The 11 Best Vegan Protein Powders of 2024

Oct 15, 2024

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Help meet your protein needs with these best tasting vegan protein powders

Verywell Health / Kevin Liang

Whether you’re an avid gym-goer, constantly on the go, or simply looking to boost your protein intake with ease, vegan protein powders can be a versatile yet convenient supplement to include in your diet. You don’t have to be following a vegan diet to choose a vegan protein powder. You may prefer the taste and find that a vegan protein powder is easier to digest over whey or casein-based powder.

The protein sources of a vegan protein powder are typically peas, rice, hemp, and soy. They are rich in essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein, but different blends will contain varying amino acid profiles and total protein amounts. When choosing a vegan protein powder, look at the ingredient list for any dietary restrictions or allergies you may have, the protein amount per serving, and take into account your personal taste and texture preferences.

We compiled this list of the best vegan protein powders by researching and reviewing dozens of them. Our dietitian considered the recommendations of experts in the field and the results of our own taste testing, including 35 top-ranked vegan protein powders. We mixed these powders with water in a shaker bottle and also blended them into a smoothie. Each product was rated for taste, texture, smell, third-party testing, nutrition, and value to help you pick the best vegan protein powder for your needs.

Our team of registered dietitians reviews and evaluates every single supplement we recommend according to our dietary supplement methodology. From there, a registered dietitian on our Medical Expert Board reviews each article for scientific accuracy. Always speak with a healthcare professional before adding a supplement to your routine to ensure that the supplement is appropriate for your individual needs and which dosage to take.

Amazon

Blends well with no grittiness

Contains a superfood blend

Good source of additional nutrients

Flavor is not too intense

Higher in sodium

Not third-party tested

Protein Type: Pea protein, flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seed protein, and chia seeds | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams | Added Sweeteners: Monk fruit extract, stevia | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: Iron, B12, and selenium

KOS Organic Superfood Protein proves vegan protein powders can taste good. Each serving has 20 grams of protein per serving from a mix of pea protein, flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seed protein, and chia seeds. KOS also includes an organic superfood blend from apples, carrots, cranberries, oranges, broccoli, shitake mushroom extract, and tomato. These ingredients drive up the nutritional value of this supplement, and on top of that, KOS added a vitamin and mineral blend to the mix. This means that not only is this high in protein, but also a good source of other nutrients such as iron, B12, and selenium. Vitamin B12 is a vitamin you typically want to supplement on a vegan or vegetarian diet since it is found in animal products, and you get 40% of your daily needs from one serving of this vegan protein powder.

Each serving has 330 mg of sodium, which is on the higher end for protein powders. This amount may be higher than some people want or need, but this could be a good fit for after-exercise to help replenish the sodium lost in sweat.

The chocolate flavor is subtle rather than overwhelming, and we like that it has no after-taste. We also found that it mixes well without any grittiness in both water and smoothies. While we love the chocolate flavor we tested, KOS protein comes in several other flavors, including vanilla, chocolate peanut butter, and salted caramel coffee.

KOS contains a digestive enzyme blend, which is safe for most healthy people, but some people may not want this in their supplement. The superfood blend contains inulin, which is a fiber that is considered high in FODMAPs and may cause some people to feel bloated. While we prefer supplements that are third-party tested, this one is not third-party tested.

Amazon

Comes in bulk

Informed Sport Certified

Single-ingredient

Good source of iron

Has a subtle earthy, pea taste

Protein Type: Pea | Protein Amount: 24 grams | Added Sweeteners: No | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: Iron

If you want to buy a quality vegan protein powder but want something that is budget-friendly, we recommend NOW Sports Pea Protein. This comes with 96 servings, and you pay less than half the cost of most other vegan protein powders.

This protein is Informed Sport Certified, meaning it’s been third-party tested for over 250 substances banned in sports and meets high manufacturing quality standards. NOW even tests their own products to make sure they are free from contaminants. The reputable testing and high protein content—24 grams per serving—makes this suitable for athletes. It is also particularly high in iron, providing close to half your daily requirements per serving.

We appreciate that this isn’t manufactured with ingredients such as soy, gluten, milk, corn, eggs, fish, shellfish, or tree nuts for those who are allergic or sensitive.

Although this protein powder has a neutral flavor, it is not completely unflavored. The pea protein taste still comes through, and it doesn’t have the smoothest texture out of all our picks—it is slightly gritty. We recommend it in smoothies with other flavors to balance the taste and texture.

While not completely unflavored, we like that this protein powder can still be used in various ways—sweet or savory. We recommend mixing it into shakes, baked goods and even soups for added protein.

Amazon

Good source of fiber and minerals

No artificial ingredients

One of our highest ratings for taste

No clear third-party testing

Grittier in texture

Protein Type: Yellow pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, sacha inchi, cranberry seed | Protein Amount: 20 grams | Added Sweeteners: Lucuma, baobab fruit, and stevia leaf | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: Fiber, iron, calcium, and vitamin C

If you’re looking for a great-tasting, vanilla-flavored protein powder, our top pick is Sprout Living’s Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma Powder.

This protein powder does not contain artificial ingredients. Instead, its flavor comes from vanilla bean, cinnamon, and ginger root. Two other key ingredients you may not be familiar with are lucuma and baobab fruit. Lucuma is a South American fruit, and baobab is an African plant used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as coughs and infections.

The 20 grams of protein per serving comes from yellow peas, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, cranberry seeds, and an interesting ingredient called sacha inchi. Sacha inchi is a seed rich in omega-3s and 6s, protein, and antioxidants. This protein powder is also a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin C.

Even when just mixed with water, this powder received some of the highest ratings for taste, as it isn’t overwhelmingly sweet and has a warm vanilla flavor. It also scored high when blended into a smoothie although it does have a slightly grainier texture than some of our other picks. Nonetheless, we appreciated the lack of after-taste and the fact that real food ingredients are the reason for the grittier texture.

If you are following a low FODMAP diet or sensitive to certain fibers, note that this protein powder contains Jerusalem artichoke, which may cause irritation if you are sensitive to FODMAP foods.

Be mindful that 320 milligrams of sodium per serving can be beneficial for those who sweat during exercise, but this may be higher than you want if you are watching your sodium intake.

If you are concerned about third-party testing, this may not be the best choice for you as Sprout Living is not clearly third-party tested.

Amazon

No added sugar

Organic

Only 6 simple ingredients

Pleasant natural chocolate flavor

Not a good source of any other nutrients

Protein Type: Peas, pumpkin seed, and chia seed | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams | Added Sweeteners: Monk fruit extract | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: none

A rich chocolate flavor can be just the thing to get you to want to drink a protein shake, and the Truvani Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder does not disappoint. We like that Truvani keeps things simple with only six organic key ingredients: pea protein, alkalized cocoa, vanilla powder, pumpkin seed, monk fruit extract, and chia seed protein. The monk fruit extract gives this its sweet flavor without any additional calories, meaning this is considered to have no added sugar.

This brand is also committed to sourcing top-quality ingredients and testing each ingredient for heavy metals and other contaminants (according to GMP standards).

We rated this one 5/5 for taste, as we love its very natural cacao flavor. It is also smooth, leaving behind no clumps, and has a thicker smoothie-like consistency even when mixed with just water. We detected just a slight but pleasant aftertaste that quickly went away.

We like that some of our other picks provide other nutrients like fiber or minerals, but Truvani isn't a good source of other nutrients. However, this may be a good option if you are taking a multivitamin or don't mind if your protein powder just gives you protein.

For anyone who has severe allergies, keep in mind that this product is manufactured in a facility that processes other products that contain common allergens like milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, sesame, and soy.

Amazon

Single-ingredient

Excellent source of fiber, iron, zinc, and magnesium

Third-party tested

No unpleasant smell or taste

Lower in protein per serving compared to others

Slightly gritty texture

Protein Type: Hemp Seed | Protein Per Serving: 15 grams | Added Sweeteners: None | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: Fiber, magnesium, iron and zinc

An unflavored protein powder gives you more options to mix and match different flavors, and Nutiva Organic Cold Pressed Raw Hemp Seed Protein Powder gives you a great base as a truly unflavored protein supplement. Given that this is made with one ingredient, hemp seeds, you also have the option to add your own flavors and change up the sweetness as needed.

Each serving of this hemp seed protein powder has a 35% Daily Value for zinc and iron. Iron is an essential nutrient for muscle function and circulating oxygen in our bodies. According to Flores, “females of childbearing age, those that are pregnant, vegans, and vegetarians may benefit from including more foods that are high in iron.” Each serving also provides six grams of fiber, 21% Daily Value.

While this protein powder isn’t high in sodium, it is higher in magnesium (60% Daily Value), another electrolyte. Magnesium has also been found to be helpful in reducing different markers of inflammation, improving sleep quality, and maintaining muscle health. This powder can, therefore, come in handy if you consistently exercise and need extra support for recovery from exercise.

You can trust that this product is free of any contaminants since it is third-party tested.

We found that the flavor is truly mild, with no aftertaste or smell, so you don’t have to worry about masking its taste. We recommend using this in a smoothie to help balance out the grittier texture.

You can use a higher-protein plant-based milk like soy milk to boost the protein content since it is lower in protein per serving (15 grams) than some of our other picks. Also, note the higher fiber amount may not sit well if you take it right before working out.

Amazon

Good source of vitamin D and B vitamins

Great source of fiber

Veggie and fruit blend

Sweeter flavor may be too intense for some

Not third-party tested

Protein Type: Pea and pumpkin seed | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams | Added Sweeteners: Stevia leaf extract | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: B vitamins, vitamins A, C, D and K, fiber and probiotics

Remembering to take multiple supplements into your daily routine can be daunting, but if you are considering including a protein shake in your diet, consider trying the Vega Organic All In One Vegan Protein Shake for both a protein and greens powder in one.

The added greens in this product come from spinach, chard, kale, and lettuce, but also some fruits such as cherry, pomegranate, and blueberries. So, while you’re getting 20 grams of protein from this protein powder, the greens and fruits also bump up its vitamin and mineral content. Some noteworthy nutrients include B vitamins, vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also a great source of fiber, with six grams per serving.

The Vega All In One Shake even contains 10 micrograms of Vitamin D, which is 67% of the Daily Value. This vitamin can help with muscle and bone health, immune function, and mood. The addition of vitamin D is great if you follow a vegan diet or have limited sun exposure, as these factors can make it more difficult to reach the recommended amounts of vitamin D.

We found that this protein powder is pretty sweet due to the stevia. If the flavor or sweetness level isn't your favorite, we recommend blending it into a smoothie with other ingredients. If you blend it with just water, we like that it blends easily with no clumps left behind.

Powdered greens can interfere with certain medications, particularly vitamin K with blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering medications, or those for controlling seizures. It’s best to speak to a healthcare professional before trying this product. This powder also has probiotics, but it’s not clear exactly how much.

Keep in mind that this product is not third-party tested, although Vega has other products that have been approved in third-party testing.

Amazon

NSF Certified for Sport

Highest protein per serving on our list

Tart cherry and Turmeric for recovery

Tootsie Roll flavor

Additional ingredients may interact with certain medications

Artificial aftertaste

Protein Type: Primarily pea protein with pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, and alfalfa | Protein Per Serving: 30 grams | Added Sweeteners: stevia leaf extract | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: Iron

If you regularly workout or have higher protein needs, you may want a protein powder with the highest amount. We like Vega Sport Premium Protein because it contains 30 grams of protein per serving—the highest on our list—with additional nutrients to support muscle recovery. Whether blended as a post-workout shake or just mixed with water any time of the day, this powder offers a convenient and delicious way to replenish protein stores.

Vega is a well-known brand in the plant-based nutrition space, and they’ve carefully crafted this protein to help support muscle growth and recovery. The blend of protein includes five grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which research shows can help improve muscle soreness and repair after exercise. Other notable ingredients for muscle recovery include turmeric, beetroot, and tart cherry.

We like that this protein is non-GMO and free from artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners. If you’re an athlete, note that this is NSF Certified for Sport, meaning there are no harmful contaminants or substances banned for competitions. This is a strong third-party testing certification and the only one recognized by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).

We like its sweet, Tootsie Roll-like flavor and smell, but it may be too sweet for some. We also noted an artificial aftertaste, but it didn't linger too long. We also like its thick, creamy texture.

Keep in mind that turmeric and tart cherry may interact with certain medications, so be sure to speak to your healthcare provider before trying this protein powder. Alfalfa is another ingredient you want to be cautious of. Check to see if other supplements you take contain alfalfa because high doses may be unsafe for breastfeeding or pregnant women, and it can also interact with certain medications. This protein includes a probiotic blend that may not be wanted by some people.

Amazon

Creamy texture with no grittiness

Sweetened with coconut sugar

Good source of iron

No artificial ingredients

Not third-party tested

Not a good pick for nut allergies

Protein Type: Pea, peanut, pumpkin seed, almond, and chia seed | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams | Added Sweeteners: | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: iron

If you’re looking for an organic vegan protein powder, we recommend Orgain Organic Protein Powder. Organic doesn’t necessarily mean better, but organic foods certified by the USDA are produced according to certain standards. Some of these include how animals are fed and raised, fertilizer and pest control use, and additive use. Given this certification, this protein powder is free from any artificial flavors or preservatives.

Orgain stands out among vegan protein powders because it is sweetened with coconut sugar, which is great if you don’t like the taste of stevia or other sweeteners.

We found that it isn’t overly sweet and has more of a nutty taste; this may be because some of the protein comes from peanuts and almonds. It wasn't an unpleasant taste, but surprising given that we can taste the nuts more than the chocolate. This protein powder dissolves thoroughly and has a creamy texture. We like that the smell matches the flavor, making us more enticed to drink this.

There are five grams of sugar per serving, which is higher compared to some of the other powders on our list. This is not a good option for peanut or tree nut allergies.

Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao

Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson

Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson

Garden of Life

Rich and decadent milkshake texture

Great source of fiber

Prebiotic and Proboitic blend

Higher sodium amount

Fiber and sugar alcohols may cause digestive upset

Protein Type: Sprouted and fermented pea and brown rice, sprouted amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, millet and chia | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams | Added Sweeteners: Erythritol and stevia leaf extract | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: MCTs, iron, prebiotics and probiotics

Vegan protein powders have a poor reputation for being grainy and not mixing as well as whey protein powder, but we found Garden of Life’s Organic Creamy Protein with Oatmilk Powder to be quite the opposite.

This texture is likely from the coconut oil, coconut water, and oat milk powders used in this formula. The coconut oil provides MCTs (medium-chained triglycerides), which have gained popularity in recent years. MCTs are saturated fats that can be absorbed directly from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver, unlike other fats that undergo a much longer process. Some athletes use MCTs in hopes of enhancing athletic performance, but the research isn’t strong for that benefit.

The sodium content is 340 mg per serving, making this one of the higher-sodium options. This can be beneficial for replenishing electrolytes post-workout, but be mindful if you are watching your sodium intake.

We love that this mixes extremely well, even with just water, and forms a rich and thick drink, similar to a milkshake. However, the sweetness is a bit overwhelming and artificial-tasting, with more of the vanilla flavor coming through rather than the cookie.

Erythritol and stevia are the two sweeteners in this protein powder, meaning there is no added sugar. This is a good option if you have diabetes or are watching your sugar intake since blood sugar levels won’t be impacted like regular sugar. However, erythritol is a sugar alcohol and can cause digestive symptoms like bloating and diarrhea for some people, especially if consumed in higher quantities.

While we appreciate the five grams of fiber from the prebiotic blend (inulin, acacia gum, xanthan gum, and guar gum), this can also cause digestive upset in some people. This protein powder also contains a probiotic that may not be necessary for everyone.

Amazon

Added superfood blend

Good source of iron

Accurate flavor of vanilla chai

Digestive enzyme blend not necessary for all

Protein Type: Pea, rice, cranberry, sacha inchi, amaranth, and sprouted quinoa | Protein Per Serving: 21 grams | Added Sweeteners: Monk fruit extract and stevia leaf extract | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: Iron and sodium

So Lean & So Clean Plant Based Superfood Protein is our favorite choice for smoothies due to its blendability, high-quality ingredients, and flavor profile. This protein powder provides a nutritious boost to your smoothie without compromising on taste or texture.

In addition to protein, this includes a blend of superfoods and greens such as apples, blackberries, broccoli, kale, and turmeric. So, if you’re curious to try a greens powder, this may be a good place to start. Theoretically, this superfood blend should add additional vitamins and minerals to this powder, but the nutrition label does not indicate anything more than iron.

Out of all our picks, this is the highest in sodium, with 390 mg per serving. This is great for anyone who sweats a lot, especially during exercise, and can be a great way to replenish electrolytes after a long or sweaty workout. Ali McGowan, MS, RD, LDN recommends getting drinks higher in sodium, like So Lean & So Clean, after a hard workout. These can help replenish electrolytes, help prevent muscle cramps, and maintain proper nerve signaling.

So Lean & So Clean prioritizes strong third-party testing, and you can read more about which labs they use on their website. This is also an allergen-friendly choice and suitable for many food sensitivities.

We tried the vanilla chai flavor, and we love that the taste is accurate—vanilla with a blend of spices. The flavor sort of dissipates as you drink it, which works well when blended with other ingredients. We found this powder blends easily, even in just water. We did notice that when just mixed in water, this powder separates from the liquid after a while, so we recommend using a blender.

Keep in mind that the superfood blend can interfere with certain medications, particularly vitamin K, with blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering medications, or those for controlling seizures. It’s best to speak to a healthcare professional before trying this product.

This also contains digestive enzymes that may or may not be beneficial. Some people may find this helps with feeling less bloated.

Amazon

Source of choline

Strong third-party testing

Lower in sodium

Blends great in water or a smoothie

Has a bit of an artificial taste

Protein Type: Organic pea | Protein Per Serving: 20 grams | Added Sweeteners: stevia and monk fruit extract | Other Noteworthy Nutrients: Choline and methionine

When looking for a protein powder to use during pregnancy, you want to make sure it is third-party tested and supports your body’s changing needs. Ritual Essential is our top choice for supporting pregnancy protein needs because it has rigorous testing done and contains both protein and choline.

Choline is mainly found in animal-based foods, making it more difficult to get enough on a vegan or vegetarian diet. Choline is essential during pregnancy for the functioning of the placenta, brain development, and gene expression. However, many women do not reach the recommended daily intake of 450 milligrams during pregnancy and 500 milligrams per day during lactation. Some prenatal vitamins contains choline, but some only have low amounts or none at all. For this reason, we appreciate Ritual Essential has 250 milligrams of choline in each serving.

Strong third-party testing is especially important during pregnancy, and Ritua Essentiall is both Informed Sport Certifiedand a Clean Label Project Purity Award winner.

We like that this blends just as great in a smoothie as in water. It does have a bit of an artificial taste and a strong smell, which may be subjective; some people may not enjoy stevia and monk fruit sweeteners. However, the smell and taste are not as pungent when mixed into a smoothie and we enjoyed it blended with a banana.

Note that xantham gum is a stabilizer in this protein powder. While it is safe, some people may want to limit additives. It may cause bloating and digestive upset, but typically in much larger quantities.

While these protein powders didn’t make our top picks, they still have some strong points and are worth mentioning.

It may be more difficult to get enough protein when following a vegan or vegetarian diet. Besides legumes, tofu, nuts, and seeds, vegan protein powder can be a convenient way to supplement your protein intake. Depending on your choice of protein, it can also be a way to get extra fiber, minerals, or other nutrients.

Vegan protein powders can be especially beneficial for people with higher protein needs (like athletes or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding) or who struggle to eat certain foods because of food sensitivities or allergies.

Certain medical conditions or medications can reduce appetite and make it difficult to reach protein goals. This may be the case for people undergoing cancer treatment, taking a GLP-1 medication, or post-bariatric surgery patients. Drinking vegan protein powder as part of a smoothie may be easier sometimes to help get enough protein.

In addition to our research and speaking with experts, we tested 35 of the top vegan protein powders in the Verywell Testing Lab, preparing and serving them as directed by the manufacturer. We continue to test new vegan protein powders on an ongoing basis to make sure we are recommending the best options available. When we test protein powders, we mix a serving of powder into cold water in a shaker bottle and evaluate each product for the following criteria:

Protein powders can be third-party tested by being sent to a lab to ensure they contain what they say they do and no harmful contaminants. These include testing for heavy metals naturally found in varying amounts of vegan protein powder. Recent research shows that the small amount found in most protein powders is unlikely to cause harm at up to three servings per day. Third-party testing can ensure a vegan protein powder has safe levels of heavy metals and lacks other contaminants. This testing for heavy metals is especially important for children during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Amazon is starting to require third-party testing for certain products, but for now, that does not include vegan protein powder. That's why we are diligent about recommending third-party tested products or at least letting you know if they are not so you can make an informed decision.

Vegan protein powders often have other ingredients added to them besides the protein source, especially if they are flavored. Be sure to pay attention to these ingredients for any drug-nutrient interactions or if you have medical conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or liver disease.

Additives: Some of the common additives include fiber, digestive enzymes, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, herbs, adaptogens, probiotics, and green powders. Your healthcare provider can best guide you through which ingredients are safe and will not interact with any medications you are taking. Also, be mindful that the added vitamins and minerals may put you above your needs if you are also taking a multivitamin or individual supplements.

Allergens: Aside from the protein source that could potentially be an allergy risk, consider other ingredients such as eggs, wheat, dairy, soy, peanuts, or tree nuts. Review the ingredient list to ensure they are safe for you and if the powder is manufactured in a facility that also processes any allergenic foods.

Sweeteners: An unflavored protein powder typically doesn’t contain any sweeteners, but those that are flavored will include cane sugar or an alternative sweetener. Stevia, monk fruit, sucralose, sugar alcohols (which can cause bloating in some people), and acesulfame-K are common sweeteners. However, you may have digestive symptoms from consuming these alternative sweeteners if you have a sensitive gut or have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

We spoke to these experts to gain a better understanding of what to look for in a vegan protein powder and what key ingredients can mean for you.

Shushy Rita Setrakian, MS, RD, is a registered dietitian specializing in both GI and women’s health and is also one of our nutrition and supplement commerce editors. She personally uses and loves KOS Organic Plant-Based chocolate peanut butter protein powder, as it doesn't upset her stomach. Shushy is passionate about converting nutrition science into meaningful dietary recommendations. She has an eye for spotting the latest nutrition trends and research and breaking down what that can mean for your supplement and food choices. She recommends products that she trusts and would recommend to her own clients. Shushy also has a particular interest in sports nutrition and has used many of the recommended vegan protein powders in this article herself.

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By Shushy Rita Setrakian MS, RDShushy has an eye for spotting the latest nutrition trends, research, and breaking down what that can mean for your supplement and food choices.