendly, non-GMO, and free from artificial additives.
Cons
- Individual preferences may vary in taste, as the natural flavors might not cater to everyone's palate.
- As with any dietary supplement, results may take time to manifest, and consistency is key for optimal benefits.
Packed with a mix of protein from peas and brown rice, LYFEfuel Performance Shake is among the best plant-based protein powders available in the market. Take your fitness experience to the next level with clinical evidence and best-in-class muscle building and recovery.
Other than that, LYFEfuel Performance Shake goes beyond the ordinary by offering a unique solution to health and fitness goals. Personal observation of this supplement uncovered increased endurance, prompt muscle recuperation, and increased vigor.
This is not just a supplement; instead, it is a plant-based solution for improving the quality of one’s life. Enjoy the ease of incorporating two scoops into your daily lifestyle, whether it be as a standalone shake or a staple in your shakes and recipes.
In conclusion, LYFEfuel Performance Shake is not just the superior plant-based protein; it is a dedication to an empowered life. Take your fitness to new level, ignite your spirit and power through your goals with LYFEfuel- the fusion of vegan nutrition and performance.
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Vanilla Bean
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Vanilla Bean
For a delicious and healthy shake mix that is USDA organic, gluten-free, kosher, vegan, non-GMO, soy-free, and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, we highly recommend Orgain Organic Sweet Vanilla Bean Protein Powder.
Pros
- The protein powder has a smooth and delicious taste.
- Each serving contains 21 grams of organic protein and 5 grams of organic fiber.
- It is a versatile protein powder that can be mixed with water, milk, or your favorite protein shake recipe for a quick breakfast or snack drink.
Cons
- The protein powder can be a bit gritty when mixed with water.
- It may not be sweet enough for those with a sweet tooth.
- The price point may be a bit high for some consumers.
Our observations were that Orgain Organic Sweet Vanilla Bean Protein Powder dissolved well in water and had a good flavor. We also loved the fact that it was USDA organic, gluten-free, kosher, vegan, non-GMO, soy-free, and no artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. That being said, we did find that the protein powder is slightly grainy when incorporated with water and could also use more sweetness. Further, the price aspect may not be very friendly with certain levels of consumer affordability. In conclusion, Orgain Organic Sweet Vanilla Bean Protein Powder could be considered a good choice for those who seeking for plant-based protein supplement.
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder + 50 Superfoods, Vanilla Bean
Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder + 50 Superfoods, Vanilla Bean
For anyone in search of a tasty, nutritious plant-based protein shake, I recommend Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder + 50 Superfoods, Vanilla Bean.
Pros
- Smooth and creamy flavor
- Delicious taste without the grit
- 21 grams of organic, vegan protein optimized with 50 organic superfoods
Cons
- May contain wheat
- Some users may find it too sweet
- May not mix well with water
We greatly appreciate that this protein powder is, in fact, USDA organic, non-GMO, free of soy, dairy, gluten and artificial preservatives, sweeteners or flavors. It is also rich in vitamin B6, vitamin C, and Iron that enhances the body’s immunity.
The protein blend is made up of organic peas, brown rice and chia seeds, which make up a complete protein containing all the nine essential amino acids. It comes with 50 organic superfoods including kale, flax, broccoli, spinach, quinoa, beet, Acai, and turmeric in every serving, making it perfect for health-conscious buyers.
We also like that this powder contains 5g of prebiotic + fiber, 1g of sugar, and has only 160 calories per serving. Moreover, it is rather universal and can be added to your favorite smoothies, almond or oat milk, baking mixes for a good clean boost.
Though some users may consider it as excessively sweet we consider the taste to be smooth and creamy with no grainy texture. The only drawback is that it may not blend well with water but this is not a big issue.
In general, Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder + 50 Superfoods, Vanilla Bean is a great option for those seeking a plant-based protein powder with no artificial additives.
PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder
PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder
For an excellent and tasty vegan protein supplement, we strongly suggest PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder.
Pros
- The protein in PlantFusion is perfectly balanced for managing appetite, improving energy, and recovering from exercise and life.
- The vegetarian protein mixes smooth and tastes delicious because it contains Flavor Pure, a trademarked blend of monk fruit, lucuma fruit, yacon root, and a pinch of stevia.
- Absolutely no fillers like acacia fiber and rice dextrin which you’ll find in cheaper, low quality protein powders.
Cons
- The price point is slightly higher than other protein powders on the market.
- The vanilla flavor may not be for everyone.
- Some users may experience bloating or gas due to the added digestive enzymes.
PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder is a multipurpose protein-based product that can be incorporated into shakes, baked products, and many others. It is blended using five sources of plant protein, BCAAs and glutamine for muscle recovery and energy, and a pinch of digestive enzymes to avoid bloating and gas. We did not feel any chalky aftertaste when consuming but rather had a good taste in our mouth. The product is also free from dairy products, is gluten-free, soy-free and free from artificial ingredients and chemicals. All in all, we award PlantFusion Complete Vegan Protein Powder our recommendation for anyone interested in a great plant based protein supplement.
Optimum Nutrition Plant Based Protein Powder
Optimum Nutrition Plant Based Protein Powder
For the gluten-free, plant-based, vegan protein powder that will help with muscle recovery and building, we highly suggest the Optimum Nutrition Plant Based Protein Powder.
Pros
- Contains 24 grams of plant protein per serving
- Expertly crafted with a blend of pea, rice, and fava bean protein for premium muscle support
- Made with quality ingredients and 9 essential amino acids / BCAAs
Cons
- Some users have reported that the product may spoil quickly
- The texture can be gritty for some users
- The taste may not be as good as other protein powders
When blended with water and almond milk, Optimum Nutrition Plant Based Protein Powder was smooth and easy to drink. The chocolate fudge flavour was deep and delicious and the tobacco taste was not overly sweet. We also liked that the product was not containing artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners.
Another advantage of this product is the quality of the ingredients that is used in its preparation. Optimum Nutrition is a popular brand in the field of sports nutrition, and the company’s plant-based protein powder is derived from quality pea protein, rice protein, and fava bean protein. It also includes 9 relevant amino acids and BCAA to help muscles to restore and promote muscles build up.
Nevertheless, some of the users have complained that the product can go bad quickly, and therefore should be stored under exceptional conditions. We also observed that the texture is gritty for some users which may be a con if one expects a smooth protein powder. Furthermore, although we found that its taste was great, there are some complaints that it may not be as tasty as other protein powder products.
All things considered, Optimum Nutrition Plant Based Protein Powder is a worthy contender for those who are in the market for a gluten-free, vegan protein supplement. Being made of premium plant-based protein and containing all the essential amino acids, it is among the best products to help repair muscles and build new tissues.
Garden of Life Organic Vegan Unflavored Protein Powder
Garden of Life Organic Vegan Unflavored Protein Powder
Garden of Life Organic Vegan Unflavored Protein Powder is another plant-based protein powder that is easy on the stomach.
Pros
- With 22g of complete plant-based protein and 4g of a complete branched chain amino acid profile, this protein powder helps rebuild broken muscle and reduce recovery time.
- The powder is easy to mix and silky smooth, and it's downright delicious.
- Made at low temperatures, Raw Organic Protein is anything but ordinary, and it's packed with digestive enzymes and live probiotics for proper absorption.
Cons
- The powder can be gritty when blended well and tastes awful.
- The container is half full, which can be disappointing.
- The taste is not amazing, but it can be improved by adding ripe bananas or cocoa powder.
I’ve been using Garden of Life Organic Vegan Unflavored Protein Powder for a few months now and what I like about it is its nutritional benefits. This protein powder has 22g of wholefood plant protein and 4g of wholefood branched chain amino acids for muscle repair and faster recovery. It blends easily and is very fine and light; it’s actually yummy. We like that it is manufactured at low temperature, this makes it rich in digestive enzymes, and live cultures for better digestion.
However, it can be grainy when mixed well and it has a terrible taste. The container is often half full, and that can be quite frustrating. The taste is not great, but it can be enhanced by using ripe bananas or even cocoa powder. In conclusion, we can state that this protein powder is extremely beneficial and does not cause any problems in terms of digestion.
In conclusion, the Evolve Plant Based Protein Shake is highly recommended for anyone who wants a tasty and environmentally friendly protein source.
Pros
- The 20 grams of plant-based protein sourced from peas provide a delicious and more sustainable source of protein.
- The shake is gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- The shake is highly nutritious and environmentally delicious, made with only 9-10 essential ingredients, non-GMO, and free of artificial flavors.
Cons
- The shake may not be suitable for those with pea allergies.
- Some people may find the taste too sweet or the texture too thick.
- The price may be higher than some other protein shake options.
We have been using the Evolve Plant Based Protein Shake for several weeks now and the energy it gives is more lasting. The shake is easy to mix and it is not clumpy at all which makes it very enjoyable to consume. We acknowledge that the shake has only the top-notch North America grown Non-GMO pea protein, peas as a rotation crop supply much nitrogen to the soil.
The shake also contains non gmo pre-biotic fibre for digestive health, low fat, calcium and good source of iron. We also like that Evolve cares about the outdoors, beginning with its main ingredient – peas. When growing peas, nitrogen is returned to the soil, so using pea protein is kinder to the environment than other protein sources. We are proud to support a National Parks Foundation partner that helps protect and ensure access to the outdoors for everyone.
All in all, we highly recommend the Evolve Plant Based Protein Shake for those, who seek delicious and environmentally friendly protein sources. Being made from top-notch ingredients and being environmentally friendly, it is the perfect product for your physical and environmental health.
We highly endorse KOS Vegan Protein Powder for anyone interested in a tasty and nutrient-dense vegan protein supplement.
Pros
- The vanilla flavor is amazing and tastes great in smoothies and shakes.
- This protein powder is great for weight management as it keeps you feeling full for a longer period of time.
- KOS Vegan Protein Powder is a complete protein with 5 protein blends and essential vitamins and minerals.
Cons
- This protein powder may not mix well with just a shaker bottle and may require a blender.
- Some users may not like the texture of the powder.
- KOS Vegan Protein Powder may be a bit expensive compared to other plant-based protein powders.
For the last few weeks, we have been incorporating this KOS Vegan Protein Powder into our diet and we are pleased with the taste and quality. The natural vanilla is not too sweet and it tastes good when added to smoothies and other milk based shakes. We also like the fact that it helps to keep us full for quite some time; definitely a plus for any diet plan!
We also like how it is a complete protein with 5 protein blends along with essential vitamins and minerals and is way better than the whey protein powder. Furthermore, it is sustainably sourced and majority of the ingredients are organic, gluten-free, free from dairy, soy, hormones, artificial sweeteners, colors and GMOs.
However, we found out that this protein powder would not blend well with only a shaker bottle and probably needs blender. Some consumers may also not appreciate the feeling of the powder as it has a grainy consistency. Finally, KOS Vegan Protein Powder may not be the most affordable option on the market for plant-based protein powders.
All in all, KOS Vegan Protein Powder is a great product that we suggest for purchase to people who want to have tasty and nutritive vegan protein powder.
Four Sigmatic Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder Unflavored Protein with Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Cordyceps and More | Clean Vegan Protein Elevated for Brain Function and Immune Support | 16.9 oz Unflavored 1.06 Pound (Pack of 1)
Four Sigmatic Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder Unflavored Protein with Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Cordyceps and More | Clean Vegan Protein Elevated for Brain Function and Immune Support | 16.9 oz Unflavored 1.06 Pound (Pack of 1)
If you are interested in a plant-based protein supplement with added vitamins and minerals and no nasty additives, then Four Sigmatic Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder might be for you.
Pros
- Nutrient-dense with functional mushrooms and adaptogens
- No artificial sweeteners or refined sugars
- Smooth, unflavored taste
Cons
- Texture can be gritty and chalky
- Price point is higher than some other plant-based protein powders
- Contains lead, which can be off-putting to some users
For the past few weeks, we have incorporated Four Sigmatic Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder into our everyday smoothie and believe that it helps with the energy and health. This powder has 1000mg of functional mushrooms and 500mg of adaptogens per scoop that gives you all those immune-boosting, brain-boosting, and stress-reducing qualities.
Another thing that we love about this protein powder is that sweeteners used in it are organic coconut palm sugar, organic lucuma, pink Himalayan salt, organic cinnamon and organic monk fruit. We also appreciate that it has no flavor and is not sweetened, which is good for blending with the non-dairy milk of our preference.
However, we have observed that the texture can be a bit rough and it feels very much like chalk to the touch which might be offputting. Moreover, it is also a bit on the expensive side as compared to some other plant based protein powders. Lastly, the fact that it is labeled as containing lead may be discouraging to the users, although the company argues that the amounts added are safe.
In summary, we believe Four Sigmatic Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder is quite a good choice for those who are searching for a pure and healthy plant protein supplement. Nevertheless, it brings changes in texture and price that some people may not prefer.
Buying Guide
When it comes to purchasing plant based protein there are several factors that need to be taken into account in order to get the best quality product in the supply chain.
Protein Content
The first criterion that should be put into consideration when selecting plant-based protein is protein density. Choose foods that are rich in protein per portion size. This information can mostly be obtained from the label. Try to get a minimum of 15 grams of protein in each portion.
Ingredients
When selecting an item from the plant-based protein family, one should pay attention to the ingredients. Eliminate foods with artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors. Opt for items that are processed from whole foods with no added preservatives and other auxiliary substances.
Allergens
If you are an allergic person or have other special needs, you should look through the list of possible allergens. Most plant-based proteins are derived from soy, nuts or gluten which can be unhealthy for certain individuals.
Taste and Texture
Plant-based protein products can significantly differ from each other in terms of taste and texture. Some people like their powders to be fine and whipped, others like them to be grainy. The best option here is to look for a product that you like the taste and feel of it, this will make it easy for you to take it.
Price
Generally, plant-based proteins are relatively costly compared to other types of protein; thus, cost should also be taken into consideration. Search for products that provide value for the money and fall within the price range of your choice.
To sum up, when purchasing plant protein, it is better to focus on products high in protein, containing whole foods and free from allergens. Select a product with a preferable taste and texture that you like and one that you are willing to pay for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the healthiest form of plant protein?
The best plant protein is one that is least processed with adequate essential amino acid profile. Examples of healthy plant proteins include quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, and tempeh among others.
Which plant-based protein has the highest protein content?
Soy protein isolate has the highest protein content of all the plant protein sources, containing approximately 90% protein. Other plant-based sources of protein include pea protein, rice protein, and hemp protein.
What are some good plant-based protein sources?
Some of the best plant sources of protein are legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans), nuts and seeds (almonds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds), whole grains (quinoa, brown rice), and soy products (tofu, tempeh).
What are the benefits of plant-based protein?
Protein derived from plants also contains fiber, vitamins and minerals that can be very useful for the body. It can also decrease the chances of acquiring chronic diseases including heart diseases and type 2 diabetes as well as maintain good health.
What are some plant-based protein powders recommended by Reddit users?
Specific plant-based protein powders that Reddit users suggest include Vega One, Garden of Life, and Orgain. These powders are derived from many sources such as pea protein, rice protein, and hemp protein.
What are some high-protein plant-based meat alternatives?
Some of the plant-based meat alternatives with high protein include tofu, tempeh, seitan, and legume burgers. These alternatives are a great way of including protein in ones diet without indulging in animal products.
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