Years ago, I started adding a very delicious vanilla whey protein to my smoothies that I got from GNC. I was religious about using this one brand, and when they suddenly discontinued it, I became outraged! I called every GNC in town searching high and low for it. It was the best tasting whey protein on the market and I didn’t want to go on a hunt for another kind. Well… long story short, I got to the bottom of why they discontinued it – the health department found rat droppings in samples of the protein at the manufacturing plant! WHAT. I’d been drinking rat droppings for all those years? @#$%&%&*^%^$$!
Needless to say, I have never looked at protein powders the same again. I research the heck out of them before I ever consider putting them in my body.
The key to finding a high quality protein powder is figuring out the right questions to ask…. Is it organic and free of pesticides? Is it GMO free? How is it processed? Does the processing retain its nutritional quality, vitamins and minerals? Does it contain artificial or refined sugars? Do they have heavy metals?
Yes…I said heavy metals. Consumer Reports conducted an eye-opening investigation that revealed that several popular highly processed protein powders like Myoplex, Muscle Milk, Designer Whey and GNC brand all contained arsenic, cadmium, and lead. Yikes.
This is just another reason why it is incredibly important to know what you are buying, where it is from and how it is produced.
So today…I want to share with you my Food Babe approved list of protein powders that are free of pesticides, GMOs, all those nasty chemicals and other grossities…
- Organic Plant Protein Superfood 30 Shake ($39.99 from Nutiva for 18 servings) – Nutiva’s shake is made from certified organic whole food plant proteins – no processed whey or isolated soy and contains 20 grams of protein per serving! This shake is a blend of organic pea, pumpkin, sunflower, chia, hemp and sacha inchi proteins, along with 30 superfoods including reishi mushroom, baobab, moringa, kale, hawthorn berry, purple corn, sea buckthorn, kelp and cinnamon. It also tastes amazing, despite having no fake flavors, nasty chemical additives, and only 2g of sugar per serving. Unlike other protein manufacturers that never tell you what’s in their “natural” or “organic” flavors, Nutiva uses an organic flavor where they actually list what’s in it – vs. hiding it! All of these ingredients are ORGANIC too – so they are not using Roundup-Ready GMO corn and they use all organic ingredients to make the carriers for the flavors! This is a huge deal – not just with transparency, but the high level quality of each ingredient they choose. Also note – the sugars in the product come mostly from plants and fruits – not added sugar or stevia (which I think makes most protein powders taste kinda too sweet and some nasty!) I’m so happy that Nutiva formulated the BEST plant protein powder out there!
- Tera’s Organic Whey ($25 from Amazon for 12 servings) – There’s a lot of controversy about whether or not to consume whey within the health food community and from what I have researched – the benefits of consuming whey are valid for muscle building, muscle recovery and weight management. It just depends on what kind of whey you get and from where. You either you can pick low quality heat processed alkalinity stripping whey protein isolate – or you can pick cold processed whole food whey concentrate made from organic fed cows not treated with growth hormones or antibiotics. Tera’s whey is actually made in small batches and takes considerable care in how the whey is processed. Tera’s whey also comes in some very delicious flavors like blueberry and coffee that are real food based – not loaded with ambiguous “natural flavors.”(One caveat, I’d like to mention – if you decide to go with a whey protein, it’s crucial to maintain a diet high in other plant-based foods. This whey, although a good product that retains its nutritional profile, can be acid forming in large quantities just like a diet with an over emphasis on meat and dairy. Remember keeping your body alkaline is key to avoiding disease and eating a diet full of plant based foods is the only way to keep it that way.)
- Nutiva’s Hemp Protein – ($21.99 for 30 servings) – The ingredient label of this very nutritional protein supplement has one beautiful ingredient “organic hemp seeds.” This protein powder may not be for everyone, because the taste is definitely something to get used to. But when combined with the right tasty ingredients like fruit, raw cacao and/or almond butter, it can be very appetizing. Finding the right balance of hemp protein to additional ingredients is the key to enjoying this rich in Omega 3 fatty acid supplement.
I’d love to know if you have tried any of these before or found any protein powders you like better. Please leave a comment and let me (and others) know.
Bottoms up!
Vani
Updated 08/25/2016 to include new Nutiva protein powder and remove others I no longer use because they contain stevia and gums.
I am looking to add a little more protein to my diet and I was looking at this and what is your opinion on it ? I want to make sure it’s a safe and quality product .
http://www.swansonvitamins.com/swanson-premium-whey-protein-powder-36-5-oz-1035-grams-pwdr
Thanks so much
Have you ever heard of a company called Zija. Their products are based on the Moringa Oleifera plant which is the most nutrient dense botanical on earth. It contains 90+ verifiable nutrients. They have a Protein drink called Prime90. It contains less than 10 ingredients. It is all natural. All organic to UK standards.
Here’s more info: http://www.greggwirth.myzija.com/products/pr1me90/index.html?country=
Hi food Babe,what is affordable protein powder for my whole family to take.our youngest is 4.thank you for improving and educating others on healthy products.
Tera’s whey is a staple in my house….. Love it!
I have used JayRobb powders and fell they are pretty clean. What do you know about them?
jay rob use to be my favorite. but the second ingredient is xylitol, that is a sweetener with heavy metals in it. I am switching to taras whey
How about this protein powder:
http://www.amazon.com/Jay-Robb-White-Protein-Vanilla/dp/B003757WBK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1408383466&sr=8-1&keywords=jay+robb+egg+protein+powder
I use Jay Robb vanilla whey powder and love it. Anything hidden here Vani ???
Hi Food Babe!
What are your thoughts on
Orgain, organic vegan protein powder? Sold at costco online.
I think it’s a newer product
I was wondering the same thing with the Costco brand?
Have you ever tried Isa Lean Pro shake from Isagenix? its not only the great taste but it contains all essential nutriens for the body. Its a complete meal replacement and the source of protein come from New Zealand where the food standarts are the highest in the world, No comparison with protein produced in America. If anyone is enterested , feel free to contact me or check my website nadyakarlina.isagenix.com. YES i work with this company now after i saw result on myself, my family and people i work with as a personal trainer. Its a really great product!
How do you feel about Shakeology? Its so expensive and I’m not sure that is it is worth the cost. I just need something in the morning to hold me over 2-3 hours and if I do shakeology I don’t take any other vitamins beside Chorella. What do you think?
https://labdoor.com/review/shakeology
Idlife contains chia which keeps you full for several hours. Additionally it is gluten free, soy free, lactose free. Email me if you’d like additional info. [email protected].
I have been using Nutiva’s Hemp High Fiber Protein powder. My daily smoothie includes lots of fresh fruit along with things like yogurt, almond milk and green & and red powders. I love it. Especially with the addition of organic Hemp Oil. I would highly recommend Nutriva. I like that they are organic.
We also use Nutiva Hemp Protein daily and love it. The company has excellent , quality products. They also give a discount on Tuesdays when you sign up for this special via their website. TY, Foodbabe for all the awesome info!
I have been using a whey protein powder called RealMeal GF could you tell me what you think of this one. It says it’s from grass fed cows and no Hormones ,pesticides ,antibiotics, no gluten.
Thanks
Kim L
I’m using it too. I’m eating healthy. Have diabetes. I take it instead og snacking. I have diabetes. I have lost a few lbs. I was looking at this site to see if there was one as good and less expensive
Asking about Realmeal gf as well….
I have been using Amazing Grass Amazing Meal , Pomegranate Mango, and really like it. Does anyone have any feedback on this company’s products?
Hi,
The whole idea of using protein powders might need some further research. I was just recently reading that ALL protein powders contain free aspartic acid (as in aspartame) and free glutamic acid [or glutamate?] (as in MSG / monosodium glutamate). If I remember correctly, the processing these powders all(?) receive breaks down natural bonds and “frees” the nasty substances in question. (Sure enough, I looked on my protein powder label and it listed “aspartic acid.” I promptly tossed it in the garbage. Not all protein powders give such a complete breakdown of the ingredients. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t in there.) I believe I was reading about this on DogtorJ.com (yes, that spelling is correct – “dog” as in canine). Dogtor J (John Symes) writes a lot about glutamate and aspartate, both of which are excitotoxins (per Russell L. Blaylock, M.D.). Dogtor J also offers a Glutamate Aspartate Restricted Diet, nicknamed the G.A.R.D. diet.
Best Wishes,
David
What do you think about PlantFusion?
Juice Plus is the only protein drink I will use. Non-Gmo, etc… I also use a protein calculator that is very helpful to actually know how much protein your body needs, based on weight and level of exercise.
How about Vitamin Shoppe’s Soy-Free Vegetable Protein powder?
What about the Vega brand? It’s on sale at my Whole Foods right now!
I am currently taking s hakeology chocolate vegan but it cost so much. I was looking at the health force website but they have so many im ablittle confused which one would be best for me… im 27 female and go to the gym 3 to 4 times a week. Im looking for a meal replacer for breakfast or a after workout shake. Im interested in vegan or vegetarian and organic ingredients. .. I dont have any allergies that I know of… what would u recommend?
Thanks!
Try Arbonne. Chocolate is soooo good. If you’d like you can contact me @ [email protected] for more info
What is your opinion on Arbonne’s Essential Protein Shake Mix? Thank you!
Hi – Recently discovered Vega. But, so confused between Vega One, Vega Sport, Vega Protein and not sure if they are on the “avoid” list! I don’t particularly want to consume GMOs, but it’s the additional additives in these powders I worry about. Have you looked at the Vega line? http://myvega.com/
How do you rate Spiru Tein products, particularly vanilla whey? Thanks
I am still trying to find a good organic gluten free chemical free soy free protein shake… I saw this one… Jarrowa Formula brown rice protein powder. . Any thoughts?
Hey food babe! I really love the blog, you provide such a value resource for women.
I am trying to do the same, but for women’s fitness! http://bestproteinpowderforwomen.info
I want to provide a place for women that allows them to gain knowledge and learn about the wrong information that is out there.
Would love to see you review doTerra’s vshake! It’s their vegan protein powder and I’ve really enjoyed it!
What about the products offered by Reliv International? Have you reviewed them?
So what about this….
MET-Rx Protein Plus
https://labdoor.com/review/met-rx-protein-plus
Hi babe,what you say about this..https://labdoor.com/review/met-rx-protein-plus
Thanks.
I tried the Tera’s in chocolate & i love it, but in reading the ingredients, it says it contains sunflower lecithin. Isnt that GMO?
Also, from reading labels it appears RESERVEAGE GRASS FED CHOCOLATE WHEY is in same boat as Tera’s – is that one Vani approved too by any chance?????
Great informations on organic protein powder. I needed to get something for my family. I guess I found it!
I have been using Arbonne and I love it? But money is becoming an issue so I’ve tried Plant fusion and the taste gets some getting use to. Is there anything more similar to Arbonne?
Hi Food Babe! The link for the Garden of Life protein powder to the Natural News site has a very positive updated article talking about revamping their process. They have since pulled the old article. Though I would say, until the new improved product ships, I would hold off until January 2015.
This is the one I take, unfortunately they do not ship outside Australia…
https://professionalwhey.com.au/product/nz-whey-protein-isolate/
I hope you approve?!
Food Babe:
I’ve been using protein powders for probably 20+ years on and off. Mostly off, because so many of them upset my sensitive GI tract. As well, there’s always been that lingering unknown of what they really contain and how they’re processed.
I finally found one that is pure and simple and yet so delicious. It’s http://www.raworganicwhey.com. Whey protein from grass-fed cows raised on small farms. Cold processed so it retains its enzymes. Cows not fed GMO feed, nor subject to hormones, etc. No flavors. No sweeteners. Has no taste so I can essentially make a creamy shake with it using cacao powder and coconut milk — or blend it in my vitamix with veggies and fruit.
I thought I’d found a great protein with Isagenix grass fed whey protein, but like this much better because there is literally nothing else in it.
Jon Barron’s Nutribody Protein Powder — absolutely theBEST protein powder around – made from SPROUTED brown rice and pea protein!! esp. if you are allergic to dairy/whey. Also make a green food based protein powder which has tons of good stuff in it. Sold at http://www.baselinenutritionals.com. and his book LESSONS FROM THE MIRACLE DOCTORS is fantastic!! free copy available as a download if you can’t afford the $15 to buy it. Most knowledgeable person I’ve run across in the alternative/herbal field.
I love the IDLife meal replacement/protein shakes, and so does my 4 yr old daughter. We often mix the chocolate shake powder with coconut milk to make popsicles. She calls them protein popsicles and thinks they taste like a frosty from Wendy’s. It is a much healthier option in soooo many ways (organic, natural, non-GMO, soy free, casein free, gluten free, and lactose free), now she asks her grandmother to make her healthy popsicles! The whey protein is from grassfed cows 🙂
I use Bodylogix protein powder, they are GMO’s free and they taste so good!
About $30 at walgreens
Im allergic to so many and can only have rice protein- what do you suggest?
what about vega protein and nutritional shakes?
I find your review to be misleading. Yes, in general there are a lot of things to look out for in protein shakes but in this post you made broad assumptions on many protein shakes without really looking into the ingredients. At the very least, with Shakeology, there was plenty of information online about it but you either used “?” on certain ingredients or assumed it had bad ingredients in it. Here’s a good resource for those looking more into Shakeology: http://www.pinterest.com/homeweightloss/what-is-shakeology Thanks FoodBabe for warning us on potential dangerous but not so much on giving a good review on specific products.
Are you familiar with Vega protein? I appreciate you updating this post! Thank you for all the work you do, Vani!
I have been trying this one called
The Ultimate Meal.
It’s vegan, soy free and Gmo free and all kinds of other things. The ingredients look good. What are your thoughts!?
I also use the nutiva hemp protien and I like that one also!
Thanks for any input
I am a huge vega fan, although it is a little pricey. What are your thoughts on green smoothie girl protein. Seems pretty legit but I am a creature of habit and am having trouble committing to change.
I am wondering how you feel about Arbonne protein shakes, they are vegan with pea protein and they use stevia to sweeten, I am picky about tastes but love them!
What do you think about Isagenix protein shakes? I heard they just got approved for Olympians?
Did you see this update on Garden of Life? http://www.naturalnews.com/043759_Garden_of_Life_RAW_Protein_heavy_metals.html#
What about Dr Mercola’s “Miracle Whey”…
Sounds good, but I found a disappointing review on this product saying that the protein tested at over .3 ppm lead and nearly 1.8 ppm cadmium.
Are those test results for Dr. Mercola’s products??
What about Dr. Mercola protein powders? He seems to use high-quality ingredients.
I’ve been feeling a lack of pro turn and was researching RealMeal GF. you don’t mention it specifically, but the things you say about whey protein matches with what they say and your recommendations are cheaper. 🙂
Have you researched Isagenix protein shakes? They are amazing and are made with undenatured whey protein. They are all natural, have no preservatives, no artificial sweeteners, no GMOs, no artificial flavors or colors, and are gluten free. I believe they are the best shake out there.