To be both vegan and dedicated to building muscle mass and strength requires an admirable level of discipline even most weightlifters can appreciate.
Unfortunately, if you're a vegan—or plant-based curious—and looking to build muscle, consuming enough protein, the macronutrient fuel that's necessary for muscular growth, can pose a challenge.
Getting enough protein can be tough enough for lifters, which is why people guzzle shakes and supplements to up their intake. Vegan and plant-based athletes can have a hard time with that, too—so it all comes down to what's in those shaker bottles.
Best Pea-Based Chocolate Vegan Protein Powder
ProMix Nutrition Plant-Based Vegan Protein Powder, Raw Chocolate
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And look, you don't have to be a vegan to want to try vegan protein powders. Maybe whey protein doesn't agree with you (it's a thing). Or maybe you're interested in adopting a more plant-based diet. The good news is that there are more vegan protein powder options out there now than ever before.
When it comes to protein powder, whey is considered the gold standard for guys who want to build muscle fast.
Thing is, whey doesn’t work for everyone. Some athletes simply can’t stomach whey (and stinking up the weight room definitely breaks all kinds of gym etiquette rules). Others are lactose intolerant. And of course vegans need plant-based protein alternatives.
But can you really build muscle with vegan protein powder? Turns out, the answer is yes—you just have to buy the right kind.
You should opt for a plant-based protein powder that mixes different types of plant proteins, explained Leslie Bonci, R.D., a nutrition consultant for the Pittsburgh Pirates. This ensures you’re consuming all the essential amino acids and a wider range of nutrients.
You could also consume a single-ingredient plant protein powder post-workout, and then make up for the missing amino acids through food later in the day, she says, since protein synthesis takes place over a 24-hour period. But let’s face it—that makes things complicated.
Note: Most plant-based protein powders come with a few grams of added sugar, and that’s for taste. But try to opt for one with as little added sugar as possible.
She recommends blending protein powder with a few ounces of orange juice. The citrus will boost the vitamin and nutrient content and offset the “earthy” taste. After all, you’ll never reap the benefits of plant-based protein powders if you can’t force yourself to drink them consistently.
The good news is that there's also a burgeoning world of pea-protein powders on the market now that are almost as good as whey when it comes to protein quality. You'll find a few of those on our list, along with blends and a few other surprises.
Here are our picks for the best vegan protein powders you can buy.
Best Pea Protein Powders | Best Tasting Protein Powders | 5 Kinds of Protein Powders | Best Whey Protein Powders | Best Protein for Muscle Gain | Best Casein Protein Powders
Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder
Vega Sport Premium Vegan Protein Powder
Vega Sport Premium Vegan Protein Powder
Pros
- NSF Certified for Sport
- Great range of flavors
- Gluten free
- No artificial flavors or added sugars
- Includes 5g BCAAs per serving
Cons
- Stevia aftertaste may bother some
- Pricey
| Protein per serving | 30g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 4g |
| Fat per serving | 3.5g |
| Calories per serving | 170 |
| Price per serving | $3.21 |
You’re all about lifting heavy, eating clean, and consuming an unholy amount of protein, an also vegan? No problem.
The Vega Sport Premium Vegan Protein Powder is made from a blend of pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, and alfalfa, offering a whopping 30 grams of protein in each 160-calorie scoop. And let's talk about that scoop - it's huge!
But it's not just about the protein. This powder includes a full range of essential amino acids, including a whopping 2.9 grams of leucine, which is more than you’d find in many whey powders. The formula also includes ingredients with recovery-boosting potential like tart cherry extract and turmeric extract. Plus, it's sweetened with stevia for a light taste.
And for all you athletes out there, it's worth noting that this protein powder is non-GMO verified, certified vegan, and NSF Certified for Sport. So if you're looking to boost your post-workout protein intake and support your recovery, this powder is a solid option to consider.
Ritual, Daily Shake 18+
Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+
Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+
Pros
- Informed Sport Certified
- No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
- Great taste
Cons
- Pricey
- Only available in one flavor
| Protein per serving | 20g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 3g |
| Fat per serving | 2g |
| Calories per serving | 115 |
| Price per serving | $2.67 |
If you're looking for a plant-based protein shake to support your workout routine, Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is definitely worth considering.
One scoop of this vegan protein powder will net you 20 grams of protein and three grams of fiber for only 115 calories. Don't worry. It doesn't taste like pea soup and instead carries a pleasant, even-keel vanilla flavor that's great in shakes.
We love that this shake contains a complete amino acid profile, ensuring that you're getting all of the essential building blocks your muscles need to recover and grow. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, making it a clean and healthy option.
As with all products from the brand, this powder is made from traceable ingredients, including organic pea protein sourced from peas grown in the United States. It's also third-party tested and Informed Sport Certified, which means that it's free of banned substances and what's advertised on the label is what's actually inside.
ProMix Vegan Protein Powder, Raw Chocolate
ProMix Nutrition Plant-Based Vegan Protein Powder, Raw Chocolate
ProMix Nutrition Plant-Based Vegan Protein Powder, Raw Chocolate
Pros
- NSF Certified for Sport
- Great flavor
- Sustainable packaging
- Keto-friendly
- Major allergen free
Cons
- Limited flavors available
| Protein per serving | 30g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 4g |
| Fat per serving | 3.5g |
| Calories per serving | 170g |
| Price per serving | $2.23 |
With 20 grams of protein per serving and a complete amino acid profile, the Plant-Based Vegan Protein Powder from ProMix is designed to support muscle recovery and growth. It's made from a blend of pea and brown rice protein, which are easy to digest and provide a well-rounded amino acid profile.
One of the best things about this powder is that it's made from organic ingredients and contains no artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors. It’s free from common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten, too, making it a great choice for anyone with food sensitivities or allergies.
The chocolate flavor is rich and satisfying, with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s easy to mix into smoothies or shakes, and works well in baking to add a protein boost to your favorite recipes.
NOW Sports Pea Protein Powder
NOW Sports Pea Protein Powder
Pros
- Informed Sport Certified
- No added sugar
- Free of major allergens
- Mixes well
Cons
- Consistency may feel chalky to some
| Protein per serving | 24g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 1g |
| Fat per serving | 2g |
| Calories per serving | 120 |
| Price per serving | $0.58 |
If you're looking to cut down on carbs and increase your protein intake, check out the Pea Protein Powder from NOW. A solid 24 grams of protein and less than 1 gram of carbs per serving make this powder a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.
It's made from yellow pea protein isolate and is free of GMOs, dairy, gluten and soy, so it's suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
More than the macros, what lands this powder on this list is its Informed Sport certification, which ensures the product is free of any banned substances.
It’s also highly versatile, coming in a range of well-received flavors, as well as an unflavored version that's great for adding to smoothies or baked goods. Plus, it’s one of the most fairly priced options on this list.
Naked Pea Protein Powder
NAKED nutrition Pea Protein Powder
NAKED nutrition Pea Protein Powder
Pros
- Minimalist formula
- Informed Choice Certified
- No artificial ingredients
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Added sugar (2g/serving)
| Protein per serving | 27g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 2g |
| Fat per serving | 0.5g |
| Calories per serving | 120 |
| Price per serving | $0.86 |
If you're more of a straight-up person when it comes to how to take your protein powder, this is the minimalist stuff. No additives. Made entirely from yellow pea protein: 27 grams of the stuff for 120 calories per two-scoop serving.
It's non-GMO and gluten-free, making it a great option for those looking for a straight-forward source. With only 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it's also a good choice for those prioritizing low-carb options.
The powder mixes easily and is free of the grittiness often associated with vegan protein, and also comes in flavored options. Naked Nutrition is transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing process, and their protein powder is third-party tested for purity and quality. It's certified by Informed Choice, too.
Nutiva Organic Cold-Pressed Raw Hemp Seed Protein Powder
Nutiva Organic Cold-Pressed Raw Hemp Seed Protein Powder
Nutiva Organic Cold-Pressed Raw Hemp Seed Protein Powder
Pros
- Organic and non-GMO
- Minimal formula
- Contains fiber
- Reasonable price
- Informed Choice Certified
Cons
- Consistency may feel gritty for some
- Earthy flavor is more detectable than other options
| Protein per serving | 15g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 8g |
| Fat per serving | 3g |
| Calories per serving | 110 |
| Price per serving | $0.75 |
If a hemp-based powder is what you're after, consider this option from Nutiva. This protein powder is made from only one ingredient, raw hemp seed, which is cold-pressed for maximum nutrient preservation.
At just 15 grams of protein per serving, it's not the most robust powder on this list, but can provide that extra boost of protein that many vegans are looking for. It's rich in fiber, too (6g/per serving), which can help with maintaining healthy digestion, managing cholesterol levels, and stabilizing blood sugar.
It has a pleasant taste when blended into a smoothie, but some buyers report an earthy flavor and gritty texture can be noticeable when consumed with water or milk in a shake alone.
This powder is third-party tested, meaning you can trust it's free of the junk you don't want. It's also organic, non-GMO, and gluten free, if any of those things are important to you.
Garden of Life Organic Protein Powder
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Vanilla Powder
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Vanilla Powder
Pros
- Informed Choice Certified
- Contains BCAAs (4g/serving)
- No added sugar
- Gluten free
Cons
- Taste may be too sweet for some
- Pricey
| Protein per serving | 22g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 4g |
| Fat per serving | 3g |
| Calories per serving | 130 |
| Price per serving | $2.35 |
Among the vegan fitness community, Garden of Life's Raw Organic Protein Powder is a top pick. It's made from a blend of 14 organic plant sources, including pea protein, millet sprout, and adzuki bean, and is free of added sugars, stevia, and GMOs.
A solid 22 grams of protein per serving and all nine essential amino acids make this protein powder a great choice for after a workout or when you need a little extra protein supplementation. It is also NSF certified and contains added probiotics for gut health benefits.
While unflavored, this protein powder is versatile and can be used in smoothies or baked goods. Plus, with only 110 calories per serving, so it can be a guilt-free addition to your nutrition routine.
Thorne VeganPro Complex
Thorne Research VeganPro Complex
Thorne Research VeganPro Complex
Pros
- Contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals
- Free of major allergens
- Clinically developed
- NSF Certified for Sport
Cons
- Expensive
- High in carbs
| Protein per serving | 20g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 18g |
| Fat per serving | 3g |
| Calories per serving | 160 |
| Price per serving | $3.27 |
Made from a blend of pea protein, rice protein, and pumpkin seed protein, VeganPro Complex provides a complete amino acid profile to support optimal muscle recovery and growth. It's fortified with L-glutamine and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are known to enhance muscle protein synthesis and reduce muscle fatigue. It's also rich fiber (5g/serving).
This powder has a rich vanilla flavor and smooth texture, and provides more carbs and calories than some other options on this list, meaning it could be a good choice for those looking for a powder to use in a smoothie or shake as a meal replacement.
Thorne uses clinically-researched ingredients in its products (which are NSF Certified for Sport) and this powder is no exception. It's non-GMO, gluten free, and free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, too.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Based Protein Powder
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Based Protein Powder
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Based Protein Powder
Pros
- No added sugar
- Rich chocolatey flavor
- Smooth consistency
- Reasonable price
- Informed Choice Certified
Cons
- Doesn't contain BCAAs
| Protein per serving | 24g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 6g |
| Fat per serving | 3.5g |
| Calories per serving | 150 |
| Price per serving | $1.70 |
This plant-based protein from Optimum Nutrition is made from a blend of pea, brown rice, and sacha inchi protein sources, providing a complete amino acid profile that can support your muscles after even the toughest sessions.
Each serving contains 24 grams of protein, 4.8 grams of BCAAs, and 4 grams of glutamine and glutamic acid, making it a smart choice for post-workout recovery. It's free of artificial flavors, sweeteners, and colors, and is available in a nice range of flavors, though the peanut butter flavor is our favorite.
If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, you can rest easy knowing the brand uses sustainable farming practices and 100% recyclable packaging. And yup, you guessed it: it's third-party tested and Informed Choice Certified, too.
Dymatize Vegan Plant Protein, Smooth Vanilla
Dymatize Complete Plant Protein, Smooth Vanilla
Dymatize Complete Plant Protein, Smooth Vanilla
Pros
- Contains BCAAs (4.9g/serving)
- Mixes easily
- No artificial ingredients
- Informed Choice Certified
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Stevia aftertaste may be bothersome to some
| Protein per serving | 25g |
|---|---|
| Carbs per serving | 5g |
| Fat per serving | 2.5g |
| Calories per serving | 150 |
| Price per serving | $1.43 |
Dymatize's non-vegan protein powder is one of our favorites on the market, and their vegan option comes in at the top of the list, too. Made from a blend of pea, brown rice, and quinoa proteins, this consistency is smooth and the gains are big. Each serving contains 25 grams of protein and BCAAs to support muscle recovery.
Unlike a lot of vegan protein powders that clump and congeal when mixed, this powder mixes in a breeze and blends well into baked goods, too. The brand is committed to sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices, using only environmentally friendly packaging materials, perfect for the eco-exercisers among us.
It's non-GMO, gluten free, free from artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, and third-party certified. What more can you ask for?
How to Choose the Best Vegan Protein Powder (for You)
When it comes to vegan protein powders, it's not as black and white as the whey protein powder landscape. There are a lot of quality powders out there that pack a complete range of amino acids with a great macro profile, but you'll need to know what you're looking for. Here are a few factors you should consider:
Protein content: Look for a powder that provides at least 20 grams of protein per serving. If you're an athlete or serious lifter, you can opt for something even higher.
Protein source: Though there's no 'best' plant-based protein source, just make sure it contains the full range of amino acids. Common sources include pea, rice, hemp, and soy, so consider your dietary preferences and any potential allergies or intolerances when choosing what protein source you want.
Ingredients: Many protein powders (vegan or not) contain added ingredients like sweeteners, flavors, and thickeners. Opt for an product with minimal ingredients and artificial additives.
Certification: Look for a protein powder that has been certified by a third-party organization, such as NSF International or Informed Choice. Protein powders aren't regulated by the FDA, so a certification from one of these trusted organizations is essential to ensure you're getting what's being advertised on the label.
Price: Vegan protein powders can vary in price, so it's important to first consider your budget and the cost per serving when shopping.
Taste and texture: While it's not the most important factor, taste and texture definitely influence whether you'll actually use your protein powder or not. If you're spending money on a wellness product, it shouldn't be torturous to stick to. Choose a flavor that appeals to you, and read reviews to get an idea of how the powder tastes and mixes.
Vegan vs. Animal Protein Powder for Muscle-Building
Both vegan and animal protein powders can be effective for muscle building, but there are some big differences to be aware of.
"Whey protein contains all the amino acids in adequate amounts, making it a complete, high-quality protein," explains Abby Langer, RD, the owner of Abby Langer Nutrition, a Toronto-based nutrition consulting and communications company. "If your plant-based protein powder has a mix of proteins, this takes care of that issue, although some vegan protein powders don't have as much protein as non-vegan ones (20g+ per scoop)."
Which is because combining different plant-based protein sources in a blend can help create a complete protein profile, meaning it contains all essential amino acids. Many vegan protein powders are fortified with additional amino acids, such as leucine, to improve their effectiveness for muscle building. Some are even fortified with more leucine than most casein or whey powders on the market.
"Whey protein can be tough to digest for some people (especially if you're lactose intolerant), whereas plant proteins are generally not," she added, "Plant proteins tend to be more sustainable. Whey may be absorbed faster by the body."
In terms of muscle building potential, studies have shown that vegan protein powders can be just as effective as animal protein powders. Keep in mind, the effectiveness of a protein powder for muscle building is just one factor. Gains ultimately depend on a lot of factors, including overall diet, training regimen, genetics, and individual differences in metabolism and nutrient needs.
What Plant-Based Protein Source is Best?
There is no one plant-based protein source that is considered the "most effective" or "best" option. Each source offers a unique amino acid profile and nutritional benefits that differs from the next. Pea protein, brown rice protein, hemp protein, soy protein, and pumpkin seed protein are all popular and considered to be effective.
Pea protein is one standout, as it naturally contains all nine essential amino acids and is easily digestible for most people.
Brown rice protein is also a complete protein and is rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber, but may not be suitable for those who minimize grains in their diet.
Hemp protein contains most essential amino acids, as well as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and fiber, making it a holistically nutritious choice.
Soy protein is another suitable protein source that is high in leucine, an essential amino acid for muscle growth and repair.
Pumpkin seed protein is a good source of magnesium, zinc, and other minerals, as well as an amino acid called tryptophan, which helps support a good mood and relaxation.
Talene Appleton is the Fitness and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where she covers fitness, nutrition, health, and wellness. She was previously the Associate Editor of General Surgery News, and a nutrition writer for The Food Institute. Talene is a retired professional dancer, and loves to spend her free time cooking elaborate meals for her friends and family.
Maria Masters is a contributing editor and writer for Everyday Health and What to Expect, and has held positions at Men's Health and Family Circle.
Abby Langer, RD is the owner of Abby Langer Nutrition, a Toronto-based nutrition consulting and communications company.
