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11 best vegan protein powders, tried and tested by fitness experts
Pick up a plant-based protein powder
Tested by Kim HawleySenior Health & Fitness Tester
With vegan diets becoming much more commonplace, there's now a plant-based alternative for almost everything, including protein powder (standard protein contain whey, a dairy-based protein), So, if you're looking for the best vegan protein powder, there are plenty to choose from.
But with so many options, it can be hard to know which one to go for (and find something that actually tastes good). So, our Good Housekeeping Institute team worked with fitness experts and sports nutritionists to find the very best plant-based proteins on the market.
Best vegan protein powders
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Best for variety of plant-based protein sources
Holland and Barrett Plant Protein Powder (840g)
Read review
Meat and dairy are key protein sources, which means that those on a plant-based diet have to get their daily intake from other sources. If you have a varied vegan diet that’s filled with legumes, grains, pulses, nuts and tofu, there’s no reason why you can’t hit your daily requirements. But a plant-based protein powder can offer a quick and convenient way to top up your levels.
Here are our top picks, but keep scrolling for details on our testing process, plus everything you need to know about protein – including how much you should be consuming, according to nutritionist and wellness expert Tina Lond-Caulk (BSc).
Form Nutrition Vegan Protein (520g)
Form Nutrition Vegan Protein (520g)
Pros
- Range of flavours available
- High 30g of protein per serving
Cons
- Some testers could taste the stevia
Score: 95/100
Per 40g serving: 154kcals, 30g protein, 2g carbs, 2.9g fat
This vegan rice and pea blend, which has a complete amino acid profile, promises to help you achieve peak performance levels during exercise and give you sustained boost of energy throughout the day. Each serving contains a high 30g of protein to support muscle growth and maintenance.
Form Nutrition uses high-quality ingredients, ensuring they're GMO (genetically modified organism) free and organic wherever possible. Our panel praised the brand’s “distinct” plastic-free, compostable packaging. Testers loved the smooth, creamy consistency when it was blended with water and the chocolate hazelnut flavour we tried proved extremely popular. There are also tiramisu, banoffee and vanilla flavours, if you prefer.
Huel Ready to Drink (6 bottles)
Huel Ready to Drink (6 bottles)
Pros
- Convenient for drinking on the go
- Low in sugar and salt
Cons
- Not as satiating as a substantial meal
Score: 95/100
Per bottle: 400kcals, 22g protein, 32g carbs, 19g fat
If you’re looking for a grab and go option, Huel’s premixed bottles are ideal for throwing in your gym bag. The pea and hemp-based protein contains all 26 essential vitamins and minerals – specifically B12 and calcium – which can be hard to get on a vegan diet.
The easy-to-drink liquid boasts a decent 22g of protein, and it was a real crowd-pleaser with our panel who liked the chocolate flavour, which they found masked most of the protein taste.
This option is a nutritionally complete meal in a bottle; however, it's important to note that you shouldn’t only be consuming liquids as part of a healthy, balanced diet. As it’s higher in fat (19g) than other drinks, it will be more filling initially, but because it’s not a solid meal, it will digest more quickly and won’t keep you full for as long.
Protein Works Vegan Wondershake (750g)
Protein Works Vegan Wondershake (750g)
Pros
- No nonsense ingredients list
- Smooth texture
Cons
- Some thought it tasted artificial
Score: 93/100
Per 25g serving: 94kcals, 20g protein, 1.9 carbs, 0.6g fat
Pumpkin, soy, pea and rice – the famous four of vegan protein sources – are all included in the Wondershake, with the latter two considered an optimal plant protein blend. Together, they add up to 20g of protein per serving.
We tried the banana flavour, which had hints of “oaty-ness” that went down well with our panel. The shake has a smooth texture and is slightly watery, but in a way that feels fresh and easy to drink. If banana isn’t your thing, other delicious-sounding flavours include strawberries and cream and salted caramel.
Innermost The Fit Protein: Strawberry (520g)
Innermost The Fit Protein: Strawberry (520g)
Pros
- Detailed advice on the website
- Thick texture
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other options
Score: 85/100
Per 40g serving: 154kcals, 31g protein, 4.3g carbs, 1.1g fat
Low on energy? With its The Fit Protein, Innermost aims to support muscle repair and recovery, while also rehydrating and restoring energy levels to help you push through the day. With 31g of protein, our panel enjoyed the strong strawberry flavour in a handy shake format.
It can also be seamlessly mixed into to smoothies, porridge, pancakes or just about anything, making it the perfect option for a post-workout drink or snack. The high protein count will keep you fuller for longer too, minus the high calorie count.
It’s worth noting that it contains rhodiola root, which is said to reduce levels of physical exhaustion; however, this may not be suitable for those who are breastfeeding, pregnant, or have an auto-immune disease.
Holland and Barrett Plant Protein Powder (840g)
Holland and Barrett Plant Protein Powder (840g)
Pros
- Complete amino acid profile
- Oaty, vanilla flavouring
Cons
- Lumpy texture
Score: 84/100
Per 30g serving: 123kcals, 23g protein, 1.3g carbs, 2.4g fat
This blend uses the power of three plant-based protein sources: pea, sunflower and rice. Individually, they’re considered incomplete as they don’t contain all nine essential amino acids. But when blended, they form a complete protein, as their amino acid profiles complement one another. More is more in this case.
The trifecta of plant power delivers 23g of protein in each serving to help support and maintain muscle mass, with just 0.5g of sugar. Our testers noted that the texture of this one was on thicker side, so we recommend using a shaker and adding some additional liquid. What you’ll be left with is a smooth, creamy and oaty vanilla shake. Sounds good to us!
Hermosa Sculpt Protein (1kg)
Hermosa Sculpt Protein (1kg)
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- Delicate, non-artifical flavour
Cons
- Slightly lumpy consistency when mixed – you may need a blender
Score: 81/100
Per 30g serving: 126kcals, 19g protein, 6.9g carbs, 2.6g fat
Our nutritionists were impressed with Hermosa’s vegan protein powder, which offers a blend of high-quality pea and white hemp protein and boasts a complete amino acid profile for muscle growth and repair. Plus, the powder is free from GMOs, which means it hasn’t been exposed to potentially harmful chemicals. Worth noting that some testers found it slightly lumpy though, so be sure to give it a good shake, or better still, pop it in a blender.
We tried the vanilla flavour, which went down well with our tasting panel. They said it had a mild vanilla taste that would be good for those who don’t have much of a sweet tooth and prefer something subtle. It’s available in a chocolate flavour, too. Granted, it’s pricey, but when you consider the quality of the ingredients, we think it’s worth it.
Form Nutrition Pureblend Protein
Form Nutrition Pureblend Protein
Pros
- Quality packaging that is easy to reseal
- Simple ingredient list
Cons
- Lower protein content than other options
Score: 79/100
Per serving: 78kcals, 15g protein, 0g carbs, 1.1g fat
Whether you slip it into a smoothie or stir through porridge or a soup, this unflavoured and unsweetened non-dairy protein powder will top up your levels, without adding any unnecessary flavour or texture. That's why it was so popular with our testers, who praised its versatility in sweet and savoury snacks and drinks. The snappy, fuss-free ingredient list was also a big hit.
The instructions could have been clearer, but that's a minor quibble for an otherwise impressive product. If you're not a fan of ultra-sweet protein flavours like chocolate or caramel, it's your best bet.
Free Soul Vegan Protein Blend (600g)
Free Soul Vegan Protein Blend (600g)
Pros
- Formulated to enhance women’s health
- Not overly sweet
Cons
- Lumpy if not shaken for a while
Score: 78/100
Per 30g serving: 122kcals, 20g protein, 3.8g carbs, 2.2g fat
Free Soul (which also features in our best greens powders round-up) formulates all its supplements with ingredients to support women’s wellbeing. Inside this pouch is a mix of vital vitamins and minerals, such as iron and magnesium to enhance energy and support hormonal balance, bone health and healthy skin and hair. Oh, and a generous 20g of pea and white hemp protein per serving.
After examining these key ingredients, our nutritionists thought this powder would be perfect for those who need extra support with energy and endurance, as it includes maca powder and guarana for a natural boost. The added L-carnitine could also help with mental clarity and any fuzzy heads.
It's sweet tasting, but not overly chocolatey, and we'd recommend mixing it with your chosen milk over water. Be sure to give it a good shake to avoid lumps.
Pros
- Good spectrum of plant-based protein sources
- Not overly sweet
Cons
- Contains processed sweeteners, which may cause digestive discomfort for sensitive individuals
Score: 77/100
Per serving: 121kcals, 20g protein, 6.6 carbs, 2.3g fat
Made from pea, brown rice and hemp protein, this blend delivers a complete amino acid profile to help build muscle and support faster recovery. Our nutritionist rated the addition of kiwifruit powder, which provides an extra dose of nutrients to help maintain key bodily functions. It’s suitable for use at any time of day, so you can reach for it whenever your exercise schedule demands.
Although it's artificially sweetened, testers found the vanilla taste pleasantly subtle rather than overly sweet. It does have that familiar earthy undertone, but that's common of protein powders.
JSHealth Vitamins Protein and Probiotics (450g)
JSHealth Vitamins Protein and Probiotics (450g)
Pros
- Supports gut health
- Free from refined sugars
Cons
- Thin texture
Score: 77/100
Per serving: 123kcals, 22g protein, 0.7g carbs, 2.8g fat
Powered by high-quality pea protein, this blend offers a generous 22g of protein per serving, as well as a dose of science-backed, gut-friendly probiotics. According to the brand, these help to balance stomach bacteria and ease any digestive discomfort that can come with taking a protein powder supplement. The texture is slightly thin, so you may prefer to mix it with milk.
If you’re trying to avoid artificial sweeteners, you’ll be pleased to know the chocolate brownie flavour is achieved by using natural sweetener, thaumatin. This can create quite an intense, which our taste testers found a tad too sweet, but that comes down to personal preference. As well as being vegan, this one is free from gluten and soy, and it comes in vanilla, too.
33Fuel Premium Vegan Protein Powder (532g)
33Fuel Premium Vegan Protein Powder (532g)
Pros
- Bold chocolate flavour
- Distinct design and branding
Cons
- Watery texture
Score: 73/100
Per serving: 145kcals, 20g protein, 15g carbs and 2g fat
Thanks to its high carb and protein content, this vegan protein powder from 33Fuel was popular with our nutritionists for its post-workout recovery properties. Grab a shake post-workout to replenish your energy stores and boost recovery.
The experts were also impressed with the organic, all-natural ingredients list, which features organic banana, raw cacao, coconut sugar and sunflower protein. The consistency is on the thin side, so it’s worth blending it with milk if you enjoy a thicker shake. On taste, it's a deliciously bold chocolate flavour.
As a bonus, the packaging is fully recyclable, and a portion of every purchase goes to One Tree Planted.
How we test vegan protein powders
To help us find the very best plant-based protein powders on the market, our in-house food and drink experts worked alongside a panel of nutritionists to assess each product on both flavour and nutritional profile.
They evaluated the powders based on the following criteria:
- Taste and texture: Taste is crucial when it comes to protein powder, so our expert food tasting panel tried each one and shared their feedback on flavour and overall palatability. They assessed whether the taste matched the product description and told us whether the texture was gritty or not.
- Mixability: A good protein powder should blend smoothly into drinks or food – no one wants a lumpy shake, after all! Our team assessed how well each powder stirred into liquids, noting whether it left behind unwanted residue.
- Nutritional value and ingredients: We worked with nutritionists and dieticians Megan Foulsham and Ruby Chuahan, from healthy meal plan app Calo. They assessed the amount of protein per serving and analysed the wider formulation and ingredient list, highlighting any artificial flavourings, additives or components that could potentially cause digestive discomfort.
Based on the feedback from our nutritionists and in-house team, each product was then awarded a final score out of 100.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
We’ve been testing products for over 100 years at the Good Housekeeping Institute, and are committed to helping readers find the best products for them, from the best treadmills to the best greens powders.
Kim Hawley is our lead health and wellness tester and oversees reviews for a range of fitness products. She has a level 4 personal training qualification, a nutrition qualification, and has been in the health and wellness industry for over 30 years. For this test, we also enlisted the help from a panel of nutritionists and sports experts to analyse the ingredients and help you make an informed decision.
Our lifestyle writer, Madeleine Evans, worked with our testing team and reviewed the feedback from our nutritionists to create the most helpful and thorough reviews possible. Plus, as an avid gym-goer, she’s tried lots of protein powders over the years, so she knows what to look for.
Why should I take a protein supplement?
According to the British Heart Foundation, adults need around 0.75g of protein per kilo of body weight per day. For the average woman, that’s around 45g of protein per day. If you’re exercising often and lifting weights, you may want to up this by 1-2g of protein per kilo of body weight.
Again, a protein supplement isn’t necessary if you’re following a diet packed with protein-rich foods, but it can help you meet your daily target in a quick and convenient way.
Why do you need a vegan protein powder specifically you ask? Well, whey and casein are two of the most common types of regular protein powder, but they’re dairy-based, which means they’re not suitable for those who are avoiding animal lactose-based products.
Some people also opt for plant-based protein powders because they find dairy protein can cause issues such as bloating and skin breakouts.
“The best non-whey protein powders provide a concentrated source of protein, often with the added benefit of fibre, vitamins, and minerals,” Lond-Caulk explains. “Many people also find vegan protein powders easier to digest, as they lack lactose, a common irritant in whey-based options.”
Here are some more reasons to protein to your diet.
Maintaining bone health
Protein is particularly important for women, especially those going through menopause or who are post-menopausal. This is because bone density decreases as the levels of oestrogen in the body start to decrease during perimenopause. Protein helps to maintain bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Muscle growth
Taking a protein supplement can help tone up, increase your muscle mass and reduce fat when combined with a regular exercise routine. Though protein powders have, in the past, been associated with bodybuilders, rest assured you’re not going to look like Popeye.
Weight management
Alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise, protein shakes can help with managing weight. That’s because the high protein content can leave you feeling fuller for longer.
What are the different types of vegan protein?
Tina Lond-Caulk breaks down the most popular ingredients used in vegan protein powders below.
Soy
Soy protein is one of the most common types of vegan protein, and is considered a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body can’t produce by itself. This makes it a good choice for muscle repair and growth.
Pea
Pea protein is another popular option, particularly for its high content of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are critical for muscle recovery. It’s also hypoallergenic and easy to digest, making it suitable for a wide range of people.
Hemp
Hemp protein is derived from the seeds of the hemp plant and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, offering additional nutritional benefits. However, its amino acid profile is slightly less optimal for muscle building compared to soy or pea.
Rice
Rice protein, while not a complete protein on its own, is an effective source of protein when combined with complementary sources like pea protein. It’s particularly digestible and a good choice for those with food sensitivities.
Can you build muscle with vegan protein powder?
“Building muscle on a vegan diet is not inherently more difficult, but it does require a more strategic approach to protein intake,” explains Lond-Caulk. “Many plant-based protein sources lack one or more essential amino acids, so combining different protein types is essential to ensure a complete amino acid profile,” she adds.
According to Lond-Caulk, it’s also worth noting that the bioavailability of proteins (the degree to which the body can absorb and use them) is generally lower than animal-based proteins. So, if you’re vegan, it’s a good idea to consume more protein overall to achieve the same muscle-building effects.
How do I choose the right vegan protein powder?
It's important to be aware that when supplementing with the best plant-based protein powders, you need to ensure the blend includes sufficient complete protein. This means that it contains all nine essential amino acids, as our bodies aren't able to make them on its own.
The vegan protein powders that do contain all nine are usually a blend between two different sources, for example, pea and rice, or rice and hemp.
Which is better vegan or whey powder?
The best option depends on your dietary needs and personal preferences. Both vegan and whey protein powders can help increase your daily intake, though the exact amount per serving may vary depending on the ingredients used in a vegan blend.
The main difference lies in suitability. Vegan protein powder is a better choice for people following a dairy-free or plant-based diet, as well as those who are sensitive to whey or lactose.
See our round-up of the best protein powders if you're thinking about choosing a whey option.
More tried and tested supplements
The verdict on the best vegan protein powders
With a score of 95/100, it’s hard to find fault with our winning vegan protein powder, Form Nutrition Performance Protein. It made a tasty, protein-packed shake that impressed our testing panel.
If you don’t want to cart your protein pot and shaker to-and-fro, Huel’s Ready-to-Drink Plant-Based Protein bottles are a convenient pick for those on-the-go days. As well as a 20g of the good stuff, each bottle contains 26 different vitamins and a balance of carbohydrates, minerals and essential fats to keep you satisfied.
All-natural ingredient list, you say? Then look no further than 33Fuel’s Vegan Protein Powder, which doesn’t include any ultra-processed nasties. The packaging is fully recyclable, too.
Madeleine is our Lifestyle Writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and round-ups on the latest beauty Beauty and Health & Wellness products. From skincare to protein powders, Maddie is committed to providing honest and helpful reviews to help guide readers to the best product for them. Maddie has a BA in English Literature and Language, which stemmed from her lifelong interest in reading and writing. She started her post graduate life at Hearst UK within a marketing capacity, which quickly turned into a desire to fulfil a writing career.
When she is not writing about the latest expert reviewed products, you can find her rifling through vintage shops or car boots, reading a print magazine, or capturing portraits on her film camera.
Kim Hawley is the Senior Health & Fitness Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she leads the independent testing of health, fitness, wellness and sleep products using evidence-led protocols and her extensive industry expertise.
With more than 30 years' experience in the health and fitness industry, Kim has worked as a lead personal trainer, fitness instructor and health writer, teaching at some of London's leading health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Kim has a particular interest in women's health, especially pre-, peri- and post-menopause, and combines hands-on industry experience with rigorous product evaluation. From fitness trackers and smartwatches to home gym equipment, recovery devices, wellness tech, supplements and sleep solutions, she oversees comprehensive testing to help consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions they can trust.
