[Expert-Tested] Best Vegan Protein Powder (2024): No Whey, No Problem, According to Dietitians

One of my favorite pastimes is dispelling old wives’ tales. For example, you can swim right after eating food, it’s not taboo to rub your chopsticks together at a sushi restaurant, and you can build muscle on a vegan diet. You can disagree all you want, but there are countless athletes and everyday people who thrive without meat or milk.   

I’m what they call a “flexitarian,” meaning I eat animal-based products, but there have been times where I primarily drink vegan protein powders. Our team has personally tested more than 90 of the best protein powder supplements on the market and researched dozens more to help those living a plant-based lifestyle, lactose-intolerant gym-goers, or those just looking to shake up their diet. 

When it comes specifically to vegan proteins, we look at factors like:

• Protein source: The source and quality of the protein — does it use soy (a common allergen) or complementary proteins like brown rice, pumpkin, chia seed, and flax seed?
• Formulation: The amount of protein, carbs, and fats per serving
• Transparency: Has it been third-party tested for heavy metals and toxins? Bonus points were awarded to any brand that showed an amino acid breakdown to prove it contains all essential amino acids needed for muscle growth.
• Other ingredients: Does it contain artificial sweeteners and ingredients?

We also ran tests for solubility and judged how the powder tastes. I’m a certified nutrition coach, and I worked with Laila Ouldibbat, R.D., and Sydney Lappe, R.D., to examine the amino acid profile and other ingredients of each powder on this list to determine the best vegan protein powder.

RELATED: Best Vegan Creatine

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider. GGR also recommends choosing a product that has been third-party tested for quality.

The 14 Best Vegan Protein Powders 

• Best Vegan Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice and Pea Protein
• Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Protein 18+
• Best Pea Protein Powder: Legion Plant+
• Best Vanilla Vegan Protein Powder: Huel Black Edition
• Best Clean Vegan Protein Powder: Gainful Plant-Based Protein
• Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder: Ora Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein
• Best Vegan Protein Powder for Muscle Building: Onnit Plant-Based Protein Powder
• Best Soy Vegan Protein Powder: Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate
• Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Gain: Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer
• Best Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder: Garden of Life Raw Organic Plant-Based Protein
• Best Budget Vegan Protein Powder: Now Sports Plant Protein Complex
• Best-Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: Truvani Plant Protein Powder
• Best Vegan Protein Powder for Athletes: Vega Sport Premium Protein 
• Best Hemp Vegan Protein Powder: Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah!

A Word About Vegan Protein and Amino Acids 

While we maintain that you can build muscle and get stronger on a vegan diet, it’s important to note that vegan protein differs from animal-based protein sources in a pretty significant way. Some vegan protein lacks compounds known as essential amino acids¹, or amino acids that our body can’t produce in substantial amounts by itself and thus must be obtained through our food. 

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein—essentially, they’re little puzzle pieces that work to create a picture (in this case, a protein molecule). Animal-based protein sources, like whey protein powders, have all the pieces, but vegan-based protein sources, with the exception of soy, are missing some. 

This is why vegan protein is sometimes called “incomplete protein,” and why it’s more challenging—but again, not impossible—to build muscle on a vegan diet. 

There are two ways to address this issue, the first being to mix two or more complementary proteins together. This is why you’ll sometimes see vegan protein powders with pea and hemp protein, because one has the essential amino acids that the other doesn’t. Manufacturers can also add amino acids to their protein powder to create a complete protein. 

Best Vegan Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice and Pea Protein

Good for: Those looking for an all-natural, third-party tested vegan protein powder

Best Overall

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• A rice and pea protein powder 
• Rated with 4.3 stars on their website
• Comes in 2 flavors 
• 24 g of protein per serving
• Organic product with minimal ingredients

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives
• Organic and vegan
• Only 5-7 ingredients
• Reviewers love the taste
• 24 g of protein per serving
• Subscribe and save
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• Only 2 flavors
• Stevia can cause GI issues for some
• Expensive

Bottom Line

This organic rice and pea protein powder is a good choice for people who want a clean plant-based protein option with minimal ingredients.

Transparent Labs is a company we stand behind again and again because they truly live up their name by not only telling you what’s in their protein powder, but exactly how much of it is in there, too. They give you the exact weight of rice protein and pea protein—which when combined create a complete protein source with all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth—as well as stevia. So you know you’re only putting clean ingredients in your body.

Certified personal trainer and GGR staff writer Lauren Strong rates the Transparent Labs Vegan Protein formula a 5 out of 5 and the solubility (how easily it dissolves) a 4 out of 5, saying, “It mixes well, no issues with that, but this has a different texture than whey protein,” she says in our full Transparent Labs Vegan Protein review. It’s not gritty, but there is more residue/film in the shaker.” So, it may require a little more elbow grease when shaking up.

Beyond that, the protein powder is Informed Choice certified, meaning it’s been checked for harmful ingredients and banned substances that could show up on a drug test.

As for taste, Lauren Strong felt the Chocolate flavor was a middle-of-the-road 3 out of 5. “It tastes like a dark chocolate drink but with an earthy hint because of the rice and pea protein,” she says. “I would not suggest this for people who like sweet/sugary protein drinks. There is not that much sugar and you can really taste the cocoa powder.”

At present, Transparent Labs only offers two flavors (French vanilla and chocolate), so that could be a determining factor if you have a more adventurous palate.

Best Vegan Protein Powder For Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Protein 18+

Good for: Anyone looking for a protein powder that can help them achieve a caloric deficit 

Best for Weight Loss

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake

GGR Score: 4.4

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Product Highlights

• Organic pea protein powder
• 20 g of protein per serving
• Formulated to support adults 18-49
• Third-party tested
• 150 mg of choline per serving 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soy-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly
• No artificial sweeteners
• Complete amino acid profile
• Non-GMO
• USA-grown peas

Cons

• Only comes in one flavor
• Price per serving is on the high end
• Velcro bag closure ineffective

Bottom Line

Ritual’s Essential Protein Daily Shake has 20 grams of protein per serving and 150 milligrams of chlorine (to support brain and nervous system function). This protein powder from Ritual is third-party tested and Informed Sport Certified, which means this formula has been screened for over 250 banned substances.

Ritual Essential Protein 18+ has 115 calories per scoop, which is less than many of the options on our list, but still packs 20 grams of high-quality protein to help keep you full and maintain a caloric deficit to achieve weight loss.

GGR Head of Content and competitive weightlifter Kate Meier says this doesn’t taste like a low-calorie protein powder. She gave the Vanilla flavor, the only option, a 4 out of 5 on taste and said it’s a little chalky but still very drinkable with just water. “That’s how decent I think the taste is,” she says. It’s much better, she adds, in a smoothie mixed with berries. “The taste is definitely detectable, but not overly strong.”

An item of note, this is a pea protein, which normally isn’t considered a complete protein because it’s low in the amino acid methionine. Ritual, however, adds enough of the essential amino acid to their protein supplement.

Kate ranks Ritual 18+ really high in all our testing categories. Her only complaint was the packaging itself, “I don’t love the closing mechanism. It’s almost like a Velcro, and the protein gets stuck in it and makes it hard to seal.”

Read our full Ritual protein powder review for more information.

Best Pea Protein Powder: Legion Plant+

Good for: Anyone looking for a good-tasting and nutritious protein powder 

Best Pea Protein

Legion Plant+ Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4.24

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Product Highlights

• Brown rice and pea protein
• 24 g of protein per serving
• 6 flavors available
• No added sugar
• NSF-certified

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 24-25 g of protein per serving
• Provides a complete amino acid profile
• No artificial ingredients
• 6 flavors available
• Reviewers say the texture is great for a vegan protein
• Third-party tested
• Subscribe and save

Cons

• $2.50 per serving is on the high end for protein powder

Bottom Line

Legion's Plant+ plant protein is made of a blend of pea and brown rice and contains 24-25 grams of protein per serving. Reviewers like the texture and taste, which for a vegan protein powder is much harder to come by.

Pea protein powder is popular among fitness enthusiasts because it’s easily digestible and comes with more micronutrients than other plant-based protein sources. And while that’s one of the secrets behind Legion Plant+, it’s not the only one.

RELATED: Pea Protein Benefits

Each scoop has 24 to 25 grams of protein, depending on the flavor, which is pretty high for a plant-based protein powder (most have around 20 grams). Legion accomplishes this by combining pea protein powder with brown rice protein powder to give you all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth. That, combined with relatively low amounts of fats and carbohydrates, is enough to earn it a 5 out of 5 on formulation.

Legion’s one of our go-to protein powder brands because they use all-natural ingredients and are third-party tested, and Plant+ is no different.

Another reason we love Legion is because they make tasty protein powders. Lindsay Scheele, a certified personal trainer and lead reviewer of GGR Everything, gave the Apple Pie flavor a 4 out of 5. “The apple flavor was a bit lacking, but the cinnamon saved it,” she says in our Legion Plant protein review. “Not bad, but will probably be too sweet for some.” She also notes that while there are no artificial ingredients there is a slight artificial aftertaste.

Solubility, on the other hand, was no issue and received a 5 out of 5 rating when mixed with oat milk. “It had a good texture and wasn’t too thick,” Lindsay says.

RELATED: Pea Protein vs Whey

Here’s the bad news: This is an expensive bag of protein powder. There’s only 20 servings per bag and each scoop comes out to $2.50. That number goes down to $2 per serving if you place it on a monthly subscription, but we’re still rating the pricing a 1 out of 5. You’ll have to decide if it’s worth the investment — nearly 900 customer reviewers think it is and have rated it 5 stars.

Best Vanilla Vegan Protein Powder: Huel Black Edition

Good for: Those looking for a flavorful vanilla meal replacement shake

Best Vanilla

Huel Complete Black

GGR Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• Plant-based complete nutritional shake 
• 400 calories, 40 g protein, 5-8 g fiber, 4-6g sugar
• No artificial sweeteners
• 9 flavor options
• Gluten-free meal shake

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Doesn’t need to be refrigerated
• Resealable bag
• 40 g protein in each serving
• Contains all essential vitamins and minerals
• 9 flavors available
• Subscribe and save
• Cookies & Cream flavor tastes better than most other vegan protein powders we’ve tried
• Uses pea, flaxseed, and brown rice protein for a more complete amino acid profile

Cons

• Reviewers say there's a bit of an aftertaste from plant-based protein
• Expensive for a meal replacement

Bottom Line

Huel Complete Protein Powder Black Edition is a nutritionally complete meal replacement shake powder, containing 400 calories per serving along with 40 grams of protein in all of the nine flavors. Fat, carb, and fiber content varies by 1 to 3 grams across flavors, but you can expect to find a healthy serving of unsaturated fats, complex carbohydrates, and fiber in each shake. Plus, each shake contains all essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids with no artificial sweeteners or gluten.

Vanilla is one of the most popular flavors for protein powders, plant- or animal-based, yet it’s a tough flavor to master. Balancing the sweetness is an art, really, but Huel Black Edition has you covered with their Black Edition powder. One of our expert product testers gave the flavor of the vanilla a 5 out of 5, saying, “I was worried this might be a little on the gross side, but I was surprised. The flavor was very subtle and satisfying.”

GGR social media manager Brittany Combs tried the cookies and cream flavor, and also rated the flavor a 5 out of 5. “It was sweet, but not too sweet. To me, it was just the right amount of sweetness,” she says. 

Brittany rates the solubility a 4.5 out of 5, as the grittiness of the protein powder was still evident with just water. “It’s much better if you put it through a blender with some ice,” she says.

Granted, this is more of a meal replacement shake than a dedicated protein powder, but with 40 grams of protein per serving, this is a solid source of protein for those who don’t mind a few extra calories in their protein shake. The formulation earns a 5 out of 5 as well, as the drink is filled with macronutrients, and 27 vitamins and minerals.

Registered dietician Perry Nix adds some other benefits of ingredients. “One serving contains 8 grams of fiber, which may support gut health,” she says. “Soluble fiber, from ingredients like ground flaxseed, serves as a prebiotic that nourishes and promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.”

The biggest drawback is the cost, as each serving cost Brittany a whopping $3.12. However, if you can look past the price, you’ll be having a great meal replacement shake—vanilla-flavored, of course, unless you want to experiment with the other eight flavors available.

Read our Huel review for more on this vegan supplement.

Best Clean Vegan Protein Powder: Gainful Plant-Based Protein

Good for: Anyone looking for a high-quality vegan protein powder

Best Sugar-Free

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

GGR Score: 3.7

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Product Highlights

• Customizable vegan protein powder (organic brown rice protein and organic pea protein)
• Unflavored powder
• Eight available flavor boosters
• Unlimited access to a registered dietitian

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Shipped right to your door every month
• Customizable plant-based protein
• Eight flavor boosters available (can mix and match)
• Access to a registered dietitian

Cons

• Expensive
• Not third-party tested

Bottom Line

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder is a customized plant-based protein that comes with eight available flavor boosters, which you can mix and match.

Not a fan of sugar and filler? Not a problem if you take our pick for the best clean vegan protein powder—Gainful Plant-Based Protein. This vegan protein powder is totally customized to fit your specific needs after a short questionnaire. The ingredients are natural and organic, and there’s no artificial sweeteners or flavoring. The plant-based protein powder is unsweetened, but you can add flavor boosts that are sweetened naturally with organic stevia and monk fruit.

GGR senior editor Erin Chancer, CNC, CPT, got her own customized batch of Gainful Vegan Protein; her unique formulation came with 24 grams of protein, blended from organic brown rice and organic pea protein. The formulation earns a 4.5 out of 5 for its unique and clean formulation for each person, as the process and formulation is backed by dietitians and research.

RELATED: Best Pea Protein Powder

Erin rates the taste a 3.5 out of 5 after trying the Gainful by itself and with flavor boosters. “The unflavored plant protein had a pretty standard taste compared to other plant proteins. I then tried it with the Caffe Mocha flavor boost, and while it was nice, it didn’t taste much like coffee.”

The solubility of Gainful Vegan Protein is a 4 out of 5, as it mixes well, but the powder is also a little sticky and can get everywhere if you’re not careful, Erin warns.

The cost of the protein will vary based on your formulation, but it’ll end up around $3 per serving; Erin’s batch of Gainful landed at $3.21 for one serving. However, this is a unique way to have a protein powder suited perfectly for your fitness goals and needs.

Check out our Gainful Protein Powder review for an in-depth look at this personalized protein supplement.

Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder: Ora Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein

Good for: Those who prefer to buy organic 

Best Organic

Ora Organic Vegan Protein Powder

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Plant-based superfood protein
• Comes in 4 delicious flavors
• 4.2 stars on Amazon with 5,000 reviews
• Free of dairy, gluten, and soy
• Vegan and paleo
• Includes 19 organic superfoods

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Non-GMO, vegan, paleo, and organic
• Plant-based product
• Third-party tested
• Contains 19 organic superfoods
• Free of many common allergens

Cons

• Contains coconut
• A little pricey
• Stevia can cause GI distress in some people
• Some reviewers do not enjoy the taste

Bottom Line

Ora is a well-known brand with positive reviews. It's a good option for those looking for a very clean, organic vegan protein powder.

For those who don’t know, vegan doesn’t always mean premium (or organic) ingredients. Some plant-based products contain just as many fillers and artificial ingredients as animal-based products. That’s not the case for the Ora Organic Plant-Based Superfood Protein which is organic, nutritious, and delicious. 

Amanda Capritto taste-tested the plant-based protein powder and reports the Vanilla Chai was pretty good. Amanda is a former GGR staff writer, product tester, and endurance athlete. She’s not a strictly plant-based eater, but notes Ora Organic has an inoffensive taste and scores the taste 3 out of 5 stars. 

“In my opinion, the unique Vanilla Chai flavor helps to mask the plant-based taste, which is something I’ve noticed with other plant-based protein powders,” she says. 

Amanda also scores the solubility of this Ora Organic protein at 3 out of 5 stars saying, “It dissolves fine, but it’s a bit chalky and leaves a slight film in my mouth.” 

While the taste and texture left Amanda with a bit to be desired, she was impressed with the 21 grams of protein per serving in the Vanilla Chai flavor. This organic protein powder is made from a mix of organic pea protein and rice protein sources. Depending on which flavor you choose, one scoop provides between 21 to 23 grams of protein, 2 to 3 grams of fat, and 1 to 5 grams of carbs, which we think is a pretty solid balance. 

RELATED: Best Organic Protein Powder

There are about 20 servings per container, making this protein powder $1.99 per serving. That price point doesn’t earn a high score with our testers, but keep in mind that the organic ingredients come at a premium price. 

Ora Organic protein is non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, and is free of artificial dyes and sweeteners, and contains a rich green superfood complex. Research suggests that adding superfoods to your diet may improve your health by boosting your immune system. On top of that, it is naturally sweetened with monk fruit and organic stevia, which is great for people who find that sugar alcohols don’t sit quite right.

Best Vegan Protein Powder for Muscle Building: Onnit Plant-Based Protein

Good for: Any plant-based eaters who want to gain size

Best Vegan Chocolate

Onnit Plant-Based Protein

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Pea-, pumpkin-, sunflower-, and watermelon-seed protein powder
• Vegetarian and vegan 
• Dairy-, soy-, and gluten-free 
• Available in chocolate and vanilla

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Informed Sport-certified
• Vegan
• Dairy-, soy-, and gluten-free

Cons

• Vanilla flavor is poorly reviewed
• Only 20 servings per container; customers want larger serving size tubs
• Some reviewer complain it doesn’t mix well

Bottom Line

Onnit’s Plant-Based Protein mixes a variety of protein sources. Customer reviews are much more positive for the chocolate flavor.

If you’re looking to pack on some lean pounds, check out Onnit Plant-Based Protein, which has a solid 20 grams of protein per scoop. However, it gets bonus points for containing a moderate amount of carbs and fats, and having 2.27 grams of leucine per scoop.

Leucine is a branched-chain amino acid that’s linked to muscle growth. The  International Society of Sports Nutrition says protein powders for muscle gain should have between 0.7 to 3 grams per scoop. Whey protein powders typically hit that mark, but plant-based proteins other than Onnit tend to be lower in this vital ingredient.

RELATED: Creatine Alternatives

Certified nutrition coach and GGR Editor Frieda Johnson primarily eats a plant-based diet and says Onnit Plant-Based Protein is one of the few vegan chocolate shakes she enjoys. “This actually tastes quite a bit like a dairy-free chocolate milk I used to get,” she says in our Onnit Plant-Based protein review, rating the taste a 4.75 out of 5.

One reason for that might be the addition of avocado powder that adds fattiness to mimic the mouthfeel of dairy milk. “This was richer, creamier, and less watered-down tasting than many other vegan chocolate protein powders I’ve tried,” Frieda says.

In addition to being dairy-free, this vegan protein powder is also soy-free, gluten-free, and sugar-free so just about anyone can enjoy it.

Onnit is trusted by athletes everywhere, so it’s no surprise that it’s certified by Informed Sport, one of the most trustworthy organizations that tests products for banned and harmful substances. We give it a 5 out of 5 for transparency.

One low mark for Onnit plant protein is its cost—it will run you $2.25 per scoop. It goes down to $1.61 if you put it on a subscription, though.

Best Soy Vegan Protein Powder: Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate

Good for: Plant-based eaters looking for a complete protein source

Best Soy Protein

Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Powder

GGR Score: 3.5

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Product Highlights

• Soy protein powder
• Manufactured in FDA-registered and inspected facility
• Unflavored

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Cheap at $0.82 per serving
• Third party-tested
• Multiple sizes offered
• Unflavored

Cons

• Makes mess when you open bag
• Customers state doesn’t blend well
• Doesn’t come with a scoop
• No flavored options

Bottom Line

Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Powder is a cheap vegan protein option, but reviewers share it isn’t the best-tasting option. There are no flavors available, but if you're looking for a protein powder to bake with, or one you can easily blend into smoothies, this could be a good option.

Soy protein is one of the few “complete” vegan protein powders—meaning it contains all the essential amino acids needed to help with weight loss or muscle gain—and in our opinion, Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate is one of the best soy protein powders.

You get 25 grams of protein per serving, zero grams of fat, and 3 grams of carbs (three of which comes from fiber), earning it a 5 out of 5 on formulation. There’s very little in the way of micronutrients, though it does have a decent amount of iron to help support oxygen delivery to your muscles. 

There are two other reasons why we love Bulk Supplements Soy Protein: Taste and price.

Alright, taste may be a bit misleading since this is an unflavored soy protein powder. But, the good news is it actually tastes like nothing and there’s no weird aftertaste. While it feels weird to give a non-flavored protein supplement a 5 out of 5 on taste, that’s exactly what we’re doing here.

This makes it a great choice if you want an easy way to add extra protein to your morning smoothies or perhaps some baked goods (protein cookies anyone?) without adding any extra flavor to the product. 

On price, this is one of the most affordable supplements out there. A 1-kilogram bag (2.2 pounds) comes out to 73 cents per serving, and can be even cheaper than that if you order a bigger bag. We give it a 5 out of 5 on pricing since it falls under a dollar.

This next bit goes out to the people at Bulk Supplements: Why on Earth was this sent without a scoop? Please let me know. 

In terms of mixing, I found minimal clumps after shaking it for a few seconds in a shaker bottle.  

Read our full Bulk Supplements soy protein isolate review for more information.

Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Gain: Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer

Good for: Plant-based bodybuilders or other athletes looking to put on quality size

Best for Vegan Gainers

Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer

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Product Highlights

• $5.33 per serving
• 2:1 carb-protein ratio
• Contains creatine
• All-natural ingredients
• Two flavors: Vanilla cupcake, Chocolate glaze donut)

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clean, natural ingredients
• 2:1 carbs-protein ratio for lean muscle gain
• Has 3 grams of creatine per serving
• Tastes good
• Subscribe and save

Cons

• Only two flavors
• More than $5 per serving

Bottom Line

Our product testers love Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer because it tastes just as good as their dairy-based products, has an optimal carb-protein ratio, and had no negative side effects. It is, however, a little too expensive for some people's taste, though vegan bodybuilders may find it's worth the cost.

Plant-based food tends to be lower in calories than animal-based foods, so instead of gorging yourself on tempeh and vegan protein bars we recommend trying out Transparent Labs Vegan Mass Gainer. Each 2-scoop serving has 730 calories and a roughly 2:1 ratio of carbs to protein, which is enough to earn it a 5 out of 5 for its formulation.

We like the 2:1 ratio because it allows for lean muscle growth. The best mass gainers sometimes have closer to a 3:1 or 4:1 ratio, though those typically use lower-quality carbs and could lean to excess caloric intake that can result in gaining more fat than muscle. The 2:1 ratio still allows for most of the calories to be used for energy, allowing the protein to be used for preserving and building muscle.

The company lives up to its name by being transparent about what’s in its product, and we can see that they’re using high-quality carbs and other ingredients. One thing we’re thrilled to see is a 3 gram serving of creatine, the most studied supplement that’s been tied to muscle recovery and growth. Plus, they use all-natural ingredients, though some people may object to the use of stevia.

RELATED: Is Creatine a Protein?

Certified nutrition coach and GGR Performance Editor Anthony O’Reilly says the flavor gets a 5 out of 5 because it tastes just like Transparent Labs’ whey-based protein powders. “Their Chocolate Glaze Donut reminds me of an Entenmann’s donuts,” he says. “It tastes very natural and has the right amount of sweetness. It’s more of a milk chocolate taste than dark chocolate, but that’s alright by me.”

Unfortunately, we have to give it a 1 out of 5 on price when ordered as a one-time purchase. Each scoop will run you $5.33, though to be fair that’s a lot cheaper than most Impossible Burgers these days.

Best Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder: Garden of Life Raw Organic Plant-Based Protein

Good for: Anyone who wants an unflavored protein supplement

Best Vegan Unflavored

Garden of Life Raw Organic Unflavored Protein Powder

GGR Score: 3.5

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Product Highlights

• 22 grams of protein and 120 calories per serving
• Unflavored, plant-based protein powder
• Easy digestion with probiotics and digestive enzymes
• Certified organic, gluten-free, and vegan
• Organic USDA-approved and third-party certified

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Includes iron, calcium, potassium, and vitamins A, D, E, and K
• Non-GMO, gluten-free, and lactose-free
• No artificial sweeteners, added sugar, soy, tree nuts, or fillers
• Includes fiber for digestion

Cons

• Contains sesame
• Made in a facility that processes egg, milk, soy, wheat, fish, and tree nuts

Bottom Line

Reviewers love the product for its digestive support, muscle recovery, plant-based ingredients, and smooth taste.

If you’re looking for a protein powder for smoothies that won’t overpower your other ingredients, Garden of Life Raw Organic Plant-Based Protein is our choice for plant-based eaters. Certified nutrition coach Anthony O’Reilly gave it a 4 out of 5 on taste, saying it was mostly “unflavored,” but that there was a slight aftertaste.

“It wasn’t anything too bad and you can’t even notice it when you add other things to it,” he says. “I add some vanilla extract and it makes the protein taste just like vanilla.”

The solubility, he says, is also a 4 out of 5. “A little grainy, but not too much,” he says. “With a blender there were no chunks, but if you’re just using a shaker bottle you’ll definitely notice it, even after shaking it for a while.”

While Anthony hasn’t used it for baking or cooking, hundreds of Amazon reviewers have said it’s a good protein powder to use in baking or cooking.

RELATED: How To Use Protein Powder

The formulation gets a 5 out of 5 because it’s high in protein — 22 grams — and there’s only 2.5 and 2 grams of fats and carbohydrates, respectively. It also comes with additional ingredients such as a probiotic and digestive enzyme blend to help with digestion.

In terms of price, you’ll be paying about $1.69 per scoop—which we rate a 3.5 out of 5. It’s not the most expensive protein powder on this list, though we think it’s a bit high for what you’re getting.

Check out our Garden of Life Protein review for more information.

Best Budget Vegan Protein Powder: NOW Sports Plant Protein Complex

Good for: People on a budget

Best Budget

Now Sports Plant Protein Complex

GGR Score: 3

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Product Highlights

• Multi-source vegan protein powder
• Informed Sports-certified, Non-GMO project verified, gluten-free, vegan, and kosher 
• 22 grams of protein per serving

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Under $1.50 per serving
• Packaged in USA
• Reviewers say blends well

Cons

• Only available in 2 flavors
• Sweetened with xylitol

Bottom Line

Now Sports Protein Powder has very mixed reviews on taste, but people like the price point and that it uses a variety of protein sources.

At around $1.26 per serving, the NOW Sports Plant Protein Complex is one of the most budget-friendly vegan protein powders on the market that we’d recommend. The combination of yellow pea, hemp, and quinoa proteins deliver 22 total grams of protein, seven grams of carbs, and two grams of fat per serving. All essential amino acids are in this powder and clearly labeled on the tub, though it lacks micronutrients. 

In addition to being vegan-friendly, the NOW Sports Plant Protein Complex is soy-free (soy is a common allergen) and is free of artificial sweeteners, instead being sweetened with both xylitol and stevia. 

I tried the Creamy Vanilla flavor, and it was just OK. I got a very gritty mouthfeel, even after shaking it up for quite some time, so it received a 3 out of 5 for solubility on our rating metrics. In the spirit of honesty, I’ll also admit that I dealt with some gas after drinking this protein.

On to the formula. As NOW Sports mentions on its websites, athletes who have to go through routine drug screening should check with their organization’s sanctioning body to check on its hemp policy. Hemp contains small traces of THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana, and while it’s incredibly rare, there have been cases⁴ where THC has shown up in athletes’ urine samples after they ingested hemp protein. 

This shouldn’t be a reason for you to stray away from NOW Sports, however, as it would require a large amount of hemp protein for this to happen, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re a competitive athlete. 

Read our full NOW Sports Plant Protein Complex review for more.

Best-Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: Truvani Plant Protein Powder

Good for: Those who want their vegan protein shake to actually taste good 

Best-Tasting

Truvani Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Made with 6 organic ingredients
• Rich chocolate flavor
• A USDA-certified organic, vegan, dairy-free, soy-free, and non-GMO product
• 20 grams of protein per serving
• Has 4.4/5 stars on Amazon and 14,000+ reviews
• #4 in Sports Nutrition Pea Protein Powders on Amazon
• Store in a cool and dry place

Pros & Cons

Pros

• No added sugars or stevia
• Does not have a chalky or grainy taste
• Reviewers love the chocolate flavor
• Paleo-friendly
• Organic
• Vegan
• Certified gluten-free

Cons

• Expensive (about $2.50 per serving)
• Made in a facility that processes wheat, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, peanuts, and eggs

Bottom Line

The chocolate flavor is a fan favorite, especially on Amazon, as Truvani’s Chocolate Protein Powder is rated #4 in Sports Nutrition Pea Protein Powders at the time of writing. We’ve found that reviewers love this product for its taste and simple ingredients.

If you’ve read closely thus far, you’re already aware that our team of near-carnivores is not a fan of plant-based protein powder in terms of taste. (Although we do recognize the plethora of non-taste-related benefits to vegan protein powder.) 

That being said, product tester and GGR senior staff writer Amanda Capritto tried Truvani plant-based protein powder and actually likes it—yes, really, truly, actually likes it. It came as a surprise to her and us, too! 

Amanda says, “This is THE BEST vegan protein powder I have ever tried, and it’s the ONLY vegan protein powder I’ll drink willingly over and over again.” She also praises its extremely rich chocolate flavor and smooth texture. 

As for the nutrition facts, Truvani gets kudos there, too. Made with just six organic ingredients, Truvani protein powder provides 20 grams of protein, five grams of carbohydrates, two grams of fiber, and just two grams of sugar. It’s sweetened with organic monk fruit extract.

The ingredients list is very simple and reads: organic pea protein concentrate, organic alkalized cocoa, organic vanilla powder, organic pumpkin seed concentrate, organic monk fruit extract, and organic chia seed protein.

Our one complaint is that it’s on the pricey end at a very intense $3.00 per serving. That’s really high, but if you want an all-organic product and one that actually tastes good, Truvani is a good bet. Read our full Truvani protein powder review for more info.

Best Vegan Protein Powder for Athletes: Vega Sport Premium Protein

Good for: Athletes wanting a quality vegan protein powder free of banned substances

Best for Athletes

Vega Sport Premium Protein

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Multi-source vegan protein powder
• NSF Certified for Sport, vegan, and gluten-free 
• Includes BCAAs, probiotics, and tart cherry

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 30 grams of protein per serving
• Contains all essential amino acids but two that are made by the body
• 5 flavor options
• Supports recovery with tart cherry, probiotics, and turmeric extract

Cons

• Customers share new formula doesn’t blend well
• Pricey at over $2 per serving

Bottom Line

Vega Sport Protein is plant-based, third-party tested, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide variety of people. One scoop provides 30 grams of vegan-friendly protein. Our testers report taste and blendability is not comparable to whey protein, but far better than other vegan-friendly options on the market.

Beyond being one of the best-tasting protein powders on the market, Vega Sport Premium Protein also has benefits for athletes who hit the training ground on a daily basis. It’s made with tart cherry, which has been found² to support muscle recovery, and contains 30 grams of protein, five grams of carbs, and three grams of fat, earning it a 5 out of 5 on formulation and making it a good choice for those recovering from game day.

Vega is also great for gut health. The powder comes with 2 billion CFUs of probiotics for easier digestion—as a certified personal trainer, I used a tub of this for 30 days and didn’t experience the digestive issues that I sometimes have with other plant-based protein powder.

I went with the Mocha flavor and actually enjoyed it, giving it a 5 out of 5 for taste. It reminded me of those instant cappuccinos you can get from Italian vending machines. Or, if you’ve never been to Italy, imagine chocolate with a hint of coffee. I’ve started mixing it with almond milk and it’s a nice way to start the day.

In terms of protein, it comes from a blend of pea, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and alfalfa (a type of legume, or bean). 

Sydney Lappe, registered dietitian, warns, “Vega discloses that the protein is manufactured in a facility that also processes peanuts, milk, soy, egg, tree nuts, and sesame, which ultimately poses the risk of cross-contamination.” However, this is NSF-Certified for Sport, which makes me think that you’re probably safe trusting this product. 

Read our full Vega protein powder review for the rest of our thoughts on this protein powder.

Best Hemp Vegan Protein Powder: Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah!

Good for: People looking for a hemp protein powder

Best Hemp

Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah!

GGR Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• Hemp protein vegan protein powder
• 3 available flavors 
• Certified USDA organic, Non-GMO Project verified, dairy-free, soy-free, and kosher

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Pros
• Only two ingredients in unsweetened flavor
• 3 flavors available
• Good for environment

Cons

• Cons
• Hemp-based protein may not be acceptable for competitive athletes getting tested
• Customers report it has chalky/gritty texture
• Some users found oregano extract to have overwhelming taste

Bottom Line

Hemp Yeah! Protein is a protein powder with a short list of ingredients that is good for the environment.

There’s a lot to like about Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah!, our pick for best hemp protein powder. GGR editor Frieda Johnson, CNC, SET, tried it out and was a fan as well. “This is a nice hemp protein to mix in smoothies, oatmeal, or other liquids. It has a mild flavor and smooth texture that won’t overwhelm what it’s being mixed with,” she says.

Additionally, Manitoba Harvest uses eco-friendly packaging by using a bag instead of a tub; also, that bag is filled to the top with hemp protein concentrate.

Frieda rates Hemp Yeah!’s taste and solubility both a 4.5 out of 5. “Some reviews complain of an oregano flavor, but I didn’t have that issue,” Frieda adds. “It has a very mild hemp flavor.” She notes that the hemp protein mixes extremely well. It’ll settle eventually, but it’s not grainy at all in her experience.

RELATED: Hemp Protein Powder Benefits

The ingredients for Hemp Yeah! are simple: hemp protein concentrate and oregano extract. The formulation gets a score of 4 out of 5, as it packs a whopping 20 grams of protein per serving, a high amount of protein compared to other hemp proteins. However, while hemp protein is a complete protein, it is naturally low in leucine, essential in muscle protein synthesis. You may want to combine this with another plant-based protein to get a sufficient amount of essential amino acids.

Check out our Manitoba Harvest Hemp Yeah! protein powder review for an in-depth look at this hemp protein powder.

Other Vegan Protein Powders We Tried

• NorCal Organic Pea Protein: Frieda also tested this one and says, “It has a mild flavor that doesn’t overpower fruit flavors in a smoothie. I’m actually pretty surprised at how mild this is for pea protein.”
• Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein: This is “pretty standard for pea protein,” Frieda says. “If you’re not used to it, it might taste a bit strong. It mixes fine in smoothies and baked goods, but some of the pea flavor is likely to come through.”
• Naked Pea: According to our product tester, this one has a strong pea protein flavor, and a serving is two pretty large scoops. It will make whatever you mix it with taste like pea protein unless you really double-down on the sweeteners.
• NOW Sports Pea Protein Isolate: This pea protein was one of the best for baking, our tester says, but the pea flavor comes through too strongly in beverages.
• Bulk Supplements Pea Protein Isolate: Another that’s good for baking, but not so much for drinking.
• Nutiva Hemp Protein: “It has a slightly nutty, bitter flavor. I thought it was quite good with oatmeal with some dried fruit, cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup,” Frieda says. She didn’t use the full serving amount, however, as it’s a whopping 4 tablespoons, which is a bit much for a bowl of oatmeal. 

RELATED: Hemp Protein Powder Benefits

How We Picked and Tested

We have a rigorous supplement testing methodology we apply to any product we test.

We start by researching dozens of vegan protein powders before choosing the products we order and bring in-house for personal testing. From there, our team actually uses the protein powder to assess for factors like solubility and taste. We also consult with registered dietitians for their take on the formulation.

Our criteria for assessing protein powders includes the following factors.

Third-Party Testing

We prioritize products that have undergone third-party testing, because it means we know we can trust what’s on the label is accurate. Our team rates products high when they are NSF Certified for Sport or hold some other type of certification.

However, we recognize that not all brands can afford such testing, and that doesn’t necessarily mean the product is no good. In those cases, we analyze the brand and the product label to look for trust signals and transparency, such as avoiding proprietary blends.

Price

We do the math to figure out how much you’re paying per serving of a product. When it comes to vegan protein powders, we find that the average price is between $1.50 and $1.90 for a quality product.

Formulation

There are several factors that come into play here, as we look not only at the ingredients, but also the dosing. To score a perfect 5 out of 5 on formulation, a product must have at least 20 grams of protein as well as be free from artificial ingredients.

RELATED: Creatine Vs Protein

We take into account factors like:

• Protein content: How much protein does each scoop contain? 
• Amino acids: Can all essential amino acids be found in the product? 
• Micronutrients: Did the protein powder come with vitamins and minerals? 
• Ingredients: Does the vegan protein powder contain high-quality ingredients, or is it filled with artificial sweeteners and thickeners?
• Allergens: We looked for vegan protein powders free from allergens such as soy to give everyone an option. 

Taste

Taste is subjective, and we recognize that it isn’t necessarily fair for meat-eaters like many of the people on our team to gauge the taste of a vegan protein powder. We enlisted product testers who are themselves vegan or who have vegan preferences.

We also looked at flavor offerings. While unflavored protein is just fine, we gave bonus points to brands that offer at least two or more flavor options.

Solubility

No one likes a chunky protein shake. Our testers mixed the vegan protein powders with water and with a milk substitute, using shaker cups, spoons, and blenders to rate how well the powder dissolves.

RELATED: Muscle Milk Review

What is Vegan Protein Powder?

Vegan protein powder is a plant-based protein powder option for those who don’t want to—or can’t—consume the typical whey-based proteins out there. They come in powdered form and are made from plants like beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, and even whole grains.

When it comes to the amino acid profile in plant protein vs animal protein, some plant proteins lack the nine essential amino acids that your body needs from food, so oftentimes, vegan protein powder will contain a blend of different proteins.

Types of Vegan Protein Powder

Vegan protein isn’t just limited to soy; there are many plant sources that you can get your protein intake from.

Soy

One the most popular plant-based protein sources, soy protein is a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids.

Pea

Another popular pick for plant-based proteins, pea protein is technically complete, but it’s low in one amino acid called methionine so it’s typically paired with another vegan protein source to up its impact.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is an incomplete protein, so it’s usually also paired with another vegan protein source.

Hemp

Hemp protein is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. You can often find hemp protein sold on its own, or mixed with other vegan protein sources in a protein powder formulation.

Chia

Chia seeds are also considered a complete protein, though you’ll usually find this ingredient added as a complement to other vegan protein sources in a formulation.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are another technically complete protein, but they also contain low amounts of methionine similar to pea protein. As with other types of vegan protein, you’ll typically find this added to a formulation instead of a standalone option.

If you’re interested in diving deeper into the cave of plant-based wonders, here are a few of our roundups detailing the top brands in the vegan protein category:

• Best soy protein powder
• Best pea protein powder
• Best hemp protein powder

Benefits of Vegan Protein Powder

This one’s more aimed at people who are considering going plant-based, vegetarian, or dairy-free but may not have made the jump yet. Here are a few reasons why you might consider vegan protein powder over whey or casein protein. 

• Easier digestibility: Whey and casein protein contain lactose, which can be hard for some people to digest even if they’re not lactose intolerant. For that reason, some people prefer vegan protein powders over dairy-based protein. 
• Price: Many of the vegan protein powders we tried out were more budget-friendly than their whey and casein counterparts.   
• Environmental: Vegan and plant-based foods are often better for the environment and result in fewer carbon emissions when compared to animal products. 

RELATED: Best protein bars

Potential Risks With Vegan Protein Powder

Vegan and plant-based protein powders are typically easier to digest than whey and casein protein powders, but that’s not the case for everyone. For some, you may see similar digestive issues, such as bloating or gas.

Another thing to look out for is that most plant proteins by themselves won’t contain all nine essential amino acids needed in your diet. Try to use a mix of plant proteins, or a vegan protein powder with a blend of plant proteins, so that you’ll be getting an abundance of all essential aminos.

Who Should Use Vegan Protein Powder?

Anyone who struggles to meet their daily protein needs will benefit by supplementing with a protein powder. However, there are some specific reasons a person may choose a vegan or plant-based protein powder over whey or casein.

• Dietary restrictions: The most obvious people who could benefit from vegan protein powders are those who follow a vegan diet. Plant-based protein powders can help ensure people following a plant-based diet can get their daily protein intake much easier.
• Allergies: Some people may opt for a plant-based protein over the popular alternative whey protein simply because whey is a milk-derived protein. People with dairy allergies or who are lactose intolerant might be able to avoid gastrointestinal issues by opting for a vegan protein powder.
• Environmental concerns: If you’re concerned about your carbon footprint, vegan protein powders might be a good option. Plant-based foods are often better for the environment and can emit fewer carbon emissions than animal products.

How Much Protein Do You Need?

The amount of protein needed in your diet will vary from person to person, depending on your activity level, body weight, and fitness goals.

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for protein set by the USDA is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight⁷. This quantity is the minimum amount required for basic physiological processes. However, many reputable organizations like the International Society for Sports Nutrition recommend more protein—between 1.2 and 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight⁸—for optimal muscle recovery and athletic performance.

Do Vegan Protein Powders Contain Heavy Metals?

Heavy metals can show up in supplements due to the source of the ingredients. For example, whey protein might contain heavy metals if the cow’s food source contains heavy metals like mercury, lead, or cadmium. Sometimes, plant-based protein powders can be the worst offenders, as the soil these plants are grown in may contain higher levels of these heavy metals.

Heavy metals can be dangerous in detectable levels, as they have a toxic effect on the body⁹ or may even affect metabolic processes. Also, these heavy metals can accumulate in the body and food chain, causing a cyclical nature of passing these metals on.

The best way to avoid heavy metals is to do your research on the sources of your vegan protein powders. Transparency is a huge factor to many customers, so many companies aim to have a level of transparency behind their products.

How to Choose A Vegan Protein Powder 

The best protein powder for men may differ from what women, but in some cases they’re the same. Here’s a look at what to keep in mind before going up and down the supplement aisle. 

• Price: How much does each serving cost? 
• Protein source: Where does the vegan protein powder get its protein content from? Does it have all essential amino acids? 
• Total calories: How many calories, carbs, and fats are in each scoop? 
• Serving size: Those who need more protein day-to-day, like athletes, older adults, and those with muscle-building goals, may need two, if not three or four, scoops of vegan protein to get an adequate amount because they are incomplete proteins.
• Taste: Does it taste good? 
• Allergens: If you’re allergic to soy be sure to read the nutrition label extra carefully. Some vegan protein powders may also not be gluten-free. 

RELATED: Best Greens Powder

Vegan Protein Powder: FAQs

References 

1. Lopez MJ, Mohiuddin SS. Biochemistry, Essential Amino Acids. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; March 18, 2023.
2. Hill JA, Keane KM, Quinlan R, Howatson G. Tart Cherry Supplementation and Recovery From Strenuous Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2021;31(2):154-167. doi:10.1123/ijsnem.2020-0145
3. Howarth NC, Saltzman E, Roberts SB. Dietary fiber and weight regulation. Nutr Rev. 2001;59(5):129-139. doi:10.1111/j.1753-4887.2001.tb07001.x
4. Leson G, Pless P, Grotenhermen F, Kalant H, ElSohly MA. Evaluating the impact of hemp food consumption on workplace drug tests. J Anal Toxicol. 2001;25(8):691-698. doi:10.1093/jat/25.8.691
5. Rodriguez-Leyva D, Pierce GN. The cardiac and haemostatic effects of dietary hempseed. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2010;7:32. Published 2010 Apr 21. doi:10.1186/1743-7075-7-32
6. Simopoulos AP. The importance of the omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio in cardiovascular disease and other chronic diseases. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2008;233(6):674-688. doi:10.3181/0711-MR-311
7. Hudson, J. L., Wang, Y., Bergia Iii, R. E., & Campbell, W. W. (2020). Protein Intake Greater than the RDA Differentially Influences Whole-Body Lean Mass Responses to Purposeful Catabolic and Anabolic Stressors: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), 11(3), 548–558. https://doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmz106
8. Carbone, J. W., & Pasiakos, S. M. (2019). Dietary Protein and Muscle Mass: Translating Science to Application and Health Benefit. Nutrients, 11(5), 1136. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11051136
9. Jaishankar, M., Tseten, T., Anbalagan, N., Mathew, B. B., & Beeregowda, K. N. (2014). Toxicity, mechanism and health effects of some heavy metals. Interdisciplinary toxicology, 7(2), 60–72. https://doi.org/10.2478/intox-2014-0009

Anthony O'Reilly, CPT, CNC

Anthony O'Reilly is a NASM-certified nutrition coach and personal trainer whose work has been featured in Muscle & Fitness and BarBend, and previously was an award-winning reporter and photographer for newspapers on Long Island and Queens, NY. After spending most of his life overweight, he dropped 80 pounds and took control of his health and fitness. Outside of work, he still enjoys Little Debbie cakes but offsets them with rigorous hikes and workouts. He's an avid Manchester United supporter, through thick and thin.

Further reading

Taking Protein After a Workout: Benefits, Timing, and Advice From a Dietitian

by Perry Nix, MS, RD, LD

Eating protein after a workout could help you achieve certain fitness goals. Learn more about the benefits, recommended amount, and timing of protein intake. Read more

RitFit Power Cage Review: High-Value, Low-Cost Versatile Home Gym

by Jessica Thomas, MPH

In our RitFit Power Cage review, we’ll talk about the ups and downs of this budget-friendly home gym machine. Read more

Save Time and Build Muscle With a Kettlebell HIIT Workout 

by Ricky Goodrich

Get your heart and muscles pumping with this trainer-created kettlebell HIIT workout. Read more

Take These Three Travel Workouts On Your Next Trip

by Rachel MacPherson ACE-CPT, PNI CNC

Hitting the road? Check out our guide to travel workouts, which includes three options to keep you moving while you’re away from home. Read more