There are plenty of high-quality vegan protein powders on the market, so we set out to determine the best. (Kelli McGrane/Yahoo)
Looking for a protein powder that's kind to your body and the planet? While vegan protein powders are marketed toward plant-based eaters, they're definitely not just for vegans. According to sports dietitian Ellen Landes, the best vegan protein powder offers a powerhouse blend of nutrients, diverse amino acids and eco-friendly benefits. "Vegan protein powder is a great way to ensure you are getting enough protein into your diet when you have dietary restrictions, allergies or have issues digesting a whey protein," says Bridget Isaacs, a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Massachusetts.
Whether you're eating plant-based full time or just want to mix things up, these powders can fit right into your lifestyle — ethically and nutritionally.
Sure, whey has been the MVP of muscle building for years. But research shows that as long as your plant-based powder includes all nine essential amino acids, it can be just as effective for strength and recovery. Bonus: A quick shake makes for a super-easy snack or post-workout fuel, and it can help support weight goals or simply boost your daily protein intake.
Vegan protein comes from all sorts of plants, each with its own pros and cons. Brown rice protein, for example, is budget-friendly but lacks one essential amino acid. On the other hand, pea protein is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, but it can be higher in sodium and a bit pricier. So, which one is right for you? The decision comes down to your budget, taste preferences and health goals.
As a registered dietitian with more than 13 years of recommending (and personally using) protein powders, I set out to make your search easier. I consulted two of my fellow RDs, researched over 20 products and taste-tested the top contenders. Here's what made the cut.
Related: If you're looking to boost your protein intake but aren't 100% sure that a plant-based powder is right for you, check out our lists of the best protein powders for women and the best overall protein powders.
A note on supplements
The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
Update, July 3, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for best overall vegan protein powder is unchanged.
Vegan protein powders each have their own benefits, drawbacks and nutritional profiles. Here's a closer look at the most common types and what sets them apart:
Brown rice protein: Brown rice protein powder tends to be more affordable and is a good source of BCAAs. That said, it isn't a complete protein source, and rice-based powders are more susceptible to heavy metal contamination. For this reason, if you opt for a rice-based powder, choose one that's third-party-tested for heavy metals and other contaminants.
Hemp protein: Sourced from the seeds of industrial hemp plants, hemp protein is cultivated to contain only trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), so there's no need to worry about any psychoactive effects. Packed with nutrients, hemp protein is an excellent source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, healthy fats (including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids), zinc, magnesium and iron. However, it falls short of being a complete protein due to its low lysine content.
Pea protein: This protein is derived from yellow peas and is a standout choice for vegans. It provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein, and it's naturally rich in iron. Another advantage is easier digestibility, which makes it more gentle on the stomach than other plant-based protein sources.
Soy protein: Extracted from soybeans, soy protein is a complete protein source. In other words, it doesn’t require blending with other sources to provide all essential amino acids, says Landes. Additionally, soy is known for its digestibility, making it a reliable option for many. That said, it may not be ideal for individuals with soy allergies or thyroid-related concerns.
Blended plant protein: These protein powders combine multiple plant-based sources, such as chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, rice and pea protein. The blends typically create a complete amino acid profile, providing all nine essential amino acids. Most notably, these powders include sufficient amounts of leucine, a key amino acid that supports muscle growth and recovery.
There’s plenty to think about when you're shopping for the right vegan protein powder for your goals. Here are the key factors to consider to help you find a product that aligns with your preferences, lifestyle and budget:
Protein content: Your protein needs will vary depending on factors like your activity level and fitness goals. Athletes typically require a higher protein intake, but as a rule of thumb, look for a powder that provides at least 20 grams of protein per serving.
Amino acid profile: For optimal muscle building and recovery, choose powders that include all nine essential amino acids. Prioritize those with adequate levels of leucine, a critical amino acid for muscle growth.
Nutritional profile: Protein powders vary in calories, carbs and saturated fats. Select one that aligns with your dietary requirements, whether you’re focused on weight management, muscle building or overall health.
Taste and available flavors: Many powders come in standard flavors like chocolate and vanilla, which are great for smoothies. For more versatility, consider unflavored options for mixing into oatmeal, soups or yogurt. If you have a sweet tooth, dessert-inspired flavors like mint chocolate chip or birthday cake can satisfy cravings. Checking online reviews or sampling smaller sizes can help you decide if a flavor suits your palate.
Type of sweetener: "Someone being extremely mindful of their added sugar intake might lean toward a protein powder sweetened with stevia or an artificial sweetener, while someone who dislikes the taste of stevia might opt for an artificial sweetener or sugar," says Isaacs. Note that sugar alcohols, like erythritol, may cause digestive issues when consumed in large quantities.
Ease of mixing: Some powders blend effortlessly in a shaker bottle, while others require an electric blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Again, reading online reviews and buying sample-size packets are good ways to get a sense of a powder's texture and find out how easily it mixes.
Digestibility: Ingredients like inulin, fibers and certain sweeteners or preservatives may affect digestion differently for everyone. If you're prone to bloating or other digestive discomfort, look for powders labeled as easy to digest or free of specific irritants.
Organic: If you prefer organic products, choose powders certified by the USDA to ensure they meet strict organic standards.
Additional nutrients: Some powders include extras like vitamins, minerals or adaptogens. Check whether you’re already getting these nutrients elsewhere or if they might interact with any medications you’re taking.
Dietary needs and restrictions: If you have allergies or specific dietary preferences, such as a gluten-free, soy-free or nut-free diet, carefully review the ingredient list.
Third-party testing: For peace of mind, opt for third-party-tested products to ensure label accuracy and screening for heavy metals and contaminants. Competitive athletes should look for certifications like NSF or Informed Sport to guarantee compliance with sporting standards.
Value: Prices range widely, but the cheapest powders may come with more artificial ingredients or lower-quality protein sources. Balance affordability with quality when choosing your powder.
Ultimately, simplicity is key. As Landes advises, "Look for complete protein blends, minimal additives, third-party testing and, of course, a flavor profile you enjoy."
Finding the best vegan protein powders was no easy task. To start, we consulted two registered dietitians, one of whom is also a certified personal trainer, to identify the key factors to look for in a high-quality plant-based protein powder. As a registered dietitian with over 13 years of experience using vegan and whey-based protein powders, I also drew on my knowledge of brands and ingredients to help curate the final list of products for testing.
From an initial pool of 20 brands, we selected 10 impressive products based on ingredient quality, nutritional profiles, third-party certifications, expert recommendations and online reviews. For the initial testing phase, I mixed one serving of each powder with 12 ounces of water or, as directed by the product's label, using a blender bottle. I then evaluated ease of mixing, texture, flavor and aftertaste.
To ensure a thorough review, I tested each powder again over two weeks by incorporating it into smoothies, stirring it into overnight oats or mixing it with oat milk post-workout. This hands-on process allowed me to assess each product's versatility, flavor and overall performance.
Just Ingredients Vegan Protein Powder: I really wanted to like this powder, as it has a short ingredient list and is free from sugar alcohols, artificial additives and gluten. Plus, the company's whey protein powder is one of my favorites. Unfortunately, the Roasted Chocolate just wasn't my cup of tea. It had a strong cinnamon flavor and not enough sweetness to balance the bitterness from the cacao. While it mixed well, it was one of the grittiest options I tested.
Ka'Chava Nutrition Shakes: While it might be worth trying if you're looking for a vegan meal replacement shake, I didn't love Ka'Chava as much as I wanted to, especially given the price. The consistency was very thick, and the flavor was a bit too earthy. While I wouldn't say the taste is terrible, it wasn't my favorite. However, the biggest drawback was the texture, which was very gritty.
Neue Theory Plant-Based Probiotic Protein Powder: Formulated by registered dietitian Abbey Sharp, Neue Theory has a solid nutrition profile, including 500 milligrams of leucine to support muscle growth. The powder is easy to mix, and I especially liked how creamy the French Vanilla flavor was. But its high price tag and limited availability (it's available only on the company's website) narrowly kept it from making our top picks.
OWYN Plant-Based Protein Powder: This is a good option for people with food allergies, as it's third-party-tested to ensure it's free of nine of the top allergens. The powder comes in two flavors and includes a superfood greens blend for an added nutrient boost. Despite being free of artificial additives and sugar alcohols, the powder had a strong artificial taste and smell. The texture was also quite gritty after being mixed with water or milk.
"Generally, a plant-based protein powder doesn't have as much protein per serving [compared to whey]," says Isaacs. Landes adds, "Plant-based powders are typically lower in leucine, a key amino acid for muscle protein synthesis. To match whey's benefits, you may need a slightly larger serving of plant protein or a blend of sources, like rice and pea, to ensure adequate leucine intake and a complete amino acid profile."
"Yes, plant-based powders can help increase overall protein, which is important for muscle gain and recovery. It's been shown to be as effective as whey protein for muscle growth when the leucine content is equal," says Landes.
Some people may experience digestive issues with vegan protein powders. "Similar to animal-based protein powders, common side effects might include bloating, gas or an upset stomach. These are often caused by gums, additives or individual sensitivities to certain ingredients," Landes says.
"I always recommend getting as much protein as possible from whole foods rather than supplements like protein powders or bars," Isaacs says. "Although it may be safe to consume two servings of protein powder daily, I encourage clients to limit their intake to one serving whenever possible."
Complete plant proteins provide all nine essential amino acids that your body needs, while incomplete plant proteins are missing one or more.
Bridget Isaacs, MS, RDN, Nutrition by Bridget
Ellen Landes, MS, RDN, CPT, The Runner's Dietitian
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.