Plant-based protein: The best vegan protein powders at Planet Organic
Fuelling your plant-based fitness journey, finding the right vegan protein powder is essential for supporting muscle growth and recovery as well as contributing to your overall health and fitness goals. Protein powders are one of the most popular nutrition supplements on the market and with the rising popularity of a vegan lifestyle, there are now many plant-based alternatives to choose from.
With so many types of vegan proteins available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one best suits your needs and dietary preferences. Keep reading as we discuss the various vegan protein powder options available to you.
What is vegan protein powder?
Vegan protein powder is a high-protein supplement derived from various plant-based sources, as opposed to traditional protein powders from animal derivatives such as whey and casein. They can come in many different forms, however, there are four main types of plant-based proteins that are typically used to create vegan protein powders - hemp, soy, pea and brown rice.
Hemp Protein
This plant-based protein is derived from hemp seeds which contain a rich source of protein along with nine essential amino acids, healthy fats, and minerals. Hemp is also a great source of fibre and contains omega-3 and omega-6 acids which help to contribute to heart health and reduce inflammation. Hemp protein has a slightly nutty flavour that can enhance the taste of whatever smoothie or food you add it to.
Soy Protein
Soy protein is one of the most popular choices among those following a plant-based or dairy-free diet due to its high protein content and amino acid profile. Made from soybeans, which are rich in arginine that aids in muscle growth and repair, soy protein is a complete protein source with many health benefits. We recommend opting for an organic or non-GMO soy protein to ensure you are getting the highest quality.
Pea Protein
Derived from yellow split peas, pea protein is a lean protein source which can help aid digestion and keep you fuller for longer. This protein is more easily digestible than some other plant-based sources and is free from common allergens such as soy and gluten, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Brown Rice Protein
Extracted from whole-grain brown rice, this protein powder is ideal for those with allergies as it is naturally hypoallergenic and easily digestible. Containing a balanced amino acid profile, including cysteine and methionine, this protein powder is great for muscle repair and antioxidant support.
Is vegan protein powder good for you?
Yes, vegan protein powder has many benefits, one of the main ones being that it helps those who do not eat meat and dairy to conveniently achieve their daily protein requirements. Those following a vegan diet will often be at a disadvantage when it comes to how much naturally occurring protein they are consuming daily. Therefore, a plant-based protein powder can be greatly beneficial to helping vegans increase their protein intake and maintain a healthy diet.
Even if you are not following a vegan or vegetarian diet, plant-based protein powder can have a range of benefits for both your body and the environment.
- Diet diversity - If your primary protein intake comes from meat sources, using plant-based protein powder can be a great way to diversify your diet and get protein from more than one source. A diversified diet can also place less stress on your gut and digestive system, especially for those who may have a lactose intolerance and may feel bloated and gassy after consuming whey protein.
- More vitamins and minerals - Most plant-based proteins contain a higher number of vitamins compared to traditional whey protein powders, which play an important role in keeping your body healthy. If you eat a largely carnivorous diet, plant-based protein powders are a great way to help you hit your 5-a-day goals.
- Aid in weight loss - Although this is not the main focus of vegan protein powders, plant-based proteins do have a significantly higher fibre content, meaning your body will take longer to digest it. This longer digestion period can be highly beneficial as the more your body works at metabolising plant protein, the more effective and efficient your body will become at metabolising your food.
What’s the best vegan protein powder?
Form Performance Protein Chocolate Peanut and Form Peakblend - Chocolate Peanut
Form is home to some of the best vegan protein powders that contain a complete source of organic pea, hemp and brown rice proteins. Available in a range of delicious flavours including this Chocolate Peanut blend, this plant-based protein option delivers 30 grams of complete amino acid profile per serving, to give you a post-workout recovery drink that has all of your essential proteins and probiotics in every sip. Whether you add it to a smoothie, oats or simply mix it with your favourite plant-based milk, this protein powder has everything you need for post-workout recovery.
When life gets busy, having a convenient way to get your protein intake and a meal in one can make all the difference. This Peakblend vegan protein has everything you need for a simple, nutritionally complete vegan meal that is more than just a protein shake. Containing organic pea protein, brown rice protein, gluten-free oat powder and a blend of essential vitamins and minerals, Peakblend reimagines the award-winning vegan protein from Form to create a perfectly balanced, great-tasting, protein-filled vegan meal replacement.
Vivo Life Sport Perform: Salted Maca Caramel and Nuzest Clean Lean Protein Smooth Vanilla
Much more than just a protein powder, this Vivo Life Sport Perform raw planet protein combines pea protein and hemp protein with a plant-based BCAA blend to provide a nutritionally dense protein that helps promote muscle recovery. Providing you with 25 grams of protein, and 6 grams of BCAA per serving, this plant-based protein powder not only supports your energy but can also help to improve your performance during and after workouts. With a silky-smooth texture and delicious salted maca caramel taste, this vegan protein includes 100% raw ingredients to support optimal digestion.
If you’re looking for a clean and simple protein with minimal ingredients then the Nuzest Clean Lean Protein is the one for you. Containing only three ingredients - pea protein, natural vanilla flavouring and steviol sweetener, this plant-based protein is free from allergens, additives and unwanted chemicals. The peas used in this protein powder are sustainably grown in Europe with no presence of pesticides or fertilisers, making this powder a clean source of 20 grams of complete pea protein in each serving. Add it to smoothies, pancake mix, oats and more, this vegan protein is highly versatile and delicious.
