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Are there soy-free protein powder options that meet your health requirements, but also align with your standards for quality and taste?
As a certified trainer, I am aware that soy is often in the powder blend even in supplements that come from animal sources, which is why I conducted a search to find the best soy-free protein powders.
We’ll also look at why people might be choosing to avoid soy in further detail, so read on to find out more.
The Best Soy-Free Protein Powders
- Best Overall Soy-Free Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Vegan Protein
- Cheapest Protein Powder Without Soybeans: Orgain Organic Protein
- Best Organic Soy-Free Protein Powder: Ora Organic Protein Powder
- Best Soy-Free Powder High in Protein: PaleoPro Protein Powder
- Most Delicious Protein Powder Without Soy: Orgain Organic Protein
- Best Unflavored Soy-Free Protein Powder: Ora Organic Protein Powder
- Best Vegan Protein Powder Without Soy: Transparent Labs Vegan Protein
- Best Soy-Free Casein for Muscle Recovery: Promix Pasteur Based Micellar Casein
Top Soy-Free Protein Powders (July 2024)
1 - Transparent Labs Vegan Protein (Best Overall & Vegan-Friendly)
- Price per serving : $1.74
- Key ingredients : Organic pea protein, organic rice protein, organic sacha inchi, quinoa protein, and amaranth powder
- All flavors : Vanilla, Chocolate, Salted Caramel
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Simple protein supplement blend designed to boost protein levels efficiently
- Complete plant-based protein source with all essential amino acids
- Great value for money with savings for buying in bulk
- No artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives; very natural
Cons
- Not a massive selection of flavor choices
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals seeking a simple, plant-based protein
- People avoiding artificial additives
Who is it not for?
- Those preferring a variety of flavors
Final Verdict
Transparent Labs offers a straightforward, no-nonsense protein supplement that is both effective and natural. A good choice for those seeking quality with minimal additives.
If you’re looking for products with no added nonsense, then Transparent Labs has got the right blend, offering quality and trustworthiness.
I've always been skeptical about trying new supplements, but Transparent Labs won me over with their clear, straightforward labeling. Every scoop reassured me that I was fueling my body with quality ingredients, and the results were absolutely noticeable.
Supplement facts
Nothing artificial, no soy, no dairy, non-GMO, gluten-free, and also a complete protein source containing all the essential amino acids.
Both vanilla and chocolate flavors taste great and mix well however you choose to take them, and they’re reasonably low in calories.
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
2 - PaleoPro Protein Powder (Best Protein-Rich)
- Price per serving : $1.96
- Key ingredients : Beef protein isolate, egg white protein
- All flavors : Ancient Cacao, Aztec Vanilla
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Perfect for those on a paleo diet
- Fantastic selection of flavor; favorites being the plain and aztec vanilla
- Excellent source of collagen and protein
Cons
- Made in a factory that also processes dairy, soy, peanut, wheat, and shellfish so cannot claim to be completely allergy-free
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Paleo diet followers
- Those needing a high protein content
Who is it not for?
- People with severe allergies (factory processes other allergens)
Final Verdict
PaleoPro is ideal for paleo dieters seeking a rich, flavorful protein source, though it’s processed in a facility handling allergens which may concern some.
I remember the first time I tried PaleoPro; I was a bit hesitant because I was used to plant-based proteins. But let me tell you, the richness of flavor and the energy boost I felt was unmatched. It became a staple in my post-workout recovery.
While this protein powder is still free of common allergens such as soy, dairy, and gluten, it’s packed full of protein from egg and grass-fed beef sources with a whopping 26 grams of protein per serving.
The ingredients list is very basic, with only minimal additives used for the various flavors.
Supplement facts
It is mostly just beef and eggs that are dried and then ground to a fine powder. It can easily blend into a super tasty paleo-friendly protein shake.
3 - Ora Organic Protein Powder (Best Organic & Unflavored)
- Price per serving : $1.80
- Key ingredients : Organic pea protein, organic rice protein, organic hemp protein
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Super healthy and diverse protein sources
- Rich in digestive enzymes that tackle bloating and help absorption
- Delicious taste coming from organic cocoa and only 1 gram of sugar
Cons
- Unless you are a subscriber to make use of the savings, it can work out expensive per scoop
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Organic product seekers
- Those who enjoy chocolate and vanilla flavors
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for a budget option
Final Verdict
Ora Organic is a premium, flavorful option packed with digestive enzymes and superfoods, offering more than just protein.
I was on the hunt for something organic and stumbled upon Ora Organic. With every sip, I could almost taste the variety of superfoods. It wasn’t just a protein boost but a holistic nourishment experience that made my body thank me after every workout.
The benefits this protein powder claims to provide reach far beyond just protein, with the inclusion of super greens they are also serving up the macro and micronutrient needs we all may be lacking in our diets.
What I appreciate is that this product blends easily and comes in delicious chocolate, vanilla, and vanilla chai flavors.
Supplement facts
4 - Orgain Organic Protein (Cheapest & Most Delicious)
- Price per serving : $0.89
- Key ingredients : Organic pea protein, organic brown rice protein, organic chia seed
- All flavors : Creamy Chocolate Fudge, Vanilla Bean, Peanut Butter
- Third-party tested : Not specified
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Super chocolatey flavor
- The protein and fiber work well to suppress appetite as a dietary aid in the morning
- Versatile and can mixes well for shakes and when used in baking
Cons
- Uses stevia as a sweetener
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Those who use protein powders in baking
Who is it not for?
- Those avoiding stevia
Final Verdict
Orgain Organic provides a delicious, cost-effective protein solution that is versatile in use, though it does contain stevia.
I’ve tried my fair share of protein powders, and when I first tasted Orgain’s chocolate flavor, it was love at first sip. Yes, it has a unique texture, but that’s what I enjoy about it. It feels hearty, and each serving is like a treat that my muscles and taste buds thank me for.
This non-GMO product is Certified USDA Organic and free of gluten, lactose, added sugar, soy, kosher, carrageenan, and artificial flavors.
Supplement facts
I like that the serving packs in 21 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber with 0 grams of sugar, and it’s perfect for those looking to stem their appetite and lose weight with a protein powder that’s low in calories.
5 - Naked Rice Brown Rice Protein Powder
- Price per serving : $0.99
- Key ingredients : Organic sprouted brown rice protein
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes (third-party tested for heavy metals)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Super simple and straightforward ingredients list
- Easily one of the best pure rice protein powders there is
- Can be combined with the Naked Pea Protein for a complete profile of amino acids
Cons
- Not a complete source of protein
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People seeking a simple protein solution
- Those combining with other protein types for a complete amino profile
Who is it not for?
- Those needing a complete protein alone
Final Verdict
Naked Rice is an excellent choice for pure rice protein enthusiasts, but it’s best combined with another protein type for a complete amino profile.
I was looking for something simple and effective, and Naked Rice was the answer. It’s as pure as it gets, and I felt the difference in my energy levels.
It’s not just a protein powder; for me, it’s a daily essential that complements my active lifestyle perfectly. Overall, a product that may be ideal for your general health.
This product is free of GMO, gluten, artificial sweeteners, additives, and soy. It is also independently tested by third parties for metals and melamine, which are a major concern with any rice product.
Supplement facts
While they do avoid the usual flashy marketing techniques and gimmicks, this is a genuinely good protein powder that we rank highly.
6 - Promix Pasteur Based Micellar Casein (Best Casein for Muscle Recovery)
- Price per serving : $1.30
- Key ingredients : Micellar casein, sunflower lecithin
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : Yes (free from heavy metals)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent pure casein powder protein source
- Ideal for post-workout or overnight recovery
- Pure and purpose-driven product
Cons
- Significantly more expensive per serving when compared to others
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those focusing on muscle recovery
- Overnight protein users
Who is it not for?
- Budget shoppers (higher cost per serving)
Final Verdict
Promix offers an excellent slow-release protein that supports muscle recovery over time, ideal for post-workout or nighttime use.
Few brands can honestly claim they are serving up pure casein, which means Promix is an excellent and unique product to try out to achieve your health goals.
While whey is arguably the best at serving up fast-acting protein, we believe that casein is much better at the slow-burning release that makes it ideal for taking post-workout or overnight aiding in muscle recovery. It will also help you build lean muscle and achieve better fitness results.
I’ve always been a fan of casein for its slow-release protein, and Promix just hits differently. Mixing it is a breeze, and the flavor is just right - not too overpowering, but enough to satisfy my palate. It’s my go-to for those intense training days.
Supplement facts
7 - Naked Whey Grass Fed Whey Protein
- Price per serving : $1.69
- Key ingredients : Grass-fed whey protein concentrate
- All flavors : Unflavored, Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- A bare-all naked ingredient list that is just what you want with no added nonsense
- A complete source of protein that is reportedly ethically sourced
- Uses research and superior extraction techniques to ensure high quality
Cons
- Some of the bold claims about the quality of the ingredients made by the brand are, at best, unverifiable.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Ethically conscious buyers
- Those preferring no added nonsense
Who is it not for?
- Skeptics of brand claims on quality
Final Verdict
Naked Whey offers high-quality, ethically sourced whey protein, ideal for those looking for purity in supplementation.
Naked’s Whey protein follows much the same process and ethos as their plant-based protein powders. It’s free from anything artificial or nasty additives.
I was wary of the usual processing methods of most protein powders, but then I found Naked Whey. The purity and quality are evident in every scoop. It’s not just about the gains but knowing that what I’m putting into my body is as clean as it gets.
Supplement facts
My recommendation is to stick with the unflavored and then vary your shake recipe using the delicious whole and raw ingredients that you like best.
If you want just a tad bit of sweetness, you can go for the vanilla variant.
8 - Vega Plant-based Proteins and Greens
- Price per serving : $1.56
- Key ingredients : Pea Protein, Brown Rice Protein
- All flavors : Vanilla, Chocolate, Berry, Tropical
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent protein source buffered with additional benefits and fibers from greens
- Great flavor options as well as an unflavored alternative
- Complete plant-based protein
Cons
- A press release concerning the high amount of heavy metals found in the product has been released and warrants further investigation
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Health enthusiasts
- Those enjoying flavored protein options
Who is it not for?
- Concerned about potential heavy metals
Final Verdict
Vega offers a nutritious blend of protein and greens, though recent concerns about heavy metals may need consideration.
Vega is another protein powder that doesn’t just want to help you lose weight or make gains at the gym; it’s a vital part of a well-balanced and healthy diet, promoting overall wellness.
I thought I had my nutrition all figured out until I tried Vega. The infusion of greens turned my morning shakes into a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s not just protein; it’s a balanced meal that fuels my day like nothing else.
This product is non-GMO and free of gluten, dairy, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives.
Supplement facts
The flavors (vanilla and salted caramel are my personal favorites) are sweetened with stevia, but they do also offer an unflavored and stevia-free option.
9 - OWYN Vegan Allergen Friendly Protein
- Price per serving : $1.96
- Key ingredients : Pea Protein, Pumpkin Seed Protein
- All flavors : Vanilla, Dark Chocolate, Coffee
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fortified with additional nutritional benefits
- Contains probiotics for a healthy gut and easily digested
- Doesn’t contain stevia or other artificial sweeteners
Cons
- High salt content
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Allergy-prone individuals
- Those preferring a gut-friendly option
Who is it not for?
- Those preferring sweeter flavors (no stevia)
Final Verdict
OWYN is excellent for those with allergies and provides a comprehensive nutritional profile, but it lacks sweetness from stevia.
The whole idea behind taking a protein shake is that it should be a one-stop-shop for all your nutritional needs.
Allowing you to focus on the exercise regime or diet goals you’re trying to achieve. OWYN knows this and has done precisely that.
I’ve always had to be careful with supplements due to my allergies, but OWYN changed the game for me. Every serving is a blend of pea, pumpkin, and chia seeds that not only fuels my workouts but also sits well with my sensitive system.
Supplement facts
Grab your OWYN vanilla protein powder and just mix it to water and you’re good to go.
It's not just one of the best soy-free protein powders; it's a great healthy way to start any day. Just mix your OWYN vanilla protein powder with water, and you're good to go.
10 - Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder
- Price per serving : $1.46
- Key ingredients : Pea Protein, Sprouted Brown Rice Protein
- All flavors : Chocolate, Vanilla
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Great product with the reviews and consensus backing the companies claims
- Complete plant-based protein with additional nutritional benefits thrown in
- Certified organic
Cons
- Now owned by Nestle and “new and improved” reads a lot like “worse and you get less."
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those seeking additional nutrition from vitamins and minerals
- Stomach sensitive users
Who is it not for?
- Those skeptical of corporate integrity (owned by Nestle)
Final Verdict
Garden of Life offers a wholesome, organically certified protein that supports overall wellness, though its corporate ownership may concern some.
I’ve been a fan of Garden of Life for years. Each serving feels like a burst of energy, and thanks to the probiotics and enzymes, it’s gentle on my stomach too. It’s more than a protein powder; it’s a part of my wellness journey.
It’s also fortified nutritionally with vitamins and minerals derived from its raw food ingredients.
This vegan protein powder is Certified USDA Organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and non-GMO.
Supplement facts
11 - Omega Nutrition Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder
- Price per serving : $1.47
- Key ingredients : Pumpkin Seed Protein
- All flavors : Unflavored
- Third-party tested : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Completely natural source of protein
- Very cost-efficient
- Tastes great added to recipes, meals, or shakes
Cons
- Can’t compete against other protein powders in terms of efficient delivery
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those preferring natural ingredients
- Cooks and bakers
Who is it not for?
- Those focused solely on muscle mass gain
Final Verdict
Omega Nutrition provides a natural, tasty option great for adding protein to recipes, though it’s not ideal for significant muscle mass gain.
If you want your soy-free protein powder to be clean, it doesn’t get much more honest than this.
I was looking for a clean, plant-based protein and stumbled upon Omega Nutrition. The purity of pumpkin seeds in every scoop is a refreshing change. It’s not just fuel for my muscles, but a treat for my taste buds.
I wouldn’t put this up against some of the other proteins in this list if you’re looking to make muscle mass.
Supplement facts
What I would recommend it for is using to give cooking and baking a little protein kick. It tastes great and is a great natural way to up your protein intake.
12 - Amazon Elements Grass-Fed Whey Protein
- Price per serving : Not available (currently unavailable)
- Key ingredients : Whey Protein Isolate
- All flavors : Natural Chocolate
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Incredibly cost-effective
- Simple and clean ingredient list
- Mixes well with a good flavor
Cons
- It’s an Amazon own-brand product
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Cost-effective shoppers
- Those valuing simple ingredient lists
Who is it not for?
- Brand skeptics
Final Verdict
Amazon Elements offers a straightforward and affordable protein powder from grass-fed sources, making it a practical choice for everyday fitness enthusiasts.
Considering the number of protein powders that get sold through Amazon daily, it should come as no surprise they want a high cut of that sweet profit margin.
What they have produced is a soy-free whey protein powder from reportedly grass-fed cows.
I was skeptical at first, given it’s an Amazon brand, but one taste and I was hooked. It’s subtle, mixes well, and the energy I feel during my workouts is tangible. It’s become a regular in my fitness regimen, proving that sometimes, simplicity and quality do come hand in hand.
Supplement facts
The protein powder honestly surpassed my expectations, the ingredient list is honest and straightforward, and the product itself does what it’s supposed to.
How We Tested the Soy-Free Protein Powders
- Price: We evaluated the cost per serving of each soy-free protein powder, ensuring that the products offer value for money while containing high-quality ingredients. Our selected products offer a balance of affordability and quality, giving you confidence in your purchase.
- Ingredients: We considered the variety and quality of ingredients in each protein powder. Products containing name-brand and well-researched ingredients received higher placement. We ensured a mix of classic and innovative ingredients to cater to a wide range of preferences.
- Consultation with Professionals: Before finalizing our selections, we consulted with nutrition and fitness experts to gain insights into the effectiveness and safety of each product. Their professional opinions helped refine our list to ensure it meets diverse needs and preferences.
Buyer's Guide for the Best Soy-Free Protein Powders
You should go soy-free because besides being a common allergen, there are other reasons to avoid too much soy, including dietary preferences.
Maybe you’re vegan and already getting plenty of the stuff in your diet. You might be lactose intolerant, so you are already mixing your shakes with soy and don’t want to double down. Or perhaps you want to cut out soy completely.
There are tons of vegan proteins aside from soy. You may look at other options, such as hemp protein, pea, and rice powders. These will give the same nutrients without the common detrimental effects found in soy.
Arguments Against Soy
"The biggest concern with soy is the claim that it can affect hormonal imbalance. Although these claims are mostly unfounded and lack any scientific consensus.
Since many of the concerns related to soy come from studies in rats and mice, it’s important to recognize that rodents metabolize soy isoflavones differently than humans, essentially making these studies inapplicable."
- Judith C Thalheimer, Registered Dietician
The argument centers around the fact that soy is rich in isoflavones, which is a plant-based hormone similar to estrogen, which can bind to estrogen and is said to reduce fertility/masculinity in men.
However, in the nine identified studies that have been carried out, no such link has been found [1],[2].
Arguments In Favor of Soy
Soy is a versatile ingredient and can happily be included as part of a healthy lifestyle, that is, unless you’re allergic.
Too much soy should be avoided, and so you should be keeping track of the different foods and drinks you consume that contain it.
Soy is a complete protein which for those following a plant-based diet, makes it an easy go-to replacement for milk and dairy.
Soy is cholesterol-free and low in saturated fats, making it a great healthy alternative to other sources of vegan proteins. Soy is also rich in omega-3 and polyunsaturated fats, which both promote heart health.
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Combining Soy-Free Protein Powders with Other Superfoods
To boost the nutritional value of soy-free protein powders, consider blending them with superfoods for added health benefits. Mix pea or rice protein with ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp hearts for an omega-3 and fiber boost. Combine with spinach, kale, or spirulina for added vitamins and antioxidants.
For a delicious recipe, blend 1 scoop of protein powder with 1 tbsp of chia seeds, a handful of spinach, almond milk, and a banana for a protein-packed green smoothie.
FAQs
Does Whey Protein Powder Contain Soy?
Some whey protein powders contain soy, but not all.
If you are looking for some soy-free whey protein powders, check our list above, or else check the ingredient list on your favorite powder. If you're unsure about what to look for, consider checking online reviews or consulting a nutritionist.
Does Pea Protein Powder Contain Soy?
No. Typically, pea protein won’t contain soy unless it’s put in there as an additive. It will be listed on the label, though, so be sure to check them carefully.
We do have some great pea proteins listed in the article above that are soy-free. If you want to get the most out of your protein consumption, get a dietician for an opinion since they will look into your current needs and match you with the right pea protein supplement.
Our Verdict on the Best Soy-Free Protein Powder
The best protein powder for you will depend on your health goals and reasons for being soy-free. That said, for me, the protein powder that ticks practically every box imaginable is Transparent Labs Organic Vegan.
The company prides itself on being open and completely honest with its straightforward ingredient list.
The protein powder is vegan, so it works for those following a plant-based diet, but is also a complete protein and completely allergen-free.
Give it a try and let us know what you think.
#1 Soy-Free Protein Powder
Transparent Labs Vegan Protein (Best Overall & Vegan-Friendly)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Simple protein supplement blend designed to boost protein levels efficiently
- Complete plant-based protein source with all essential amino acids
- Great value for money with savings for buying in bulk
- No artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives; very natural
- Get 10% off using code: TOTALSHAPE
- Not a massive selection of flavor choices
About The Author
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I have been a vegan for 15 years and even in that time, I’ve seen a lot of products come and go in the soy-free protein powder market. None of them compare to Promix Pasteur. It’s perfect for my lifestyle and is so easy to digest! I can’t remember the last time I was sick.
I’ve been using the Soy-Free Protein Powder from Orgain Organic for a few weeks now and it’s honestly changed my life. I’m not exaggerating when I say that it has helped me lose over 20 lbs in just a few short weeks without any other changes in my diet or exercise routine.
I tried a few soy-free protein powders before finding PaleoPro. They were either expensive, too hard to find, or had terrible taste. I was so happy when I finally found one that tastes good and is affordable! It’s also perfect for people with dietary restrictions. I am so happy with this product and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a soy-free protein powder.
Excellent opinions on the best non-soy protein powders! Transparent Labs appears to be very good! So far, I am not experiencing any side effects and I love how simple their selection of flavors is. Just like me, a simple guy. Very happy and satisfied to use this powder!
I’ve been a vegan for over a year now and have tried a lot of soy-free protein powders. They all taste awful and leave me feeling really bloated. This powder from OWYN is the best I have ever found. It’s made from brown rice protein and pea protein, which both blend well together for a nice creamy texture that doesn’t clump
Transparent Labs Vegan is the soy-free protein powder that I’ve been looking for. It’s vegan, soy-free and tastes amazing! I don’t even miss the taste of whey. The quality of this product is so good because it’s made entirely from plant proteins.
Excellent opinions on the best non-soy protein powders! Transparent Labs appears to be very good! So far, I am not experiencing any side effects and I love how simple their selection of flavors is. Just like me, a simple guy. Very happy and satisfied to use this powder!
I was hesitant to buy a soy-free protein powder and I’m so glad that I made the switch. As soon as I switched to Amazon Elements, my morning routine became 100x more enjoyable. I used to gag every morning but now, after drinking my shake made with Amazon Elements, it’s like a treat! The flavor is great and the ingredients are phenomenal.
Transparent Labs Vegan is the best soy-free protein powder I have ever tried, hands down. It has a great flavor and texture. I love that it doesn’t have any soy protein in it, which is hard to find nowadays! I highly recommend it to anyone who is craving a protein shake from time to time.
I’ve been looking for a soy-free protein powder for a while and decided to give Garden of Life a try. I’m happy to say that it is the best. It doesn’t have any weird aftertaste and mixes really well in my smoothies. I highly recommend this product if you’re avoiding soy like me!
I can’t live without Vega. I’ve been using Vega as my only protein powder for years, and it’s really helped me maintain a consistent diet and weight regimen. I always feel good after taking it because the superfoods provide me with the energy and nutrients I need.