Best Vegan Protein Powder: Top Choices in 2023 and 2024

There are many reasons for choosing a plant-based protein powder over an animal based protein powder. You might be vegan, vegetarian, or trying to cut back on animal products. Or maybe you have a lactose intolerance. No matter the reason - you might be looking for the best vegan protein powder to make sure you're getting enough protein for the best results in your workouts and wellbeing. There are many different types of protein powders on the market, but which ones contain high-quality plant-based protein sources? And how can you decide which one is best? Don't worry, we'll let you in on all there is to know! 

One thing to watch out for in particular is the protein quality - ensuring that you get a complete protein profile containing all non-essential and essential amino acids your body needs to build and maintain muscle mass. Since some plant based protein sources on their own might boost your protein intake, but are incomplete or very low on one or the other amino acid, they are often blended to optimise and balance the amino acid profile of the mix. Many popular protein powders are made from a blend of for example soy protein, pea protein and rice protein [1]. 

By opting for such a vegan blend, you are not only choosing a high-quality, nutrient-dense protein option to boost your protein intake. You're also making an environmentally conscious decision. This is because these plant-based sources of protein have a lower environmental impact compared to animal-derived proteins like whey protein or casein. By choosing vegan protein in your daily routine, you can build muscle and take care of the planet at the same time [2].

How to Spot the Best Vegan Protein Powder in 2023 and 2024

If you want to choose the best vegan protein shake there are several factors you should consider. First and foremost there's the protein content and protein source. Look for complete plant-based proteins such as pea, rice and soy and pay attention to the nutritional profile of each powder. 

Of course you also want to enjoy your protein, so taste and texture will play an important role in your choice. To ensure the best experience with your high protein shakes, smoothies, protein pancakes or even homemade protein bars, go for products with pleasant but not overpowering flavours and a smooth texture. 

If your focus is on enhanced muscle gain and muscle mass maintenance you should also make sure you get more protein that is high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) like leucine [3]. Additionally, pick one that has a good fibre content and no added sugar. 

Lastly, less is more! Keep an eye on the ingredient list and pick products with a low number of ingredients and without artificial flavours, sweeteners and fillers. 

Choose the Best Plant Protein Blend

Some popular vegan protein options to consider are:

Pea Protein 

One of the best plant-based protein options around. Pea protein isolate is a good choice for those with allergies or sensitivities, as it's typically gluten-free and hypoallergenic [4].

Hemp Protein 

This protein contains omega-3 fats and is rich in fiber. It’s also a good source of essential amino acids (EAAs) but may have a slightly grittier texture than other alternatives.

Brown Rice Protein 

It's another hypoallergenic option with a smoother texture. It is however low in some EAAs like lysine - so combining it with other proteins like pea protein is recommended [5].

Pumpkin Seed Protein 

High in fiber, pumpkin seed protein is easily digestible and has a mild taste.

Soy Protein 

Soy protein is a complete protein, offering all EAAs - making it an excellent choice for muscle building and overall nutrition. It's found in most common vegan protein supplements [6]. Soy protein isolate is particularly beneficial for those looking to increase their protein intake without the allergens commonly found in dairy-based proteins.

A blend between pea and brown rice protein, with or without soy, is widely considered the best vegan protein option due to its balanced amino acid profile. This combination offers great nutritional value, texture, and protein per serve along with all the EAAs your body needs. Always check your vegan protein label for nutritional information and make sure the product aligns with your dietary goals.

WAM Protein+: A High Performance Protein Shake

Before we dive into our conclusion, let's take a moment to spotlight our WAM Protein+. Our vegan protein powder is a carefully crafted combination of soy, rice, and pea protein powder, enriched with an extra boost of leucine - the amino acid responsible for kickstarting muscle protein synthesis.  

What sets our protein apart is its focus on optimizing the balance of essential amino acids. By incorporating WAM Protein into your diet, you're not only choosing a protein that supports your fitness goals. It's designed for those who are serious about their health and their impact on the planet, providing a high-quality, nutrient-dense protein source with minimal environmental footprint. Our packaging is easy to recycle and we're not adding a single-use plastic scoop like others.

But our protein is not just about its nutritional profile; it's also outstanding in taste and texture. We've ensured that our blend is delicious but not overpowering - making it easy to mix and perfect for your daily shakes, smoothies or even baking recipes. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking for a vegan protein powder that doesn't compromise on flavour or nutritional benefits.

By choosing WAM Protein+, you're not only nourishing your body with top-notch plant-based premium protein but also contributing to a more sustainable and ethical food system. It's our commitment to offer a product that aligns with your dietary goals and ethical values.

Best Vegan Protein Blend: Conclusion

Choosing the right vegan protein powder can be overwhelming due to the sheer variety of vegan options available. However, you can't go wrong with a blend containing protein from soy, pea and rice - like in WAM Protein+. Rice and Pea protein complement each other. Rice protein provides the amino acids that may be lacking in pea protein and vice versa. Combining these vegan proteins leads to a complete amino acid profile vital for muscle growth and repair.

Look for products free from artificial additives, fillers, and sweeteners. By choosing the right vegan protein you can enjoy a delicious and easily digestible shake that supports your fitness goals and contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Remember to stay consistent with your protein intake - especially on a vegan diet - and combine it with lots of whole foods and regular exercise to maximise the benefits! And as always, if you have any questions, just reach out to us!

Sources

[1] Gorissen SHM, Crombag JJR, Senden JMG, Waterval WAH, Bierau J, Verdijk LB, van Loon LJC. Protein content and amino acid composition of commercially available plant-based protein isolates. Amino Acids. 2018 Dec;50(12):1685-1695.

[2] Fresán U, Sabaté J. Vegetarian Diets: Planetary Health and Its Alignment with Human Health. Adv Nutr. 2019 Nov 1;10(Suppl_4):S380-S388.

[3] Plotkin DL, Delcastillo K, Van Every DW, Tipton KD, Aragon AA, Schoenfeld BJ. Isolated Leucine and Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplementation for Enhancing Muscular Strength and Hypertrophy: A Narrative Review. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2021 May 1;31(3):292-301.

[4] Shen Y, Hong S, Li Y. Pea protein composition, functionality, modification, and food applications: A review. Adv Food Nutr Res. 2022;101:71-127. 

[5] Moon JM, Ratliff KM, Blumkaitis JC, Harty PS, Zabriskie HA, Stecker RA, Currier BS, Jagim AR, Jäger R, Purpura M, Kerksick CM. Effects of daily 24-gram doses of rice or whey protein on resistance training adaptations in trained males. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2020 Dec 1;17(1):60.