9 Best Clean Protein Powders of 2024, Picked by Nutrition Experts

The best protein powders can be great for boosting lean muscle mass, maximizing hypertrophy in training, and assisting in fat burn. (1) Sadly, though, the supplement industry can be full of snake oil, meaning your protein shake could be riddled with unwanted ingredients and synthetic additives if you’re not carefully reading through the ingredients. The best clean protein powders can help alleviate those headaches for athletes with simple, yet effective makeups designed to keep your training running optimally without any smoke and mirrors.

Though the meaning of “clean” in the fitness industry can mean a lot of things (and the meaning is often misconstrued), we define a clean protein powder as one with a simple ingredients list that contains little to no artificial additives. Additionally, you want a protein powder that still contains a well-rounded amino acid profile, which influences how well how well your body synthesizes protein. (2) To help you find a protein powder aligned with your preferences, we got hands-on with dozens of worthy options from top brands and consulted with our in-house experts to land on our favorite clean protein powders on the market today.

The 9 Best Clean Protein Powders of 2024

• Best Clean Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Clean Budget Protein Powder: Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate
• Best Clean Vegan Protein Powder: Gainful Vegan Protein
• Best Clean Whey Protein Powder: Legion Whey+
• Best Clean Plant-Based Protein Powder: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
• Best Clean Grass-Fed Protein Powder: Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein
• Best Clean Casein Protein Powder: Naked Micellar Casein
• Best Clean Protein Powder for Athletes: Klean Athlete Klean Isolate
• Best Tasting Clean Protein Powder: Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Isolate

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

Best Clean Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate 

Pros

Free of artificial sweeteners or colorings

Certified by Informed Sport and Informed Protein

28 grams of protein per serving

Fully dissolves and tastes delicious

Cons

The stevia can cause GI distress

Only one size available

Only 150 calories per serving

If you’re looking for a top-tier clean protein that’s transparent in its makeup and testing, we’ve found the perfect pick. One of our best whey protein powders, we highly recommend Transparent Labs’ Whey Protein Isolate.

“I love that Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is free from artificial sweeteners, food dyes, and preservatives,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, MS. “You get 28 grams of high-quality protein without any unnecessary fluff. Plus, it’s tested by a third-party lab, and the certificates of analysis are available right on the website.”

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated the formulation a 5 out of 5 due to the protein-heavy composition in each serving. Regardless of flavor choice, you can expect 28 grams of whey protein isolate in each dose, along with 0 to 2 grams of fat, 0 to 3 grams of carbohydrates, and, in total, between 120 and 150 calories.

The calorie count, in our experience, can be enough to keep you satiated in-between meals, too. “I feel full after drinking one of these shakes, which is great for keeping my nutrition plan steady throughout the day,” notes our tester. That said, this shake won’t replace a full sit-down plate full of whole foods. This may be a detriment to those looking to bulk up in size. For these needs, one of the best mass gainers may be a better solution. 

Whey Protein Isolate has a clean makeup free of any artificial sweeteners and colorings, as well as a non-GMO and gluten-free formulation, but it’s also plenty tasty. While our tester was lucky enough to trial Peppermint Hot Chocolate — a limited holiday release — we’ve also enjoyed offerings across the wide flavor range, including Milk Chocolate, Oatmeal Cookie, Vanilla Peanut Butter, and many others.

For these reasons, we scored the taste at 5 out of 5. “For my Peppermint Hot Chocolate sample, I really enjoyed the smooth texture that sits on your tongue for a bit. You could seriously drop some whipped cream and marshmallows over top this and I wouldn’t be the wiser — the flavor is spot on,” adds our tester.

BarBend worked with an accredited lab to gather testing data on heavy metal content in Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate.

Finally, while the price per serving is on par with other clean protein powders at $2, we did have to rank this Whey Protein Isolate at 3.5 out of 5 for the purchase options category. You can only pick up this Transparent Labs offering in 30-serving tubs, whereas other brands typically offer varying container sizes to potentially help you dwindle down that per serving cost. 

The brand does offer a subscription service, though, that can save you $6 and also includes free shipping, so it’s not like savings are completely out of the picture. 

Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate Review.

Best Clean Budget Protein Powder: Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate

Pros

Budget-friendly cost

Third-party tested

Bulk options available

Cons

Higher calories per serving

Sweetened with sucralose

If you’re willing to seek out a clean protein powder, odds are that you’re okay with a slight price hike compared to other formulations. However, there are some budget-friendly options on the market that keep ingredient totals and costs low, while still delivering worthwhile makeups and tastes.

Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate is our wallet-conscious clean protein powder of choice thanks to its ultra-low price per serving, which begins at just over $1, earning a 5 out of 5 for cost. For reference, other clean protein powders often cost roughly $2 per dose.

“I’d score this formula a 3.5 out of 5, with high marks for its macro and BCAA ratios. It has room for improvement with the sweeteners used, though.” Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D.N, M.S., L.D.

[Related: 18 Ways to Eat More Protein to Pack on Muscle Mass]

Nutricost’s protein uses Stevia as a sweetener, which can leave an aftertaste for some people. You can get this product in bulk options up to 65 servings per container (the cheapest price per serving), and it comes in a number of different flavors.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, said she loved the creamy texture and taste of the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor. “If you consume milk products, definitely mix this with milk. The texture with water is still pretty good, but it’s even better with milk,” she says. 

In our hands-on testing with Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate, our tester rated both the taste and the solubility at a 5 out of 5. “This is a great product; it mixes well in a shaker cup or in a blender, and it has just the right amount of sweetness,” our tester says.

Nutricost’s whey protein concentrate ranges from 130 to 140 calories per serving, mostly due to its higher protein content.

Best Clean Vegan Protein Powder: Gainful Vegan Protein

Pros

21 grams of plant protein

Can customize with flavor boosts

No artificial sweeteners

Cons

Pricey

Only up to 28 servings per container

Vegan athletes can have it tough when searching for a high-quality, dairy-free clean protein powder. While there are a number of plant-based options on the market, they often need additives to create a worthwhile profile filled with proper amino acids. Gainful’s Vegan Protein Powder, however, can be a great option, as it packs 21 grams of plant-based, complete protein, thanks to the combination of pea and rice protein.

We love that Gainful offers a clean formula with zero artificial flavorings, sweeteners, colors, or preservatives. Our team also gave the vegan-friendly formulation a 4.5 out of 5, as you get 21 grams of plant protein. We knocked down half a point only because you can find products with slightly higher protein counts per serving.

Unique to Gainful, though, is the flavor situation. The powder itself comes unsweetened and unflavored, but you can choose from six different “Flavor Boosts,” which come in single-serving packets. All you do is mix this into your powder, allowing you to choose different flavors as often as you’d like. This can be a little tedious, though, for athletes who are on-the-go or in a rush.

“I’ve tried four of the brand’s flavors but the Mocha and Chocolate Peanut Butter were my favorites by far,” our tester said, giving the taste a 5 out of 5. “It was a little clumpy, though, so you might need a blender. I’d give the solubility a 3.5 out of 5 rating.”

When it comes to cost, we had to knock the brand just a bit, giving a 3 out of 5 in this category. The product starts at $45 for 14 servings, which is about $3.21 per serving. “I really wish there were more servings to justify the cost,” notes certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial team member, Alex Polish. “That said, though, I understand (yet still dislike) the price hike given the customizations available through the Flavor Boost packets.”

Read our full Gainful Protein Powder Review.

Best Clean Whey Protein Powder: Legion Whey+

Pros

Sourced from Truly Grass Fed-certified cows

16 available flavors

Bulk sizing options

Cons

Best when blended

Protein per serving varies depending on flavor

No digestive enzymes

Whey+ from Legion stands apart from the rest thanks to its source material — protein from ethically-raised Irish grass-fed cattle. These bovines are raised with no hormones, and graze predominantly outdoors in pesticide-free pastures, meaning there’s less of a chance for unnatural intruders to make their way to your post-workout snack.

Additionally, we rated the formulation at 4.75 out of 5, per Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., our expert reviewer. “It’s not the most protein-dense protein powder, but its macro ratios and ingredient sources are impressive,” she adds. 

The only reason Bourgeois didn’t rate this a 5 out of 5 for formulation is because Whey+ does not include any added digestive enzymes, which can lead to potential GI distress in some athletes.

[Related: Is Grass-Fed Whey Protein Right for You? Here’s How To Know]

In terms of flavor and taste, there are few powders as robust as Legion Whey+. With 16 flavors to choose from, you’d be hard pressed to not find an offering that suits your taste buds. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, compared the Chocolate variety to a classic glass of Ovaltine. “It’s a pleasant blend of sweetness that’s not too overpowering,” they add. “I could see myself drinking this on a regular basis.” As such, they rated Whey+ at 4.5 out of 5 for taste.

Be mindful, though, that you will need to give your supplement label a final read-through after choosing your flavor. We’ve noticed that protein counts can vary across the board between 21 and 23 grams per serving. Additionally, the calories can range from 100 to 130 per dose — not a major swing between tastes, but enough to call out in this guide.

Among the cleanest whey protein powders, this product also comes in multiple sizes. Legion Whey+ is available in 30-, 78-, and 82-serving containers, which can give you some room to purchase your supplements in bulk and subsequently cut down the already approachable $1.46 price per serving.

BarBend worked with an accredited lab to gather testing data on the overall purity of Legion Whey+ protein powder.

Lastly, while we understand that you may be anxious to get a taste of this flavor-rich protein powder, we recommend giving the shake a few extra shakes before consumption. Our tester stated that clumps and residue can begin to appear without some vigorous shaking, stating, “A washout or final rinse is definitely needed to get all the powder down the hatch.” So, be sure your powder is fully immersed before diving into this clean whey protein.

Read our full Legion Whey+ Protein Review.

Best Clean Plant-Based Protein Powder: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake

Pros

Uses pea protein isolate

Mixes smoothly with no clumps

Third-party tested by Informed Sport

Cons

Only 20 grams of protein per serving

Pricey

Only one flavor option

For those following a vegan or vegetarian diet (or just looking for more plant-based supplements), Ritual Essential Daily Shake is a suitable choice. This clean vegan protein is made of pea protein powder with absolutely zero animal-based ingredients.

“For optimum benefit, if you are choosing a vegan protein, be sure it is a complete protein and includes all nine essential amino acids,” suggests Dr. Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM.

“Ritual Essential Protein scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formulation with deductions for the sodium content,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D.N. We love the ingredients in this clean plant protein powder, but we do want to point out that one serving contains 13 percent of your daily sodium value.

After mixing this powder with water, we had to give the consistency a 5 out of 5. “It wasn’t gritty or thin by any means, and I quite enjoy the creamy texture,” notes our tester. “Plus, I appreciate that you don’t need milk to create that perfect consistency. Of course, though, I believe any protein shake is enhanced when added to a milk base of your choice.”

Ritual Essential’s protein is third-party tested, which is a big plus. However, we did have to give this product a 1 out of 5 for value. One 15-serving bag costs $32, which is about $2.13 per serving. “In my opinion, the price is too expensive for a plant-based protein powder,” says our tester. “If the servings per container were increased or the cost per serving was dropped, I feel this would be an easy go-to for non-dairy households.”

[Related: The 8 Best Organic Protein Powders]

Best Clean Grass-Fed Protein Powder: Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein

Pros

All grass-fed whey protein

Only 100 calories per serving

Includes digestive enzymes

Cons

Not budget-friendly

It only offers three flavors

ProHydrolase is a proprietary blend

Momentous sources its whey from dairy farmers in the European Union who utilize grass-fed cows untouched by hormones like rBST and steroids. (4) That commitment to quality has been recognized with certifications from Informed Sport and the National Sanitation Foundation, two of the leading sources in validating a supplement’s safety and efficacy. 

In layman’s terms, this means that you can rest easy after your daily protein shake knowing it’s free from impurities and substances banned in sports.

BarBend worked with an independent accredited lab to examine the purity and label accuracy of Momentous Whey Isolate protein.

We rated the formulation at 5 out of 5 thanks to its protein-heavy makeup and lean calorie count. Each dose of Grass-Fed Whey Protein delivers between 22.27 and 23.4 grams of protein, along with 90 to 100 calories, depending on your flavor of choice. This can be especially beneficial for athletes who are trying to lose weight but still want to maximize protein intake. 

This Momentous offering is available in three flavors — Unflavored, Chocolate, and Vanilla. While we would like to see this roster increased, we do think that Momentous does them well enough for a 4 out of 5 rating.

“The Chocolate option is very rich and mimics what you’d expect from a wintertime cup of hot cocoa,” says Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer. Another standout feature of this Momentous protein powder is the inclusion of ProHydrolase — a digestive enzyme designed to help with potential GI issues while also speeding up nutrient absorption. (9)

However, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., our expert reviewer, states that ProHydrolase is still a proprietary blend, meaning the included components of its specific formulation don’t need to be listed on the ingredients list. While a minor callout for us, it could be a deciding factor for athletes wanting the utmost transparency with their protein.

Lastly, Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein is on the more expensive side of clean protein powders, coming in at $2.70 per serving. This is a little higher than the $2 average we’ve found with other brands, so it’s definitely a harder hit to the wallet. “I like the NSF Certified for Sport approval along with the taste and grass-fed makeup,” notes Meier. “However, I feel it’s pricing a good bit of athletes out with that near-$65 cost per bag.”

[Related: Grass-Fed Beef Vs. Grain-Fed Beef: Is One Healthier?]

Best Clean Casein Protein Powder: Naked Micellar Casein

Pros

This micellar casein is a slow-digesting protein

Only three ingredients in this powder

Budget-friendly

Cons

Not ideal for dairy-sensitive athletes

Only three flavor options

Need a blender

Casein protein can be an excellent option for post-workout recovery, as the slower-digesting protein provides a steady stream of amino acids to your muscles through the night, which can help prevent muscle soreness and catabolism. (10) In terms of “clean” casein protein, Naked’s Micellar Casein is the top pick simply because there are less than four ingredients in a given formulation (and just one if you opt for the unflavored version).

Our product tester enjoyed how simple this protein powder is when it comes to ingredients. The Vanilla and Chocolate varieties contain organic coconut sugar and either natural vanilla flavor or organic cacao powder … and that’s it! Plus, each flavor option is low in fat (up to two grams) and carbohydrates (up to 6 grams), all while keeping protein levels high (up to 27 grams). Our tester rated the formulation at a perfect 5 out of 5.

As far as the solubility is concerned, our tester admits that this is not a powder fit for your trusty shaker bottle. “It dissolves normally, but it’s a bit of a challenge to get all that powder mixed properly,” they add. “I’ve had other casein powders that weren’t as difficult to blend.” As such, our tester scored the solubility at 3.5 out of 5, and highly recommend breaking out the countertop blender to create your nighttime shake.

[Related: Best Casein Protein Powders]

In terms of the purchasing options, Naked Micellar Casein is only available in 5-pound tubs. While this is good for keeping you well-stocked, it does mean that, despite a low cost of $1.32 per serving for the Unflavored option, the total price can be higher. Still, this is a cheaper cost per serving than other clean protein powders, which oftentimes cost around $2 per dose. I rated the cost at 4 out of 5, too, given that Naked offers a “Subscribe & Save” service that can help you save some coin with repeat orders.

Lastly, while we recommend athletes take advantage of casein during post-workout recovery and nighttime endeavors, we recognize that it may not sit well with some stomachs. Casein is naturally higher in lactose given its manufacturing method, so those with sensitive stomachs may experience some rumblings and aches as their body adapts to the new food source.

[Related: Whey Protein vs. Casein Protein — What’s the Difference and Which is Better for Muscle and Strength?]

Best Clean Protein Powder for Athletes: Klean Athlete Klean Isolate

Pros

NSF-Certified for Sport and competition

Mixes easily in water

Blends well with other supplements

Low calorie count

Cons

No flavored options

Only 20 grams of protein per serving

Pricey

Strength athletes, and athletes in general, need to abide by strict governing agencies, meaning their options for supplements may be more limited than the average gymgoer. Clean protein powders, especially those featuring a third-party testing certification, can be a great option, but for our money, Klean Athlete’s Klean Isolate is our sport-ready recommendation. Each dose features 85 calories, and the powder is NSF-Certified for Sport, i.e., tested for and free from any banned substances or unwanted contaminants.

We scored the overall formulation at 4 out of 5, thanks to its protein-dense makeup. Each dose delivers 20 grams of protein, 1 gram of carbohydrates, and 0 grams of fat. These small, rounded measurables can make it easy to add this protein shake to your daily intake without much math or worry.

Additionally, our tester, a former Olympian, described the taste as quick and painless. “I liked how the Unflavored taste could be easily added to other drinks for a quick hit of protein,” they said in reference to their 4 out of 5 taste rating. “It doesn’t overpower whatever liquid you add it to, so I’d be fine adding this to a smoothie or other concoction throughout the day.”

[Related: 6 Benefits of Whey Protein for Strength Athletes Who Want to Build Muscle]

Our tester also scored the solubility at 5 out of 5, thanks to this Klean Athlete powder’s ability to easily dissolve after a few shakes. “This is awesome for athletes looking to quickly get some protein into their system after a hard practice or workout — no need to break out the blender,” they note.

We do wish that Klean Athlete offered a flavored option for sweet-tooth folks, but we are happy with how this powder blends with (and doesn’t overpower) whatever you add it to. You’ll just need to get a little creative when it comes to creating tasty beverages with loads of flavor.

Lastly, this Klean Athlete clean protein powder is more expensive than the average $2 per serving, so expect to pay a little more in order to stay within your dietary preferences. For its versatility and easy-to-consume makeup, though, we’re willing to bet that most would be okay with paying the premium.

[Related: Best Protein Powders for Muscle Gain]

Best-Tasting Clean Protein Powder: Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Isolate

Pros

Fantastic flavor and solubility

It’s from grass-fed cows

Available on Amazon

Cons

Only two flavor options

Not third-party tested

Only 110 calories per serving

Taking down a clean whey protein powder doesn’t need to be a battle in itself. There are plenty of great-tasting supplements on the market, but for our money, Onnit’s grass-fed whey protein isolate is one of the most delicious, best protein shakes out there. “The flavor is incredibly rich and the Mexican Chocolate actually does taste different from your average chocolate flavor,” said our tester, giving the taste a 4 out of 5.

In terms of formulation, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, gave the product a stellar 4.5 out of 5 rating. “Onnit Whey Protein scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formula, in my opinion. The macro ratio is on point for its goals, and the enzyme blend is intriguing,” she says. We like that the formula contains no artificial sweeteners, and you get some included digestive enzymes.

[Related: Best Protein Powders for Men]

Our testers also gave this protein a high score for solubility. “I used a standard shaker bottle with a blender ball. There was no residue on the sides and no separation after sitting for 20 minutes,” our tester said, giving the mixability a 5 out of 5. “There was a thin layer of foam on top of the drink but it was minimal.”

Finally, we scored Onnit Whey Protein at 2.5 out of 5 for third-party testing. While we do like the ingredients and overall formulation, we weren’t able to find any additional evidence of third-party testing.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Clean Protein Powders

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best clean protein powders available today, we’ve tested nearly 100 different profiles from the industry’s best brands using our supplement testing methodology. Below are some of the categories and components that played into our rankings.

• Ingredients: We’ve kept this list to clean protein powders that feature rather short ingredients lists of roughly three to seven components. We looked for proteins that relied more on natural ingredients, rather than artificial additives.
• Protein Source: We favored dairy-based protein powder derived from grass-fed cows, as studies indicate grass-fed dairy can be higher in antioxidants and healthy fats. (3)(4) And for plant proteins, we chose formulations composed of multiple high-protein plant sources, including peas, quinoa, and others to ensure it has a complete amino acid profile.
• Protein per Serving: We looked for clean proteins with at least 20 grams of protein per serving, which is aligned with the optimal recommendation of 20 to 40 grams of protein per sitting from the International Society of Sports Nutrition. (5)
• Carbs, Fats, and Calories per Serving: Because the point of protein shakes is to maximize protein intake and absorption without a lot of calories, we looked for protein powders with minimal carbs and fats per serving.
• Third-Party Testing: We prioritized proteins that have been third-party tested to guarantee the label is accurate.
• Lab Testing: BarBend also worked with a third-party accredited lab to test our favorite protein powders for heavy metals and other impurities.
• Taste: Some of the best-tasting protein powders rely on artificial ingredients. We examined clean protein powders getting their mouth appeal from natural flavor and sweetener sources like stevia and monk fruit extract. 

[Related: The Best Vegan Protein Powders]

The Benefits of Clean Protein Powders

Protein is a key macronutrient for anyone hoping to build lean muscle and burn fat, and it can also assist with muscle recovery after workouts. (1) Clean proteins can provide even more benefits, especially for those hoping to lose weight or struggling with allergy or digestive issues. 

• Weight-Loss Help: Protein is proven to help you feel fuller for longer than other macros, which is why it’s been scientifically linked to weight loss and weight maintenance. (11)(12) Clean protein powders also contain fewer artificial sweeteners and fillers.
• Cater to Allergies/Sensitivities: Clean protein powders tend to be free of many common allergens, like soy, nuts, lactose, and gluten, making them more suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions
• Easier to Digest: As these picks are usually free of lactose, gluten, and artificial ingredients, cleaner protein powders tend to be easier on the stomach than traditional powders.

[Related: 5 Great Bulking Foods for Digestion, Intra-Workout, and More]

How Much Do Clean Protein Powders Cost?

Clean protein powders can cost more than your average protein supplement given their emphasis on clean formulations free of unwanted additives or ingredients. That said, you can expect to pay roughly $2.08 per serving for a high-quality, clean protein with obvious deviations depending on brand, container size, and more. Below are the costs per serving for each protein supplement featured in this guide.

Best Clean Protein Powder Overall	Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate	$2 Per Serving
Best Clean Budget Protein Powder	Nutricost Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate	$1.22 Per Serving
Best Clean Vegan Protein Powder	Gainful Vegan Protein	Starting at $3.21 Per Serving
Best Clean Whey Protein Powder	Legion Whey+	Starting at $1.46
Best Clean Plant-Based Protein Powder	Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake	$2.13 Per Serving
Best Clean Grass-Fed Protein Powder	Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein	$2.70 Per Serving
Best Clean Casein Protein Powder	Naked Micellar Casein	Starting at $1.32
Best Clean Protein Powder for Athletes	Klean Athlete Klean Isolate	$2.68 Per Serving
Best Tasting Clean Protein Powder	Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Isolate	$1.79 per serving

What To Consider Before Buying Clean Protein Powders

You and your protein powder are going to become well-acquainted. Like any relationship, it doesn’t help anyone to rush into it. Before picking up a tub of clean protein powder, you’ll want to ask yourself what powders dovetail with your diet, fitness routine, and budget. 

• Your Dietary Needs: If you’re vegan or allergic to soy, gluten, or lactose, that will factor into the kind of protein powder you’ll choose. Consider your dietary requirements as you pick and choose a protein powder, reading the ingredients list closely.
• Your Fitness Goals: Most of the supplements on this list contain 20 to 30 grams of protein per serving. But the amount of carbs and fats will differ, so consider your personal fitness goals (like muscle-building) as you sift through different products.
• Price: Price is going to depend on several factors, including the type of protein, the macro split, the taste, and the quality of ingredients. If you’re on a budget, you’ll want to consider the areas where you can compromise and still achieve your goals. 
• Calories Per Serving: On average, most clean protein powders can deliver around 100 to 150 calories per serving, which can be great for keeping you fueled between whole-food meals. 
• Third-Party Testing: Having a clean protein powder that is third-party tested can go a long way in ensuring your shakes are free of any harmful contaminants or banned substances. This can be especially helpful for athletes that need to abide by certain regulations.
• Ingredients and Sweeteners: The best clean protein powders typically use non-artificial ingredients. Opt for products that use stevia or monk fruit as sweeteners, rather than sucralose, aspartame, acesulfame K, or other artificial sweeteners. 

What is a “Clean” Protein Powder?

As a certified sports nutrition coach and fitness professional, I’m the first to admit that I don’t like the word “clean” to describe foods. It implies that there are also “dirty” foods, which I don’t think is true. All food has some sort of value, regardless of the ingredients list and nutrition label. 

There are plenty of benefits that can come from powders containing artificial additives: They still provide 20 to 40 grams of protein and are often substantially less expensive than their “clean” counterparts. 

That said, we also understand the desire to avoid artificial ingredients and impurities in your food and supplements, especially given the lack of regulation in the supplement industry.

“Many additives and preservatives can lead to inflammatory reactions and other undesirable side effects,” says Dr. Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM.

For this guide to clean protein powder, we looked at the healthiest protein powders as supplements that keep things simplified with natural ingredients and little to no influence from synthetics.

When looking for a clean protein powder, the biggest telltale sign is in the ingredients list. If you can count how many components there are in your powder of choice on, at most, two hands, it likely meets the criteria. If you see terms you don’t recognize in the ingredients list, investigate them: Most likely, they are just there for texture. 

While we won’t go too far into the weeds in identifying all artificial additives used by supplement brands, we will leave you with this small tip: Fewer ingredients is almost always better as far as “clean” protein powders go.

Clean Protein Powder FAQs

References

1. Antonio, J., Candow, D. G, Forbes, S. C,, Ormsbee, M. J., Saracino, P. G., Roberts, J. (2020). Effects of Dietary Protein on Body Composition in Exercising Individuals. Nutrients. 12(6), 1890. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7353221/ 
2. Ferrando, A. A., Wolfe, R. R., Hirsch, K. R., Church, D. D., Kviatkovsky, S. A., Roberts, M. D., Stout, J. R., Gonzalez, D. E., Sowinski, R. J., Kreider, R. B., Kerksick, C. M., Burd, N. A., Pasiakos, S. M., Ormsbee, M. J., Arent, S. M., Arciero, P. J., Campbell, B. I., VanDusseldorp, T. A., Jager, R., Willoughby, D. S., … Antonio, J. (2023). International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Effects of essential amino acid supplementation on exercise and performance. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 20(1), 2263409. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10561576/ ​​
3. Terra, S. L., Marino, V. M., Manenti, M., Licitra, G., & Carpino, S. (2010, September). Increasing pasture intakes enhances polyunsaturated fatty acids and lipophilic antioxidants in plasma and milk of dairy cows fed total mix ration – dairy science & technology. SpringerLink. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1051/dst/2010100 
4. Staszak, E., & Mikołajczak, J. (2005). Conjugated linoleic acid content of milk from cows fed different diets. Silage Production and Utilisation, 145–145. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10531600/ 
5. Jäger R, Kerksick CM, Campbell BI, et al. International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;14:20. Published 2017 Jun 20. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28642676/ 
6. Industries, M. for P. (n.d.). NZ Government. Ministry for Primary Industries. https://www.mpi.govt.nz/dmsdocument/46243-Operational-Code-NZCP1-Design-and-Operation-of-Farm-Dairies 
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