As registered dietitians, we get asked daily about easy ways to boost protein intake and about our recommendations for protein powders. Since we regularly use protein powders ourselves we decided to share our favorites so you don’t feel so overwhelmed by all of the options out there!
For the last two years, our team has been evaluating, tasting, and crunching numbers and ingredient lists on an-going basis so we can confidently say that these are the some of the best ones out there based on quality, efficacy (if the amounts and types of nutrients are appropriate), dissolubility (how the powders dissolve in liquid), and taste.
Each product we tested is 100% plant-based and therefore suitable for a vegan diet. None of the products we tested are intended to be a meal replacement or for use strictly for the purpose of weight loss.
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Dietitian-Approved Plant Based Protein Powders
In recent years, the number of plant-based protein powders available has skyrocketed. The popularity of plant-based diets and people avoiding dairy has many seeking out an alternative to whey protein to help them meet their protein needs.
But with so many options available, it can be hard to know if a protein powder is as healthy as the label makes it sound and provides well-rounded nutrition. In our deep-dive analysis to find the best ones, we found impressive products full of whole-food, plant-based nutrients from a variety of legumes, ancient grains, and food sources such as nuts, and seeds that may offer a host of health benefits.
Some formulations also included protein blends, probiotics, digestive enzymes, antioxidant blends, and adaptogens. Other products fell into the “not-so-impressive” category, with plant-based ingredients that had been stripped of vitamins, minerals, and fiber so the protein content would be boosted. And well, some looked great on the label but we couldn’t get past the taste or texture.
Looking for dietitian-approved recommendations for protein bars? Here we share our favorite protein bars and why we love them.
Our criteria to find the best plant based protein powder
We considered and discussed at length the following criteria as we created this comprehensive list of our top dietitian-recommended plant-based protein powders:
- Taste – this was criteria number one; if it didn’t taste good, it didn’t make the cut! We tested these protein powders mixed with just water, shaken with non-dairy milks (such as almond milk), and blended into smoothies
- Protein source – we checked to make sure the source and amount of protein in the powders was appropriate and of good quality to supply a variety of essential and non-essential amino acids, and complete protein profiles
- Ingredient quality – we favored blends that were made from plant sources grown in quality organic soil and those that were sourced responsibly and provided ingredient traceability
- Certifications and 3rd-party testing – when it comes to nutritional powders and other supplements, certifications and verified 3rd-party testing are some of the best ways to ensure the quality, truthfulness, and good manufacturing practices of what’s in the product. That is why we favored plant based protein powders that had certifications (ie: certified organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, certified gluten-free, NSF certified for sport, etc.) and those that could prove they had undergone 3rd-party lab testing for contaminants and banned substances
- Efficacy – we checked the calories, amino acid profile, vitamin and mineral content, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, probiotic blends, and much more to make sure the numbers and variety of these nutrients was in an appropriate range for how plant protein powders are commonly used
- Sweetener – through our sampling of dozens and dozens of plant protein powders, we discovered there are not many blends available that don’t include a sweetener. Most powders are sweetened with stevia or monk fruit (lo han guo) or a combination of those. Sometimes we found the sweetener level to be appropriate, while other times the sweetener was off-putting, overwhelming, or created a yucky aftertaste. Read below for our recommendation of best plant based protein powder that
- Price and availability – we made note of the price per serving, as well as how easily someone can purchase each product at a local store or directly online at retailers such as Amazon or Thrive Market
The best plant based Protein powders
According to The Real Food Dietitians
Here are our recommendations for plant based protein powders in no particular order as well as our recommendation for the overall best based on our findings. Scroll down to read more about why these brands stood out to us.
Our Top Pick
Ora Plant-Based Superfood Protein
This impressive blend is lean and clean, just as the name implies. In addition to the plant-based protein in each serving, you get a loaded superfood blend made from dehydrated organic berries, veggies, and coconut milk. Our entire team found the taste to be pleasing, even Jess who doesn’t love the taste of
monk fruit, thought it was good and had no complaints when she added it to a smoothie.
- About the protein: The protein comes from organic pea protein, brown rice protein, amaranth, quinoa, and sacha inchi seeds. Two scoops (30 to 32 g) provides 21-23 grams of protein per serving, depending on the flavor, to support overall wellness and muscle growth and repair
- Other nutrient highlights: This plant protein powder incorporates a blend of 19 organic superfoods and whole-food powders, including cranberry, apple, blackberry, acerola, blueberry, broccoli, alfalfa, Jerusalem artichoke, kale, pomegranate, strawberry, turmeric, coconut milk, and more. It also includes a digestive enzyme blend to improve nutrient absorption, as well as 6-7 grams of iron (33-39% of the RDA for women which makes this a good source of iron)
- Certifications: USDA Organic certified and 3rd-party tested with four accredited lab partners; kosher; dairy free, soy free, gluten free. Also free of wheat, shellfish, eggs, peanuts, and soy making it allergen-friendly for most consumers. You can learn more about the testing and results here.
- About the sweetener: Contains zero grams of added sugar; the flavored versions are sweetened with organic monk fruit and organic stevia
- Cost per serving: $1.90 per serving (20 servings per carton)
- Flavors: unflavored and unsweetened, vanilla, chocolate, and vanilla chai
Ora would like to offer you 10% off your order with code REALFOOD10
Best For Pre- and Post-Workout
Ascent Plant Protein
Ana from our team have been fans of Ascent protein for years to fuel her heavy power lifting workouts, citing that this is one plant-based protein powder that is good even when just mixed with water in a shaker bottle (most aren’t) so that says something.
- About the protein: Ascent Plant Protein contains a blend of pea protein isolate, sunflower seed protein, and pumpkin seed protein. A large single scoop (41 g) provides 25 grams of protein and a complete amino acid profile, including 4 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) for to support efforts to build muscle and recover better after hard efforts
- Other nutrient highlights: We love this choice for post-workout recovery because of the high amount of amino acids available and high protein content (compared to other brands). Also noteworthy was the short ingredient list and high iron content (7 mg).
- Certifications: USDA Organic certified, certified gluten free, and third-party tested by Informed Sport Certified which tests for over 250 banned substances; also gluten free, dairy free, soy free
- About the sweetener: This powder contains 0 grams of added sugar; it is sweetened with organic stevia. We found it to be on the sweeter side but the level of sweetness wasn’t unpleasant
- Cost and cost per serving: $2.33 (18 servings per bag)
- Flavors: Comes in chocolate and vanilla bean (and sometimes in seasonal flavors)
An Organic Brand We Like
Garden of Life Organic Plant Protein
We really liked this brand as a protein powder for baking. It mixed well into muffin, pancake, cookie, and energy ball batter to give them a boost of protein. We find this to be an easy way to increase the lasting power of these treats so we feel full for longer and won’t be reaching for another snack between meals.
What we loved most about the Garden of Life Organic Plant Protein was that it is a high-quality protein source that didn’t leave a chalky aftertaste in our baked goods, which many plant protein powders tend to do. Instead, it blended in smoothly and even provided a subtle and delicious vanilla flavor. It’s especially good in these Vegan Protein Bars.
- About the protein: The protein comes from an organic blend of pea, tapioca flour, chia seed, flaxseed, cranberry, baobab fruit, and pumpkin seed. A single scoop (23.5 g) provides 15 grams of protein, including 18 amino acids
- Other nutrient highlights: We love that this blend includes a two-lactobacillus strain, providing 1 billion CFU of probiotics. Also included is an enzyme blend for easier absorption of nutrients
- Certifications: You really can’t beat Garden of Life’s standards when it comes to traceability of ingredients to their farmer partners. All Garden of Life products are USDA Certified Organic and their 3rd-party certifications are numerous; also dairy free, soy free, gluten free.
- About the sweetener: There are 0 grams of added sugars in a serving; the flavored Garden of Life Plant Proteins are sweetened with organic stevia extract and erythritol (a sugar alcohol). The unflavored type contains no sweeteners.
- Cost per serving: $2.26 – $3.10 per serving (10 servings per bag)
- Flavors: Unflavored unsweetened, smooth vanilla, smooth chocolate, smooth coffee, and smooth energy (contains 19 mg of caffeine from organic yerba mate). For baking, we recommend the unflavored, vanilla, and chocolate powders
Formulated For Pregnancy & Postpartum
Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
If you just need a routine with your nutrition, we think Ritual could be a good choice for you. When you place an order, you sign up for a subscription (save 20% with REALFOOD20) that has flexible dates and the ability to change products. So, you can time it so your supplement refill will be automatically sent to you just as you’re running out – convenient! As for the Ritual protein powder, we loved the taste and easy, creamy blending. And we especially appreciated that their Pregnancy & Postpartum shake was a clean, simple powder, supplying the right amount of plant-based protein and choline for pregnant and lactating women.
- About the protein: This powder contains a single-source protein from USA-grown organic pea protein. Ritual complements its pea protein with added L-methionine for a more complete amino acid profile. A single scoop (30 g) provides 20 grams of protein, an ideal digestible amount for women in one sitting
- Other nutrient highlights: Choline is a nutrient of high importance for pregnant and lactating women. It is necessary to support the brain and neural tube development of unborn and breastfeeding babies. We loved that a serving of Ritual contains 250 mg of choline, which is among the highest we found. We also appreciate the addition of organic coconut oil to supply quick-digesting healthy fats (medium-chain triglycerides or MCTs). This powder also boasts 3 grams of fiber per serving from the pea protein
- Certifications: Though Ritual is not USDA Organic certified, it does contain mostly organic ingredients. Their products are 3rd-party tested by Informed Sport Certified; also dairy free, soy free, gluten free
- About the sweetener: The Ritual powders are sweetened with fermented sugarcane (Reb-M) and monk fruit, which is nice (not overpowering)
- Cost per serving: $2.10-$2.30 (15 servings per bag)
- Flavors: Comes only in vanilla, which has subtle nuances of caramel and hints of spice
Most Unique Protein Blend
Just Ingredients Vegan Protein Powder
If you’re looking for a plant based protein powder that blends creamy and not gritty, give this one a try. Molly, our community manager, is a huge fan of Just Ingredients products and their short and simple ingredient lists.
- About the protein: This powder contains a unique blend of watermelon seed protein, pea protein powder, chia seeds, and pumpkin seed protein. Watermelon Seed Protein is a lesser-known but highly nutritious plant-based protein source that provides B vitamins, omega-3s, and various minerals.
- Other nutrient highlights: Coconut milk and MCT oil give this protein powder a creamy chocolate flavor and rich texture along with quick-digesting healthy fats (medium-chain triglycerides or MCTs).
- Certifications: Just Ingredients vegan protein powders are certified gluten-free and free of soy, dairy, eggs, and peanuts.
- About the sweetener: The sweeteners in Just Ingredients protein powder are stevia and monk fruit. We found it be a bit sweeter than other brands but the sweetness wasn’t overpowering.
- Cost per serving: $2.40 (25 servings per bag)
- Flavors: Chocolate, mint chocolate, peanut butter chocolate, vanilla bean, lemon swish, lucky mint, and snickerdoodle (Molly likes the lemon flavor best)
Just Ingredients would like to offer you 10% off with code REALFOOD
Another High-Quality Brand We Trust
Thorne VeganPro Complex
Our social media coordinator, Ana, doesn’t digest dairy well, and she enjoys this protein powder for giving her coffee, shakes, and other liquids a boost. We all appreciate that Thorne has very impressive testing standards. Their manufacturing and warehousing facilities undergo regular third-party audits to ensure compliance with the latest Good Manufacturing Practices. These audits are conducted by independent certification entities, including NSF and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which has the most stringent cGMP regulations and is often recognized as the toughest regulatory agency in the world.
- About the protein: This powder is made from a proprietary blend of fermented pea and rice protein plus chia for a complete essential amino acid profile. A two-scoop serving (52 g) provides 20 grams of protein.
- Other nutrient highlights: A serving also gives you 6 grams of fiber plus a trio of functional immune-supporting mushrooms, omega-3 fatty acids derived from algae, and methylated B12 and folate for optimal absorption.
- Certifications: This powder is gluten free, dairy free, soy free, and vegan. NSF certified.
- About the sweetener: A serving contains 4 grams of sugar (1 g of added sugar) from evaporated cane juice sugar and stevia.
- Cost per serving: $3.00 – $3.40 (15 servings per carton)
- Flavors: Comes in vanilla and chocolate
Frequently Asked Questions
A quick Google search will call out several well-known brands such as Vega Sport, Orgain Organic, Now Sports Organic Pea Protein, and Nutiva (made with hemp protein derived from organic hemp seeds) in addition to those we list above. We did test these other brands but they did not meet our criteria for taste. All of the brands we chose for our list of the best plant-based proteins have received high ratings.
Protein supplements are an easy way to boost protein intake and can be beneficial for athletes, older adults with reduced appetites, vegetarians, and vegans (those who follow a strict plant-based diet).
We like Ascent Plant-Based Protein Powder as a top pick for athletes because it mixes well with water alone. Plus it tastes good and is higher in protein than many other brands we tried. Of course, every athlete will have different needs and different tastes so we think the best protein powder for athletes is the one you will look forward to drinking and tolerate well.
While you CAN consume protein shakes daily we recommend taking a look at your diet as a whole to see where you might be able to add more protein from whole food sources before relying only on protein powders to fill the gap. For vegans and vegetarians, this can accomplished by adding minimally-processed soy products such as tofu or tempeh, whole green soy beans (edamame), higher protein grains such as quinoa, and legumes or pulses.
Try Plant Protein Powder in These Recipes
We are always sampling and reviewing new products, and we update this post annually. If there’s a plant-based protein powder you’d like us to review, leave it in the comments. If you’re a company and you’d like us to sample your product, please reach out through our contact page.
Jessie, Stacie, and Jessica all have a registered dietitian nutritionist (RD / RDN) credential, and used professional analysis and home taste tests to create this unsponsored list of plant based protein powder recommendations. Product samples were both provided and purchased. All photos and content are copyright protected. Please do not use our photos without prior written permission. If you wish to reference this content, please link back to the source here on The Real Food Dietitians. Thank you!
Hi! This is a great resource for me. Thank you! What do you think of Truvani protein powders?
Hi Kara, we have not tried the Truvani protein powders, but will add them to our list for review!
Thank you for this, great, informative article. I use Ka’Chava shakes, but you don’t mention them, which concerns me (except for an answer to a comment). Does it have to do with the xantham/guar gum? Or, something else? I love it; it is very satisfying and (surprisingly) energizing.
I’m very keen on organic and pure. 😉
Thank you.
Hi Danielle – Ka’Chava wasn’t included in the article because we simply did not try it. When this article was originally published in 2022 we had categories such as Best for X or Best for Y. We could not find a suitable number of protein powders that fell into the ‘meal replacement’ category (of which Ka’Chava is based on it’s macronutrient composition) so we opted not to include that category and thus Ka’Chava was cut from the full list.
It is one that we do plan to test as the ingredient list is good. I hope that helps!
where can a consumer received sample packets of these protein powder? Before you invest and not like the taste and wasted your money.
Most companies or brands offer money back if you are unhappy with the product. You could reach out to them directly! We hope you find a brand you enjoy.
Hi! Great list. Are any of these choices appropriate for children – age 5 and 8 – thank you!
For a plant-based protein for kids, I like the Amazing Grass Kidz Protein + Probiotics, which has 10 grams of protein per serving and sweetened with just a little bit of organic coconut sugar.
Hi! I absolutely love learning from all of you and trying your recipes. I use Lifetime’s Vegan All in One (I think they call it Fuel now) Any chance of reviewing a protein powder purchased thru the health club, Lifetime Fitness?
Hi Michelle, none of us are members of Lifetime Fitness, so we haven’t tried this brand. We’re a little hesitant to recommend a brand that people can only access as a speciality health club, since most of our readers would not be members there.