Meat-eaters and plant-based folks don’t always have much in common when it comes to what’s on their plate, but one fact remains — both need protein. While it may have been a little easier for a non-vegan to meet their protein goals in the past, there are plenty of plant-based proteins on the market today. And yes, they rival even some of the best whey protein powders, too.
But a simple google search yields hundreds of results and combing through all those pages and ingredient lists can be exhausting. Our team of expert product testers, including personal trainers and athletes, tried more than 100 different protein supplements. We’ve gathered all the best vegan protein powders for plant-based athletes looking for muscle growth, extra probiotics, weight loss, and more.
Best Vegan Protein Powders
- Best Vegan Protein Powder Overall: KOS Organic Plant Protein
- Best Vegan Meal Replacement: Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal
- Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan
- Best Vegan Protein Powder for Bodybuilding: Legion Plant+
- Best Vegan Protein Powder for Women: KAGED Plantein
- Best Vegan Meal Replacement: Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal
- Best Vegan Protein Powder for Athletes: Ritual Daily Essential Shake 18+
- Best Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder: Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate
- Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: Onnit Plant-Based Protein
- Best Vegan Protein Powder for Probiotics: Pure Food Plant-Based Protein Powder
- Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Vega One Organic All-in-One Shake
- Best Budget Vegan Protein Powder: Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it shouldn’t take the place of advice and/or supervision from a medical professional. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. Speak with your physician or nutritionist if you have any concerns.
Best Vegan Protein Powders Video
Check out our video on the best vegan protein powders for an in-depth look at our favorite products.
How We Tested the Best Vegan Protein Powders
Our team of experts, including personal trainers and athletes, put more than 100 protein supplements to the test, narrowing down the best of the best protein powders for vegans. Aside from reading labels closely, this is how we made our decisions:
Flavor
We don’t think flavor is the most important factor to consider when picking a plant-based protein but it’s definitely important. After all, you don’t want to sip a drink that feels overly earthy or chalky. We sampled a variety of flavors (to appeal to all kinds of taste preferences) and tried our best to paint an objective picture of the taste.
Solubility
Most people like to prepare their protein using just a shaker cup and blender ball, so we wanted to find powders that dissolve well without leaving any clumpy residue behind. But we did still try other prep methods, mixing the powders in blenders or into some of our favorite foods.
Texture
Even more so than whey, plant-based protein can get chalky or gritty, which makes it pretty unappealing to drink. Our testers noted any noticeable texture, prioritizing supplements that were rich and smooth.
Best Vegan Protein Powder Overall: KOS Organic Plant Protein
This protein powder packs 20 grams of plant-based protein plus various superfoods, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains enzymes to aid digestion and promote gut health.
Specs
- Protein: 20 grams
- Flavor Options: Chocolate, Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Salted Caramel Coffee, Unflavored
- Price Per Serving: $1.99
Pros
- This organic protein is vegan-friendly and provides 20g of plant-based protein.
- KOS blends 17 vitamins and minerals from vegetables, fruits, and superfoods.
- For those who have trouble digesting protein, KOS includes digestive enzymes.
Cons
- This shake has 5g of fat and 8g of carbs, which may not be ideal for those who want a super lean shake.
- Vegans who prefer a specific type of plant protein may not want a blend.
There are a few things that comprise an overall solid vegan protein. You want a product that’s made with plant-based protein, offers several flavor options, and may even have some helpful added ingredients, like digestive enzymes. KOS Organic Plant Protein ticks all these boxes and more.
KOS’ supplement is made with a protein blend, including organic pea protein, flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seed protein, and chia seed. All the other ingredients in this supplement are plant-based and certified organic. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. Plus, KOS uses monk fruit as a sweetener, rather than artificial flavors or sugars.
This powder is 160 calories per serving, including seven grams of fat, nine grams of carbs, and 20 grams of protein. Our testers gave this formulation a 4 out of 5 — we like the natural ingredients but we do wish one serving had a little more protein. You can find plant proteins with 23 to 25 grams per serving, which may be more ideal for athletes looking to build muscle.
Unlike some plant proteins, however, our tester, a certified personal trainer, said this product wasn’t too chalky or earthy, giving it a 4.5 out of 5. “I don’t follow a plant-based diet, so I do usually prefer whey,” they say. “But as far as plant proteins go, this one has a good flavor that I’d drink again.”
Many plant proteins don’t dissolve as seamlessly as whey protein, and our tester did see a little bit of settling with this product, giving it a 4 out of 5 for solubility. “I mixed mine in a shaker bottle with water and I think the water was too thin for the product,” they say. “There was a tiny bit of settling but mixed with thicker liquid like nut milk, it dissolves perfectly.”
Unfortunately, KOS Organic Plant Protein is a little pricey earning a 3.5 out of 5 for price per serving. One serving costs about $1.99, which is $55.99 for a 28-serving container. This may be out of some athletes’ budgets and there definitely are less expensive brands to consider. However, you can subscribe to a monthly delivery and pay only $44.79 per container.
Best Vegan Meal Replacement: Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal
This vegan meal replacement offers various superfood blends that include organic fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, enzymes and probiotics. It totals 240 calories, 25 grams of plant-based protein, 25 grams of carbohydrates (including seven grams of fiber), and seven grams of fat.
Specs
- Protein: 20 grams
- Flavor Options: Vanilla, Chocolate, Coconut Acai, Chai, Matcha
- Price Per Serving: $4.66
Pros
- This meal replacement has a more complete macro profile than other proteins, including 25g of protein, 24g of carbs, and seven grams of fat per serving.
- In addition to the standard Chocolate and Vanilla, Whole Body Meal comes in five unique, rich flavors, so there’s something for everyone’s taste.
- This meal replacement forms a pleasant milkshake-like consistency even when mixed with water.
Cons
- If you’re only looking for protein, you won’t want the carbohydrates and fat in this mix.
- The antioxidants and adaptogens come in proprietary blends, so you don’t know how much of each ingredient is included.
- At $4.66 per serving, this is one of the most expensive powders on this list.
Speaking from experience, I know it can be incredibly tough to stay on top of your work, exercise, social obligations, and (on top of all that), get adequate nutrition each day. Ka’Chava’s Whole Body Meal makes that last step, at least, a little easier.
As a meal replacement, Ka’Chava’s formula is a little different from your standard plant protein. But I had to give the formulation a 4 out of 5 because I think it doesn’t fall perfectly in either category. I think that 240 calories per serving (seven grams of fat, 24 grams of carbs, 25 grams of protein) is a little low for a full meal replacement. Yet, for most athletes, this calorie count may be too high for a protein supplement.
I do like the ingredients and nutritional benefits, though. This product is packed with more than 85 nutrients and plant-based ingredients. It also has a probiotic and prebiotic blend to help promote good digestion.
Our team gave the flavor a 4.5 out of 5. I have a bag of the vanilla flavor and I usually mix it with ice and cold brew in my mini blender. I can totally vouch for the vanilla and think it makes my coffee taste like an iced vanilla latte. Our expert product tester, Jake Herod, personally loves the chocolate option.
“I had the chocolate flavor and I thought it was great, too,” he says. “I think a whey protein would’ve tasted a tad bit better, but I’ve been using it for my peanut butter banana smoothies and LOVE IT.”
We both think Ka’Chava deserves a 4.5 out of 5 for solubility but, as another tester on our team discovered, you’ll need either a blender ball or shaker — an electric stirrer won’t cut it. As a plant-based meal replacement, the Whole Body Meal made with powdered foods, rather than milk byproducts (like whey), so it needs a little extra effort.
When it comes to price, I had to give Ka’Chava a 1 out of 5. One 15-serving bag costs $69.95, which is about $4.66 per serving. This is more than most other plant protein on the market, however, this one does have more calories and nutrients, as it’s technically a meal replacement. Luckily, you can subscribe to a monthly delivery and pay only $59.95 per bag.
Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan
A surprisingly delicious vegan protein powder that's totally free from artificial ingredients and soy, Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein contains a 2:1 ratio of rice to pea protein powder, and four grams of fiber. Use the code BARBEND10 to get 10% off!
Specs
- Protein: 24 grams
- Flavor Options: Chocolate, French Vanilla
- Price Per Serving: $1.66
Pros
- Transparent Labs’ vegan protein is made with 100 percent organic ingredients.
- This formula has added calcium and iron.
- You can buy up to three tubs of this powder at once for discounted bulk pricing.
Cons
- This pick only comes in Chocolate and French Vanilla.
- 130 calories per serving may not be enough for some athletes.
For those who want an all-natural, organic formula, Transparent Labs’ vegan rice and pea protein is a good choice. This one all only organic ingredients and zero artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or coloring. It’s also gluten-free and non-gmo.
Our testers gave this clean formula a 5 out of 5. We also really like the lean macro profile. One serving is 130 calories, with three grams of carbs, two grams of fat, and 24 grams of protein. Most other plant proteins are higher in carbs and fat, whereas this supplement prioritizes protein content.
We did have to give the flavor a 3 out of 5, though. “I tried the chocolate and it’s not too bad for a plant-based protein,” our tester, a certified personal trainer, said. “The flavor is kind of like dark chocolate but it’s not very sweet and definitely tastes a little earthy. You can really taste the cocoa powder, rather than sweetness.”
After mixing the powder with water, our tester gave TL a 4 out of 5 for solubility. “It dissolves completely in water but the texture is grainier than what you may experience with whey,” they said. “It’s not bad but I definitely saw the texture in my shaker cup and tasted it in my mouth.” Despite the texture, our testers didn’t experience any unwanted side effects after giving this product a try.
While this supplement isn’t exactly cost-friendly, it’s not the priciest on the market either, earning a 3 out of 5 in the price per serving category. One 30-serving container costs $49.99, which is about $1.66 per serving. This may not suit every athlete’s budget but if you want to prioritize organic ingredients, we think the cost is worth the quality.
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Bodybuilding: Legion Plant+ Protein
Legion's Plant+ has 25 grams of protein per serving, just four grams of carbs, and is packed with vitamins and minerals that plant-based eaters may want more of. Use code "BARBEND" for 20% off!
Specs
- Protein: 24 grams
- Flavor Options: Cinnamon Cereal, Salted Caramel, Apple Pie, Dutch Chocolate, French Vanilla, Mocha Cappuccino
- Price Per Serving: $2.50
Pros
- This lean formula (130 calories per serving) is perfect for bodybuilders looking to build muscle with minimal fat gain.
- Legion has three delicious flavors to choose from, including Dutch Chocolate, Mocha Cappuccino, and French Vanilla.
- This protein has no artificial sweeteners or sugars.
Cons
- Bodybuilders looking to bulk who may want a higher calorie count in their protein powder.
- Vegans who want a protein with added fiber will have to look for other formulas.
Despite what you may see online or hear around the gym, you can absolutely be a bodybuilder following a plant-based diet. And if you fall into that category, we recommend trying Legion’s Plant+ Plant Protein Powder.
Our team of testers, including certified personal trainers, gave this formula a 5 out of 5 for several reasons. For one, it’s third-party tested and contains no artificial sweeteners, flavors, food dyes, or fillers. All of the ingredients are 100 percent vegan and it’s gluten-free.
We also like the overall macro breakdown, especially for a bodybuilding athlete. The formula is pretty lean at only 130 calories per serving, including three grams of carbs, three and a half grams of fat, and 24 grams of protein (these numbers may vary minimally, depending on the flavor). So, this is definitely a protein that’s focused on building muscle without adding too many calories from carbs or fat.
When it comes to flavor, we gave Legion a 4 out of 5. “I tried the Apple Pie flavor and it was sweeter than I expected with a little artificial taste,” our tester said. “The cinnamon aspect was nice. Overall, it wasn’t bad at all but for some people, it may taste a little too sweet.” The Apple Pie is pretty unique, though, and Legion offers several more typical flavor options.
Our tester mixed Legion’s supplement with oat milk and gave the overall solubility a 5 out of 5. “It had a really nice texture when I mixed it with nut milk,” they say. “It wasn’t too thick like one might expect mixing with milk. It was really rich instead.” And while we didn’t notice any real side effects after sipping this drink, our testers did say that they didn’t feel satiated after a serving. So, for bodybuilders looking to sip after their workout, be sure to have a well-rounded meal close by, too, for optimal recovery.
While there’s plenty of aspects we love about this protein, the price isn’t one of them, unfortunately. We had to give this product a 1 out of 5 for price per serving, considering it’s about $2.50 per serve — one 20-serving container is $49.99. You can definitely find more cost-friendly plant proteins out there. However, if you are willing to, perhaps, swap Starbucks for store bought (that will probably save you more than enough cash), we think Legion’s quality is worth it.
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Women: KAGED Plantein
This plant-based formula is made from pea protein and boasts a macronutrient profile similar to whey — 26 grams of protein, four grams of carbs, and five grams of fat.
Specs
- Protein: 25 grams
- Flavor Options: Cinnamon Roll
- Price Per Serving: $1.99
Pros
- One scoop has 30 percent of your daily iron needs, a recommended nutrient for female athletes.
- You get 25 grams of protein per serving, which is just as much as most whey supplements.
- You can subscribe to monthly deliveries and save 10 percent on the total.
Cons
- One tub contains only 15 servings.
- KAGED doesn’t make simple flavors, like chocolate and vanilla.
- You only get the Cinnamon Roll flavor option.
There’s no one protein that’s necessarily better for men or women. But if you’re a person who has a monthly cycle, prioritizing a protein with added iron can help you meet your daily nutrient goals. This supplement has 30 percent of your daily iron value.
At 150 calories per scoop, this pea protein powder packs a whopping 25 grams of protein per serving with just two grams of carbs, four grams of fat, and no added sugar at all, earning a 5 out of 5 for formulation. Many athletes may also value additional fiber in their supplement to help with digestion, and this product contains an extra two grams.
“I was pleasantly surprised by the cinnamon roll flavor,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer, who gave the taste a 5 out of 5. “I mixed this one with both water and nut milk and the flavor stayed rich. I’m excited to try it in some baked goods, too. I think the cinnamon would add great flavor.” We do wish Kaged offered some more flavors, though. We liked the cinnamon here but that may not be every athlete’s taste.
We also gave Kaged Plantein a 5 out of 5 for solubility. “The powder dissolved really well even in just water with a shaker cup,” our tester said. “I didn’t notice it settle or clump at the bottom of the cup.” We haven’t tested this product in any baked goods, though, so the jury’s still out where that’s concerned.
Our team gave this supplement a 3.75 out of 5 for price per serving — there are more expensive products on this list but you can find cheaper options, too. One 15-serving container costs $29.99, which is about $1.99 per scoop. We do also wish there were more servings per tub, as some athletes may like a whole month’s worth in one purchase.
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Athletes: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+
This clean, transparent protein powder relies on organic, non-GMO yellow peas for its 20-gram protein dosage. Additionally, the subscription-based model helps ensure you’re always stocked up to help you meet your nutritional goals day in and day out.
Specs
- Protein: 20 grams
- Flavor Options: Vanilla
- Price Per Serving: $1.60
Pros
- This formula is Informed Sport Certified, so it’s safe for competing athletes to use.
- Ritual adds l-methionine, so athletes get a complete amino acid profile.
- It has no artificial sweeteners.
Cons
- You only get one flavor option, which may not be ideal for all athletes.
- Some plant proteins do have slightly higher protein values.
Athletes who follow a plant-based diet need a plant protein that’s safe to drink when they compete and offers plenty of nutritional value. Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+ is Informed Sport Certified, so it’s totally okay to sip even if you compete at the professional level.
Overall, our team of testers, including athletes and certified personal trainers, gave this formula a 5 out of 5. Not only do we like the certification and third-party testing but you get a pretty solid nutritional label. One serving is only 115 calories, including two grams of fat, three grams of carbs, and 20 grams of protein.
Ritual also adds l-methionine so that you get a complete amino acid profile with this powder. That means you can reap all the muscle-building benefits of animal products while following a plant-based diet.
After trying this protein mixed with water and blended in a smoothie, our testers gave the flavor a 4 out of 5. “It has a decent flavor when it’s only mixed with water and it doesn’t taste too earthy like some other plant proteins,” they said. “There’s a minimally chalky aftertaste but especially when it’s blended with berries, it’s barely noticeable.”
We especially enjoyed the consistency, giving the solubility a 5 out of 5. “This one dissolves completely when it’s even just mixed with water and it’s really smooth,” our tester said. “It’s not thin or super thick, it just has a nice consistency that’s easy to sip.”
For now, we gave the price a 4 out of 5, considering it’s about $1.60 per serving, which is cheaper than most other plant proteins. However, that’s only because Ritual is running a sale at the moment. Generally, this product costs around $2.67 per serving, earning a 2 out of 5, considering that’s definitely on the higher end. For the most part, this product may be out of most athletes’ price ranges but you can definitely keep your eye out for sales.
Best Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder: Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate
Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate is made with 100 percent plant-based protein, so it's vegan-friendly. For your convenience, you can also choose from several bulk purchase options.
Specs
- Protein: 25 grams
- Flavor Options: Unflavored
- Price Per Serving: $0.72
Pros
- This soy protein is unflavored, so it can mix easily with other supplements.
- This only costs $0.72 per serving and you can buy in bulk, too.
- It has no added sugar or gluten.
Cons
- Some athletes may prefer a higher calorie protein for post-workout recovery.
- This product is not third-party tested.
Maybe you prefer to stack your protein powder with other supplements after a workout. Or, perhaps you like to blend your protein into a smoothie with some other flavorful ingredients. In either case, having an unflavored protein can make mixing more convenient.
This soy protein doesn’t have any strong vanilla or chocolate flavors, but that doesn’t mean it’s exactly flavorless. A few customer reviews note that the taste is actually a little bitter compared to whey, so we had to give the taste an overall 3.5 out of 5. Some athletes may prefer a totally neutral flavor. But if you’re planning to mix this powder in a smoothie or stack with other supplements, it goes pretty unnoticed.
Our team gave the overall formulation a 5 out of 5. This one is only 90 calories per serving with zero grams of fat, four grams of carbohydrates, and 25 grams of protein. With 25 grams of protein, this is actually comparable to even the best whey protein powders.
As for the cost, Bulk Supplements is definitely budget-friendly, earning a 5 out of 5 for price per serving. One 33-serving bag costs $23.95, which is only about $0.72 per serving. This is less expensive than most protein supplements and you can even buy in bulk and save more.
Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: Onnit Plant-Based Protein
Onnit's plant-based protein powder is made of a blend of pea, pumpkin, sunflower seed, and watermelon seed proteins. This one is available in two separate flavors, too, including Chocolate and Vanilla.
Specs
- Protein: 21 grams
- Flavor Options: Chocolate, Vanilla
- Price Per Serving: $2.25
Pros
- Our testers thought this protein had a stand-out flavor with no earthiness.
- This one has 39 percent of your daily recommended value for iron.
- It’s Informed Sport certified, so it’s safe to use if you’re competing professionally.
Cons
- There are only two flavor options available.
- The price per serving is a bit on the higher end.
Compared to milk-based protein products, like whey or casein, vegan protein doesn’t always have the richest, most appetizing taste. Many have a slightly earthy flavor, considering most of the ingredients are plants. However, we didn’t have that problem with Onnit’s Plant-Based Protein.
Our testers, a group of personal trainers and athletes, gave this overall flavor a 4 out of 5. “I was impressed by the chocolate flavor because it’s not like other vegan proteins I’ve tried,” one tester said. “It actually reminded me of lactose-free chocolate milk.”
We liked the overall formulation and gave it an overall 4 out of 5. This one is pretty lean with one scoop only being 110 calories, including three grams of carbs, one and a half grams of fat, and 21 grams of protein. We do wish there were a little more protein content in this powder, considering most are around 25 grams per serving.
After mixing one scoop with water, our tester noticed the consistency wasn’t exactly ideal, giving it a 4 out of 5. “The mixture mixed nicely with no settling but it was a little more watery than I’d like,” they said. “I also noticed the texture was a little gritty. It didn’t drive me away from drinking the powder but it was noticeable.”
Our team had to give Onnit a 1 out of 5 for price per serving. One 20-serving container costs $44.95, which is about $2.25 per serving. This price is more than most other plant-based proteins and may not fall within most athletes budgets. Luckily, though, Onnit does run sales, especially around the holidays, so keep an eye out.
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Probiotics: Pure Food Plant-Based Protein Powder
With one billion colony forming units (CFUs) of probiotics, Pure Food's vegan protein powder should be your pick for more optimal gut health. This powder also contains 20 grams of protein and four grams of BCAAs.
Specs
- Protein: 11 grams
- Flavor Options: Chocolate, Vanilla
- Price Per Serving: $1.28
Pros
- This formula has one billion CFUs of probiotics, which may help improve digestion.
- Pure Food’s product packs 20 percent of your daily iron value.
- For those who want a leaner supplement, this product is only 68 calories per serving.
Cons
- This supplement only provides 11g of protein per serving, which is lower than most.
- You only get two flavors to choose from.
Though having probiotics in protein powder may not be super common, this pick provides a solid dose. Probiotics are thought to help revitalize your gut health for better digestion and nutrient absorption. So, instead of taking a probiotic supplement separately, why not get it from your protein?
In terms of the overall formula, we gave Pure Food a 3.5 out of 5. We do like the added probiotics and overall lean composition. This one is 68 calories per serving with one gram of fat, four grams of carbs, and 11 grams of protein. However, this does only provide half as much protein as the other supplements on this list. For athletes who want a protein-focused supplement, another pick may be more suitable.
We do, however, like that this has no sugar or fillers and you get about nine percent of your daily fiber intake, which is more than most typical protein powders offer.
As far as cost goes, we gave this a 4.5 out of 5 for price per serving. One 28-serving bag costs $35.94, which is only about $1.28 per serve. This is less than most other protein powders and considering you eliminate the need to buy additional probiotic supplements, it’s a steal.
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Vega One Organic: All-in-One Shake
This plant-based shake boasts 140 calories, 20 grams of protein, and an ample amount of the antioxidants Vitamins A, C, and D — which help boost your immune system and fight inflammation.
Specs
- Protein: 20 grams
- Flavor Options: Berry, Mocha, Plain Unsweetened, French Vanilla, Chocolate Mint, Coconut Almond, Chocolate
- Price Per Serving: $3.79
Pros
- This product has 21 percent of your daily fiber goal, which can help you maintain a calorie deficit.
- Vega’s product has two billion CFUs of probiotics.
- You get seven different flavor options and it’s available on Amazon.
Cons
- More like a meal replacement shake, this formula has higher carbs (11g) and fats (3.5g).
- This powder is definitely on the more expensive side.
There’s no one supplement that can help you lose weight, unfortunately. It comes down to exercise and eating in a calorie deficit. But some supplements can help promote a weight-loss diet. Vega One Organic’s All-in-One Shake has six grams of fiber (21 percent of your daily value), a nutrient that can help boost your satiety, according to the Cleveland Clinic, potentially making it a little easier to curb cravings.
Vega One Organic is an absolute nutrient powerhouse and we gave the formula a 5 out of 5. It has 18 vitamins and minerals, nine of which offer half or more of your daily recommended intake. As far as antioxidants go, it offers vitamins A, C, and D, which can help boost your immune system to help protect against illness and ward off inflammation.
This shake is also pretty calorie-friendly at only 140 calories per serving. In one scoop, you get 20 grams of protein, 11 grams of carbs and three and a half grams of fat. So, this protein powder won’t add many calories to your daily intake. Also, it boasts a hefty dose of probiotics for more optimal gut health.
Unfortunately, though, this supplement isn’t wallet-friendly, so we had to give it a 1 out of 5 for price per serving. One 18-serving tub costs $69.29, which is about $3.79 per serve. You can definitely find other plant-based proteins at a lower price, though we do love all the nutritional benefits in this formula.
Best Budget Vegan Protein Powder: Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Orgain Organic Protein Plant Based Powder offers 21 grams of protein per serving, along with 5 grams of fiber and net carbs!
Specs
- Protein: 21 grams
- Flavor Options: Creamy Chocolate Fudge, Vanilla Bean, Chocolate Coconut, Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter, Natural Unsweetened, Iced Coffee, Strawberries & Cream
- Price Per Serving: $1.34
Pros
- At only $1.34 per serving, this is among the most budget-friendly plant proteins on this list.
- There’s no sugar added in this organic protein powder.
- This protein has 34 percent of your daily recommended iron value.
Cons
- This one doesn’t have any probiotics or digestive enzymes.
- Athletes looking for a leaner formula may not like the 15 grams of carbs.
You don’t need to pay an arm and a leg to find a good plant protein supplement and this pick from Orgain is proof. At only $1.34 per serving, this is among the most budget-friendly vegan protein powders on our list.
When it comes to price per serving, our team gave Orgain a 5 out of 5. One 20-serving container of this protein costs $25.64, which is cheaper than most others on this list. And while you can find some options that cost less than a dollar per serving, you probably won’t get the same quality product.
This isn’t the leanest supplement but we do like that it’s certified organic, earning a 4 out of 5 for formulation. One two-scoop serving is 150 calories with four grams of fat, 15 grams of carbs and 21 grams of protein. While we like the protein total, there are products with less total carbs. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing — some athletes may just prefer a lower-calorie option.
Benefits of Vegan Protein Powders
If you eat a plant-based diet, you need to be extra conscious of your protein intake. Alongside boosting your protein intake, there are several benefits of vegan protein powders.
Note: If you have any pre-existing conditions, it’s best to consult your doctor or registered dietitian before trying new supplements.
They Help Boost Your Daily Protein
One article published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition states that “veganism creates challenges that need to be accounted for when designing a nutritious diet.” The article cites that plant-based sources are typically lower in protein, B12, iron, iodine, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and long-chain fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA (both of which are found in fish oils). That same study also noted that creatine supplements and beta-alanine might be of particular use to vegan dieters too. (1)
These specific nutrients are important for your overall health, but protein — and the nine essential amino acids that make up protein — are vital in your quest to gain muscle and preserve it as you lose fat. While you can get enough protein from whole foods, supplements can be a good source of protein without needing to spend too much time cooking.
They’re Convenient
Cooking an entire protein-heavy meal isn’t always convenient and can be pricey. While we recommend prioritizing whole foods as much as possible, vegan protein powders can be convenient in a pinch. All you need is some water and a scoop of powder to help meet your protein goal.
They’re Versatile
While you can sip protein simply mixed with water, there are plenty of additional recipes and tricks worth trying. You can blend a scoop into your favorite smoothie or add some to your oatmeal breakfast or favorite baked goods.
How We Chose the Best Vegan Protein Powders
Vegan protein powders require different considerations than animal-based protein powders. Not only is the protein they’re derived from different, but vegans also look for different nutrients in their protein powder. Here are the ingredients and factors we took into consideration when putting together this guide.
Type of Protein and Texture
There are four main types of vegan protein powder — pea protein, hemp protein, brown rice protein, and soy protein. The powders on this list may come as a blend of two or more types of these powders or as a single type. Either way, mixability, and texture are key with vegan protein powder, as many of these powders are grittier than whey protein. We made sure that all the powders on this list — no matter what they are derived from — have solid mixability.
Macronutrients
Protein, fat, and carbs are considered macronutrients (macros). Many vegan protein powders tend to contain more carbs as they are derived from plants. But most of the powders on our list provide macros similar to whey protein, which is much lower in carbs and fats. However, we have still included options that are a touch higher in carbs and fats for those who prefer that. No matter your preference, you’ll be able to find the proper macro split to meet your needs in this list.
Micronutrients
Some of the micronutrients that vegans may miss in their diet include B12, iron, iodine, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and long-chain fatty acids such as EPA and DHA — all of which are much easier to sneak into an animal-based diet. We wanted to include protein powders on this list that featured some of these added micronutrients as well since many vegans look to protein shakes to fill these gaps in their diet.
How Much Protein Do You Need?
Whether you’re a vegan or meat-eater, strength athletes need the same amount of protein — 0.72 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. For a 180-pound man, that comes out to between 123-180 grams of protein per day. Even a meat eater will most likely need to supplement with protein powder to meet their intake. Now, consider that most vegan protein sources pack even less protein per serving than animal protein, and a protein supplement is looking even more like a necessity. Want to know how much protein you need? Use our protein calculator below:
Protein Intake Calculator
Part of what makes a protein powder so great is the convenience factor. This is particularly helpful if you’re in a bulking phase and are sick of choking down whole foods. You can mix your protein powder of choice in some water, chug it down, and you just ingested 20 to 25 extra grams of protein.
Of course, you want to ensure you’re consuming many of your nutrients from whole foods and supplementing with the ones you may be missing. The good news is that many vegan protein powders contain those missing nutrients (mentioned above).
When Should I Take Vegan Protein Powder?
One of the myths about protein powder is that you need to drink a protein shake immediately after your workout to nourish your depleted muscles or else you’ll lose all of your gains. While it doesn’t hurt to drink a protein shake right after you exercise, it’s not necessary to retain the benefits of working out. Plus, on a vegan diet, the micronutrients included in protein powder can help fill the gaps in your diet due to your dietary restrictions at any point in the day.
As long as you are consistently consuming enough protein throughout each day, it can still help build the muscles you’re working for, no matter if it’s directly after your workout or as a late-night snack. Your daily calories and macronutrients are the primary determinants related to whether you gain muscle and lose fat, as opposed to when you eat.
How Much Do Vegan Protein Powders Cost?
If you’re just peeping at the cost of the container before deciding which protein powder is in your price range and which isn’t, you’re not actually getting a sense of how much your powder costs. You want to know how much you are paying per serving and what you’re getting in each scoop, rather than just going for the least expensive jug. To do this, you’ll need to compare the cost of the container to the number of servings — this number tends to be around $1 to $2 per serving, depending on the brand and ingredients.
Best Vegan Protein Powder Overall | KOS Organic Plant Protein | $59.99
Per serving: $1.99 |
Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder | Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal | $69.95
Per serving: $4.66 |
Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder | Transparent Labs Organic Vegan | $49.99
Per serving: $1.66 |
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Bodybuilding | Legion Plant+ Vegan Protein | $49.99
Per serving: $2.49 |
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Women | KAGED Plantein | $29.99
Per serving: $1.99 |
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Athletes | Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+ | $24
Per serving: $1.60 |
Best Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder | Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate | $23.95
Per serving: $0.72 |
Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder | Onnit Plant-Based Protein | $44.95
Per serving: $2.25 |
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Probiotics | Pure Food Plant Based Protein Powder | $35.94
Per serving: $1.28 |
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Antioxidants | Vega One Organic All-in-One Shake | $69.29
Per serving: $3.79 |
Best Budget Vegan Protein Powder | Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder | $25.64
Per serving: $1.34 |
The cost per serving will vary due to the type of vegan powder, additives, protein density, and more. The more natural, organic, or transparent protein powders are likely to cost a little more. In addition, added ingredients that may be good for filling gaps in the vegan diet or assisting with absorption (like micronutrients, digestive enzymes, or probiotics) can also increase the cost. The more basic the powder, generally, the less it should cost.
What to Consider Before Buying Vegan Protein Powders
When choosing which plant-based protein powder to buy, here are some important factors you should consider before making your purchase.
Protein Content
Protein content sounds like an obvious consideration, right? Of course, how much protein you need depends on your goals. For vegans, as we’ve mentioned before, getting enough complete protein in your diet can be a challenge. Athletes will want up to one gram of protein per pound of body weight. A less intense gymgoer who’s trying to keep their nutrition in check may want to pack added protein into their diet as well.
It’s also worth noting that the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for protein, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is 50 grams per 2,000 calories. A study found that this specific amount of protein may lead to muscle loss in older folks. (2) On this list, none of the picks dipped below 20 grams of protein per serving, and some go up to 25 grams.
A Balanced Macronutrient Profile
Your caloric intake matters the most when you’re trying to gain or lose weight, but macros matter, too. There are three main macros — protein (which we’ve already covered), carbohydrates, and fat. Carbs essentially give you the energy to work out (though the carbs you don’t burn are stored as fat, so you need to balance these well). Fats generally regulate your hormones like testosterone and leptin. When it comes to carving out a more impressive physique, you want your macros dialed in. Otherwise, you may be lacking in one macro, like protein, while eating too much of another, such as fat (which contains nine calories per gram).
One key to managing your macro intake is choosing foods that enable a healthy macro split (depending on your goals). This way, you can better manage your overall intake and create more balanced meals. For example, one Big Mac has 540 calories and 30 grams of fat, 45 grams of carbs, and 25 grams of protein. For 100 fewer calories, you can have a cup of rice and half a pound of chicken with spinach — a meal that packs 55 grams of protein, 40 grams of carbs, and four grams of fat.
For this reason, we chose vegan protein shakes that had minimal grams of carbs and fat to ensure you were getting mainly protein.
Vitamins and Nutrients that Vegans Need
There are specific vitamins and nutrients in meat that vegans might not be getting enough of. To recap, those are B12, iron, iodine, zinc, calcium, vitamin D, and long-chain fatty acids such as EPA and DHA.
One study says that vegetarians are at risk of being deficient in vitamin B12, and the long-term effects — though not fully understood — can be “adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes, vascular, cognitive, bone, and eye health.” (3) The protein powders on this list contain most of the recommended nutrients and vitamins that plant-based eaters want.
Different Types of Vegan Protein Powder Sources
Vegan protein powders aren’t all made from the same sources. Here’s a breakdown of the four most common vegan protein powder sources.
Pea Protein | Hemp Protein | Brown Rice Protein | Soy Protein |
This protein source derived from peas is one of the newer types of protein to hit the market. Its appeal is that it contains all nine essential amino acids and is considered relatively easy to digest. It’s also effective. One study showed that supplementing with pea protein while on a strength training program significantly increased biceps muscle size as effectively as whey protein. (4) | In addition to containing the nine essential amino acids, hemp protein — which is the product of ground-up hemp seeds — also has a solid dose of fiber and healthy fats. Since this type of product is high in fiber, it may help with digestion, but it may also cause gas and bloating in some. | Though it’s not a complete protein, brown rice protein is derived from the protein in brown rice and is void of allergens like gluten, soy, eggs, and nuts. It also digests very quickly, especially compared to a whey product that is derived from dairy. | First, if you have a soy allergy, you’ll want to pick another option from this list. That said, for anyone else, soy protein — which is derived from soybeans — is a fine protein option. And though some may try to steer clear thinking it affects your testosterone levels, more recent studies have shown that to be largely untrue. |
Final Word
Vegan protein powders and plant-based protein options in general have come a long way in recent years. There used to be only a few options, and they were rather expensive compared to milk-derived protein — and we don’t even need to mention the gritty sand-like texture. Those days of yore are long gone with nearly every major supplement company now producing a plant-based or vegan protein option.
Any strength athlete will need more protein compared to folks who don’t train. And if you’re a plant-based eater, then you’ll need to choose your protein with more careful consideration. For one, you want to ensure it fits your dietary restrictions, and two, you want to make sure the powder you choose contains the proper amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals to fill the gaps in your vegan diet. Review this list of the best vegan protein powders carefully, make your selection, and then get to training.
FAQs
Is vegan protein powder just as good as whey?
A high quality vegan protein powder can be just as effective as whey. Though good vegan powders are more difficult to find, a pea protein powder or pea protein blend provides the same muscle-building benefits as whey, and in some cases, similar macros as well.
What is the best vegan protein powder?
Vegan protein powders used to be difficult to find. Nowadays, most supplement companies have a vegan option, and there are a lot of choices. Our favorite one at the moment is KOS Organic Plant Protein. It dishes 20 grams of protein, and provides a variety of micronutrients that may be beneficial for those on a more limited vegan diet. KOS also priced it well when you consider the high quality of the all-natural and organic formula.
How much do vegan protein powders cost?
Vegan protein powders run in the same price range as milk-derived proteins with tubs costing somewhere between $40 and $60. The price alone doesn’t tell the whole story though, and the price per serving is needed for better context. You can expect to pay around $1.25 to $2.50 per serving, depending on the brand, amount of protein, and source of the protein.
Does vegan protein powder mix well?
Since vegan protein is derived from plants and plants contain more fiber, some blends can be grittier than animal-based whey proteins. However, the difference is not significant, especially if you blend vegan powder into a smoothie or shake that contains plant-based milk and/or other ingredients.
Do I need a vegan protein powder to complement my diet?
It’s possible for vegans to have nutritional gaps in their diet, and since vegan protein powders often include a lot of these vitamins and minerals (as well as protein), they can be a great option for anyone looking to fill vegan dietary gaps.
References
- Rogerson D. Vegan diets: practical advice for athletes and exercisers. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;14:36. Published 2017 Sep 13. doi:10.1186/s12970-017-0192-9
- Campbell WW, Trappe TA, Jozsi AC, Kruskall LJ, Wolfe RR, Evans WJ. Dietary protein adequacy and lower body versus whole body resistive training in older humans. J Physiol. 2002 Jul 15;542(Pt 2):631-42. doi: 10.1113/jphysiol.2002.020685. PMID: 12122158; PMCID: PMC2290421.
- O’Leary F, Samman S. Vitamin B12 in health and disease. Nutrients. 2010;2(3):299-316. doi:10.3390/nu2030299
- Babault N, Païzis C, Deley G, Guérin-Deremaux L, Saniez MH, Lefranc-Millot C, Allaert FA. Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015 Jan 21;12(1):3. doi: 10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5. PMID: 25628520; PMCID: PMC4307635.