Everything You Need To Know About Vegan Protein Powders

Vegan protein powder, once again, is a hot topic in the health and fitness industry. As more and more people are opting for a vegan lifestyle or flexitarian diet, the search for the perfect vegan protein powder has become increasingly popular. But with so many options on the market and so much noise surrounding the comparisons between whey protein powder and plant-based protein powder, it can be tricky to decipher which ones are the best for you. Ignore the noise; vegan protein powders are just as good as whey protein powders. In fact, they may even be more suitable for your lifestyle, nutrition needs and goals.

The common myths surrounding vegan protein powders include concerns about taste, their ability to provide a complete protein source, and whether they contain BCAAs and a strong enough amino acid profile for muscle building. People also question the taste and texture of plant-based protein powder. Don’t worry; we’re going to dive into everything you need to know about choosing the right lean vegan protein powder, looking at both the benefits of vegan protein powders.

If you're looking for a natural, lean source of protein to fuel your workouts and support your overall health, then vegan protein powder is definitely worth considering. The most common types of plant-based protein used in vegan protein powders include pea, rice, peanut, almond and hemp protein. These sources provide all of the essential amino acids needed to build and repair muscle, making them an excellent choice for active individuals.

Additionally, vegan protein powder is typically easier to digest than animal-based protein powders, meaning you're less likely to experience discomfort or bloating after consuming it, especially if you’re prone to digestive discomfort after consuming dairy. Whether you're looking to build muscle, lose weight, or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle, incorporating vegan protein powder into your diet can provide a number of benefits.

The important thing to remember is that you don’t have to be vegan to enjoy a plant protein powder. Have you heard of the flexitarian diet? If you regularly consume animal protein, you might actually benefit from choosing a plant-based protein powder over a whey protein blend. Check out our blog,  From Flexitarian to Fit: How Plant-Based Protein Can Revolutionise Your Health and Wellbeing .

As the popularity of plant-based diets continues to rise, it's important to understand the variety of options for plant-based protein sources. Unlike whey protein, there are a LOT! Let's take a look at some of the most common forms of vegan protein powder.

Vegan protein blends have become increasingly popular amongst fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and health-conscious individuals seeking an alternative to traditional whey protein supplements. These blends are formulated with various plant-based protein sources, such as pea, hemp, brown rice, and soy, to provide a diverse and complete amino acid profile. Vegan protein blends offer significant benefits for those looking to support muscle growth, repair, and recovery while also promoting general health and wellness. These benefits include improved digestion, reduced inflammation, increased satiety, and supported immune function. 

Hemp protein comes from the hemp seed and is a complete source of protein as it contains all nine essential amino acids. This type of plant protein is also great for your heart health as it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Not only this, but hemp protein is a great source of fibre and contains important minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron. When it comes to taste, hemp protein powder offers a nutty or earthy taste, but it has been said to have a bit of a sandy texture, so it may be more suitable for baking. If your goal is to improve your health and well-being, singluar hemp protein offers the nutrients to support you and stands out with its high levels of fibre to support gut health and blood sugar control (David, L. 2022).

Pea protein powder, derived from yellow split peas, is another complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. It offers numerous benefits for those striving to achieve their health goals. Notably, it supports muscle growth and strength when combined with exercise and can be as effective as whey protein in building muscle mass. It offers an earthy and mild flavour and is common in vegan protein blends. Pea protein contains high amounts of iron and is one of the best plant-based options if you’re looking for a complete protein profile to support muscle growth or repair. If you're seeking a vegan protein powder, pea protein is an excellent choice (David, L. 2022).

Peanuts are a well-known source of protein, so it’s understandable that it has made its way into protein powder form. Peanut protein delivers a profile of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your health and muscle goals. How does it taste? Let’s just say that when you’re consuming peanut protein powder, you will know it’s peanut protein. Peanut protein contains biotin, copper, niacin, folate, manganese, vitamin E, thiamine, phosphorus, and magnesium. This type of plant protein can be useful as part of a weight loss diet and is high in healthy fats (Arnarson, A. 2023). 

Almond protein powder has become one of the most popular plant protein options on the market, delivering a great source of fibre, protein, and other nutrients. Almond protein is a good source of vitamin E, biotin, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and copper and may also offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Just like peanut protein, the flavour profile is easily distinguishable as being from almonds, and these options are generally grain-free and easy to mix. For those who may have peanut allergies, an almond protein powder may be a more suitable option. This option is a good source of protein and is ideal for muscle repair and rebuilding after exercise (Sass, C. 2023). 

Choosing the right vegan protein powder can be a daunting task. There are so many options available, and it's important to find the one that's just right for your needs. When it comes to vegan protein, it's crucial to look for a powder that is free of sugars, GMO-free and has a balanced amino profile. One of the key things to avoid is (unsurprisingly) animal products, as well as added sugars, artificial preservatives, sweeteners and flavours, and added fibres like inulin (Younkin, L. 2021) .

Another important factor to consider is the protein percentage, as it can vary from brand to brand and goal to goal. In general, you should look for protein powders that contain between 25-30 grams of protein power serving. Finding the perfect vegan protein powder can be time-consuming, but it's worth the effort for your overall health and fitness. And don’t worry, before you tap out of this article, we’ve broken it down for you below. Keep scrolling.

There is a common misconception that whey protein powders are superior to plant-based options when it comes to building muscle and promoting recovery after a workout. However, it's time to debunk this myth and shed light on the effectiveness of plant-based protein powders.

With options like lean vegan protein powder and vegan protein powder that are made from high-quality ingredients like pea protein, almond protein, and hemp protein, plant-based protein powders offer comparable benefits to whey protein powder. People often claim that plant-based protein powders are worse because they don’t have a complete amino acid profile, but that isn’t true. There are plenty of plant-based options that contain complete amino acid profiles to support your goals. One of the most common ways this is achieved is through plant protein blends, which combine multiple (2-3) sources of plant protein to ensure a complete profile (Davidson, K. 2021) .

These options not only provide optimal amounts of protein but also offer additional health benefits such as lower calorie profiles, higher fibre content for supporting a healthy gut and the digestive benefits of being gluten-free and lactose-free. This is ideal for those with digestive and food sensitivities, and for those trying to build muscle, they can be just as effective for muscle growth and repair if they contain the same protein percentage and a complete amino acid profile (Davidson, K. 2021).

Whether you follow a vegan diet or are looking to switch up your protein routine, don't underestimate the effectiveness of plant-based protein powders!

Let’s stop talking and take a look at some of the best vegan protein powders available at ASN.

Here’s a look into our best-tasting vegan protein powders.

Evolve Vegan Protein is the ultimate choice for those seeking the best-tasting vegan protein powder. With a smooth texture, delightful natural flavours, and no artificial ingredients, it offers a delicious low-sugar, high-protein formula. Packed with amino acids and wholesome nutrition, it supports muscle repair and results. This plant-based protein powder, with its exceptional taste and performance, is the perfect option for anyone looking for a vegan-friendly, high-quality post-workout protein shake. 

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Plant Protein is a standout among the best-tasting vegan protein powders. Crafted from a blend of pea, fava bean, and brown rice proteins, this vegan-friendly protein powder is not only among the best tasting but also supports lean muscle growth, recovery, and performance. With 24g of plant-based protein per serving, it provides essential amino acids for muscle health. This premium blend contains no artificial sweeteners or flavours and is perfect as a protein snack or meal replacement, delivering just 150 calories per serving.

Check out our best natural plant protein powder at ASN.

Gen-Tec Complete Vegan Protein stands out as the most reliable natural vegan protein powder. It boasts a 100% natural formula, making it vegan-friendly and gluten-free. With its delectable taste, smooth consistency, and powerful benefits, it supports muscle growth, aids in energy production, and supports muscle repair. Fortified with plant-based L-glutamine, BCAAs, an alkalising super greens blend, and MCTs, this protein powder is designed to meet the needs of hard-training athletes while adhering to dietary preferences.

White Wolf Natural & Lean Plant Protein Blend is the perfect choice for those seeking the best natural vegan protein. With only 105 calories per serving, it is low-carb, vegan-friendly, and free from gluten, dairy, soy, egg, and nuts. Packed with 22.7g of protein from organic pea, pumpkin seed, and watermelon seed sources, it supports and repairs muscles after exercise. This protein powder also includes DigeZyme® Digestive Enzymes for optimal digestion and LactoSpore® Probiotic for gut health.

Look at our best mass gainer plant-based protein powders.

Prana ON Natural Mass is the most suitable vegan protein powder for those seeking a plant-based mass gainer. Offering a 100% natural formula that's gluten-free, dairy-free, and GMO-free, this formula is packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats like MCT and flax, and dietary fibre to support muscle growth and recovery. With premium ingredients like coconut MCTs, CreaPure'® Creatine Monohydrate, and fermented L-glutamine, it's the ideal choice for gaining mass naturally. Each serving provides over 45g of carbohydrates, 30g of protein, and 10g of healthy fats, delivering a nutrient-rich formula with 375 calories. Experience real, natural gains without compromising dietary requirements.

On the shred? Peep our best lean vegan protein powders.

Blessed Plant Protein is the ultimate lean vegan protein powder. With 23g of protein per scoop, it offers fast-absorbing raw activated pea protein isolate from pure golden yellow peas, which is the highest quality source available. This highly effective protein supports lean muscle growth and recovery with its inclusive amino acid profile. It also helps with your body goals due to its low-carb formula. With six delicious flavours, this 100% vegan protein is nutrient-rich and perfect for achieving your body goals. 

Switch Nutrition Protein Switch is a suitable lean vegan protein powder. With its carefully selected blend of sprouted organic vegan proteins, it supports lean muscle growth and recovery. This delicious and fast-absorbing protein is perfect for post-workout nutrition. It stands out with its smooth and creamy consistency. Featuring organic sprouted pumpkin seed, sprouted watermelon seed, sprouted hemp seed, organic sprouted pea protein, and wild-crafted algae protein, it provides a complete source of highly digestible protein, fibre, and essential oils. VELOSITOL® supports absorption and utilisation, further maximising the lean muscle growth benefits. 

Nourish your immune system with our best gut-friendly plant protein powder.

Phyba PLNT Protein is the most suitable gut-friendly vegan protein powder. With an innovative Gut Matrix™, this Australian-made postbiotic gem supports healthy digestion and nutrient utilisation. Packed with 22g of organic pea protein per serving, it also features watermelon seed protein, sunflower seed protein, and pumpkin seed protein for a delectable protein profile. This vegan-friendly formula includes all nine essential amino acids derived naturally from a blend of legumes and seeds. Low in calories and macro-friendly, PNLT Protein comes in a variety of delicious flavours to support your gut health and digestion goals.

Macro Mike Peanut Protein is a gut-friendly plant-based protein powder crafted with care. This powerhouse formula delivers a remarkable 25g of complete protein per serving and offers a creamy texture and a blend of peanut, pea, and rice protein. Packed with fibre, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, this 100% natural supplement supports gut health, muscle repair and muscle growth. If you’re looking for a gut-friendly option, Macro Mike's Peanut Plant Protein is a top choice to nourish your body while maintaining a vegan lifestyle. 

In conclusion, vegan protein powders have proved to be an excellent and healthy way to meet your protein requirements. Thanks to the numerous plant-based options available on the market, it’s easy to fuel your physique and health goals without the need for whey protein. Moreover, vegan protein powders can provide you with a wide range of amino acids, better digestion, and, most importantly, a guilt-free protein source. So, whether you are a vegan or just looking at adopting a flexitarian approach, consider vegan protein powders to help you meet your health and fitness goals.

For further education on the benefits of plant-based protein powder or for assistance in finding the best vegan protein powders, we’ve got you covered. Simply head in-store or reach out online, and our friendly team will gladly direct you towards the best-tasting vegan protein powder.

David, L. 2022, ‘Vegan Protein Powder: Types and Benefits’, Very Well Fit, accessed February 2024, https://www.verywellfit.com/vegan-protein-powder-types-and-benefits-5524743#:~:text=A%20vegan%20protein%20powder%20is,contain%20high%20amounts%20of%20protein.

Arnarson, A. 2023, ‘Peanuts 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits’, Healthline, accessed February 2024, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/peanuts 

Sass, C. 2023, ‘What Is Almond Protein?’ Health.com, accessed February 2024, https://www.health.com/nutrition/almond-protein-powder 

Younkin, L. 2021, ‘What Are the Best Vegan Protein Powders?’ Eating Well, accessed February 2024, https://www.eatingwell.com/article/291134/what-are-the-best-vegan-protein-powders/ 

Davidson, K. 2021, ‘Plant-Based Protein vs. Whey Protein: Which Is Better?’ Healthline, accessed February 2024, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/whey-vs-plant-protein