Being a vegan who likes to work out (time allowing) I regularly get quizzed on what protein shake is suitable for my requirements and my answer is nearly always pea protein powder!
It still amazes me how many people have not heard of it as it’s truly fantastic and in many ways superior to its dairy counterparts.
Pea protein powder has gained massively in popularity over the years, in part because of concern around genetically modified soy products being the only option for non-dairy consumers.
The pea, being a legume, does not require any nitrogen-rich fertilizers within the growth/harvesting process and is therefore better for the environment. In fact, it is recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) because of it’s harvesting requirements and closeness to ideal human nutrition.
It is pretty much a perfect food, even for those in countries where food is scarce because of it’s nutrient density.
PRODUCT
DETAILS
OUR RATING
NaturadeNaturade Plant Based Pea Protein
- Vegan Formula
- 100% Soy and Dairy Free
- 100% Gluten Free
- 100% Cholesterol Free
Our #1 Rated
In the Pea Protein Powder category
Growing NaturalsGrowing Naturals Pea Protein
Our #2 Rated
In the Pea Protein Powder category
NakedNaked Pea Protein
- 100% Yellow pea protein
- No additives
- GMO, soy and gluten free
Our #3 Rated
In the Pea Protein Powder category
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OUR #1 RATED |
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NaturadePlant Based Pea ProteinIn the Pea Protein Powder category |
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OUR #2 RATED |
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Growing NaturalsPea ProteinIn the Pea Protein Powder category |
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OUR #3 RATED |
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Naked100% Pea ProteinIn the Pea Protein Powder category |
There are many benefits to pea protein powder…
Pea protein is full of amino acids and in particular arginine, in fact it has four times as much arginine as whey protein powder.
It has 4 times the amount of arginine than whey protein
Arginine, or L-Arginine is an amazing element that has a great holistic benefit to your overall health whilst also aiding muscle gain, increasing nitric oxide to the muscles and thus encouraging greater blood pressure regulation and improved vascular relaxation.
It strengthens the immune system and increases the rate at which wounds heal, improves your fat burning ability and can therefore be used in weight loss diets.
It’s high in BCAAs
Pea Protein is massively high in BCAAs which are fantastic at maintaining that post-exercise muscle building state throughout the day. It helps reduce fat, stops you from snacking between meals and gives you a boost of energy during your work out.
By the way, if you don’t know already (and I didn’t) BCAAs stands for Branched Chain Amino Acids and refers to three key amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine.
Perfect for Vegans
A great advantage to many people like me is that pea protein is 100% vegan!
Even if you aren’t vegan but want to reduce the amount of animal based products you consume then this is a great solution if you don’t want to cut down on meat and dairy within your meals.
Naturally, this also works for anyone with a lactose intolerance and more often than not they are also gluten and soy free so anyone wary or intolerant to these ingredients needn’t worry about missing their protein hit.
25 grams of protein per scoop
And speaking of protein hit, did you know that a good quality pea protein will provide you with around twenty five grams of protein in every scoop whilst remaining very low in carbohydrates at around two grams a scoop?
This is comparing to other plant based products that typically only reach around ten to fifteen protein grams. It’s literally a no brainer of a decision!
The Best 5 Pea Protein Powders Reviewed
Quite obviously there are loads of different brands to choose between so I am literally going to suggest five that I think are “up there” with the top players.
Naturade
Naturade Plant Base Pea Protein
Price
Our Rating
- This product is highly soluble, easy to digest, hypoallergenic
- Made using only the highest quality pea protein available.
- Naturade is all natural and contains no animal by-products, no artificial flavors, no artificial sweeteners and no artificial colors. It’s suitable for dairy and soy-free diets.
Why did I include this product? Simply because it does exactly what it states, with a very reasonable price-tag and with a great vanilla or chocolate taste.
It is one of the best tasting pea protein powders and it seems to avoid the chalky after taste and can benefit people either working to gain muscle or those on a weight loss diet to help boost the metabolism. I know a lady who puts a scoop of this in her daily diet shakes and the reason being is so she doesn’t feel hungry too soon.
I love this product for it’s simplicity. It doesn’t claim to be anything fancy but is, in essence, a well made pea protein shake that competes with all the other more elaborate products on the market.
It has many positive reviews and the only negative comment I have heard about this product is that it can leave a residue in your smoothie maker however, everyone I have asked negated this suggestion by claiming they just rinse it out immediately and place it in the dishwasher. I personally haven’t found an issue with it.
PROS – Great price and quality powder suitable for vegans.
CONS – May leave residue in smoothie maker but a quick wash should get rid of it.
Growing Naturals
Growing Naturals Pea Protein
Price
Our Rating
- This is a deliciously, light in color, raw pea protein powder, filled with natural amino acids.
- It is vegan, gluten free and claims an excellent source of iron.
Typically known for producing brown rice protein products, Growing Naturals has expanded and recently created it’s first raw pea protein items.
As with all the best pea protein powders, it is high in Lysine and BCAAs that you associate with strengthening tissues, bones as well as aiding in the development of antibodies for immune protection. Plus it gives you a great energy boost.
I chose to include this one in my list because it is unique with the raw properties and again, similar to Naturade, it is a great, basic product that you can add to any smoothie or simply make up with some delicious almond, oat or whatever type of milk you fancy.
What is great about this one is that even the original flavour is pretty good. It isn’t overpowering in any way and can be added to pretty much anything. I know someone who started buying this over their previously preferred powder and he is thrilled with how he can literally make it taste like anything.
I know he even sometimes puts it into savory foods; it is so mild, it makes it a truly versatile powder. It also comes in vanilla and this flavor is praised by many and like all the other brands above, it is great for weight loss as well as just maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
PROS – It’s raw and light. Can be used in savory as well as sweet dishes – versatile.
CONS – Not to everyone’s taste so experiment with unflavored or flavored versions.
Naked
Naked 100% Pea
Price
Our Rating
- Contains one ingredient – Made from 100% yellow peas grown on environmentally friendly farms in the US and Canada.
- No artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors or GMO product.
- Soy and gluten free.
Now, this one is never going to win any awards for taste. It’s plain, it’s bland and it needs a bit of TLC before many people find it consumable. BUT I wanted to include it in this list as it is most definitely the choice for the body builders and gym hitters out there.
It contains 27grams of protein, high levels of BCAAs and low levels of sodium in each serving, making it more appealing than many other protein powders on the market therefore many people can put aside the poor taste by mixing it into smoothies or drinking it with a pleasant flavored milk.
PROS – It contains 27 grams of protein, high levels of BCAAs and low levels of sodium per serving.
CONS – Cost is slightly higher than others but this is due to its quality.
Bulk Supplements
Bulk Supplements Pure Pea Powder
Price
Our Rating
- This powder is pure, absorbs easily into the body and is low in carbohydrates and fat.
- Soy, gluten and lactose free, meaning it suits literally everyone and anyone.
Despite the boring packaging and minimal descriptions, I love this product. It is simple, effective and very well priced. In fact, it is one of the least expensive on the market.
If you are looking for a no frills protein powder then this is certainly the one for you, plus it works perfectly for weight lifting, weigh loss, energy boosting and for enabling a generally healthy lifestyle.
As with some of the others, I have heard of some fabulous ways that people have incorporated protein powder into their lives and someone I know even throws a scoop of this one into their baking sessions!
PROS – Simple. effective and very well priced.
CONS – Difficulty with mixing for some people.
>>> Buy direct from BulkSupplements.com <<<
Source Naturals
Source Naturals Pea Powder
Price
Our Rating
- Great for weight management, carbohydrate metabolism and a healthy heart.
- Non-GMO, 100% gluten and cholesterol-free plus it’s hypo-allergenic
- Provides a complete protein with a high Lysine inclusion.
I chose to include this one because it is slightly different to all the others. Most people who use this don’t drink it as a typical protein shake, rather the majority of them find it lends itself better to savory flavours.
Perhaps add it to soups, stews, sprinkle it on pasta alongside cheese. It’s so versatile because of the incredibly non-flavor it provides. Whilst this probably isn’t a favorite with weight lifters, it is undoubtedly fantastic for people trying to lower cholesterol, lose some weight and just generally boost their energy levels.
It digests easily, is concentrated as a source, suitable for vegans and basically anyone wanting a healthy alternative to whey-filled protein powders.
PROS – Lends itself better to savory flavors, so try in stews, soups and spinkle on pasta.
CONS – Some find its falvor overpowering.
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Our #1 Rated |
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NaturadePlant Based Pea Protein
It is one of the best tasting pea protein powders and it seems to avoid the chalky after taste and can benefit people either working to gain muscle or those on a weight loss diet to help boost the metabolism. I know a lady who puts a scoop of this in her daily diet shakes and the reason being is so she doesn’t feel hungry too soon. I love this product for it’s simplicity. It doesn’t claim to be anything fancy but is, in essence, a well made pea protein shake that competes with all the other more elaborate products on the market. It has many positive reviews and the only negative comment I have heard about this product is that it can leave a residue in your smoothie maker however, everyone I have asked negated this suggestion by claiming they just rinse it out immediately and place it in the dishwasher. I personally haven’t found an issue with it. PROS – Great price and quality powder suitable for vegans. CONS – May leave residue in smoothie maker but a quick wash should get rid of it. |
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Our #2 Rated |
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Growing NaturalsPea Protein
Typically known for producing brown rice protein products, Growing Naturals has expanded and recently created it’s first raw pea protein items. As with all the best pea protein powders, it is high in Lysine and BCAAs that you associate with strengthening tissues, bones as well as aiding in the development of antibodies for immune protection. Plus it gives you a great energy boost. I chose to include this one in my list because it is unique with the raw properties and again, similar to Naturade, it is a great, basic product that you can add to any smoothie or simply make up with some delicious almond, oat or whatever type of milk you fancy. What is great about this one is that even the original flavour is pretty good. It isn’t overpowering in any way and can be added to pretty much anything. I know someone who started buying this over their previously preferred powder and he is thrilled with how he can literally make it taste like anything. I know he even sometimes puts it into savory foods; it is so mild, it makes it a truly versatile powder. It also comes in vanilla and this flavor is praised by many and like all the other brands above, it is great for weight loss as well as just maintaining energy levels throughout the day. PROS – It’s raw and light. Can be used in savory as well as sweet dishes – versatile. CONS – Not to everyone’s taste so experiment with unflavored or flavored versions. |
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Our #3 Rated |
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Naked 100% Pea Protein
Now, this one is never going to win any awards for taste. It’s plain, it’s bland and it needs a bit of TLC before many people find it consumable. BUT I wanted to include it in this list as it is most definitely the choice for the body builders and gym hitters out there. It contains 27grams of protein, high levels of BCAAs and low levels of sodium in each serving, making it more appealing than many other protein powders on the market therefore many people can put aside the poor taste by mixing it into smoothies or drinking it with a pleasant flavored milk. When people ask me,“what is the healthiest protein powder?” Sunwarrior Warrior Blend is usually the first one that pops into my mind. That’s because I’ve used it for many years now and am intimately familiar with how amazing it makes your body feel and look. PROS – It contains 27 grams of protein, high levels of BCAAs and low levels of sodium per serving. CONS – Cost is slightly higher than others but this is due to its quality. |
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Our #4 Rated |
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Bulk Supplements Pure Pea Powder
Despite the boring packaging and minimal descriptions, I love this product. It is simple, effective and very well priced. In fact, it is one of the least expensive on the market. If you are looking for a no frills protein powder then this is certainly the one for you, plus it works perfectly for weight lifting, weigh loss, energy boosting and for enabling a generally healthy lifestyle. As with some of the others, I have heard of some fabulous ways that people have incorporated protein powder into their lives and someone I know even throws a scoop of this one into their baking sessions! PROS – Simple, effective and very well priced. CONS – Difficulty mixing for some people. >>> Buy direct from BulkSupplements.com <<< |
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Our #5 Rated |
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Source Naturals Pea
I chose to include this one because it is slightly different to all the others. Most people who use this don’t drink it as a typical protein shake, rather the majority of them find it lends itself better to savory flavours. Perhaps add it to soups, stews, sprinkle it on pasta alongside cheese. It’s so versatile because of the incredibly non-flavor it provides. Whilst this probably isn’t a favorite with weight lifters, it is undoubtedly fantastic for people trying to lower cholesterol, lose some weight and just generally boost their energy levels. It digests easily, is concentrated as a source, suitable for vegans and basically anyone wanting a healthy alternative to whey-filled protein powders. PROS – Lends itself better to savory flavors so try it in stews, soups and sprinkle in pasta. CONS – Some find the flavor overpowering. |
The Best Protein Powders That Include Pea Protein (As Well As Other Protein Sources)
The 2 products below aren’t specifically or predominantly pea powders. They have a combination of vegan protein sources as well as pea. This is probably the better way to get it if you find the taste alone is a bit unpalatable.
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OrgainOrganic Plant Based Protein Powder, Creamy Chocolate Fudge |
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Of all the protein powders I have tried, this one is definitely one of the best in terms of taste. I have tried it mixed with almond milk and found it gave a gorgeous, clean but creamy texture. I love it. I feel like I’m allowing myself a treat when I drink one of these. Plus it’s a best seller so clearly it isn’t just me who loves the taste and results it offers. This one is also less expensive overall than many other protein powders so for someone like me who has to check costs of everything, ensuring I’m getting the best ingredients at a competitive cost is really important. PROS – Great taste and texture. It is also very reasonably priced. CONS – Some people find it too sweet. |
What I like about this product is that it incorporates a couple of my favorite “superfoods” in chia, hemp seeds and quinoa to really bump up the nutrient quantity. It absorbs into the body beautifully, creating an all round nutritional shake that you can rely on to keep you on top of your game. I actually know someone who doesn’t work out much but likes to have one of these at work each morning to stop her from snacking before lunch. It’s also great for supporting your immune system, boosting metabolism and therefore helps with weight loss. Basically, it’s a miracle worker in a glass. The flavor choice is just chocolate or vanilla and being a chocolate lover, I can only comment on that option.I think it’s really good and relays no after taste or chalky texture that is regularly associated with protein shakes. And one thing I like about this organization is that UB Super products never contain ingredients harmful to the body or the environment such as: GMO’s, gluten, soy, rBGH/hormones, antibiotics, wheat, added sugar, artificial color, artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, high fructose corn syrup, fillers or chemical additives. PROS – Energy boosting and completely satisfying. Many customers commented on its great flavor as well as its ability to keep them full for a long while. CONS – Some customers commented on a weird aftertaste. |
Orgain
Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder, Creamy Chocolate Fudge
Price
Our Rating
- With 21 grams of organic protein and 5 grams of fibre in each serving, this is a truly nutritious product. What’s also great about this one is that is dissolves well and doesn’t have that typical gritty taste that you often find with protein powders. And frankly, anything that is called creamy chocolate fudge must be good, right?
- It’s certified organic, gluten free, kosher, vegan, non-GMO, soy free and contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
Of all the protein powders I have tried, this one is definitely one of the best in terms of taste. I have tried it mixed with almond milk and found it gave a gorgeous, clean but creamy texture. I love it. I feel like I’m allowing myself a treat when I drink one of these. Plus it’s a best seller so clearly it isn’t just me who loves the taste and results it offers.
This one is also less expensive overall than many other protein powders so for someone like me who has to check costs of everything, ensuring I’m getting the best ingredients at a competitive cost is really important.
PROS – Great taste and texture. It is also very reasonably priced.
CONS – Some people find it too sweet.
UB
UB Super Plant Based Protein Nutritional Shake
Price
Our Rating
- Made from the yellow pea again, chia, hemp and quinoa, this product is rich in antioxidants brought in from the best quality and world-wide sourced, natural foods.
- This product is organic and full of vitamins to help you function each day to the best of your ability.
- It also contains pre and probiotics as well as digestive supporting enzymes to help retain the lightness of this as a drink.
What I like about this product is that it incorporates a couple of my favorite “superfoods” in chia, hemp seeds and quinoa to really bump up the nutrient quantity. It absorbs into the body beautifully, creating an all round nutritional shake that you can rely on to keep you on top of your game. I actually know someone who doesn’t work out much but likes to have one of these at work each morning to stop her from snacking before lunch. It’s also great for supporting your immune system, boosting metabolism and therefore helps with weight loss. Basically, it’s a miracle worker in a glass.
The flavor choice is just chocolate or vanilla and being a chocolate lover, I can only comment on that option.I think it’s really good and relays no after taste or chalky texture that is regularly associated with protein shakes.
And one thing I like about this organization is that UB Super products never contain ingredients harmful to the body or the environment such as: GMO’s, gluten, soy, rBGH/hormones, antibiotics, wheat, added sugar, artificial color, artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, high fructose corn syrup, fillers or chemical additives.
PROS – Energy boosting and completely satisfying. Many customers commented on its great flavor as well as its ability to keep them full for a long while.
CONS – Some customers commented on a weird aftertaste.
Best Tasting Pea Protein PowderOrgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder |
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Orgain Protein Powder (includes Pea Protein but also other sources too)All of the above products are fantastic and naturally there are hundreds of others that you can try. If however, taste is your main pre-requisite then I would go for Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder in creamy chocolate fudge. It is so delicious you can literally mix it with water and it still tastes good. It isn’t strictly pea protein but it does include it. Of all the protein powders I have tried this is the least obviously a protein powder; it takes away all that stereotype and you could believe you are just drinking a delicious milk shake. I’ve tried it with various plant milks but my favorites are when I mix it with almond or oat milk. |
Best Tasting Pea Protein Powder
Orgain Organic Protein Powder
Orgain Protein Powder (includes Pea Protein but also other sources too)
All of the above products are fantastic and naturally there are hundreds of others that you can try. If however, taste is your main pre-requisite then I would go for Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder in creamy chocolate fudge. It is so delicious you can literally mix it with water and it still tastes good. It isn’t strictly pea protein but it does include it.
Of all the protein powders I have tried this is the least obviously a protein powder; it takes away all that stereotype and you could believe you are just drinking a delicious milk shake. I’ve tried it with various plant milks but my favorites are when I mix it with almond or oat milk.
Buyers Guide
When looking at pea protein powders, it’s important to check out their versatility and quality of ingredients. Do you solely want to drink it as a smoothie? If not, then you need to make sure it’s a neutral taste and works well in stews and soups, for example.
In terms of quality, are the ingredients GMO? If so then perhaps you want to try and find a more natural product or even one with organic contents so as to take in only a pure a product and as clean a protein as possible.
I hope you find this list useful or at least interesting if you are toying with the idea of trying a new type of protein powder. I wanted to make the point that protein powders are not just for weight lifting gym-lovers, they are so versatile that everyone should be using them. It’s important that we maintain a healthy lifestyle and I think pea protein powder is a much better way of managing this than many other powders on the market.
As with everything, there are literally hundreds of brands available however, it is important to ensure the ingredients of your chosen powder are exactly what you are looking for. Ensure the amino acids create a complete protein, that the protein levels are high, that no additional sweetener or colours are added because this is all completely unnecessary. Keep it simple, play around with the flavours and the way in which you use it and make it part of your daily consumption.
Where To Buy?
If price is an issue then Amazon is a great place to buy your powder. It is also a great place to check out reviews for extra confirmation of a great product.
Product Images Sources From Amazon.com