Best Organic Protein Powder: Top 6 Reviewed

May 04, 2024

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In recent years, the organic food and drink market has seen remarkable growth, with more people than ever prioritizing what goes into their bodies. Among the most sought-after items in this health-conscious trend is protein powder. It's not just a staple for bodybuilders; it's essential for athletes and anyone aiming to meet their daily protein requirements.

But, with a sea of brands offering organic protein powders, it can be overwhelming to distinguish one from another. That's where our expertise shines. We've tested over 60 protein supplements over the years, several of which were organic protein variations. As a result, we have been able to handpick a list of the top 6 organic protein powders on the market.

Our best organic protein powder guide is designed to save you hours of research and provide the information needed to make a well-informed choice. 

 

6 Best Organic Protein Powders At a Glance

We understand your time is precious, and making the right choice in a sea of options can be daunting. We've curated a quick-glance list of the six best organic protein powders to ease your journey. Each stands out for its unique qualities, catering to various preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you're looking for grass-fed whey, vegan options, budget-friendly choices, or powders without artificial sweeteners or specific ingredients like stevia, we've got you covered. Here's our lineup of top performers:

(Click to jump to review)

1. Best Organic Grass Fed Whey: Raw Organic Whey
2. Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder: Promix Vegan Protein
3. Best Budget Organic Protein Powder: Naked Nutrition Organic Brown Rice Protein
4. Best Organic Protein Without Stevia: Truvani Plant-Based Protein
5. Best Lactose-Free Organic Protein: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein
6. Best Reviewed Organic Protein: Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder

Each selection has been rigorously tested to ensure they meet our high standards of quality, taste, and nutritional value, making your decision a little easier and much more informed.

 

Best Organic Grass Fed Whey: Raw Organic Whey

 

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Key Features

• Serving size: 25 grams
• Protein per serving: 21 grams (84%)
• Price per serving: $1.32
• Carbs: 2 grams
• Fats: 1 grams
• Suitable for vegans: No

Raw Organic Whey stands out as a pinnacle of purity in protein powders, primarily notable for being the best protein powder in the organic grass-fed category. Its composition is remarkably straightforward, boasting only one ingredient - 100% organic grass-fed whey protein. This simplicity is a testament to its quality, ensuring you get a product free from unnecessary additives.

The source of this whey protein is just as impressive. It comes from Jersey cows that graze on lush, green pastures in the U.S., ensuring a diet rich in wild grasses and clover. This natural diet not only enhances the health and happiness of the cows but also enriches the milk they produce with higher levels of omega-3s and CLAs, essential for our health.

Raw Organic Whey maintains a commitment to preserving nutritional integrity in processing this whey protein. The cold processing method, devoid of harsh chemicals like acid or bleach, safeguards the protein's natural quality. Furthermore, it's reassuring to know that this product is USDA Organic certified, non-GMO, and free from soy, gluten, and synthetic hormones like rBGH and rBST.

Moreover, the absence of added sweeteners, preservatives, fillers, and soy lecithin speaks volumes about its commitment to natural, wholesome nutrition. By choosing Raw Organic Whey, you're supporting your health and endorsing sustainable farming practices that prioritize animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

Pros

• Pure ingredient profile with only 100% organic grass-fed whey protein.
• Free from GMOs, soy, gluten, synthetic hormones, and harsh processing chemicals.
• It supports sustainable farming and animal welfare.
• Higher levels of omega-3s and CLAs due to cows' natural grass-fed diet.
• No artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or fillers.
• High percentage of protein per serving

Cons

• It is not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.
• Not everyone will get along with the taste of the unflavored powder. Blending with fruit or veg is advisable to create a shake you'll enjoy drinking

 

Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder: Promix Vegan Protein

 

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Key Features

• Serving size: 32 grams
• Protein per serving: 25 grams (78%)
• Price per serving: $1.17
• Carbs: 3 grams
• Fats: 2 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

If you're seeking the best vegan protein powder that combines taste, nutrition, and ethical sourcing, Promix Vegan Protein Powder is a standout choice. This product shines with its highly bioavailable protein derived from organic Canadian yellow peas, known for their high protein content. Each serving packs a robust 25g protein, including 5.2g of branched-chain amino acids, vital for muscle recovery and growth.

Notably, this powder isn't just about protein. It's also a great source of Vitamin B12, providing 200% of your daily value per serving, a crucial factor for those following a vegan diet. Its raw chocolate flavor, derived from raw cacao, is both tasty and rich in antioxidants, making it a treat for your taste buds and health.

Promix Vegan Protein Powder stands firm on clean, whole food-based ingredients, avoiding common pitfalls like hexane, enzymes, gluten, soy, GMOs, refined sugar, artificial sweeteners, and stevia. This commitment to 'clean' extends to its production process, adhering to GMP standards and sourcing 94% of its ingredients from North America.

Partnering with 1% for the Planet, Promix offers a health-conscious option and demonstrates environmental responsibility. As a vegan and health enthusiast, this vegan protein powder delivers on all fronts – taste, nutrition, and ethical production. It's that great that it's even made it's way onto our Best Protein Powder roundup! 

Pros

• High in protein (25g) and BCAAs (5.2g) which is uncommon for a vegan shake
• Rich in Vitamin B12, essential for vegans.
• It uses whole, clean ingredients like yellow peas and raw cacao.
• Free from gluten, soy, GMOs, and artificial additives.
• It supports environmental sustainability.
• The price point is extremely affordable

Cons

• Limited flavor choices.
• Monk fruit taste might not appeal to all.

Related: The Best Vegan Supplements for Building Muscle

 

Best Budget Organic Protein Powder: Naked Nutrition Organic Brown Rice Protein

 

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Key Features

• Serving size: 30 grams
• Protein per serving: 25 grams (83%)
• Price per serving: $0.99
• Carbs: 4 grams
• Fats:5 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

This Naked Nutrition Organic Brown Rice Protein stands out as the best budget protein powder in the organic category, offering a straightforward, health-focused option for those mindful of their spending. The product's single ingredient, organic sprouted brown rice protein, is a testament to its purity and simplicity. This protein powder is an excellent alternative to whey for those on a plant-based diet, thanks to its superior amino acid profile that supports muscle growth and repair.

We appreciate that Naked Nutrition has taken a transparent approach to its production process. The protein is extracted without hexane, a chemical often used in protein processing, which underscores their commitment to health and safety. Additionally, the product is rigorously third-party tested for heavy metals, ensuring its safety and quality.

This commitment to transparency extends to their sourcing philosophy. Naked Nutrition aims to shorten the steps between their farms and consumers, ensuring a fresher, more direct product. By avoiding additives and artificial sweeteners, this protein powder remains aligned with its users' health and wellness goals.

In summary, Naked Nutrition's Organic Brown Rice Protein is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly, plant-based protein powder without compromising quality and health benefits.

Pros

• Single-ingredient: Organic sprouted brown rice protein.
• Great amino acid profile, ideal for plant-based diets where consuming enough amino acids is sometimes tricky
• The hexane-free extraction process ensures purity.
• Free of additives and artificial sweeteners.
• Independent third-party testing for heavy metals.
• Super cheap

Cons

• The flavor may be plain compared to other protein powders. You’ll need to mix it with fruit or veg to create a nice-tasting shake
• Rice protein might not suit all taste preferences.
• It may not mix as smoothly as other protein options.

 

Best Organic Protein Without Stevia: Truvani Plant-Based Protein

 

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Key Features

• Serving size: 33 grams
• Protein per serving: 21 grams (58%)
• Price per serving: $1.97
• Carbs: 5 grams
• Fats: 3 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

When it comes to finding the best protein powder without stevia, Truvani Plant Based Protein emerges as a top choice. This protein powder prides itself on its premium, hand-selected ingredients, ensuring a clean and healthful addition to your diet. Its variety of vegan-friendly flavors appeals to a broad range of tastes, making it a delightful option for those looking to avoid animal-based products.

Truvani's commitment to a clean formula is evident in its avoidance of artificial sweeteners, additives, and fillers. This makes it a reliable option for those conscious about what they consume. It's particularly noteworthy for its use of organic monk fruit as a sweetener, providing just the right touch of natural sweetness without needing stevia.

Being USDA Organic certified, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly, Truvani Plant Based Protein assures you of its quality and alignment with health-conscious values. Its straightforward label makes it easy to trust and incorporate into your health journey.

Whether you add a scoop to your morning smoothie or a post-workout shake, this protein powder blends seamlessly, offering a rich flavor without any chalky or grainy texture. It's not just about taste, though. This dairy-free protein supports muscle recovery and maintenance, allowing you to build and maintain lean muscles while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Pros

• Hand-selected, premium vegan ingredients.
• Free from artificial sweeteners, additives, and stevia.
• USDA Organic, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly.
• The natural sweetness from organic monk fruit.
• It supports muscle recovery and lean muscle maintenance.

Cons

• Slightly more expensive due to the premium ingredients.
• Limited flavor options for those who prefer conventional tastes.
• Some may find the texture different from traditional whey proteins.

 

Best Lactose-Free Organic Protein: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein

 

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Key Features

• Serving size: 37 grams
• Protein per serving: 24 grams (65%)
• Price per serving: $1.65
• Carbs: 7 grams
• Fats:5 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein is recognized as the best lactose-free protein powder in the organic market. Its formula is a blend of organic pea protein isolate and rice protein, offering 24 grams of complete plant-based protein per serving. This makes it a go-to choice for vegan gym-goers, athletes, and bodybuilders who seek effective muscle recovery and performance enhancement.

The beauty of this protein powder lies in its clean composition. Free from GMOs, soy protein, added sugar, and artificial additives, it's a wholesome choice for health-conscious consumers. The essential amino acid profile in this blend, combining rice and pea protein, mirrors the benefits of whey and casein proteins, making it an ideal alternative for those avoiding dairy.

We value Transparent Labs' attention to biocompatibility and digestibility, ensuring the protein is effective and gentle on the stomach. This focus on purity and efficacy solidifies Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein's position as a top contender in the vegan protein market.

Its commitment to clean, transparent labeling and high-quality ingredients resonates with our approach to health and fitness, offering a dependable and nutritious supplement for those on a dairy-free diet.

Pros

• It uses hand-selected, vegan ingredients.
• No artificial sweeteners, additives, or fillers.
• Certified USDA Organic, non-GMO, and stevia-free.
• It delivers a rich, smooth flavor in shakes.
• Aids in muscle recovery and gain.

Cons

• Limited appeal for non-vegan protein users.
• Not everyone enjoys the taste of stevia

 

Best Reviewed Organic Protein: Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder

 

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Key Features

• Serving size: 46 grams
• Protein per serving: 21 grams (46%)
• Price per serving: $1.35
• Carbs: 15 grams
• Fats: 4 grams
• Suitable for vegans: Yes

Lastly, in our search for the best-reviewed organic protein, Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder, particularly in its Creamy Chocolate Fudge flavor, has earned its place at the top. This protein powder is a blend of organic plant-based proteins, including peas, brown rice, and chia seeds, offering a well-rounded amino acid profile. Each serving packs 21 grams of protein and 2 grams of dietary fiber, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals.

Orgain's commitment to quality is evident in its USDA organic certification. It's vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, lactose-free, soy-free, kosher, non-GMO, and free from carrageenan and artificial ingredients. This extensive list of attributes makes it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences and needs.

Not just limited to shakes, this versatile powder can also be used in baking, adding a nutritional boost to your cakes, muffins, and cookies. Its ability to blend well with water and milk makes it a convenient option for a quick breakfast, snack drink, or a post-workout recovery shake.

Ideal for everyone from busy adults to active teens, Orgain's Organic Vegan Protein Powder is a reliable meal replacement, smoothie booster, and support for muscle recovery, making it a versatile and essential part of a healthy lifestyle.

Pros

• USDA organic, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO.
• Versatile for shakes and baking.
• Suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
• At $1.35 a serving, Orgain has an affordable price point

Cons

• Taste might not appeal to all users.
• Contains higher amount of calories compared to other alternatives

 

What is An Organic Protein Powder?

Understanding what qualifies as an organic protein powder is crucial in making an informed choice. Under the USDA guidelines, a food product being labeled as "organic" must adhere to specific standards. Here's a breakdown:

• Strict Farming Practices: Organic protein powders must originate from farms that adhere to stringent farming practices. These practices emphasize natural processes and cycles, aiming to maintain or enhance soil and water quality while reducing pollution.
• No Synthetic Fertilizers or Pesticides: Farms producing organic ingredients must avoid using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Instead, they utilize natural alternatives to foster plant growth and protect against pests.
• Non-GMO: Organic products are inherently non-GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms). This means that the ingredients in organic protein powders come from plants or animals that have not been genetically engineered in any way.
• Animal Welfare Standards: For protein powders derived from dairy or animal sources, the USDA organic certification ensures that animals are raised in conditions that accommodate their natural behaviors (like grazing on pasture), fed 100% organic feed and forage, and not administered antibiotics or hormones.
• Certification Process: Protein powders must undergo a rigorous certification process to be labeled as organic. This involves inspections of farm fields and processing facilities, detailed record-keeping, and periodic soil and water testing to ensure compliance with USDA organic standards.

Understanding these guidelines helps distinguish genuine organic protein powders from those that might not strictly adhere to these standards, ensuring you choose a product that aligns with your health and environmental values.

 

Understanding Organic Protein Powder Labels

Understanding the labeling of organic protein powders under USDA guidelines is vital to making informed choices. Here are the different types of organic labeling you might find on protein powder products:

• 100 Percent Organic: This label is used for products that contain 100% organic ingredients, excluding salt and water. The label can include the USDA organic seal or the 100 percent organic claim​​.
• Organic: Products with this label must contain a minimum of 95% organic ingredients, excluding salt and water. Up to 5% of the ingredients can be non-organic agricultural or non-agricultural products on the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances​​.
• Made with Organic [specified ingredients or food groups]: These products contain at least 70% organically produced ingredients (excluding salt and water). The principal display panel may state "made with organic [up to three ingredients or ingredient categories]" but must not include the USDA organic seal or represent the finished product as organic​​.
• Specific Organic Ingredient Listings: This label is for products with less than 70% organic content. Such products can't use the USDA organic seal or the word "organic" on their principal display panel.

Manufacturers may list certified organic ingredients as organic in the ingredient list and specify the percentage of organic ingredients​​. Understanding these labels helps ensure you choose a product that meets your preferences and standards for organic ingredients (1).

 

Benefits of Organic Protein Powders

The benefits of organic protein powders and organic products, in general, are numerous in terms of health and environmental impact. Here's a comprehensive look at these benefits, supported by scientific studies:

• Reduced Pesticide Exposure: Organic foods are produced virtually without pesticides. Studies indicate that conventional food often contains pesticide residues, even after washing. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, in particular, may benefit from eating organic to avoid potential impacts on the child's IQ and neurobehavioral development (2)​​
• Nutritional Advantages: Research has shown that organic produce may have higher levels of certain antioxidants and types of flavonoids with antioxidant properties. The feeding requirements for organic meats, dairy, and eggs often lead to higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health​​.
• Lower Levels of Toxic Metals: Organic grains have been shown to have much lower levels of cadmium, a toxic chemical naturally found in soils. This is attributed to the ban on synthetic fertilizers in organic farming​​.
• Reduced Antibiotic Resistance: The restricted use of antibiotics in organic farming significantly reduces antibiotic resistance. This has implications for both animal and human health, as antibiotic-resistant bacteria can transfer from animals to humans​​.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

• Improved Soil and Water Quality: Organic farming practices, such as using cover crops and mulch, help enhance the quality of soil and prevent erosion. This contributes to sustainable land use and better water conservation​​.
• Promoting Biodiversity: Organic farming methods encourage ecological balance and biodiversity. These practices are designed to work harmoniously with natural ecosystems, supporting wildlife and beneficial insects (3).
• Animal Welfare: Organic standards ensure that animals are raised in healthier living conditions with access to the outdoors, organic feed, and preventive healthcare measures like vaccinations. This approach respects animal welfare and supports their natural behaviors​​.
• Sustainability Factor: By avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic farming reduces pollution and conserves natural resources. This approach to agriculture is seen as more sustainable in the long term, benefiting the environment and future generations.
• Contribution to Public Health: Using natural, non-toxic substances in organic farming reduces the risk of various health issues associated with chemicals in conventional agriculture. This has broader implications for public health, especially in rural and farming communities.
• Regulated Industry: Organic products, including protein powders, are subject to strict regulatory standards. The USDA and other international regulatory bodies ensure that organic products meet stringent guidelines regarding farming practices, processing, and labeling. This regulation gives consumers confidence in the authenticity and quality of organic products.

These benefits illustrate why many people, especially those focusing on health and wellness, might prefer organic protein powders and other organic food products. However, it's important to note that the cost of organic products can be higher due to more costly farming methods, and the overall nutritional advantage of organic foods compared to conventional ones is still a subject of ongoing research and debate.

 

The Final Say

As we wrap up our exploration of the best organic protein powders, it's clear that each product brings something unique to the table. From the purity of Raw Organic Whey to the plant-based goodness of Promix Vegan Protein and the budget-friendly excellence of Naked Nutrition's Organic Brown Rice Protein, there's a perfect match for various lifestyles and dietary preferences.

Truvani Plant Based Protein stands out for those avoiding Stevia, while Orgain's Organic Vegan Protein Powder shines as the best-reviewed choice for its quality and versatility. These organic options are more than just protein sources; they represent a commitment to health, environmental sustainability, and ethical practices.

Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a health-conscious individual, or someone simply looking to improve your dietary habits, these organic protein powders offer a nutritious, clean, and responsible choice to fuel your body and support your wellness journey.

 

References

1. Understanding the USDA organic label. (2016, July 22). USDA. https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2016/07/22/understanding-usda-organic-label
2. Health benefits of organic food, farming outlined in new report. (2018, June 22). News. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/features/health-benefits-organic-food-farming-report/
3. Organic foods: Are they safer? More nutritious? (2022, April 22). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880

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