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I have switched to plant-based proteins for quite a while, and I have done some testing with pea, rice, and hemp protein.
A client wanted to know more about pea protein powder, so I decided to focus more on these.
Through several weeks of research and collaborating closely with a dietitian with over a decade of experience, I've identified the top six pea protein powders that stand out in terms of quality, taste, and nutritional value.
The Best Pea Protein Powders
- Best Overall Pea Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Organic
- Cheapest Pea Protein Powder: BulkSupplements
- Best Pea Protein Formula for Athletes: Naked Pea
- Best Unflavored Pea Protein Supplement: Norcal Organic Pea
- Best Sugar-Free Pea Protein Blend: BulkSupplements
- Best Vanilla Flavored Pea Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Organic
- Best Vegan Pea Protein Powder: Naked Pea
- Best Bulk Order Pea Protein Blend: Zen Principle
Our Top Pea Protein Powders (July 2024)
1 - Transparent Labs Organic Vegan (Best Overall & Vanilla Flavor)
- Price per serving : $1.66
- Key ingredients : Organic Rice Protein, Organic Pea Protein, Natural Flavors
- Flavors : French Vanilla, Chocolate
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 24 g protein content from pea and rice
- Contains only 3 g of carbs making it suitable for diets like keto
- Available in vanilla and chocolate flavors
- Gluten-free and non-GMO for peace of mind
Cons
- Only available in flavored options
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Vegans seeking a complete protein source
- Athletes looking for a protein with a full amino acid profile
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer flavored protein options
Final Verdict
This product is ideal for health-conscious athletes who need a comprehensive, plant-based protein. It supports muscle recovery and growth efficiently.
I've been using Transparent Labs' products for almost a year now. Their vegan rice and pea protein powder quickly became a staple in my fitness regimen, and here's why.
There are no additives or artificial sweeteners, and I have to agree with so many reviews that say it’s not too sweet or fake-tasting.
It contains 24 grams of protein per serving compared to the Norcal Organic pea protein powder, which is second on the list and only has 22 grams.
It’s easy to mix and doesn’t need to be blended, but I would love to see an unflavored option, so that I can mix it with food or a smoothie.
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2 - Norcal Organic Pea Protein Powder (Best Unflavored)
- Price per serving : $0.96
- Key ingredients : 100% Organic Pea Protein Isolate
- Flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 22 grams of protein including 5 g of branched-chain amino acids
- Practically carb-free making it ideal for keto dieters
- Claims to provide a very broad amino acid profile
- Gluten-free with no added flavor
Cons
- Not the easiest to mix in a shaker
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Organic product enthusiasts
- People with digestive sensitivities to additives
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for a protein boost with flavors
Final Verdict
Source Organic's protein is perfect for those who want a pure, minimalist protein source. It's especially good for adding to mixed ingredient shakes.
After a friend recommended this vegan pea protein powder, I decided to give it a shot.
This pea protein powder contains 22 g of protein from organic yellow pea protein isolate and 3 g of fat per serving.
While testing this supplement, I mixed it with grass-fed milk or stacked it with brown rice or hemp to get broader coverage.
When compared to Transparent Labs and Zen Principle protein powders, Norcal powder contains an additional 5 grams of branched-chain amino acids.
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, and another study on the Frontiers website, this can be excellent for enhancing recovery and promoting muscle growth [1][2].
3 - Zen Principle Yellow Pea Protein Powder (Best for Bulk Orders)
- Price per serving : $0.89
- Key ingredients : Organic Pea Protein
- Flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : No specific mention
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Each serving contains 24 grams of yellow pea protein
- Certified Canada and USA grown yellow peas
- Great bulk option available to make it budget-friendly
- Gluten, soy, and GMO-free
Cons
- Flavors are not that great
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious consumers
- Users who prefer non-GMO, organic supplements
Who is it not for?
- Flavor enthusiasts
Final Verdict
Zen Principle offers an affordable and environmentally responsible protein option, suitable for integrating into various diets.
I stumbled upon Zen Principle's pea protein when looking for a change in my post-workout routine. It promised muscle thickness, and from my experience, it certainly delivered on that front [3].
Each serving provides 24 g of quality yellow pea protein, which is easy to digest no matter what sports you’re into.
These are essential amino acids that are important for building new muscle fibers, which this interesting study confirms [4].
Compared to Norcal Organic and Transparent Labs powder, Zen Principle is the only one with Certified Canada and USA-grown yellow peas.
The only thing I would caution about is that it isn't the best pea protein powder in terms of taste, but it is very suitable for mixing with meal recipes.
4 - Naked Pea Supplement (Best Vegan & for Athletes)
- Price per serving : $0.69
- Key ingredients : Yellow Pea Protein
- Flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes, tested for heavy metals
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides a generous 27 g of premium protein from yellow peas
- Includes 5.7 g of BCAA which is helpful with muscle recovery
- Claims to come from sustainable farms
- Soy and gluten-free with no additives
Cons
- Contains some sugar and no dietary fiber
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals requiring high protein intake
- Consumers interested in non-GMO, minimal processing
Who is it not for?
- Those who dislike the natural taste of pea protein
Final Verdict
Naked Pea Protein is highly recommended for its purity and simplicity, ideal for both serious athletes and casual health enthusiasts.
I've been familiar with Naked Nutrition for a while. When I ventured into their vegan protein powders, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and results. I have used the unflavored
The protein source of this pea protein powder is yellow peas, and with 27 g of protein, it provides the largest amount of all the options on this list.
That makes it especially suitable for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who spend a lot of time at the gym.
The only downside I found is that it does contain a small amount of sugar. And unlike some of the above options, there is no fiber to help with digestion and hunger cravings.
5 - BulkSupplements Pea Protein Isolate (Cheapest Option)
- Price per serving : $0.70
- Key ingredients : Pea Protein Isolate
- Flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : No specific mention
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains 21 grams of protein
- Available in large bulk-order pouches
- Also contains some iron and electrolytes
- Gluten, soy and sugar-free
Cons
- Only available as an unflavored option
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People looking for high protein content per serving
- Buyers needing bulk quantities at a lower price
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer organic or flavored protein powders
Final Verdict
BulkSupplements provides a straightforward, unflavored protein that works well for custom shakes and offers great value for its price.
Being a bit of a bargain hunter, I was drawn to BulkSupplements for their value-for-money offerings. Their extensive range meant I could buy in bulk, and their pea protein isolate didn't disappoint in terms of quality.
I like that it comes in pouches, which are easier to carry in a gym bag, and importantly, it’s easy to close the pouches after use to avoid a total mess in your bag.
This pea protein powder really is a no-frills product. They haven’t spent thousands on fancy packaging and designs but rather created something that many athletes say is very easy for your body to absorb.
If you prefer a tasty protein shake, you may want to go for one of the other protein powders on this list, as this one is only available as unflavored.
6 - NOW Foods
- Price per serving : $0.87
- Key ingredients : Yellow Pea Protein
- Flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : GMP Quality Assured
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 12 grams of yellow pea protein per serving
- Available in chocolate, vanilla, and unflavored options
- Claims to use a chemical-free extraction process
- Gluten, soy, and sugar-free
Cons
- Doesn’t mix as easily as the other powdered options
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those who appreciate certified organic products
- Vegans and vegetarians looking for a clean protein source
Who is it not for?
- People sensitive to unflavored protein powders
Final Verdict
NOW Sports offers a reliable, digestible protein that supports muscle recovery without the common allergens, making it a solid choice for health enthusiasts.
When I was exploring lighter protein options, NOW Foods caught my attention. Though it provides a bit less protein per serving (12 g), it was perfect for those days when I wanted something lighter but still effective.
However, this does make it easier if you aim to take smaller volumes a day.
The family-owned business says that they don’t use any chemicals in the extraction process, which is nice to see in an industry where such methods are often used to cut costs.
Of all the pea protein powders on this list, I find this the most difficult to mix, which is why I would recommend blending it with smoothies.
How We Tested The Best Pea Protein Powders
Here's how we tested pea protein powders.
Effectiveness
To gauge the effectiveness of each pea protein powder, we conducted a month-long trial with a group of our clients. They incorporated the protein into their daily routines, either post-workout or as a meal replacement.
We monitored muscle recovery rates, energy levels, and overall feelings of satiety. Feedback was collected weekly to track any noticeable changes in physical performance and recovery times.
Taste
Our team, along with a panel of client volunteers, participated in a blind taste test. Each powder was mixed with water and almond milk in a smoothie to evaluate its flavor profile and how it pairs with other ingredients. Feedback on aftertaste, sweetness, and overall palatability was meticulously noted.
Ingredients
We closely examined the ingredient list of each product. Our primary focus was on the purity of the pea protein—whether it was an isolate or concentrate—and the presence of any fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
Price
We compared the cost per gram of pure protein, taking into account the protein content, ingredient quality, and overall serving size. This helped us determine which products offer the best balance between cost and quality.
Buyer's Guide for the Best Pea Protein Supplement
Here's everything you should keep in mind when choosing the best pea protein powder.
1. Avoid artificial ingredients
I once purchased a pea protein powder lured by its attractive packaging, only to find it laden with added sugars and artificial flavors. It not only affected the taste but also wasn't as effective in my post-workout recovery.
Check the label for unnecessary fillers, sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives. A cleaner ingredient list often translates to a higher-quality product.
2. Amino Acid Profile
A good pea protein powder should provide a complete amino acid profile, especially the essential ones. This ensures you're getting all the essential amino acids vital for muscle repair and overall health.
3. Source and Origin
Prioritize pea protein powders that are non-GMO and organically sourced. The origin of the peas can be a testament to their quality, as certain regions might have better agricultural practices
4. Mixability
I've experimented with various brands and found that those with poor mixability often ended up at the back of my pantry, unused. Read the protein powder reviews to check it mixes seamlessly with liquids without leaving a gritty residue.
5. Allergen Information
Ensure the product is free from common allergens, especially if you have sensitivities. Also, check if it's processed in a facility that handles allergens. Personal Experience: Having a gluten sensitivity, I always double-check this to avoid any adverse reactions.
Is Pea Protein Powder Worth It?
Yes, pea protein powder is worth it because it contains all of the essential amino acids, except for methionine.
Among the nine essential amino acids, pea protein has notably elevated levels of leucine, isoleucine, and valine. It is worth noting that lysine aids in the production of carnitine and may also help support immunological function [5].
The main reason for taking a pea protein supplement in the first place is to help with weight loss, build muscle mass (when paired with consistent exercise), and speed up muscle recovery [6]. Whether the protein comes from an animal or plant-based food source doesn’t matter so much to your muscles.
But the source can matter to your stomach.
One of the benefits of a vegan protein powder like a pea protein powder is the bioavailability of the protein [7].
Bioavailability refers to your stomach's ability to absorb all the nutrition fully, and when it comes to pea protein, it really is one of the best for your digestion.
Also read: Best Protein Powders for Running
Pea Protein Powder vs. Whey Protein Powder
Research has shown that pea protein and whey protein have similar outcomes in measurements of body composition, muscle thickness, force production, and strength [8].
Unlike whey, however, pea protein doesn’t provide the full range of all essential amino acids. But it’s a minor problem that can be fixed by mixing in some hemp or rice protein.
The main advantage of pea protein compared to whey is that it can be extracted without the need for chemicals. No matter how safe those chemicals are, they can impact your digestion.
Finally, pea protein is also generally lower in calories than whey, which makes it more suitable for most diets.
Stacking With Other Plant-Based Protein Powders
I mentioned in the previous section that stacking vegan protein powders is a good idea. By combining pea and rice protein, you will get the full range of essential amino acids.
Taking hemp protein can also solve the missing link in plant proteins because it is the only plant-based option with a complete protein profile.
I also like to switch things around a little just to ensure that my body doesn’t get too used to just one source of protein.
FAQs
Is Pea Protein Powder Good for You?
Yes, pea protein powder is good for you as it is rich in amino acids that are easy to digest. Pea protein powders are the most popular source of protein for vegans as well as non-vegan athletes as a replacement for whey.
Is Pea Protein Hard to Digest?
No, pea protein is not hard to digest, but many people confuse this topic because it does take longer to absorb than whey. One reason for this is that whey has often been extracted using chemicals that partially break it down, but this isn’t necessarily a good thing.
Does Pea Protein Cause Inflammation?
No, pea protein doesn’t cause inflammation, and a lot of research actually points to the opposite being the case. Some people often misunderstand the fact that large doses of pea protein can cause bloating, but that is not the same as inflammation.
Does Pea Protein Make You Gain Weight?
No, pea protein doesn’t make you gain weight. Generally speaking, plant-based vegan protein is actually less likely to cause weight gain because it contains fewer calories.
Our Verdict on the Best Pea Protein Powder
Having experimented with various protein powders over the years, there's one product I find myself consistently reaching for Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice and Pea Protein Powder.
Its nutritional profile stands out, and it's free from the unnecessary additives that plague many other products. Even though I'm not strictly vegan, I've found that pea protein, especially from Transparent Labs, suits my fitness goals better than casein.
Our #1 Recommendation
Transparent Labs Organic Vegan (Best Overall & Vanilla Flavor)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- 24 g protein content from pea and rice
- Contains only 3 g of carbs making it suitable for diets like keto
- Available in vanilla and chocolate flavors
- Gluten-free and non-GMO for peace of mind
- Get 10% off using code: TOTALSHAPE
- Only available in flavored options
About The Author
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I’ve been trying different protein supplements for the past 3 years and none has helped me achieve my body goals (I’m skinny and I want to gain muscles) as a vegan. I’ll consider your pea protein powder suggestion. Will let you know of the results. Thanks.