How to Find the Best Vegan Protein

In contrast to common misconceptions, there are actually plenty of sources of plant-based protein, and in the form of protein powders alone there are several options.  Among the options for the best vegan protein are:

• Pea protein
• Rice protein
• Hemp protein
• Protein blends

There are also nine essential amino acids which I will refer to: Histidine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. 

Pea protein

This is a fairly easy to produce product, which means pea protein seems to be popping up everywhere recently.  Peas are a great source of amino acids and one of the most important protein sources.  Pea protein is really easily digested by your body because it doesn’t contain a lot of fibre, as well as being a good option for people with food allergies.  However, it is technically an incomplete protein as it does not contain all nine essential amino acids.  This won’t matter too much as long as you are consuming protein through other sources in your diet, and pea protein is still an option for the best vegan protein. 

Rice protein

Rice protein is one of the highest quality proteins available - it's versatile, mixes well, is easily digested and has a high amino acid profile.

Hemp protein

This comes from hemp seeds, and is full of healthy fats (such as omega-3) and fibre.  Hemp protein is one of the best vegan protein sources as it contains twenty amino acids, including the nine essential ones, making it a complete protein.  Hemp reduces sugar cravings, boosts your immune system, and improves heart health.  However, some hemp protein powders are relatively low in protein while they are high in fat and calories.  This means that if your goal is fat loss hemp protein may not be the best option for you. 

Protein blends

Some of the best vegan protein options are protein blends, containing a variety of plant-based proteins or a more complete variety of nutrients.  This is a great way to ensure that a protein powder has all of the essential amino acids.  It also makes it easier to create a nicely textured shake, as some protein powders don’t mix as well on their own as they do when they are combined with others.  The only issue to keep an eye on here if that the level of carbs and sugars in a protein blend isn’t too high.

Our delicious vegan protein powders are blends (a mixture of pea protein, rice and hemp protein). 

As you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to the best vegan protein supplements, and you can mix and match to find the best one for you.