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Being vegan typically comes with one very particular question: “Where do you get your protein?” To be fair, this is a perfectly reasonable thought. Although completely manageable, a vegan diet often means that you need to be a bit more mindful about what you’re eating to ensure that you are consuming a well-rounded diet. But thankfully – and I can attest – the days of eating dried up tofu and beans to fulfill your protein quota are long gone. As a vegan of almost nine years, I know firsthand that the options have come a long way over the last decade.
This is largely due to the rise of vegan protein powders. At one time chalky and tasting like the bottom of the earth, the protein powders are now – dare I say? – even more tasty than their non-vegan competitors. Hemp, pea, rice, pumpkin seed and quinoa (to name a few) make for nutrient-dense protein sources that are an amazing addition to any smoothie, snack or meal. But like anything, it’s important to vet what other ingredients are included in your protein powder. Many have an overwhelming amount of added sugars, gums and preservatives, which ultimately defeat the purpose of a healthy protein source.
I’m here to break down the top vegan protein powders on the market that contain minimal additives and a whole lot of protein – enjoy!
Truvani has been an instant favorite since the moment I tried it. I love that it’s higher in protein than many vegan protein powders and contains minimal added sugar. Using pea and pumpkin seed protein as the main sources, the taste is creamy, smooth and delicious. The classic Vanilla flavor is my absolute favorite and makes for the perfect addition to my morning smoothie – but if you’re a Peanut Butter lover, you can't go wrong with one of their newest flavors. Truvani has been at the top of the Vegan Protein Powder world since it came onto the scene, and although it is on the pricier side, I can wholeheartedly say that it’s worth it. Not to mention, it contains zero added preservatives, coloring or sweeteners.
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Ritual has taken the wellness industry by storm with their new-age multivitamins and supplements, and their protein powders deserve just as much credit. Not only are their protein powders non-GMO, third-party tested, and gluten and allergen free, they are also formulated without any sugar or stevia. Ritual is the first of its kind to be sweetened with monk fruit and fermented sugarcane, and the subtle taste of vanilla and caramel is divine. The company offers an array of protein powders for different stages of life, similar to their multivitamins, which ensures a clean and safe protein source for everyone. I love that I can take full comfort in knowing that all of the ingredients in Ritual protein powders have been vetted and tested to the highest degree – and still taste delicious.
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Since its inception, Sakara has been a pioneer in bringing plant-based eating to the forefront of the food scene. While starting off with a meal delivery service, the company has now expanded to all areas of wellness, which of course includes a great vegan protein powder. Containing a mix of pea, pumpkin, hemp and sesame seeds, it wouldn’t be a true Sakara product without the addition of some greens. Spirulina and chlorella are included to make it a well-rounded and nutrient-dense protein option. It has a smooth and subtle taste in the most refreshing way possible, and is a great protein to add into their Signature Sakara Smoothie or any kind of baked good. I highly recommend this protein for anyone who loves a more subtle taste but still wants to pack in some extra protein and greens!
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Erewhon's go-to plant protein, MIKUNA leans on Chocho, a protein-rich Andean superfood that is both highly digestible and environmentally sustainable in its incredibly popular powders. The protein powder is non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from any artificial flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners, ensuring a pure and natural supplement (this version has only one ingredient!). With a subtle, nutty flavor, MIKUNA blends seamlessly into smoothies, oatmeal, and baked goods. The brand also gets extra points for its commitment to ethical sourcing and supporting Andean farmers.
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Very few companies know wellness the way that Kroma does, so it’s only fitting that their plant-based protein powders are topnotch. Unlike most vegan protein powders, Kroma’s are lectin-free and unprocessed, which makes them easier to digest and guaranteed to give you a nice energy boost. Instead of using pea protein, Kroma uses Chocho – a unique protein found in the Andes that contains all of the essential amino acids. It goes without saying that Kroma passes the “clean” ingredient checklist, but goes above and beyond by including antioxidants that aid in inflammation and hormone balancing to their powders. The Cacao-Banana is a must-try. It’s the perfect add-on to any smoothie that will take it from a basic drink to a delicious treat. Wellness enthusiasts will love the Kroma protein powder line.
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When it comes to organic plant-based proteins, Sprout Living has no shortage. With an array of protein powders ranging from naturally caffeinated Coffee or Matcha powders to superfood-infused classics like Chocolate Maca and Pro Collagen Berry, Sprout Living is your one-stop shop for all things vegan protein. The Vanilla Lucuma is a favorite of mine that has a distinctly creamy taste, which makes it perfect to add to overnight oats or smoothies. Sprout Living touts itself on only using organic ingredients without any added gums, fillers, additives or preservatives. If you’re looking for a protein powder that doubles as a great source of bonus nutrients and adaptogens, Sprout Living is the way to go!
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Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean protein is just that – a high quality and clean protein source derived from pea, rice, quinoa and sacha inchi. These proteins come together to create 21 grams of protein with all essential and nonessential amino acids (key for a vegan diet)! With zero added sugar, Ora also uses monk fruit and organic stevia to give the protein powders a sweet and subtle taste. The Vanilla Chai is delicious on its own, simply mixed with a nut milk of your choice, but really all of the flavors are worth trying. What sets Ora apart is the addition of digestive enzymes in their powders which aid in healthy digestion. Many protein powders come with a side of unwanted bloat, and Ora is ahead of the curve by making sure that this won’t be an issue.
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When you think about Kate Hudson, you may not think about protein powder – but you probably think about how great she looks. So with that in mind, it makes sense that Kate Hudson came out with INBLOOM, her own line of plant-based protein powders. What sets INBLOOM apart is its nourishing blend of mushrooms, greens, ginger and dandelion. These help to combat stress, manage glucose levels and support the immune system. I’m a big fan of the INBLOOM Green Protein Vanilla flavor – it’s subtle enough to add to just about anything, but I recommend trying it with coconut water, as they suggest. It makes for a delicious and intensely hydrating drink that will guarantee that you don't forget to drink water!
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With the temperatures heating up, now is the perfect time to pull out your blender and make a smoothie with any of these delicious protein powders as the star ingredient!